Ha! We were on the Zephyr that left two days before you. When we rolled through eastern Utah, on day two, heavy clouds were building up on the mountains behind us. The next day there was light snow falling on the Donner Pass, but the tracks cut through huge piles of the white stuff. In California we transferred to the Coast Starlight, and when our journey was completed we found out that our train was the only “on time” Zephyr all week. We were very lucky.
I too have had the pleasure of travelling in Car 532, in summer last year with Mary as my attendant. You didn't overdo the praise, she really is fantastic at her job and I'm so glad to see someone letting everyone know. At the time I was on my first long Amtrak sleeper and I thought I had the best ever attendant, but now I know for sure! Big fan of you work, too.
I have high anticipation to experiencing Amtrak’s new interiors. The dining cars in my opinion are especially attractive with this new upholstery. I also am excited to seeing further advancements to pre-Covid service from last year. Amtrak is restoring dining cars on the Crescent in July and restoring Sightseer Lounges on the Texas Eagle in October (but not the Capitol Limited sadly). Amtrak management has hinted about making coach passenger access to the dining car systemwide again. There will also be more cars available to allow Amtrak operate a number of long haul trains with longer consists this summer than last!! As always an entertaining and thorough report. I’ll be ready for the next one!!
Amtrak is charging $45 for each diner meal, whether traditional or flexible... Not too many economical coach passenger will splurge that much for a meal... Amtrak may have priced coach passengers out of the diner...
You may have been disappointed, but writing from Australia I was not. Having travelled on the Zephyr previously it was interesting to see the scenery different to what it is in September, not to mention snowy Denver when I normally visit the US. Viewers probably won't have noticed, however the complete, 100% absence of the abomination of advertising hoardings, so familiar to travellers along interstates' was a joy to experience.
It is good to see the Ottumwa station platform being rebuilt. The station platform had platform sheds with open roofs more than likely removed decades ago. Glad to see work on the station.
On the edge of my seat to see that 2nd part of the journey! The trip from Denver to Emeryville is truly the most breathtaking part of the California Zephyr.
I rode the Zephyr last week (early May) SF/Oakland (okay, Emeryville) - Chicago, roomette. Much nicer with no snow. Glenwood Canyon and Donner Pass are pretty, but Nevada is interesting too. The Superliner cars may have been refurbished, but they are generally still old and getting rough around the edges. Downstairs bathrooms, chipped and scratched. To stop rattles in the roomette, I put the hangers on the floor and stuffed tissues in between the door and door pocket. When making sleeper car reservations check the floorplan of the cars. Middle rooms are always better than end rooms. You'd rather not ride over the wheels. After riding the Southwest Chief, the Sunset Limited and then the Zephyr (in 3 years), I'd say the food was best on the Chief. But VIA Rail's Canadian offers food that's a step up from Amtrak. Overall, I love riding that rail no matter what.
Amtrak is expected to announce the purchase order for a new fleet of bi-level overnight long distance sleeper trains soon, as they were funded two years ago with the infrastructure bill. A year ago Amtrak asked for bids from the manufacturers and they have been comparing the bids lately. However, don't expect any of the new fleet of cars to be in service before 2030, and the last before 2035. How many will be purchased isn't clear... Hopefully enough to give the Sunset Limited some LOVE with more train sets to operate this train DAILY all way to Orlando.... This I Amtrak's largest hole in their long distance services...
@@ronclark9724 And I wish they'd recontinue the Sunset to Jacksonville. I hope any new bilevel cars are still fluted stainless exterior. The Superliners cars still look good. (And no angled sides like the Viewliners. )
SFO to Chicago, loved it, but was kicked off the train in Salt Lake, tracks were washed out somewhere near Denver. I Had to use a lot of points to make my way home. To their credit I did get 100% of my money back. I want to do another trip, but the cost seems to have increased to a higher level. My again would love to do it again, hopefully the whole trip.
Amtrak sleeper cars still need: * an electric outlet for each passenger in the roomette * a door that passengers can lock from the outside as well as the inside * a PA speaker inside the room, so passengers don't have to scramble to hear train-wide announcements
@@sgt.eclair I'm talking about PA speakers in the passageways, but not in the room. Maybe the speakers in my roomettes just weren't working. But they've pretty cosistently not worked.
You can bring a power strip to provide many more outlets probably for less than $20, an extension cord for less than $10. I never leave home without a power strip when I bring my devices. The new bi-level fleet is expected to have hotel style card keys with the ability of the conductor and stewards able to open locked doors in an emergency or death. You will be surprised how many die riding the trains. There is a reason why the Safety Transportation Board and Amtrak use the locking mechanism they use now. Keep in mind these Superliner cars were built nearly 50 years ago. I just don't bring anything worth stealing that can't be replaced at the first Walmart easily. There are speakers in the room, but many passengers turn their volume down to not hear the announcements, or those who had the room before.
A great video, that new upholstery looks really good, and I must say seeing the great hall at Union Station never gets old. I live near Vancouver BC Canada and am planning to travel to Dallas Texas on Amtrak. Do you have any suggestions about which routes would make the most sense? I know I have to take the Cascades to Seattle, but beyond that I am pretty flexible.
Or, if your preferences are different, two other choices: Coast Starlight to either Emeryville or Los Angeles. From Emeryville, take the subject train of this video to Chicago for the early mountain views and the later flat plains and then the follow-on Texas Eagle to Dallas. Or, from Los Angeles to Dallas, you can take the Sunset Limited/Texas Eagle for the desert views. Time for a round trip? Try each in different directions.
My wife and I took the Zephyr two years ago from Chicago to Emeryville. Instead of snow, however, there was massive rain that washed out a portion of the tracks between Denver and Grand Junction. Amtrak put all of us on buses to Grand Junction. We boarded the train that had been traveling eastbound, missing the most scenic part of the trip. So, I am with you. My wife and I will fly into Denver and take the Zephyr from Denver to Emeryville to see by train the portion of the trip we missed the first time. Traveling long distance Amtrak is always an adventure, but this wasn't the kind of adventure I had wanted.
Hi this is Isaiah wiley from myrtle Beach south Carolina saying hello and great amtrak video and I am glad and very proud of people like you making amtrak travel videos for RUclips right now because they are the only thing that can make me feel extremely happy of how I miss traveling on amtrak with my dad because I was born in August 2002 and I rode amtrak from 2003-2019 and I have been stuck in the house right when covid 19 hit the united states and in that time I have been angry 😠 and upset 😡 but anyways keep up the great amtrak video making your the best and good luck 👍 😊.
That irks me that business class passengers are no longer allowed in the lounge as part of their ticket. Business class tickets have skyrocketed in price for the state level services and you get less for it.
Yeah not going to lie for a class as simple as business class, Amtrak could do the courtesy. It doesn’t make sense because you’re paying out the ass already.
@@jonathankleinow2073 considering Amtrak has had former airline execs running it for years now, it makes sense. I miss the days of having actual railroaders run a railroad.
As a regular commuter train user, Union Staion Chicago is less appealing after you’ve breathed in those thick blue diesel fumes every work day, especially in the summer.
Over Thanksgiving 2023 I took Amtrak's Lakeshore Limited across three states to visit family for the holiday. It was a 12 hour journey and I considered reserving a roomette. The ONE WAY cost for coach was $167 however the ONE WAY cost for a roomette was $1,053. I cannot possibly see the justification for Amtrak to charge roughly 150% more for a roomette over coach.
