My nephew wanted to do something like this before he passed last year, 4 days before his 29th birthday. If you have the resources, make the time to enjoy these types of adventures.
im sorry to hear that your nephew passed.i hope he's in heaven watching over us,and most importantly,you.i'm sure he's be happy if you were happy.he's in a much better place than earth now.i just wish you and him could have done this train travel thing before he passed.its okay though.we can all re-unite in heaven and talk about the times we had.i hope your okay now @The-Real-GOAT-Kobe.and may your nephew rest in peace,Amin.
You should do the trip yourself as a tribute to your nephew. You may find it gives you a sense of peace as you find yourself connected to his spirit on a deeper level.
I fully agree. Last year I went down a rabbit hole of RUclips videos watching these trips from Chicago to Seattle & SF & I planned to do this for my 50th this year. unfortunately I have to put it off but I defiantly will do this because I've always wanted to visit Seattle & figured this would be a great way to see parts of the country that I will likely never visit individually.
I made this trip as a 13 yr old with my parents in the 1960’s. It was a breathtaking adventure and I’m so glad that I thanked my father again for this experience many many decades later…before he passed away. I’m glad that this train and trip still exist. I think I might have to do it again!
Shortly after our marriage my wife and I spent 6 months riding the rails in the USA about 35 years ago. There were more rails back then and a monthly ticket cost about $200 for Europeans. And sleepers cost about $50 - $70 including meals. It’s still one of the best travel experiences we had. Nice to relive the memories.
My son and I traveled from Oregon to Rhode Island on Amtrak, we didn’t have quite the experience you did , our train broke down in the middle of nowhere and we were stuck for almost 18 hours, but once we got back on schedule it was nice, when we were going through the Midwest they had a storyteller on board which was amazing , all in all I really had a good time with my son
I did this with my brother and a friend back in October 2008! Loved every second of it. I remember the guy running the cafe was a good laugh. Whenever he was closing he'd announce it was closing in 10 minutes over the PA. Then he'd repeat it several times, quieter each time. We nicknamed him Whispering Johnny Ten Minutes! 🤣
Last August, my wife and I flew from Barbados to New York and then did Amtrak from Penn Station, NY to Chicago (coach) then on the Zephyr to San Francisco (sleeper). Coming from our tropical island scenery, it was the trip of a lifetime. So beautiful. Thankfully we only did one night in coach though.
I’m a train guy. And always will be. But you make this journey look a lot more glamorous than it is and you actually liked the food! I usually take coach, and I will tell you that after about 12 hours the bathrooms become incredibly filthy! But having said this I’m still a train guy and thankful that the Amtrak service exists. But this country certainly could use an improvement in passenger rail service. I.E. Bullet Trains. Why we’re so behind other first world countries in trains I don’t know. I can only guess it must be the airlines feeling threatened and blocking the advancement of a good rail system here. I enjoyed your video. It was interesting to see the British perspective of our rail system. Especially since you have such a good one yourself.
@@Rascalndear1don’t you want to own your own automobile? Who wants to ride on a train when you can drive your very own ford motor company automobile. Henry ford really did shaft this country in a lot of ways
I did this in 2001 when I was 19. Amtrak from Bel Air, MD to San Francisco, CA. Was amazing. Will never forget it. Dead of Winter too. Some of the scenery was amazing.
I also did this journey in 2001 at 19! I actually went from NYC--Chicago--LA over three days. This was back in December 2001. We were stuck in Ohio for 4 hours so the cops could board the train to investigate a possible anthrax attack in the toilets. Turned out to be sugar. Meanwhile we were all herded into the bar car where about 30 of us were treated to around a 1000 dollars worth of free drinks bought be a fellow passenger. What a crazy trip!
@@stephj740 I was just one year ahead of you. Thankfully I missed out on the Anthrax drama. I couldn't imagine. But remember delays when that was all going on when going to Colorado. Crazy times.
Did this trip with husband about 10 years ago in December, from Emeryville to Chicago. It was at the beginning of our 8 week US/Canada holiday. We had an ensuite room. Met all sorts of interesting people. Spent most of our time in the observation car. Fabulous trip
I took this Amtrak trip with my family back when I was 12 years old. Now I'm well into my adulthood and still look back on the trip as one of the most memorable times of my life! I highly recommend it to any adventurous travel junkie out there.
I made part of this trek back when I was 18 years old in the 1990s. Our youth group had a coach car to ourselves from Jackson MS to Chicago and Chicago to Fraser/Winter Park. We got off there for a ski trip and took it back. One of the best experiences of my life.
My stepfather was a conductor for Amtrak for 30 years. I’ve rode the trains at least 1,000 times and I enjoy it every single trip! I’ve done every situation from sleepers to coach. Definitely would advise to anyone who loves to travel.
Video cannot capture how breathtaking the scenery is and how vast everything looks in person. I did the Southwest Chief route which is not nearly as scenic as this and I was already blown away. It is definitely something I recommend doing at least once, especially in a sleeper.
Okay... Yes Yes Yes. Chinese Trains are fast as a Bullet. They are Glittery. Beautiful. Modern. Hygienic as a bloody military OR. But, I prefer the US Trains. Yup. They are creepy fun. On a Chinese train you get from point A to point B in a sneeze. Instead on a US train, they are so slow that you can see how your clothes go out of style. On a US train, you can fall in love, have children and watch them grow up. On a US train you can read Tolstoy's "War and Peace" twice. On the US train you have time to learn another language. U see? US trains are exciting. They are Noisy. Stinky. Rusty. Smoky. Full of Graffiti. With vomits of all nationalities. From Mexican enchiladas to Japanese sushi. The US train is Thrilling like a horror movie and whitout "Beautiful" rural landscapes flash. On the other hand, on a Chinese train, you get on, you sit down and Nnnnñit! You have already reached your destination. What kind of shit is that? Did you pay a ticket and for what? Where are the murders, the harassing cops, the swindlers, the Addicts, the "International Spies", the Sadists, the Psychos, the Sex Pervs, de Locos, the Mormons, the Exhibitionists...? No. No. No. I rather to risk my life on a US train, but have something to tell my grandchildren. Traveling on a US train is a High-Risk Sport. In case the train derails... Excuse me. It's not "IF". The correct word is: "WHEN Derails". Mmh... Anyway:... blah, blah, blah...
@@salvadorvizcarra769 I will admit, I am confused about your comment as I didn't mention anything about a Chinese train. Also confused about the general content of your response LOL but I do agree I prefer U.S. trains (and other trains that are non-high speed trains) over high speed ones. Although everything has its place. The Japanese Shinkansen is very good but they also have sleeper trains as well.
On my bucket list. I wanted to do this with a friend from “across the pond” but sadly he passed away before we could make the trip together. I live in Chicago and used to live in California as a kid. I’ve taken this trip countless times in a car and airplane but never on a train.
I’ve travelled on the Coast Starlight - 36 hours between LA and Seattle - both ways. This was just over ten years ago, but this film pretty much reflects my experience- and makes me want to travel long-distance on Amtrak. Great work!
You actually inspired me to take this trip! I actually took Amtrak from NY all the way through Chicago and then to California! What an amazing trip it was!!! Thank you for being so inspiring.
Same. It's cool to see the different philosophies: Japan's minimalism and hyperefficient use of space versus US practical approach with more features but less refined.
