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I'm hoping on a trip to NY in a couple of years (I always start planning ahead), and am thinking about taking Amtrak to there, then fly back.
Has anyone out there done this? I just want to know if the 3-days traveling was worth it. Was there enough to see during the trip? Was it pleasant enough?
I took the "San Francisco Zephyr" from Oakland, CA to Chicago then other routes down to VA back in the '80s and I enjoyed it immensely. I found the double decker cars comfortable and even slept in a seat versus getting a private room. (But I was much younger then...) I found the food somewhat reasonably priced. (considering you're a captive audience...)
We traveled in a sleeper car on Amtrak from Ohio to Oregon, and back to Washington D.C. in 1989 with my parents. It was relaxing, great family time, and beautiful views (without the stress of driving). What we remembered, though, was at that time the meals were included with the cost of a sleeper car, and it was a little too much food for just mainly sitting all day. At the stops, we would get out and run or walk as much as we could.
I've done Buffalo, New York to Portland several times in the last couple of years and always enjoyed it.
Lots of stuff to see out the window, time to read, plenty of different folks to chat with.
Sleeping accomodation is well worth the added expense especially on the Empire Builder between Portland and Chicago. It gives you some private space to retreat to, includes all meals in the dining car, and gives access to shower facilities.
I've loved my Amtrak travel! It's comfortable and beyond relaxed, especially compared with driving which is fun, but you have to keep your attention on the driving. Amtrak is superb for scenery, since you actually DO get to see everything that's outside the window (which you can't when you're driving, or flying of course).
The only thing I don't like about train travel is that they don't stop at night, so that you don't miss any scenery! Other than that, it's a fabulous idea, a comfortable and scenic experience, it's easy to take pictures as you go, and you'll remember it with joy for the rest of your life! Have fun
Cornerguy, now that I'm an Old Guy, I'll have to agree with you on the sleeper compartment!
Allforcats, I get the impression that the San Francisco Zephyr is timed to depart Oakland, CA in the afternoon so that you'll see the nice CA scenery during daylight and cross the rather boring Great Salt Lake at night... Not sure if there's other routes they can do that with, though.
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