5:18. Amtrak 518 spotted. I love the freight style locomotives in the Amtrak phase 5 scheme. I pray that one day I’ll catch a B32 on the road before they’re decommissioned 😇.
Always fascinating and informative, thanks for another exciting and well-designed video. I noted your view on freight trains, saying they were otherwise unremarkable if they weren’t carrying something interesting. Now here’s my opinion on freight trains to even the ledger: I find them just as stimulating as passenger trains. In fact, I enjoy seeing both. Good morning and have a fantastic day, whatever you’re doing. Anthony (from Sydney, Australia).
Ha, I too enjoy seeing freight trains, I just prefer passenger over freight. Plus with Precision Scheduled Railroading here in the US creating monster trains, it’s always a fun sight. Hope you’re enjoying your evening in Australia! (Btw I loved Sydney and AUS in general when I visited a couple years back. Absolutely phenomenal country.)
I enjoy the new seats. Getting into this and think I’ve been on a few Amfleets with them. The quilted pattern is gonna be a familiar touch from those who know where Richard Anderson came from
Is it just me, or do those chairs in the roomettes look larger (or at least wider) than the older style? Either way, I'm all for it! I do wish they added an extra outlet though, but since it was just a refurbishing, not sure how possible that was. Also... "No hair dryers or curling iron". Very interesting thing to specify! (I can't remember if that was on any old ones, but regardless). With the PA volume controls removed, does that mean you have to hear the announcements in the rooms now no matter what at a set volume? I can imagine that being annoying for people that like to turn that off in their rooms. Though if they replaced those knobs with room for a second outlet, at least that space wouldn't have gone to waste! Great video as always! I'm not sure what your next trip report will be but I always enjoy them.
Hair dryers and curling irons consume a thousand or more watts, not five watts of a smart phone or tablet... Do you have a working knowledge of electricity?
@@ronclark9724 That wasn't even the point of my comment. I was merely stating how it's interesting that it's specified *at all*. (because, for some reason, common sense is not very common) It's obviously implied that they can pose several safety hazards if not used or stored properly, such as being plugged into the outlets and being left unattended. But even someone with a working knowledge of electricity can still find that interesting.
the newly renovated interior does look nice. i've never been on the train, except for the bart in SF. while i'm interested in taking a cross-country trip, the train it's too expensive compared to car including food, and hotels along the way. thank you for another great video
Watch out for the 30-day10 trips Amtrak Rail Pass promotion on Amtrak's website... Usually once a year Amtrak offers it, although the Rail Pass is for coach seating only... It is such a good value even if you use it for two trips and one week...
Looks like the refurb was done on the cheap as most of the room was still original equipment, especially all the hard surfaces and floor, which seemed dingy and dirty. I took the Zephyr over 30 years ago and aside from the hallway carpeting, lighting, switches and seats, it looks like it's mostly the same. Pity, but Amtrak has been severely and intentionally underfunded for decades and even with the recent boost in its budget only has so much to work with, plus this refurb was likely planned well before the boost. I'd eventually like to see a whole new generation of Amtrak sleepers with a new design and layout to truly refresh them, perhaps taking its cue from Austria's new Nightjet sleepers. And maybe more than one long haul train a day, as is the case in the rest of the world. We really do have a lot of catching up to do. At least the scenery hasn't changed. The sights on the Denver to Emertville portion are among the finest in the world. And Amtrak's traditional dining car service is really quite good. And few countries have a sightseer car.
I did the same trip in car 531 last week. I thought the ride from Fort Morgan to Lincoln was rough, but from Lincoln to Fort Morgan (return trip) there wasn't much sleeping going on. It felt like riding in a flatbed truck bouncing down a dirt road at 80 MPH. Awful!
I of course do not get tired of you showing Chicago Union Station yet again! The room refresh looks good but too bad they didn't add a 2nd electrical outlet.
Glad the hall shots don’t go amiss! As for the refresh, they’re only cosmetic and a stop gap measure while Amtrak looks for suitable replacements for its superliner fleet.
I didn't have a good experience on that train late April from Chicago to Emeryville. I'm not the only one that thought so. A lot of malfunction in roommette and disorganized in taking dining orders.
14:00 For those interested, the front Bradley appears to be an M7 B-FiST, which is a version specifically designed as an artillery direction vehicle. I am pretty sure that the 5th vehicle is also the same variant, while the rest are probably M3 Cavalry Fighting Vehicles, which is the reconnisance variant. Going by this, the Bradleys are likely being delivered to one of the Armoured Cavalry Regiment's, with the vehicles on the train representing a full Squadrons worth of vehicles.
@@Jeragon186 The main difference between the M3 and the M7 is that the M7 replaces the TOW launcher on the near side of the turret with a targeting module for it's artillery direction. The difference between the M2 and the M3 is that the M2 has firing ports for the infantry, while the M3 deletes them as it doesn't carry infantry. There are also internal differences, but those are not apparent from the footage.
It has been a while since I traveled on a Superliner sleeper. It was nice to see what the redo looked like. I guess this will have to do till they get the new cars planned in the next few years. It would be nice if the new cars feature multiple outlets but charging ports may not be the best idea since the technology keeps changing. It is best just to carry your 110 volt charging system for your electronic item and plug that in.
USB, USB c, will there be a USB D? Bring a power strip with your devices rechargers and be happy... Surely there is enough room in your backpack or bag for them...
Thanks! Almost all videos are filmed westbound because it maximizes the daylight hours in the most scenic part of the route, which begins just after departing Denver around 8am.
I being a power strip to recharge my devices. While Amtrak rewired with outlets during the refurbishment program, Amtrak apparently didn't run and pull wires inside the bulkheads.walls..
Sad that Omaha's original station is not used by Amtrak. I love the historical stations that are still used in Chicago, Denver, Kansas City, DC, LA and many others. Cincinnati is always listed on best RR stations, but I've never seen it. On the Zephyr, the tracks now bypass Salt Lake's classic Rio Grande station. The train just stops under an overpass. And of course, the Bay Area didn't bother to preserve any of it's classic stations, sadly.
I guess I was expecting too much after watching so many wonderful experiences that if I had a pair of your rose colored glasses I would have enjoyed my trip on the Zephyr much more! But even with your rose colored glasses the strong odor and dirt and lack of service could not be over looked. My entire trip was no where near your claimed experience! The best I can say is the scenery was amazing and we arrived ahead of schedule.
I'm a little frustrated with that storm, because this is my second favorite route follow only just behind the Southwest Chief and it's a big disappointment to miss what makes it my second favorite. I'm sure it was just as disappointing for you too. Sorry about the storm, but, bad thing can happen.
I'm disappointed that the updated sleepers don't offer single sleepers for those of us traveling alone and not wanting to pay for a second bed.. I remember some hosts talking about the possibility. However, I guess it didn't come to pass.
You never pay for the second bed. It is a SINGLE flat rate if you travel alone or as a pair of people. You each pay a basic rail fare and then the one sleeper fare.
Seeing is believing I’m on the Auto train in November, hopefully their there’s has been upgraded. I’ve been riding it now for the last two years and it’s an old dumpy train.
Well, some of the Superliner cars are approaching 50 years in age, the newest Superliner cars are approaching 40 years in age... I shall agree this refurbishment program is long overdue...