I'm australian but have family in the US and always visit reno and truckee and seeing you go though it for some reason filled me with joy knowing that im not the only foreigner who knows the true beauty of this small city.
I did the Canadian version after my first year of college. It was around 90 hours from Toronto to Vancouver but as I was a student I did it on a budget and in economy. I can definitely tell you my experience was very different. 5 days of no shower, eating very crappy sandwiches from the cantine and sleeping on a chair... but I did make lasting friendships on that train ans memories I will always cherish. The views I must say are better than the American one. I highly recommend it to everyone.
I'm literally the complete opposite. Born and Raised in Los Angeles. Moved to Chicago recently! I love how they're both big cities but completely different.
In 2008 I flew from Copenhagen to New Jersey with my young kids at the time with the intention of flying onward to California but we were all so ill with food poisoning that we ended up taking Amtrak from New York to California. It took about 4 days as I recall so I took the same route as you from Chicago.Amazing views as I recall and know my grown kids remember as well.❤️👌👍😉
I’ve always been an aviation guy. However, around 8 months ago I found myself in a predicament at home with some very personal issues. I bought a ticket and hopped on a greyhound bus and travelled 600 miles away from home to make a spontaneous visit to my grandparents house in eastern Tennessee. I commonly refer to it as the trip that I went on to find myself and figure out what to do from there. My first bus was delayed by 10 hours. I didn’t fret. I met so many different people over the course of the journey and talked with them about life and they all seemed to be in similar situations. The places you see and the people you meet is all a part of experiences like these. Most people don’t like a greyhound ride, but it became a pretty fond memory stored in a special place in my heart. Absolutely loved it. I guess it’s now time to look in to Amtrak!
This is something about public transport I’ve been missing. Everyone in cars is so selfish, you can tell on the road. But everyone on public transport knows what it’s like to be down bad, so everyone’s real understanding and empathetic.
I've also had long bus rides and they ALL seem that way, You meet people and before long your both sharing your life story with each other then although promising to stay in touch you never do when parting. Ha-I once cuddled with a woman from Montana to Iowa-nothing sexual-it was just more comfortable than not, can't even remember her name now. Thanks for bringing up memories for me!
Back in 1997 my Mommie treated me to a Train Trip from California to Colorado. It was amazing. It was a wonderful experience that I will never forget 🥰
Hope you enjoyed something a little different on the channel. Don't worry if this wasn't your jam, more luxury Aviation content coming next week. And for clarity, I paid $564 for the entire journey which included sole occupancy of my roomette, and all meals. Thanks to Paul Lucas for the inspiration to try this, if you haven't guessed, I loved it! Would you take this trip?
Very much enjoyed the train trip review. Good to see you liked what so many people see as flyover country. Consider doing another Amtrak trip on a different route or a car trip through the middle of the United States so you can show more of the amazing beauty to the world.
I use Amtrak to travel between Sacramento and the San Francisco bay area. Here's some tips from a local: 1. There is a commuter Amtrak between Sacramento and San Jose that runs multiple times a day called the Capitol Corridor, stopping at the same stops as the Zephyr, including the 'San Francisco' stop, Emeryville. 2. To get from the Emeryville station into San Francisco, Amtrak provides connecting bus service. 3. If you want to get into the city (SF) completely via train, it's easy to do: Get off Amtrak early(one or two stops before Emeryville) at the Richmond station, then board BART to take you into SF (It's the only station shared by both trains). 4. On Capitol Corridor trains, you can buy a reloadable Clipper card (BART/Cal Train pass) in the Cafe car. 5. Historic Old Sacramento is a great place to stretch your legs, take in some Old West vibes, and shop and dine. It's also home of the world class Railroad Museum, and all an easy 10 minute walk from the Sac Amtrak station. Really enjoyed your video, and Happy travels! 🙂
Wow I live close to Sacramento I live in roseville and just have started taking Amtrak and I never knew about some of the things you just mentioned thank you for this info!
@@rafascrofa My pleasure! Here's a my most prized Amtrak tip: If you're commuting on Amtrak between Sac and the Bay, you know that the evening rush hour trains are overcrowded. Sometimes you can't even find a seat! But if you go into the cafe car, and find that the cafe is downstairs, you're in luck! Instead of taking a right to go into the cafe from the stairs, take a left. At the end of the train car will be a few restrooms and the one at the very end will be marked "Ladies Lounge". If you go in there, you'll find a full size vanity with electrical outlets and a ton a counter space, stools to sit and do your makeup, and a small cushioned seating area behind the stool! There's space above the seat to hang garments if you need to change, and there is separate small restroom with a toilet and sink that is accessible only from inside the lounge. Best part of all -hardly anyone else knows about the it's there, so it's usually available. AND the lounge door can be locked from the inside, making it a perfect, private place to chill with some solitude and elbow room!
@Karl with a K I find it incredibly ironic that on your channel you purport to " show how winners can easily win more by the way they connect to others. ". Yet the only connections you've made in this thread are negative and present you as kind of a douchey a$$hat. 😆😂
I love Amtrak trips. Could never afford a sleeper but sleeping in the seats and also in the observation car works for me. Such fun meeting people from all walks off life.
Is that an in cognito for Paul Theroux? You were writing notes all the time, during your train travels. You met so many remarkable people. "How far is it to Calcutta? Ah, almost 4 times Broken Hip - Victoria." They made it to your book.
@@slimturnpike Yes you can. They realize that if you go coach. Then your seat is cramped and small And so if.....if ...you get a nice conductor. He will ignore that you're sleeping in the observation car. Or dining car or whatever. And will ignore you. So you can kind of use a blanket and stretch out on like a quad or TRI seat thing. It's like a mini couch. So you can chill and sleep. The sleeper ticket. Costs like 1000. Dollars or more. So you can. Go coach. For 250 bucks. Better deal. Amtrak SUCKS though. Too dirty and disgusting. Really. Not ok.
I took this trip when I was four or five, in the 1940s. My grandparents picked me up in Denver, where my family was living, and we took the train all the way to Columbus, Ohio, eventually. I remember the dining car had linen tablecloths and napkins and waiters took our orders. I loved it so much. It was very exciting for a kid.
I took this train 30 years ago and I've told everyone it was the best trip of my life and that they should all put it on their bucket list. Awesome, spectacular, unreal... I'm at a loss for adjectives, and you will be too if you take it. You will never forget it.
No, I will not. The last leg of my triangle: Toronto-Vancouver-San Francisco-Chicago in 2019. I understand Amtrak dining-car service is no more, so wouldn't do it again.
Those trains suck. I took one a few years ago from Timișoara to Bucharest and absolute filthy. The toilet had hole in the floor where I could see the ground beneath us and the sink had a hole also so when I turned o the water it all came through the bottom and got me wet where it looked like I peed my pants. Lol. I remember riding in the 80s before I moved to America on trains there going to Deta at grandparents house and lived the trains back then. Now they just don't have money.
I took the family on Amtrak in 2013. Our trip started in Kansas City, we rode the Southwest Chief to LA, then changed trains to the Coast Starlight for a ride up to Portland, Oregon. The entire trip was in coach. Aside from not having a shower available, we loved every minute of it! Over 3,000 miles and 65 hours of travel. Memories to last a lifetime!