Actually, Superliner IIs were built in the 1990s and the Superliner Is were built in the 1970s. The reason Superliner I sleepers look nicer despite being older is because they underwent a full overhaul with reconfiguration of the whole interior between 2003 and 2006, but the Superliner II cars did not receive a full overhaul
@@ronclark9724 yeah, but just a light refresh, not a heavy makeover with interior reconfigurations like the Superliner I Sleepers had in the mid-2000s.
Nice report as always. I’m not sure of how much of a “railfan” you are. So I will add a couple of things to look for if you travel that route again. First off you traveled west on the “speedway” on main track 1. That’s unusual because of Metra trains stopping. Perhaps this was a weekend day? Just west of Ottumwa the BNSF crosses at grade the CPKC and their yard can be seen to the north. This line is seeing increased traffic since the merger of the Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern. Minor clarification on the Burlington Depot in Omaha. The other railroad’s passenger trains (Union Pacific, Milwaukee, Rock Island, Illinois Central) used Union Station, not the Burlington Depot. The two stations used to be connected by an overhead pedestrian bridge.
New subscriber. Really good video. I'll be on the Empire Builder next month from Seattle to Milwaukee. I took the EB westbound last year and really enjoyed the ride. Hopng to get the new interior on the Superliner car for my trip in my private bedroom accommodations. Question: Did you find the new interior to be a comfortable bed? I generally like a firmer bed and have always found the bottom bed of the regular (old style) bedroom to be a comfortable place to sleep.
If you are in a roomette or bedroom car, can you lock your door from the hallway to leave your stuff in the room while going to dinner or the viewing cars or public restroom/shower?
Just don't bring anything worth stealing that can't be replaced at the first Walmart easily. When I travel I wear a money belt around my waist, and I have a belt holster for my smart phone. I never bring cameras as the smart phone camera is sufficient for my needs. I lock my bags although I am sure a thief with a sharp knife can easily get into my bags locked or unlocked. A good thief don't let locks get in their way anyway... So why the worry? Don't flash jewelry while traveling, leave jewelry at home. I shall repeat the first line again, just don't bring anything worth stealing that can't be replaced at the first Walmart easily. It really IS that simple...
I was expecting a full ride between Chicago and Emeryville (San Francisco Bay Area), what was your point in finishing at Denver? Exploring the city and its metro systems would be interesting.
Did you not watch the video? I was supposed to be traveling to SF, but the train was canceled between Denver and Grand Junction due to weather. I explained everything in the video.
I plan on passing through the pretty part not once, not twice, but three times. First will be on the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks, second will be eastbound on the CZ from SLC to DEN, and third will be on the westbound out to SF.
I used Nord anytime I wanted any of my banking sites to NOT allow me to log in. If you have to disable you VPN application to see your balances, that's pretty dumb.
I have been thinking about this trip for over a year... I would prefer to get on at Denver and would want a sleeper, does Amtrak allow that. I would prefer to travel in the last week of December... Should I take this train in December???? I so want to take a train ride.
Book well ahead if you wish to travel in December during the holidays... But yes, you can book a sleeper or roomette from Denver, but maybe not on the very day you wish to travel... So book early before everyone else does...
I ended up flying out of Denver to San Francisco. I wasn’t able to find a way to get to Grand Junction, and with the weather getting worse by the minute, I wasn’t taking any risks.
While they are refreshing the interiors, getting more outlets would require a complete overhaul of the car, from the ground up, to upgrade the electrical system to allow more outlets.
@@utahrailfan1946 I'm guessing that these will be in service for at least 10 more years. We are highly dependent on devices that need a nightly charge as it is so 1 outlet for 2 people is already outdated. I believe this should have been rectified 10 years ago.
@@kriss_b One could just as easily buy and bring a power strip or a extension cord for less than $20 or $10 respectively. While Amtrak changed the outlets apparently, Amtrak did NOT pull and run new wiring through the bulkheads/walls. Apparently Amtrak may have dressed the bulkheads, they still used the old bulkheads. Frankly I NEVER leave home with numerous devices without a power strip or extension cord... Why do you? I may pack very lightly compared to you using only a backpack for my few extra clothes and my tablet, I bring a power strip or extension cord... Every dollar store and Walmart stocks a power strip or extension cord...
A lot of hyperbole in this video, to say the least. The refurbished Superliners look better but they haven't had any mechanical improvements, so don't be surprised that the AC works poorly. Food is average. Constant train announcements (while I was eating we got an announcement warning us not to throw papers in the toilets) are a real pain. At least they stop the announcements at night. Train routinely runs hours late. Customer service depends on the good will of the employee, very inconsistent. Fares are super high. If the sleeping-car fares weren't so high these shortcomings might be somewhat overlooked because the scenery is fantastic but as the fares are ridiculous, passengers deserve more.
Unfortunately there is no straight shot to get to Georgia from Texas, you will need to take 2 trains and at least 1 night between the trains. The 1rst train will Be the Sunset Limted to New Orleans and then the next train will be the Crescent from New Orleans to Georgia,
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 And if you are in the DFW area of Texas, you may wish to ride the Eagle down to San Antonio and make connections to the Sunset Limited... Unfortunately like the DAILY Crescent and DAILY Texas Eagle north of San Antonio, the TRICE WEEKLY Sunset Limited may cause you to spend another day in San Antonio or New Orleans, if you don' time the connections correctly when you book your Amtrak journey... I do WISH the Sunset Limited was DAILY Amtrak, get with it... The states of Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona deserve BETTER Amtrak...
If the dining car has a full sitting then yes, parties of less than 4 can expect to share a table. It's usually a nice way to meet fellow travelers. You can also have your room attendant deliver meals to your room if you prefer solo dining.
I agree that the Zepher is a fantastic route. You simply can't depend on the timetable due to their renting track time from the Union Pacific. The tracks in Nebraska are so bad, you can be thrown out of bed. Most attendants are great. We love Rita, Karen, an angry African American woman is a nightmare. Each dining car staff is different. Some are very rigid, others more relaxed. If you need to make a transfer to another train, play it safe and make an overnight stay in your transfer city.
I encourage all to plan a day layover anywhere on the long train journeys, especially at cities when you connect to another train... Never sweat whether your train will get there in time to make the next train... The chances your train won't is HIGH...
Most regrettably and inexcusable, as I have made AMTRAK aware of these deficiencies for multiple years: (1) No towel rod(s) on the inner side of the combo toilet/shower door. Where does one hang wet/damp towels?? (2) No grab handle on the inner side of the combo toilet/shower door. Good luck trying to close the door with the miniscule latching mechanism. Yes, the new upholstery is a refreshing change.
I don't know about 'interiors' but the real issue for me was beds, not good. And face it, older folks can't do the upper bunk. After that, the horn blaring all night didn't help things. My railroad experience dates back to sleeping car porters and good food in the diner, no more, bad airline food, had better on the train I took across Thailand, breakfast was especially to be forgotten. Well, the auto train was actually early (didn't help any since the unloading crew wasn't there yet). Airlines are terrible by it's only three hours of it, not 17.
Do you take the steps or the ladder up to the top bunk or both, and if both of course in different room what is easier for you the steps or ladder to get to the top bunk,
On some train if supplies allow (not during summer season I bet) coach passengers can purchase traditional dinning but will be really expensive $25 for Breakfast, $35 for Lunch and $45 for dinner and this price does not include tip (Recommended but your discretion).
@@kacamac Unfortunately the Viewliner I roomettes still do have a toilet... You don't have to use it though, there are other restrooms on the train in the Amfleet coaches...
Amtrak executives who signed off the shoe box like Venture coaches from Siemens w/ uncomfortable Euro style seats totally unsuited for the US routes & passengers should be publicly humiliated then Fired. The same applies to those responsible for blowing $4 billion of Tax payer funds given to always loss making Amtrak to buy the Charger Diesel Electric locos from Siemens. They break down in the extreme cold & snow on Amtrak’s western routes e,g the Empire Builder. Someone at Amtrak clearly forgot to test them rigourously before signing the huge order. That is what happens when Lobbyists rather than Engineers run a Railroad. This happens because Amtrak is always having to beg Congress for more funds. But now that Biden has approved over $16 bn for Amtrak, it is time to make a fresh start. That starts with some housecleaning both at the Top and the Train Attendants level.
And to think the bulk of that funding is going to build and fix tunnels to New York City under the Hudson and East Rivers... While Texas is still waiting for a DAILY train in Houston, and a DAILY train from Houston to Dallas and beyond to Denver...TRAIN SETS COST A WHOLE LOT LESS THAN TUNNELS AND BRIDGES...
Brand-new interiors? This is like putting lipstick on a pig. What Amtrak needs are modern high speed trains to ride on smooth high speed rails. Riding Amtrak after riding European or Chinese trains is like catching a stage coach!
The Superliner II sleepers seem only to have been reupholstered, not fully renovated like the Superliner I sleepers were. I still hold out hope they will get that renovation one day!
Who’s gonna ride a high speed train across the US that will still be slower and more expensive than a plane? Did you see many riders on the train? Everyone uses cars, unless you’re too cheap for one.
@@Adumzzinthehouse Lots of people do! I've taken the California Zephyr - the bedrooms were sold out and coach was at least 2/3 full. You should try it and see for yourself.
@@jacksons1010 The nearest route to me is the Sunset Limited, and it doesn’t have enough demand to pull in daily riders so it runs weekly. It’s also expensive, and doesn’t hit any major towns until LA or larger cities in Texas. Us people south by Mexico don’t know what it’s like to experience trains, aside from the San Diegans.
"The room's singular outlet" MAJOR disappointment for a newly refurbished product in a more premium class of service that normally costs significantly more than coach!
Refurbishments are typically cosmetic only. Getting more outlets would require a full overhaul ov the car from the ground up to upgrade the cars' electrical system.
@@utahrailfan1946 Well to run and pull wires through the bulkheads... Apparently Amtrak may have dressed the old bulkheads with new outlets, but they didn't run and pull wires through the bulkheads... Even if they did, should they install USB or USB-C outlets to be made obsolete in a few years by USB-D outlets? Why not just bring a power strip or a extension cord? Surely you have enough room in your bag or backpack to bring a power strip and your devices rechargers...
And yet anyone watching this on a TV can see it's still just as filthy as ever. Because I always ask myself "How can I pay 3 times as much as a plane ticket and clean the room myself?".
I have been on airliners that needed cleaning during flights that lasted a few hours. Amtrak trains run day and night nearly everyday with just a few hours for cleaning at the terminus stations a day or two or three away. Yet the clean Janes want spotless clean trains every minute of every day... Gee whiz... Realize the realities and bring some cleaning supplies with you if you are a clean Jane... I am not sorry there are many Americans who do not live up to my Mom's rule, leave the bathroom cleaner than when you entered it, or there will be no dessert tonight. That lid better be closed when you leave or there will be no dessert tonight...
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Ha! We were on the Zephyr that left two days before you. When we rolled through eastern Utah, on day two, heavy clouds were building up on the mountains behind us. The next day there was light snow falling on the Donner Pass, but the tracks cut through huge piles of the white stuff. In California we transferred to the Coast Starlight, and when our journey was completed we found out that our train was the only “on time” Zephyr all week. We were very lucky.
I too have had the pleasure of travelling in Car 532, in summer last year with Mary as my attendant. You didn't overdo the praise, she really is fantastic at her job and I'm so glad to see someone letting everyone know. At the time I was on my first long Amtrak sleeper and I thought I had the best ever attendant, but now I know for sure! Big fan of you work, too.
I have high anticipation to experiencing Amtrak’s new interiors. The dining cars in my opinion are especially attractive with this new upholstery. I also am excited to seeing further advancements to pre-Covid service from last year. Amtrak is restoring dining cars on the Crescent in July and restoring Sightseer Lounges on the Texas Eagle in October (but not the Capitol Limited sadly). Amtrak management has hinted about making coach passenger access to the dining car systemwide again. There will also be more cars available to allow Amtrak operate a number of long haul trains with longer consists this summer than last!!
As always an entertaining and thorough report. I’ll be ready for the next one!!
Amtrak is charging $45 for each diner meal, whether traditional or flexible... Not too many economical coach passenger will splurge that much for a meal... Amtrak may have priced coach passengers out of the diner...
You may have been disappointed, but writing from Australia I was not. Having travelled on the Zephyr previously it was interesting to see the scenery different to what it is in September, not to mention snowy Denver when I normally visit the US. Viewers probably won't have noticed, however the complete, 100% absence of the abomination of advertising hoardings, so familiar to travellers along interstates' was a joy to experience.
It is good to see the Ottumwa station platform being rebuilt. The station platform had platform sheds with open roofs more than likely removed decades ago. Glad to see work on the station.
On the edge of my seat to see that 2nd part of the journey! The trip from Denver to Emeryville is truly the most breathtaking part of the California Zephyr.
The Lounge Car was made for the California Zephyr.😊
At 6:11 you can see he filmed a BNSF anniversary unit with the railroad logos on the side. Very cool video too.
I rode the Zephyr last week (early May) SF/Oakland (okay, Emeryville) - Chicago, roomette. Much nicer with no snow. Glenwood Canyon and Donner Pass are pretty, but Nevada is interesting too. The Superliner cars may have been refurbished, but they are generally still old and getting rough around the edges. Downstairs bathrooms, chipped and scratched. To stop rattles in the roomette, I put the hangers on the floor and stuffed tissues in between the door and door pocket.
When making sleeper car reservations check the floorplan of the cars. Middle rooms are always better than end rooms. You'd rather not ride over the wheels.
After riding the Southwest Chief, the Sunset Limited and then the Zephyr (in 3 years), I'd say the food was best on the Chief. But VIA Rail's Canadian offers food that's a step up from Amtrak.
Overall, I love riding that rail no matter what.
Amtrak is expected to announce the purchase order for a new fleet of bi-level overnight long distance sleeper trains soon, as they were funded two years ago with the infrastructure bill. A year ago Amtrak asked for bids from the manufacturers and they have been comparing the bids lately. However, don't expect any of the new fleet of cars to be in service before 2030, and the last before 2035. How many will be purchased isn't clear... Hopefully enough to give the Sunset Limited some LOVE with more train sets to operate this train DAILY all way to Orlando.... This I Amtrak's largest hole in their long distance services...
@@ronclark9724 And I wish they'd recontinue the Sunset to Jacksonville.
I hope any new bilevel cars are still fluted stainless exterior. The Superliners cars still look good.
(And no angled sides like the Viewliners. )
Wow. My wife and I experienced the great Mary on our ride eastbound two weeks ago. We concur!!