@@Dr.TJ_Eckleburg It was very nice, actually. We spent most of our waking hours in the sightseeing car. Our son was 13 at the time so not a handful by any means.
As an avgeek I rode amtrak all the time living on the east coast and loving it all the time. This brought tears for me . I have mad respect for you as a subscriber.
Fantastic journey. That observation car looks the place to be. Trains are a wonderful way to see the world. I've done 38 hours on a train across India opposite a family of 6 (doubling up on a top bunk). You need a PHD and a lot of luck to work out the best way to procure a ticket on an Indian train... however the egg biriyani I had on that service was unrivalled globally! I've also taken several trains across China (the chest-hacking in the toilets in the morning was terrible), and I've gone right up the middle of Australia on The Ghan (there wasn't a huge amount to see on that - just red earth, gumtrees and termite mounds!). One of the best journeys was down the west-side of Sri Lanka - Columbo... hanging out of a carriage as it careens across rickety tracks that sit a few feet from blue sea... truly amazing.
This makes my heart melt. I live in Colorado… and it is by far one of the most beautiful states ever. I live in Downtown Denver and used to live in the mountains here as well. All around it’s magical here.
I just visited Denver and I already can’t wait to go back! I wish I had more time to explore. Any local recs for the downtown area? I’ve already done the art museum and it was incredible
I was born there and it's always has my heart, it's my home but unfortunately it got way too expensive and after they legalized weed it went down hill.
I am SO enjoying this video. I take the train between San Diego and Los Angeles a lot, (the Surfliner) and the views of the ocean are stunning. I went from LA to San Francisco once (11 hours, no sleeper), and sitting on the observation deck was positively hypnotizing with my headphones in, listening to music, just staring at the Pacific ocean for hours.
The Zephyr and the Southwest Chief are always fun trips. I've made some small weekend trips on these trains, by booking partial legs like overnight from Omaha to Denver. Nothing beats the romance of train travel.
I took a 19 hour train trip across Texas this past June. I really liked it. Watching this makes me want to do the Zephyr in Winter. Thanks for posting.
Took Amtrak Vancouver to LA some years ago. Pushed the boat out and went first class; Everything was absolutely brilliant! The service, the food, and during the day our train never really got above 40mph, so you had time to take in the gorgeous scenery. (They'd crank it up at night). Highly recommended!
The U.S is beautiful. I took a bus from NC to Montana when I was in my early 20’s. It was a stressful trip but I got to see a lot of the country like never before.
My uncle was a conductor on the train from Chicago to Los Angeles when I was young (early 50's to late 60s) and I always wanted to do this. Great job!!
We are from the UK. For my 50th we travelled from North to South in the U.S. We used Amtrak from Vancouver to Seattle, Memphis to New Orleans and New Orleans to Atlanta. We flew between L.A. And Memphis. The train was far superior to flying! Can’t wait to do it again.
Looks like a hell of a good time to me! I’m 32 years old and have never been on a train before. As a kid I’ve always wanted to go on a train ride but have never been. I really wanna take sometime to actually go on a train ride. I’d love to go on this 52 hour ride, looks beautiful.
I went on this train at the end of April, it's one of the best trips I've ever done. If your alone make sure to get a roomette, be sure to get it as soon as you know you want to go. I went from Denver to San Fransico. Also do not expect the train to be on time, luckily mine was only 2 hours late, but the one before was actually cancelled due to being 18 hours late. The sooner you book the cheaper it will be, I booked mine in January (2022) for the end of April (2022) and it wasn't too bad. The entire trip after you leave Denver is amazing view after amazing view.
You did a good job of looking at the bright side and not dwelling on the drawbacks and inconveniences. Many people are too impatient for a journey like this. I was glad to hear your fresh take and to witness your appreciation of the scenery.
What’s the point of making a trip like this as compared to flying? I’m assuming it costs more, is obviously longer, and more uncomfortable. For the scenery, experience, or something else?
People are just too impatient nowadays, im 18 and can see the reason why someone would do this. Unexplainable feeling id imagine to be in that confined space with the world at your gaze, ive never travelled but id love to do something like this.
@@Dr.TJ_Eckleburg you must be really young .. and don’t tell me “well actually I’m 35 years old” because from the response you definitely are a kid that has no sense of enjoying an experience share your opinion when you get older 👋
So... you talked us into it. It's our 15-year (wedding) anniversary this year, and we're taking it from Chicago Emeryville. We'll spend a couple of days in SFO then the rest of the time in Healdsberg, CA (wine country). Can't wait!
Whoa, Will. This is the most comprehensive review of a long distance Amtrak journey that I have seen so far. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ You highlighted the most important features of traveling on Amtrak in a sleeping car. I am so glad that you had this experience especially since Amtrak has brought back better meal service. I love air travel across oceans(cruises are too slow and I can't afford to book a suite on a long cruise) but the best way to see a country is by train. I hope you will get a chance to try "VIA RAIL" across Canada, "The Ghan" in Australia and other great trains available in quite a few countries. Thanks for making my week with this review of yours. Take care and have a pleasant and rewarding week.
Thank you so much for watching John, i'm glad you enjoyed it. I'd love to try the Ghan, and with Aus open again I think that could be on the list later this year. Take care too :)
My granddaddy was an engineer on this train for many years 1930s-1950s. We lived on the route and it is a glorious trip. Just Boulder Canyon which you have to hike in for would be enough but…all the other amazing sites! Thanks for the memories♥️
I think you hit the nail on the head with two comments. That it had been fantastic because you were disconnected and everything was at a much slower pace. We are now so conditioned to rush everywhere, doing everything at 90mph and never stopping. But you can’t do that on a train. A valuable lesson.
So glad you tried the steak. It’s wonderful. When my son was younger we often took the train from Kansas to Wisconsin (about 10 years ago). We’ve done the roomette and coach seats. Really better than flying when kids are young, because you can move about, and they love the observation car.
Wow, that is a very very nice journey. Love to do it one time (if possible). This gave a great impression and I never knew trains were still running like this. Well done!!!!
Appreciate the good resolution and photography! Made this trip a couple of times myself, and enjoyed watching to remember what it was like, and to see what the current COVID-restrictions are. Thanks!
Loved watching this...My parents and I did this same trip, same route when I was a teen-ager, back in the last millenium, and loved every minute! I "made" my own family (wife and two boys, then 11 & 6) do a shorter version, from Salt Lake CIty to Emeryville at the end, just to experience an over night and the Sierras and the experience. They (and my wife) enjoyed much of it, but the 21 hours on board was way too much for them, and they still prefer air travel...But I am still a lover of the rails and look forward to doing this again out West, and in Canada one day too!
Did you guys get sleepers? Thinking about taking this trip (solo) but a little concerned I’d feel the same as your wife and children. (Would be getting a sleeper)
When I was 11 (in the early 90s) I took Amtrak from Jacksonville, FL to Tucson, AZ with my grandmother. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Watching the landscape change from swamp to desert was a pretty cool site. I keep telling my wife that we have to do a cross country Amtrak trip sooner or later.
I appreciate it when people from other countries explore more of my country other than the coastlines. Ive been on a an amtrak trip that parallels this but more north through montana. It's an experience I think everyone should have. its definitely about the trip and not the destination.
@@HazardousChaos1 Our locomotive went down in Havre in the middle of the night in mid January. so no heat or anything until they could get a freight locomotive to come rescue us. It got a bit brisk, but it just added to the experience to me.