This is one of my favorite amtrak passenger train you ridden on . I have friends that work that train that change crews in Ottumwa
SFO to Chicago, loved it, but was kicked off the train in Salt Lake, tracks were washed out somewhere near Denver. I Had to use a lot of points to make my way home. To their credit I did get 100% of my money back. I want to do another trip, but the cost seems to have increased to a higher level. My again would love to do it again, hopefully the whole trip.
Took the zephyr about 12 years ago Chicago to Sacramento. One of the best trips I’ve ever taken and I need to do it again with the refurbished cars
Amtrak sleeper cars still need:
* an electric outlet for each passenger in the roomette
* a door that passengers can lock from the outside as well as the inside
* a PA speaker inside the room, so passengers don't have to scramble to hear train-wide announcements
there is actually a PA speaker in the room - not sure what you're talking about
@@sgt.eclair I'm talking about PA speakers in the passageways, but not in the room. Maybe the speakers in my roomettes just weren't working. But they've pretty cosistently not worked.
@@greggross8856 I mean, every roomette I've been in has had working PA speakers. Make sure the volume isn't set to 0 on the dial.
You can bring a power strip to provide many more outlets probably for less than $20, an extension cord for less than $10. I never leave home without a power strip when I bring my devices. The new bi-level fleet is expected to have hotel style card keys with the ability of the conductor and stewards able to open locked doors in an emergency or death. You will be surprised how many die riding the trains. There is a reason why the Safety Transportation Board and Amtrak use the locking mechanism they use now. Keep in mind these Superliner cars were built nearly 50 years ago. I just don't bring anything worth stealing that can't be replaced at the first Walmart easily. There are speakers in the room, but many passengers turn their volume down to not hear the announcements, or those who had the room before.
Mary for Amtrak President!
A great video, that new upholstery looks really good, and I must say seeing the great hall at Union Station never gets old. I live near Vancouver BC Canada and am planning to travel to Dallas Texas on Amtrak. Do you have any suggestions about which routes would make the most sense? I know I have to take the Cascades to Seattle, but beyond that I am pretty flexible.
Consider taking the Empire Builder from Seattle to Chicago, then the Texas Eagle from Chicago to Dallas
Or, if your preferences are different, two other choices: Coast Starlight to either Emeryville or Los Angeles. From Emeryville, take the subject train of this video to Chicago for the early mountain views and the later flat plains and then the follow-on Texas Eagle to Dallas. Or, from Los Angeles to Dallas, you can take the Sunset Limited/Texas Eagle for the desert views. Time for a round trip? Try each in different directions.
If I ever did the Zephyr again I would fly into Denver and take the train west from there.
My wife and I took the Zephyr two years ago from Chicago to Emeryville. Instead of snow, however, there was massive rain that washed out a portion of the tracks between Denver and Grand Junction. Amtrak put all of us on buses to Grand Junction. We boarded the train that had been traveling eastbound, missing the most scenic part of the trip. So, I am with you. My wife and I will fly into Denver and take the Zephyr from Denver to Emeryville to see by train the portion of the trip we missed the first time. Traveling long distance Amtrak is always an adventure, but this wasn't the kind of adventure I had wanted.
Hi this is Isaiah wiley from myrtle Beach south Carolina saying hello and great amtrak video and I am glad and very proud of people like you making amtrak travel videos for RUclips right now because they are the only thing that can make me feel extremely happy of how I miss traveling on amtrak with my dad because I was born in August 2002 and I rode amtrak from 2003-2019 and I have been stuck in the house right when covid 19 hit the united states and in that time I have been angry 😠 and upset 😡 but anyways keep up the great amtrak video making your the best and good luck 👍 😊.
I love Union Station in Chicago, it’s legendary and famous!
That irks me that business class passengers are no longer allowed in the lounge as part of their ticket. Business class tickets have skyrocketed in price for the state level services and you get less for it.
Yeah not going to lie for a class as simple as business class, Amtrak could do the courtesy. It doesn’t make sense because you’re paying out the ass already.
Maybe Amtrak saw what Delta did with additional restrictions for Sky Club access and got inspired.
@@jonathankleinow2073 considering Amtrak has had former airline execs running it for years now, it makes sense. I miss the days of having actual railroaders run a railroad.
Firing David L Gunn in 2005 was the dumbest thing that has happened at Amtrak in the last 2 decades.
I’ll be in car 532, room 5 in October! Very much looking forward to it.
Can’t wait for your part two of this trip! Love your voice it soothing
I’ll be riding this in July from Chicago to Davis, CA.
Can.
Not.
Wait.
How was it? Was the food good?
Looks nice! I usually take Amtrak from Salt Lake City to Northern Nevada, no pretty parts and usually overnight.
As a regular commuter train user, Union Staion Chicago is less appealing after you’ve breathed in those thick blue diesel fumes every work day, especially in the summer.
Over Thanksgiving 2023 I took Amtrak's Lakeshore Limited across three states to visit family for the holiday.
It was a 12 hour journey and I considered reserving a roomette. The ONE WAY cost for coach was $167 however the ONE WAY cost for a roomette was $1,053.
I cannot possibly see the justification for Amtrak to charge roughly 150% more for a roomette over coach.
I take the Zephyr twice a year all the way to Emeryville and love the new sleepers. They are so worth the extra fare
Howdy, boy ! Have taken this trip many times. Your report is sweet, funny and accurate. LOVED IT !
I was riding the zephyr around 2 weeks earlier, and trunkated our train to end in slc... didnt affect us since we were traveling from provo to slc lol
I'm taking the zephyr next month again. The steak and mashed potatoes are so good, looking forward to it.
5:18. Amtrak 518 spotted. I love the freight style locomotives in the Amtrak phase 5 scheme. I pray that one day I’ll catch a B32 on the road before they’re decommissioned 😇.
Always fascinating and informative, thanks for another exciting and well-designed video. I noted your view on freight trains, saying they were otherwise unremarkable if they weren’t carrying something interesting. Now here’s my opinion on freight trains to even the ledger: I find them just as stimulating as passenger trains. In fact, I enjoy seeing both. Good morning and have a fantastic day, whatever you’re doing. Anthony (from Sydney, Australia).
Ha, I too enjoy seeing freight trains, I just prefer passenger over freight. Plus with Precision Scheduled Railroading here in the US creating monster trains, it’s always a fun sight. Hope you’re enjoying your evening in Australia! (Btw I loved Sydney and AUS in general when I visited a couple years back. Absolutely phenomenal country.)
@@LonestarTrips Thanks for your thoughtful reply.
I enjoy the new seats. Getting into this and think I’ve been on a few Amfleets with them. The quilted pattern is gonna be a familiar touch from those who know where Richard Anderson came from
Is it just me, or do those chairs in the roomettes look larger (or at least wider) than the older style? Either way, I'm all for it! I do wish they added an extra outlet though, but since it was just a refurbishing, not sure how possible that was. Also... "No hair dryers or curling iron". Very interesting thing to specify! (I can't remember if that was on any old ones, but regardless).
With the PA volume controls removed, does that mean you have to hear the announcements in the rooms now no matter what at a set volume? I can imagine that being annoying for people that like to turn that off in their rooms. Though if they replaced those knobs with room for a second outlet, at least that space wouldn't have gone to waste!
Great video as always! I'm not sure what your next trip report will be but I always enjoy them.
Hair dryers and curling irons consume a thousand or more watts, not five watts of a smart phone or tablet... Do you have a working knowledge of electricity?
@@ronclark9724 That wasn't even the point of my comment. I was merely stating how it's interesting that it's specified *at all*. (because, for some reason, common sense is not very common) It's obviously implied that they can pose several safety hazards if not used or stored properly, such as being plugged into the outlets and being left unattended. But even someone with a working knowledge of electricity can still find that interesting.
I was going to take a western loop this winter and 5 of 7 trains got cancelled. Will be trying again in Sept.
the newly renovated interior does look nice. i've never been on the train, except for the bart in SF. while i'm interested in taking a cross-country trip, the train it's too expensive compared to car including food, and hotels along the way. thank you for another great video
Watch out for the 30-day10 trips Amtrak Rail Pass promotion on Amtrak's website... Usually once a year Amtrak offers it, although the Rail Pass is for coach seating only... It is such a good value even if you use it for two trips and one week...
Looks like the refurb was done on the cheap as most of the room was still original equipment, especially all the hard surfaces and floor, which seemed dingy and dirty. I took the Zephyr over 30 years ago and aside from the hallway carpeting, lighting, switches and seats, it looks like it's mostly the same. Pity, but Amtrak has been severely and intentionally underfunded for decades and even with the recent boost in its budget only has so much to work with, plus this refurb was likely planned well before the boost.
I'd eventually like to see a whole new generation of Amtrak sleepers with a new design and layout to truly refresh them, perhaps taking its cue from Austria's new Nightjet sleepers. And maybe more than one long haul train a day, as is the case in the rest of the world. We really do have a lot of catching up to do. At least the scenery hasn't changed. The sights on the Denver to Emertville portion are among the finest in the world. And Amtrak's traditional dining car service is really quite good. And few countries have a sightseer car.
Nice video! I had Mary on my last CZ trip and she was awesome!
I did the same trip in car 531 last week. I thought the ride from Fort Morgan to Lincoln was rough, but from Lincoln to Fort Morgan (return trip) there wasn't much sleeping going on. It felt like riding in a flatbed truck bouncing down a dirt road at 80 MPH. Awful!
I of course do not get tired of you showing Chicago Union Station yet again! The room refresh looks good but too bad they didn't add a 2nd electrical outlet.
Glad the hall shots don’t go amiss! As for the refresh, they’re only cosmetic and a stop gap measure while Amtrak looks for suitable replacements for its superliner fleet.
I didn't have a good experience on that train late April from Chicago to Emeryville. I'm not the only one that thought so. A lot of malfunction in roommette and disorganized in taking dining orders.
14:00 For those interested, the front Bradley appears to be an M7 B-FiST, which is a version specifically designed as an artillery direction vehicle. I am pretty sure that the 5th vehicle is also the same variant, while the rest are probably M3 Cavalry Fighting Vehicles, which is the reconnisance variant. Going by this, the Bradleys are likely being delivered to one of the Armoured Cavalry Regiment's, with the vehicles on the train representing a full Squadrons worth of vehicles.
Good eye! I can’t believe you saw they were the M3s and not M2s. What gave it away? And I still can’t see the differences between the M7 vs M3.
@@Jeragon186 The main difference between the M3 and the M7 is that the M7 replaces the TOW launcher on the near side of the turret with a targeting module for it's artillery direction. The difference between the M2 and the M3 is that the M2 has firing ports for the infantry, while the M3 deletes them as it doesn't carry infantry. There are also internal differences, but those are not apparent from the footage.
It has been a while since I traveled on a Superliner sleeper. It was nice to see what the redo looked like. I guess this will have to do till they get the new cars planned in the next few years. It would be nice if the new cars feature multiple outlets but charging ports may not be the best idea since the technology keeps changing. It is best just to carry your 110 volt charging system for your electronic item and plug that in.
USB, USB c, will there be a USB D? Bring a power strip with your devices rechargers and be happy... Surely there is enough room in your backpack or bag for them...
Great video! I am curious why almost all Zephyr videos are westbound. It's very rare to find one starting in California.
Thanks! Almost all videos are filmed westbound because it maximizes the daylight hours in the most scenic part of the route, which begins just after departing Denver around 8am.
@@LonestarTrips That makes sense. Thanks for explaining, and again, great video.
They still only have one a/c outlet. We always carry an extension cord with multiple outlets.
I being a power strip to recharge my devices. While Amtrak rewired with outlets during the refurbishment program, Amtrak apparently didn't run and pull wires inside the bulkheads.walls..
Sad that Omaha's original station is not used by Amtrak. I love the historical stations that are still used in Chicago, Denver, Kansas City, DC, LA and many others. Cincinnati is always listed on best RR stations, but I've never seen it. On the Zephyr, the tracks now bypass Salt Lake's classic Rio Grande station. The train just stops under an overpass. And of course, the Bay Area didn't bother to preserve any of it's classic stations, sadly.
Ditto with the San Antonio Amtrak station sitting adjacent to the former Southern Pacific station now used by a law firm...
Good point.
@@ronclark9724Good point.
I’ve ridden on sightseer 33019 when it was the Heartland Flyer for the 25th Anniversary
13:27 Just to clarify, it was not a passing town he saw, HE is the one who was passing. Generally speaking, most towns are stationary.
Idk man, those towns are spry when you’re not looking…
@@LonestarTrips Perhaps a village of mobile homes??
@@HighHolyOne or perhaps the whole town’s on wheels?
Wow, who knew or cared, which was really moving.
I guess I was expecting too much after watching so many wonderful experiences that if
I had a pair of your rose colored glasses I would have enjoyed my trip on the Zephyr much more! But even with your rose colored glasses the strong odor and dirt and lack of service could not be over looked. My entire trip was no where near your claimed experience! The best I can say is the scenery was amazing and we arrived ahead of schedule.
I'm a little frustrated with that storm, because this is my second favorite route follow only just behind the Southwest Chief and it's a big disappointment to miss what makes it my second favorite. I'm sure it was just as disappointing for you too. Sorry about the storm, but, bad thing can happen.
I'm disappointed that the updated sleepers don't offer single sleepers for those of us traveling alone and not wanting to pay for a second bed.. I remember some hosts talking about the possibility. However, I guess it didn't come to pass.
You never pay for the second bed. It is a SINGLE flat rate if you travel alone or as a pair of people. You each pay a basic rail fare and then the one sleeper fare.
Seeing is believing I’m on the Auto train in November, hopefully their there’s has been upgraded. I’ve been riding it now for the last two years and it’s an old dumpy train.
Well, some of the Superliner cars are approaching 50 years in age, the newest Superliner cars are approaching 40 years in age... I shall agree this refurbishment program is long overdue...
Actually, Superliner IIs were built in the 1990s and the Superliner Is were built in the 1970s. The reason Superliner I sleepers look nicer despite being older is because they underwent a full overhaul with reconfiguration of the whole interior between 2003 and 2006, but the Superliner II cars did not receive a full overhaul
True, but both are being refurbishedt currently...
@@ronclark9724 yeah, but just a light refresh, not a heavy makeover with interior reconfigurations like the Superliner I Sleepers had in the mid-2000s.
Those may be refreshed interiors but they still look plenty beat up and grungy. New upholstery can't hide everything.
No, of course not. The new interiors are a stop-gap measure while Amtrak figures out the next generation of long distance sleepers.
Nice report as always. I’m not sure of how much of a “railfan” you are. So I will add a couple of things to look for if you travel that route again. First off you traveled west on the “speedway” on main track 1. That’s unusual because of Metra trains stopping. Perhaps this was a weekend day?