To think that Amtrak had many more stops and stations across the country some 30 years ago, but have slowly been removed along with the tracks to make room for more roadways. I wish they reconsidered bringing back again those train services, it would be a great way to get to know America’s countryside plus it would be a really nice adventure for the kids.
This was wonderful! Lots of memories for me. My father retired from the railroad and taking trips on Amtrak was such a great growing up experience. Actually, spurred me on to travel! Thank you again for sharing your adventures, it’s VERY exciting to “travel” and see the sites!😎
I've done this, it's amazing. Great way to travel. Met loads of interesting people. Fabulous views of throughout the journey, especially the rockies. Best adventure this Yorkshire lass has ever been on ❤
You'll have to do it again. You missed Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park, the most incredible place on Earth. Trees the size of skyscrapers and as old as the Great Pyramids. Don't make that mistake again. It will change your life.
I did this back in 2017 and it was one of the best things I've ever done! Would recommend to anyone. My best friend and I had a roomette and it was fine for 2 of us, we spent most of our time in the viewing car or the cafe or the dining car so we didn't feel too cramped. Top bunk isn't the most comfortable but it's fine for 1 or 2 nights. The menu looks have improved dramatically. Such a shame about the covid restrictions because its a really sociable environment, you get chatting to so many people. The scenery is incredible from start to finish and you just feel so chilled watching the world go by
I took the California Zephyr just a few months ago, in late May and there wasn't any restrictions for me. They just wanted people to cycle in and out of the viewing car and not camp there all day. But yeah you are right, even as an introvert conversations on the train are pleasant.
I wish to say thank you for all of the places you take us. I appreciate how much you emphasize what you enjoy and what you don’t prefer is just not given much ado, unless it’s really noteworthy. I think it’s brilliant how you never compare apples to oranges. You don’t dislike a meal you receive on an Amtrak, because you have had an extremely luxurious experience on a plane. 😊
I did a "Train as much as possible around the world" journey back in 1994. The Californian Zephyr was on my list and I travelled from Oakland to Chicago. My memory is that this train felt luxurious. Especially when compared to the trains I travelled with in Russia, China and Vietnam. Your video brings back a lot of good memories, thanks mate!
Did this when I was a teenager with my grandparents. Started in South Station, went to Canada, then the Grand Canyon, then back. I've always wanted to go another another trip but man, it's like a million dollars.
As someone from Colorado who has a house in Fraser it is always cool to see other people be amazed by the scenery. It reminds me to not take the beauty for granted.
I moved to chicago from Houston 2 years ago for school, I’ll be graduating in a few months, and when my mother said she was going to take the train up from Houston I was very confused lol. She said “it’ll be so fun and relaxing!” And I was like “what is this lady talking about?”. Now I see! 😍 I’ll have to do this one day! As an introverted creative with a deep appreciation for the beauty of everything and slow quite times, I can’t see why I haven’t done this sooner! A solo trip with Books! Movies! A bag full of snacks! A wide angle camera! Some jazz and classical music on my playlist! A journal! A bottle of wine (are we allowed to bring our own alcohol??). I’ll probably do the bedroom even as a solo traveler though because, I’m not a fan of the shared shower 😅
I think that’s a lovely idea! I’ve been taking Amtrak trips on and off with my mother since I was 5 (I’m 20!). I have to recommend that if you’re coming from the Midwest, the three day trip from Chicago to Seattle on the Empire Builder is absolutely breathtaking, especially in the summer. It takes you through Montana and Glacier National Park towards the Western end of the trip and it’s wonderful. Also, I’ve quite literally never met an on-board staff member that I haven’t loved!
I took Amtrak from Chicago to DC in a sleeper car. Just rise early and be the first one to use the shower and it'll be ok.😊 Our car attendant kept everything neat, clean, and well supplied.
The next time you are on an Amtrak long haul like this one, you should show the downstairs 2nd class seating. It is the better option for these trips if you can't afford a room. It is not very full, maybe 20 seats in total, and usually you get both seats. Plus, it tends to be quieter, and I have found you will have an attendant who will get you snacks/water/meals if needed. Oh, and they always give free hot water. So bring your own food and plan on having hot water!!! Pre-pandemic, you could eat in the dining room, but it looks like that has changed.
Made this trip a dozen or more times, ... it's the best! This was a solid capture of the experience. It's worth noting that dining with other travelers is oftentimes wonderfully rewarding... so unfortunate you missed that. Also, Feather River Canyon between Truckee and the destination is spectacular area. I've seen Eagles hunt in the adjacent rivers along the route, ... mammoth herds of deer numbering into the thousands... Unfortunately, I've also experienced awakening @3am stopped unexplainably in the middle of nowhere... only to re-awaken a few hours later to still be stopped ... we had hit a car resulting in fatalities, investigation via first responders, etc, awaiting the Coroner's office prior to all parties releasing the train. Also experienced flooding and rockslides destroying the tracks... in that instance, both the westbound, and the eastbound Amtrak trains stop, and all occupants of each train are bused to the other train, re-board, then your new train backs up for miles... sometimes, hundreds of miles... until they can turn the train around at a "wye". Most every time had sleeping accommodations... but I've made the trip riding in coach a dew time... it's a grind... but still enjoyable. I've seen so much. Perhaps the best advice; one can't be in a hurry, the trip will likely have no problems whatsoever... but things happen... just chill, enjoy every moment. The overall tactile experience... the motion, that's the best part, it's very, very relaxing. After you arrive at your destination, for a day or so you'll feel like your still moving. Thanks
@@SilenceaboutthetruthisamuteDev Prices vary dramatically... $500 - $1200 ... seriously, there's promos, specials... their pricing is all over the place. The only consistent aspect, the more in advance you book, the better the price.
Ridden the California Zephyr many times over 12 years visiting my parents in California when I lived in Illinois. Far more comfortable than riding in an airplane. I would always plan my trip to leave on Saturday (arriving Monday) and depart on Friday (returning home Sunday). Gave me 3 days to enjoy visiting with a great vacation that has scenic views at both ends. Only one train ever arrived on time, every trip had its quirks. Engine breaking down going up the Rockies, bathroom septic tanks being full, train hitting an elk, rail bridge that caught fire causing us to turn around, and so on. You meet all sorts of characters on the train, from pimps to Amish. The only thing I didn't like is the toilets, not enough knee space, even the handicap stall. I would always have to sit at an angle. :(
@@kennypowers1945 If you don't have a family it's cheaper since the cost isn't amortized. My car gets 40mpg highway so 63 gallons needed from cali to east coast. Average $5 a gallon so $315 bucks. Doesn't include the 3k miles you're adding to the car. If you have a family of 5 that's just 60 bucks a person. If it's just you... might as well buy the $400 ticket.
@@kennypowers1945 You can purchase an Amtrak credit card for points and sign up for Amtrak Guest Rewards its free and every train ride on Amtrack even economy you get points for that ride. Also when you have enough points you can get free roommates on the Amtrak trains. Also other perks after leveling up from the base level you will get a special number to call Amtrak if your train is late, also access to the metropolitan lounge for free at the stations that have one.
Always wondered about this particular trip on Amtrack + now all my queries have been answered in perfect detail. Thank you for sharing. I enjoyed every mile
This is an excellent video! Will, you do so well remaining positive and have the best outlook throughout this video and I so appreciate that. I must say though, that it does make me embarrassed as an American that this is what we have to offer as far as train excursions.🙈 We could definitely learn something about trains from our European, Canadian, Australian, and Japanese friends!
Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, City of New Orleans roundtrip, and California Zephyr home. Took a few weeks with a few days at each endpoint of San Diego, Seattle, Chicago, a week in New Orleans for Mardis gras and a turn around in Chicago for a trip home to the Bay. Fun trip circa 2011.
Lovely video, I've always thought of business class as a waste of money for a short time of experience, but this journey is worth taking, primarily for the beautiful views from the train. I'm pretty sure Amtrak will see a big jump in ticket sales on this route, thanks to your lovely video!
I've just stepped off this amazing journey myself, and it has to be up there with one of the best experiences of my life. I did this solo also, and stayed in a roomette - plenty enough room for one and I too was surprised by how good that cheesecake was!!
My wife and I took this train from Salt Lake to Glenwood Springs 14 years ago for our first anniversary. That little weekend trip is still one of my faves.
Hello, I rode Amtrak as a kid from KC to St. Louis, and it was beautiful. I must say however given the changes of my tastes and love of scenery, I want to do such a trip. The sites were amazing. Love your channel.
Train travels are always a delight. Am from India and the main mode of long distance travel here is still the railways and I love enjoying the countryside landscape of India while traveling on the tracks, now I am intrigued to take this long journey on the American railways.
Agreed. I took a train from Kerala up to Goa a few years ago and loved it because of the sights. Think it was about 1,300 miles and took about 23 hours if I remember correctly. Travelled 2nd class air-con on the return and it cost £13!! Travelled up on just 2nd class- that was sticky I can tell you and cost about £8. This was about 2005.
@@alfredthegreat9543 never ever travel in non air-conditioned coaches on Indian trains when traveling for more than 3-4 hrs. I always travel on AC 2 Tier(2nd class air conditioning) and thanks that my father worked in the Railways (he retired a few years back) so we still get to travel for free on railways otherwise AC 2 Tier is pretty costly for an average Indian.
18:08 Even though it was around 18 years ago when I rode the CZ, I remember this image vividly. The Rocky Mountains were absolutely gorgeous! I also remember that stop in Grand Junction, CO. Fascinating small town, I wish we could've stopped there longer.
Will, I have to say I was wondering how this would pan out, but OMG; it was absolutely brilliant!!! Loved the whole experience and something to add to my bucket list! Thanks and keep up the brilliant work!
I took an Amtrak train ride in a Sleeper car many years ago from Louisiana-California-Seattle, WA and what an experience. I would do it again, but you cannot be in a hurry and if you want to just enjoy to country side this is the way to go in my view. You did a great job on this video. Thanks
It seems that the Amtrak food is "back on track" after a period of microwaved dinners. This trip may have taken much longer than flying, but there was a lot more to see along the way. For anyone who is not in a hurry, I'd say that the train is better than a plane.
@@wiggydebates3944 The frozen entrees that were microwaved weren't terrible, but the traditional dinner food is so much better. While it isn't Gordon Ramsay's five star cuisine found on a cruise ship, it is good small town cafe food...
Yeah, that’s nice to see! Several years ago (pre-COVID) we took this same train from Denver to Glenwood. The food was not good, nor was there even a choice for a higher class meal (that we would’ve happily paid for!). I’m glad to see they’ve stepped up their game, and I definitely recommend this train as it’s a unique and gorgeous experience!
I think it's only for the West Coast destinations. I.E. if going from Chicago to DC, I think they're still just serving microwave meals. If true, I hope they switch back soon, now that the virus seems to be winding down.
You can book this room for $650 per person or $1300 a couple that includes meals and snacks also 6 free cocktails. One person $1,200. You can fly one-way on average $390 per person w' a couple bags of peanuts, a coke, and a boxed sandwich. If you can stand just seated the trip is $260.
@@raymondcaylor6292 This is exactly what is wrong with train travel in America. It has to be cheaper than flying to be viable. In Asia I took a over 20 hour trip from Bangkok to Singapore in sleeper trains, I think the entire trip cost less than $100, closer to $50. That is 1,137 miles.
I did it Sacramento to Cleveland in 2009, coach seat, I spend for dinning car, no showers, long layover in Chicago....it was $500. The one way air fare was almost $1000
I’ve been there and done that many times. Been from Minneapolis to Providence, it’s about a two day trip and it’s absolutely amazing. Get the sleeper car, it comes with two free meals, I got the filet mignon for free. Note, the dining car is communal seating and you will have to sit next to people you don’t know. If that makes you uncomfortable, just order your meal in your room. The railroad French toast is absolutely amazing, make sure you let them know when you want to schedule your dinner reservations, when you want to turn your bed down, if you want to a wake up call and don’t be afraid to socialize in the sightseeing car. You’ll meet some awesome people. PS, the food is absolutely amazing and the views are absolutely beautiful. The train rocking you to sleep at night is the best feeling ever! They have honeymoon suites, which are like rooms for bigger families that come with a huge couches and a pull out bed. There’s even your own toilet and shower. All sleeper cars have a pull out bed and two chairs that turn into a bed. You wouldn’t think they were comfortable but they are so comfortable. And I used to sleep on a Simmons beauty rest mattress, so I would know. It’s so crazy to see you in the lounge. I’ve been in that exact lounge, don’t judge lounges based on that alone. Chicago is a very small train station, so the lounge is pretty small. But when you get a lounge in New York or Washington. They are so ritzy, big screen TVs, all you can eat food, beverages and they even check your baggage so you can walk around the city while you wait for your train. It’s like a first class lounge, because the sleeper car is considered first class. Since there is no business class. Make sure you wear comfortable clothing, comfortable shoes and make sure you have money when you layover. The thing about trains, you will have a layover at every train station. Some more fancy than others but you will want to get lunch or dinner or breakfast. Depending on which time you stop. If you go to the Chicago train station, you can walk right downtown and get fresh Chicago deep dish pizza. So it’s a 45 minute wait but it’s totally worth it if you have like a five hour layover. Me and my mother would always have super long layovers, so we’d always have fun in Chicago and go sightseeing until our train came. That’s the best part about going on the train, and stopping at all of the layovers and eating it all of the really cool restaurants. I’ve eaten in New York, Chicago and even Washington DC. Travel by train you guys, it will change your life. I love it, best way to travel in the entire world.
I've always wanted to use the Amtrak. Also as many times I passed Donner's pass, I never knew it's history. So that was interesting to learn. But I tell you, as trucker, that Pass sure is something when you hit the top of it and it's snowing like no man's business. Seeing you bite into the tamale with the husk over it,was too adorable 😄. No judging here.
15:56 By the way, the Moffat Tunnel shaved over 30 miles off the route. Before it, trains had to take a treacherous 4% climb over Rollins Pass, a very windy route with multiple switchbacks, and a lot of exposed track that was vulnerable to being buried by avalanches in the winter.
I live in Arkansas & take Amtrak every year to Dallas to see my best friend. You don’t have to worry about traffic, weather or anything else. Sometimes there are significant delays for a variety of reasons, so if you’re on a tight schedule, this is not the mode of transportation for you. My last trip, I bid the minimum $ for an upgrade to a roomette, not expecting to get it. But I did! It was great! Next time, that’s what I’ll book in the beginning.