Just west of Ottumwa the BNSF crosses at grade the CPKC and their yard can be seen to the north. This line is seeing increased traffic since the merger of the Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern.
Minor clarification on the Burlington Depot in Omaha. The other railroad’s passenger trains (Union Pacific, Milwaukee, Rock Island, Illinois Central) used Union Station, not the Burlington Depot. The two stations used to be connected by an overhead pedestrian bridge.
New subscriber. Really good video. I'll be on the Empire Builder next month from Seattle to Milwaukee. I took the EB westbound last year and really enjoyed the ride. Hopng to get the new interior on the Superliner car for my trip in my private bedroom accommodations. Question: Did you find the new interior to be a comfortable bed? I generally like a firmer bed and have always found the bottom bed of the regular (old style) bedroom to be a comfortable place to sleep.
If you are in a roomette or bedroom car, can you lock your door from the hallway to leave your stuff in the room while going to dinner or the viewing cars or public restroom/shower?
no ! only from inside
you can on Viewliner 2s I believe, but not any other car type
Just don't bring anything worth stealing that can't be replaced at the first Walmart easily. When I travel I wear a money belt around my waist, and I have a belt holster for my smart phone. I never bring cameras as the smart phone camera is sufficient for my needs. I lock my bags although I am sure a thief with a sharp knife can easily get into my bags locked or unlocked. A good thief don't let locks get in their way anyway... So why the worry? Don't flash jewelry while traveling, leave jewelry at home. I shall repeat the first line again, just don't bring anything worth stealing that can't be replaced at the first Walmart easily. It really IS that simple...
I was expecting a full ride between Chicago and Emeryville (San Francisco Bay Area), what was your point in finishing at Denver? Exploring the city and its metro systems would be interesting.
Did you not watch the video? I was supposed to be traveling to SF, but the train was canceled between Denver and Grand Junction due to weather. I explained everything in the video.
@@LonestarTrips okay, that's reasonable, I do still appreciate your videos, I hope the next video you can finish the rest of the trip.
I plan on passing through the pretty part not once, not twice, but three times. First will be on the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks, second will be eastbound on the CZ from SLC to DEN, and third will be on the westbound out to SF.
@@LonestarTrips interesting, I think that Colorado has to be the most scenic state because of the Rocky mountains surrounding the state.
@@hermanchan2794 I enjoy Wyoming as well... Nothing beats Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons in my opinion....
Normally, I think video sponsors are tacky, but Nord is something everyone should have.
I used Nord anytime I wanted any of my banking sites to NOT allow me to log in. If you have to disable you VPN application to see your balances, that's pretty dumb.
Speaking of tacky, that would be shilling for Nord in BOTH the video description AND a pinned “comment” by the author on their own video.
I have been thinking about this trip for over a year... I would prefer to get on at Denver and would want a sleeper, does Amtrak allow that. I would prefer to travel in the last week of December... Should I take this train in December???? I so want to take a train ride.
Book well ahead if you wish to travel in December during the holidays... But yes, you can book a sleeper or roomette from Denver, but maybe not on the very day you wish to travel... So book early before everyone else does...
So did you have to wait for a train to return? Or did you have to find a room until could return to Chicago? That would be bad
I ended up flying out of Denver to San Francisco. I wasn’t able to find a way to get to Grand Junction, and with the weather getting worse by the minute, I wasn’t taking any risks.
Great job 👍👍
I was trying to find that other channel you said to look for that new friend on your channel. I have not found the link.
Apologies! I updated the description to include his link.
Outrageous that in this day of age that these "refreshed rooms" still only have a singular plug socket. They could have at bare minimum add a few USBs
While they are refreshing the interiors, getting more outlets would require a complete overhaul of the car, from the ground up, to upgrade the electrical system to allow more outlets.
@@utahrailfan1946 I'm guessing that these will be in service for at least 10 more years. We are highly dependent on devices that need a nightly charge as it is so 1 outlet for 2 people is already outdated. I believe this should have been rectified 10 years ago.
@@kriss_b One could just as easily buy and bring a power strip or a extension cord for less than $20 or $10 respectively. While Amtrak changed the outlets apparently, Amtrak did NOT pull and run new wiring through the bulkheads/walls. Apparently Amtrak may have dressed the bulkheads, they still used the old bulkheads. Frankly I NEVER leave home with numerous devices without a power strip or extension cord... Why do you? I may pack very lightly compared to you using only a backpack for my few extra clothes and my tablet, I bring a power strip or extension cord... Every dollar store and Walmart stocks a power strip or extension cord...
Attumwa Ia is where Radar on Mash was from!
Welcome to Denver.
When the San Francisco Zephyr(the predecessor of Amtrak's California Zephyr) could reach speeds of over 161 kph through Iowa
Not after some federal agency changed the regulations a long, long time ago...
A lot of hyperbole in this video, to say the least. The refurbished Superliners look better but they haven't had any mechanical improvements, so don't be surprised that the AC works poorly. Food is average. Constant train announcements (while I was eating we got an announcement warning us not to throw papers in the toilets) are a real pain. At least they stop the announcements at night. Train routinely runs hours late. Customer service depends on the good will of the employee, very inconsistent. Fares are super high. If the sleeping-car fares weren't so high these shortcomings might be somewhat overlooked because the scenery is fantastic but as the fares are ridiculous, passengers deserve more.
hello when was this video taken im suprised they still have h eavy snow in may
This was filmed on March 13th, 2024.
And yes, Denver still can get heavy snow in May.
I wonder why they didn't go with the better faucets for the bedrooms like they did in the shared bathrooms. The old style is pretty annoying.
Nice video 😊
They look like viewliners now
Not quite, but this refurbishment program is long overdue...
Would like to see The Lake Shore Limited (48/448 and 49/449) with some new(er) equipment
Next show us the dormitory car aka the car where the staff sleep.
Which site is best to get info to schedule a trip from Texas area to Georgia area?
Amtrak’s own website works great for travel planning! (Amtrak.com)
Unfortunately there is no straight shot to get to Georgia from Texas, you will need to take 2 trains and at least 1 night between the trains. The 1rst train will Be the Sunset Limted to New Orleans and then the next train will be the Crescent from New Orleans to Georgia,
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 And if you are in the DFW area of Texas, you may wish to ride the Eagle down to San Antonio and make connections to the Sunset Limited... Unfortunately like the DAILY Crescent and DAILY Texas Eagle north of San Antonio, the TRICE WEEKLY Sunset Limited may cause you to spend another day in San Antonio or New Orleans, if you don' time the connections correctly when you book your Amtrak journey... I do WISH the Sunset Limited was DAILY Amtrak, get with it... The states of Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona deserve BETTER Amtrak...
I did a selfie in the Great Hall
Are you required to sit with someone at dinner? Also can you have your dinner wrapped to go?
If the dining car has a full sitting then yes, parties of less than 4 can expect to share a table. It's usually a nice way to meet fellow travelers. You can also have your room attendant deliver meals to your room if you prefer solo dining.
Cen you make video ebavt santa fe 3751
I agree that the Zepher is a fantastic route. You simply can't depend on the timetable due to their renting track time from the Union Pacific. The tracks in Nebraska are so bad, you can be thrown out of bed. Most attendants are great. We love Rita, Karen, an angry African American woman is a nightmare. Each dining car staff is different. Some are very rigid, others more relaxed. If you need to make a transfer to another train, play it safe and make an overnight stay in your transfer city.