Hi Becky, What do you mean you "bid" on the upgrade? Sounds like if there's an opening people see who'll pay the most and top bidder wins the space? Sounds peculiar. Could you have just paid a particular amount to get it and not bid at all? thnx!
Minor nitpick about your Coach comments: those aren’t used by people going the full length; rather, they’re used by people who are going on smaller segments of the route.
My nephew wanted to do something like this before he passed last year, 4 days before his 29th birthday. If you have the resources, make the time to enjoy these types of adventures.
im sorry to hear that your nephew passed.i hope he's in heaven watching over us,and most importantly,you.i'm sure he's be happy if you were happy.he's in a much better place than earth now.i just wish you and him could have done this train travel thing before he passed.its okay though.we can all re-unite in heaven and talk about the times we had.i hope your okay now @The-Real-GOAT-Kobe.and may your nephew rest in peace,Amin.
@@ber2949 amin
me personally I have no interest in travel, but yeah, if you do enjoy it than do whatever needs to be done to do it.
You should do the trip yourself as a tribute to your nephew. You may find it gives you a sense of peace as you find yourself connected to his spirit on a deeper level.
I fully agree. Last year I went down a rabbit hole of RUclips videos watching these trips from Chicago to Seattle & SF & I planned to do this for my 50th this year. unfortunately I have to put it off but I defiantly will do this because I've always wanted to visit Seattle & figured this would be a great way to see parts of the country that I will likely never visit individually.
I made this trip as a 13 yr old with my parents in the 1960’s. It was a breathtaking adventure and I’m so glad that I thanked my father again for this experience many many decades later…before he passed away. I’m glad that this train and trip still exist. I think I might have to do it again!
thank you for sharing :)
You should take the trip again!
Wow you are like seventy something. It must have been a great memory
Do it again
Cool! So, you actually rode on the original Denver & Rio Grande California Zephyr.
Shortly after our marriage my wife and I spent 6 months riding the rails in the USA about 35 years ago. There were more rails back then and a monthly ticket cost about $200 for Europeans. And sleepers cost about $50 - $70 including meals. It’s still one of the best travel experiences we had. Nice to relive the memories.
Were you a witness to George being thrown off the train???? 🤔
My mom, brother and I made this trip 38 years ago. Nothing fancy but fun for a 14 and 10 year old.
I love it!
My son and I traveled from Oregon to Rhode Island on Amtrak, we didn’t have quite the experience you did , our train broke down in the middle of nowhere and we were stuck for almost 18 hours, but once we got back on schedule it was nice, when we were going through the Midwest they had a storyteller on board which was amazing , all in all I really had a good time with my son
Storyteller on board? That sounds awesome!
I hope you visited Newport when you were in Rhode Island! Such a beautiful and historic city right on the Atlantic coast.
I have traveled by Amtrak. It's a rubbishy onboard "trip." Would not recommend to anyone, despite your enthuso.
.
You, had an experience that not everyone has, however. That, is never to be underestimated in it’s positive impact.
I did this with my brother and a friend back in October 2008! Loved every second of it.
I remember the guy running the cafe was a good laugh. Whenever he was closing he'd announce it was closing in 10 minutes over the PA. Then he'd repeat it several times, quieter each time. We nicknamed him Whispering Johnny Ten Minutes! 🤣
Last August, my wife and I flew from Barbados to New York and then did Amtrak from Penn Station, NY to Chicago (coach) then on the Zephyr to San Francisco (sleeper). Coming from our tropical island scenery, it was the trip of a lifetime. So beautiful. Thankfully we only did one night in coach though.
So glad you got to see America this way, it is such a beautiful county. I of course would LOVE to see Barbados.
I’m a train guy. And always will be. But you make this journey look a lot more glamorous than it is and you actually liked the food! I usually take coach, and I will tell you that after about 12 hours the bathrooms become incredibly filthy! But having said this I’m still a train guy and thankful that the Amtrak service exists. But this country certainly could use an improvement in passenger rail service. I.E. Bullet Trains. Why we’re so behind other first world countries in trains I don’t know. I can only guess it must be the airlines feeling threatened and blocking the advancement of a good rail system here. I enjoyed your video. It was interesting to see the British perspective of our rail system. Especially since you have such a good one yourself.
Blame Henry Ford. He contributed a lot to the destruction of the US rail system in orer to sell his cars....
@@Rascalndear1don’t you want to own your own automobile? Who wants to ride on a train when you can drive your very own ford motor company automobile. Henry ford really did shaft this country in a lot of ways
I did this in 2001 when I was 19. Amtrak from Bel Air, MD to San Francisco, CA. Was amazing. Will never forget it. Dead of Winter too. Some of the scenery was amazing.
I also did this journey in 2001 at 19! I actually went from NYC--Chicago--LA over three days. This was back in December 2001. We were stuck in Ohio for 4 hours so the cops could board the train to investigate a possible anthrax attack in the toilets. Turned out to be sugar. Meanwhile we were all herded into the bar car where about 30 of us were treated to around a 1000 dollars worth of free drinks bought be a fellow passenger. What a crazy trip!
Wow- small world. First, I was like, wow- same town. Then I recognized your name... wrestled for Tech?
You mean from Aberdeen, md
@@JStorm13 yeah I left from Aberdeen,MD. Was living in Bel Air at the time.
@@stephj740 I was just one year ahead of you. Thankfully I missed out on the Anthrax drama. I couldn't imagine. But remember delays when that was all going on when going to Colorado. Crazy times.
Did this trip with husband about 10 years ago in December, from Emeryville to Chicago. It was at the beginning of our 8 week US/Canada holiday. We had an ensuite room. Met all sorts of interesting people. Spent most of our time in the observation car. Fabulous trip
I live in Arizona. I see sights like this everyday! Except for that god awful snow!
How much was your room per night
8 week holiday? What’s that?
@@robbert5488 seasonal unenployment ಥ‿ಥ
Thank you for pointing out its Emeryville not SF! Ha!
I took this Amtrak trip with my family back when I was 12 years old. Now I'm well into my adulthood and still look back on the trip as one of the most memorable times of my life! I highly recommend it to any adventurous travel junkie out there.
I made part of this trek back when I was 18 years old in the 1990s. Our youth group had a coach car to ourselves from Jackson MS to Chicago and Chicago to Fraser/Winter Park. We got off there for a ski trip and took it back. One of the best experiences of my life.
My stepfather was a conductor for Amtrak for 30 years. I’ve rode the trains at least 1,000 times and I enjoy it every single trip! I’ve done every situation from sleepers to coach. Definitely would advise to anyone who loves to travel.
But aren't they expensive?
Video cannot capture how breathtaking the scenery is and how vast everything looks in person. I did the Southwest Chief route which is not nearly as scenic as this and I was already blown away. It is definitely something I recommend doing at least once, especially in a sleeper.
Okay... Yes Yes Yes. Chinese Trains are fast as a Bullet. They are Glittery. Beautiful. Modern. Hygienic as a bloody military OR. But, I prefer the US Trains. Yup. They are creepy fun. On a Chinese train you get from point A to point B in a sneeze. Instead on a US train, they are so slow that you can see how your clothes go out of style. On a US train, you can fall in love, have children and watch them grow up. On a US train you can read Tolstoy's "War and Peace" twice. On the US train you have time to learn another language. U see? US trains are exciting. They are Noisy. Stinky. Rusty. Smoky. Full of Graffiti. With vomits of all nationalities. From Mexican enchiladas to Japanese sushi. The US train is Thrilling like a horror movie and whitout "Beautiful" rural landscapes flash. On the other hand, on a Chinese train, you get on, you sit down and Nnnnñit! You have already reached your destination. What kind of shit is that? Did you pay a ticket and for what? Where are the murders, the harassing cops, the swindlers, the Addicts, the "International Spies", the Sadists, the Psychos, the Sex Pervs, de Locos, the Mormons, the Exhibitionists...? No. No. No. I rather to risk my life on a US train, but have something to tell my grandchildren. Traveling on a US train is a High-Risk Sport. In case the train derails... Excuse me. It's not "IF". The correct word is: "WHEN Derails". Mmh... Anyway:... blah, blah, blah...
@@salvadorvizcarra769 sir this is a wendy's
@@salvadorvizcarra769 I will admit, I am confused about your comment as I didn't mention anything about a Chinese train. Also confused about the general content of your response LOL but I do agree I prefer U.S. trains (and other trains that are non-high speed trains) over high speed ones. Although everything has its place. The Japanese Shinkansen is very good but they also have sleeper trains as well.
I live In the Rockies so I can confirm driving through Colorado is quite breathtaking
@@salvadorvizcarra769 Man are you full of shat.
On my bucket list. I wanted to do this with a friend from “across the pond” but sadly he passed away before we could make the trip together. I live in Chicago and used to live in California as a kid. I’ve taken this trip countless times in a car and airplane but never on a train.
May your friend rest in peace 🥺🙏❤️
Lies again? AST GST 7%
I think your friend would have wanted you to go and enjoy yourself - in their honor. Solo travel is incredible too
I live in the UK and I'd happily join you. Looks amazing. :)
You should make this trip in his honor :)
I’ve travelled on the Coast Starlight - 36 hours between LA and Seattle - both ways. This was just over ten years ago, but this film pretty much reflects my experience- and makes me want to travel long-distance on Amtrak. Great work!
You actually inspired me to take this trip! I actually took Amtrak from NY all the way through Chicago and then to California! What an amazing trip it was!!! Thank you for being so inspiring.
hey matt i have a friend who wants to make a similar trip but in the opposite direction, how long did it take you?
Did you fly back?
@@DavidMartinez-is7gu a solid 4 days on the train. Had an absolute blast.
How much did it cost you
How long was that?
I just finished a video of Japan's overnight train Sunrise Express... The quality and cleanliness are on another level on that one haha.
Same. It's cool to see the different philosophies: Japan's minimalism and hyperefficient use of space versus US practical approach with more features but less refined.
I just came from that too lmao, I'm preparing for all the sleeper train videos that will inevitably fill my feed
also here from that video lol
Same!
Same impression!
I'm australian but have family in the US and always visit reno and truckee and seeing you go though it for some reason filled me with joy knowing that im not the only foreigner who knows the true beauty of this small city.
I did the Canadian version after my first year of college. It was around 90 hours from Toronto to Vancouver but as I was a student I did it on a budget and in economy. I can definitely tell you my experience was very different. 5 days of no shower, eating very crappy sandwiches from the cantine and sleeping on a chair... but I did make lasting friendships on that train ans memories I will always cherish. The views I must say are better than the American one. I highly recommend it to everyone.
I did the same economy trip in the early 80s. Struck up a friendship with one of the attendants on the train; we've now been married for 40 years
This was seriously such a fun watch as someone who grew up in Chicago and moved to Los Angeles 7 years ago!
how do you like LA?
I'm literally the complete opposite. Born and Raised in Los Angeles. Moved to Chicago recently! I love how they're both big cities but completely different.
Ha, I grew up in some of those suburbs just due west of Union Station. I enjoyed this video. A shame I was never able to do this journey by train.
@@thomassvatos6300 cant lie i would never sit in one place that long
Are restrictions lifted
In 2008 I flew from Copenhagen to New Jersey with my young kids at the time with the intention of flying onward to California but we were all so ill with food poisoning that we ended up taking Amtrak from New York to California. It took about 4 days as I recall so I took the same route as you from Chicago.Amazing views as I recall and know my grown kids remember as well.❤️👌👍😉
I’ve always been an aviation guy. However, around 8 months ago I found myself in a predicament at home with some very personal issues. I bought a ticket and hopped on a greyhound bus and travelled 600 miles away from home to make a spontaneous visit to my grandparents house in eastern Tennessee.
I commonly refer to it as the trip that I went on to find myself and figure out what to do from there. My first bus was delayed by 10 hours. I didn’t fret. I met so many different people over the course of the journey and talked with them about life and they all seemed to be in similar situations. The places you see and the people you meet is all a part of experiences like these. Most people don’t like a greyhound ride, but it became a pretty fond memory stored in a special place in my heart. Absolutely loved it. I guess it’s now time to look in to Amtrak!
What part of TN?
@@jenniamara9106 Decatur
This is something about public transport I’ve been missing. Everyone in cars is so selfish, you can tell on the road. But everyone on public transport knows what it’s like to be down bad, so everyone’s real understanding and empathetic.
My family sadly will only drive nationwide so all of our trip are looooong
I've also had long bus rides and they ALL seem that way, You meet people and before long your both sharing your life story with each other then although promising to stay in touch you never do when parting. Ha-I once cuddled with a woman from Montana to Iowa-nothing sexual-it was just more comfortable than not, can't even remember her name now. Thanks for bringing up memories for me!
Back in 1997 my Mommie treated me to a Train Trip from California to Colorado. It was amazing. It was a wonderful experience that I will never forget 🥰
Hope you enjoyed something a little different on the channel. Don't worry if this wasn't your jam, more luxury Aviation content coming next week. And for clarity, I paid $564 for the entire journey which included sole occupancy of my roomette, and all meals. Thanks to Paul Lucas for the inspiration to try this, if you haven't guessed, I loved it! Would you take this trip?
If I wasn't broke yh😂
omg y e s
I thought this was a brilliant video, I'd like to see more hotel or train based videos, but that's just me idk about anyone else.
I love 💕 this train trip review!! 😃
Please, do more like this!! 👍👍
Very much enjoyed the train trip review. Good to see you liked what so many people see as flyover country. Consider doing another Amtrak trip on a different route or a car trip through the middle of the United States so you can show more of the amazing beauty to the world.
I use Amtrak to travel between Sacramento and the San Francisco bay area. Here's some tips from a local:
1. There is a commuter Amtrak between Sacramento and San Jose that runs multiple times a day called the Capitol Corridor, stopping at the same stops as the Zephyr, including the 'San Francisco' stop, Emeryville.
2. To get from the Emeryville station into San Francisco, Amtrak provides connecting bus service.
3. If you want to get into the city (SF) completely via train, it's easy to do: Get off Amtrak early(one or two stops before Emeryville) at the Richmond station, then board BART to take you into SF (It's the only station shared by both trains).
4. On Capitol Corridor trains, you can buy a reloadable Clipper card (BART/Cal Train pass) in the Cafe car.
5. Historic Old Sacramento is a great place to stretch your legs, take in some Old West vibes, and shop and dine. It's also home of the world class Railroad Museum, and all an easy 10 minute walk from the Sac Amtrak station.