I encourage all to plan a day layover anywhere on the long train journeys, especially at cities when you connect to another train... Never sweat whether your train will get there in time to make the next train... The chances your train won't is HIGH...
Is the flatiron steak tender?
Yes, but not as tender as a filet mignon...
@@ronclark9724 I know that’s right. Ribeye is my favorite😋✌️
Most regrettably and inexcusable, as I have made AMTRAK aware of these deficiencies for multiple years: (1) No towel rod(s) on the inner side of the combo toilet/shower door. Where does one hang wet/damp towels?? (2) No grab handle on the inner side of the combo toilet/shower door. Good luck trying to close the door with the miniscule latching mechanism. Yes, the new upholstery is a refreshing change.
At least the public restrooms downstairs and the public shower has grab rails... Sadly those in the bedrooms don't...
I don't know about 'interiors' but the real issue for me was beds, not good. And face it, older folks can't do the upper bunk. After that, the horn blaring all night didn't help things. My railroad experience dates back to sleeping car porters and good food in the diner, no more, bad airline food, had better on the train I took across Thailand, breakfast was especially to be forgotten. Well, the auto train was actually early (didn't help any since the unloading crew wasn't there yet). Airlines are terrible by it's only three hours of it, not 17.
Dunno about you but this 70+ yo woman uses the top bunk of an Amtrak sleeper every time I travel with my partner.
Do you take the steps or the ladder up to the top bunk or both, and if both of course in different room what is easier for you the steps or ladder to get to the top bunk,
Can Coach passengers buy dinner in the dining car yet? They took that feature away during covid.
On some train if supplies allow (not during summer season I bet) coach passengers can purchase traditional dinning but will be really expensive $25 for Breakfast, $35 for Lunch and $45 for dinner and this price does not include tip (Recommended but your discretion).
8:05 How can 2 adults sit in front of each other without hitting each others' knees ? Asking seriously.
They genuinely can’t. I’ve traveled with 2 adults in a roomette, and we ended up sitting diagonally so that our legs weren’t tangled.
Thats an amshack 25:18
I wanna do this
Metropolitan Lounge = *Chill Refuge* (for the socially paranoid!)
Does this mean the roomettes with the toilets in them are no more? cause thank goodness.
Superliner roomettes have never had in-room toilets. But the newer Viewliner IIs out east have done away with them too, yes.
@@crazoatmeal1854 thank you, its so confusing remembering all of them lol
@@kacamac Unfortunately the Viewliner I roomettes still do have a toilet... You don't have to use it though, there are other restrooms on the train in the Amfleet coaches...
Need to update security they don’t even check passengers
Why? If you were a terrorist you would take out a bridge with explosives, not board a train...
Just restore Dining Car Service on all Over-Night Trains East of the Mississippi for crying out loud!
Amtrak executives who signed off the shoe box like Venture coaches from Siemens w/ uncomfortable Euro style seats totally unsuited for the US routes & passengers should be publicly humiliated then Fired. The same applies to those responsible for blowing $4 billion of Tax payer funds given to always loss making Amtrak to buy the Charger Diesel Electric locos from Siemens. They break down in the extreme cold & snow on Amtrak’s western routes e,g the Empire Builder. Someone at Amtrak clearly forgot to test them rigourously before signing the huge order. That is what happens when Lobbyists rather than Engineers run a Railroad. This happens because Amtrak is always having to beg Congress for more funds. But now that Biden has approved over $16 bn for Amtrak, it is time to make a fresh start. That starts with some housecleaning both at the Top and the Train Attendants level.
And to think the bulk of that funding is going to build and fix tunnels to New York City under the Hudson and East Rivers... While Texas is still waiting for a DAILY train in Houston, and a DAILY train from Houston to Dallas and beyond to Denver...TRAIN SETS COST A WHOLE LOT LESS THAN TUNNELS AND BRIDGES...
Brand-new interiors? This is like putting lipstick on a pig. What Amtrak needs are modern high speed trains to ride on smooth high speed rails. Riding Amtrak after riding European or Chinese trains is like catching a stage coach!
The Superliner II sleepers seem only to have been reupholstered, not fully renovated like the Superliner I sleepers were. I still hold out hope they will get that renovation one day!
All I can say is vote blue, else it’ll never happen. 💙
Who’s gonna ride a high speed train across the US that will still be slower and more expensive than a plane? Did you see many riders on the train? Everyone uses cars, unless you’re too cheap for one.
@@Adumzzinthehouse Lots of people do! I've taken the California Zephyr - the bedrooms were sold out and coach was at least 2/3 full. You should try it and see for yourself.
@@jacksons1010 The nearest route to me is the Sunset Limited, and it doesn’t have enough demand to pull in daily riders so it runs weekly. It’s also expensive, and doesn’t hit any major towns until LA or larger cities in Texas. Us people south by Mexico don’t know what it’s like to experience trains, aside from the San Diegans.
"The room's singular outlet"
MAJOR disappointment for a newly refurbished product in a more premium class of service that normally costs significantly more than coach!
Ive stayed in hotels that cost 300 a night and only had one working outlet
Refurbishments are typically cosmetic only. Getting more outlets would require a full overhaul ov the car from the ground up to upgrade the cars' electrical system.
@@utahrailfan1946 Well to run and pull wires through the bulkheads... Apparently Amtrak may have dressed the old bulkheads with new outlets, but they didn't run and pull wires through the bulkheads... Even if they did, should they install USB or USB-C outlets to be made obsolete in a few years by USB-D outlets? Why not just bring a power strip or a extension cord? Surely you have enough room in your bag or backpack to bring a power strip and your devices rechargers...
Why do you always say bathroom? Do you see a bath? No, they are restrooms! Despite this mistake i do enjoy what you have posted!
And yet anyone watching this on a TV can see it's still just as filthy as ever. Because I always ask myself "How can I pay 3 times as much as a plane ticket and clean the room myself?".
I have been on airliners that needed cleaning during flights that lasted a few hours. Amtrak trains run day and night nearly everyday with just a few hours for cleaning at the terminus stations a day or two or three away. Yet the clean Janes want spotless clean trains every minute of every day... Gee whiz... Realize the realities and bring some cleaning supplies with you if you are a clean Jane... I am not sorry there are many Americans who do not live up to my Mom's rule, leave the bathroom cleaner than when you entered it, or there will be no dessert tonight. That lid better be closed when you leave or there will be no dessert tonight...
Amtrak Luxury = 1 step up from a Public bus.
Still no high speed rail while China has built 40,000km HSR in 16 years. Why?
Congress won’t fund it, that’s why.
Because all progress is vilified by Republicans as "socialism". They prefer instead to give big tax breaks to billionaires.
Define HSR? If a top speed of 120 mph, Acela is HSR...
americans be thinking they make a breakthrough with their trains.
It’s hardly a breakthrough lol, it’s just a step forward compared to what we had for the past two decades.
Americans who support rail travel are painfully aware how pitiful it is here.
Seats are vinyl not leather, correct? Thanks for very interesting trip report!
Nice…but Nasty floors
What did you expect, a marble floor polished to a bright shine?
Putting your feet up on the ledge were people pur their drinks and snacks is disgusting. I hope Amtrak sees this video and bans you for life.
I’ll be sure to send them your regards