Really enjoyed your video, and
Happy travels! 🙂
Wow I live close to Sacramento I live in roseville and just have started taking Amtrak and I never knew about some of the things you just mentioned thank you for this info!
@@rafascrofa My pleasure! Here's a my most prized Amtrak tip:
If you're commuting on Amtrak between Sac and the Bay, you know that the evening rush hour trains are overcrowded.
Sometimes you can't even find a seat!
But if you go into the cafe car, and find that the cafe is downstairs, you're in luck!
Instead of taking a right to go into the cafe from the stairs, take a left. At the end of the train car will be a few restrooms and the one at the very end will be marked "Ladies Lounge".
If you go in there, you'll find a full size vanity with electrical outlets and a ton a counter space, stools to sit and do your makeup, and a small cushioned seating area behind the stool! There's space above the seat to hang garments if you need to change, and there is separate small restroom with a toilet and sink that is accessible only from inside the lounge.
Best part of all -hardly anyone else knows about the it's there, so it's usually available. AND the lounge door can be locked from the inside, making it a perfect, private place to chill with some solitude and elbow room!
I love the railroad museum in Sac! Best I've ever seen. Great local info!
@S.Justice: You are a complete sweetheart for sharing this! Thank you!
@Karl with a K I find it incredibly ironic that on your channel you purport to " show how winners can easily win more by the way they connect to others. ". Yet the only connections you've made in this thread are negative and present you as kind of a douchey a$$hat. 😆😂
I love Amtrak trips. Could never afford a sleeper but sleeping in the seats and also in the observation car works for me. Such fun meeting people from all walks off life.
Is that an in cognito for Paul Theroux? You were writing notes all the time, during your train travels. You met so many remarkable people. "How far is it to Calcutta? Ah, almost 4 times Broken Hip - Victoria." They made it to your book.
You're allowed to sleep in the observation car?
@@WhoisJohnGalt402
What do you mean by
You need to wake up. ?
@@slimturnpike
Yes you can. They realize that if you go coach. Then your seat is cramped and small
And so if.....if ...you get a nice conductor. He will ignore that you're sleeping in the observation car. Or dining car or whatever. And will ignore you. So you can kind of use a blanket and stretch out on like a quad or TRI seat thing. It's like a mini couch.
So you can chill and sleep. The sleeper ticket. Costs like 1000. Dollars or more. So you can. Go coach. For 250 bucks. Better deal. Amtrak SUCKS though. Too dirty and disgusting. Really. Not ok.
@@escstudios2068 I thank you for your insight. I disagree that antrak sucks though. I've had many good trips
I took this trip when I was four or five, in the 1940s. My grandparents picked me up in Denver, where my family was living, and we took the train all the way to Columbus, Ohio, eventually. I remember the dining car had linen tablecloths and napkins and waiters took our orders. I loved it so much. It was very exciting for a kid.
What a great memory! Thanks for sharing.
I took this train 30 years ago and I've told everyone it was the best trip of my life and that they should all put it on their bucket list. Awesome, spectacular, unreal... I'm at a loss for adjectives, and you will be too if you take it. You will never forget it.
Same train still so to see
No, I will not. The last leg of my triangle: Toronto-Vancouver-San Francisco-Chicago in 2019.
I understand Amtrak dining-car service is no more, so wouldn't do it again.
@@joto4294 They brought the dining cars back for west of the Mississippi River routes after a firestorm of criticism for the bone headed move.
I rode with my parents from Chicago to Montana in 1979.
This really brought my childhood nostalgia of the 24h cross-country train trips in Romania. Loved it
During Soviet times or after?
@@Justin-yt7pi early 90's
@@mariomolnar3184 ah
Those trains suck. I took one a few years ago from Timișoara to Bucharest and absolute filthy. The toilet had hole in the floor where I could see the ground beneath us and the sink had a hole also so when I turned o the water it all came through the bottom and got me wet where it looked like I peed my pants. Lol. I remember riding in the 80s before I moved to America on trains there going to Deta at grandparents house and lived the trains back then. Now they just don't have money.
I'm envious. There's something about riding a train that just can't be duplicated.
I rode on Amtrak but from LA to Seattle and it was amazing! The only bad thing about the ride was that I found a steak knife in the shower
That's certainly.... suspicious
cmon, its 2022, diy sex change. Dont be ignorant.
@@DH-xb7mb lmao
I took the family on Amtrak in 2013. Our trip started in Kansas City, we rode the Southwest Chief to LA, then changed trains to the Coast Starlight for a ride up to Portland, Oregon. The entire trip was in coach. Aside from not having a shower available, we loved every minute of it! Over 3,000 miles and 65 hours of travel. Memories to last a lifetime!
Im a bit confused, what is the difference between coach and business? Do the coach cars not come with beds?
@@Dist0001 no beds no shower. Just seats. He showed it towards the end of the video
You spent 65 hours on a train with no beds and no showers? With a family? Holy shit.
@@Dr.TJ_Eckleburg I went on a 13 hour trip, it was horrible.
@@Dr.TJ_Eckleburg It was very nice, actually. We spent most of our waking hours in the sightseeing car. Our son was 13 at the time so not a handful by any means.
As an avgeek I rode amtrak all the time living on the east coast and loving it all the time. This brought tears for me . I have mad respect for you as a subscriber.
Fantastic journey. That observation car looks the place to be. Trains are a wonderful way to see the world. I've done 38 hours on a train across India opposite a family of 6 (doubling up on a top bunk). You need a PHD and a lot of luck to work out the best way to procure a ticket on an Indian train... however the egg biriyani I had on that service was unrivalled globally! I've also taken several trains across China (the chest-hacking in the toilets in the morning was terrible), and I've gone right up the middle of Australia on The Ghan (there wasn't a huge amount to see on that - just red earth, gumtrees and termite mounds!). One of the best journeys was down the west-side of Sri Lanka - Columbo... hanging out of a carriage as it careens across rickety tracks that sit a few feet from blue sea... truly amazing.
No one cares my guy
Yes, I went six weeks across India on train. I had a train pass, not economical but it cut waiting in lines. 😁
I’m not
Wait, u ate train food and didn’t get sick?
Try a train ride in Norway :) you won’t regret it
This makes my heart melt. I live in Colorado… and it is by far one of the most beautiful states ever. I live in Downtown Denver and used to live in the mountains here as well. All around it’s magical here.
I just visited Denver and I already can’t wait to go back! I wish I had more time to explore. Any local recs for the downtown area? I’ve already done the art museum and it was incredible
I was born there and it's always has my heart, it's my home but unfortunately it got way too expensive and after they legalized weed it went down hill.
I am SO enjoying this video. I take the train between San Diego and Los Angeles a lot, (the Surfliner) and the views of the ocean are stunning. I went from LA to San Francisco once (11 hours, no sleeper), and sitting on the observation deck was positively hypnotizing with my headphones in, listening to music, just staring at the Pacific ocean for hours.
I took the Surfliner when I was in the US in 2018... I agree with your assessment of the ocean views
Ride the rods. Close to the track but free
The Zephyr and the Southwest Chief are always fun trips. I've made some small weekend trips on these trains, by booking partial legs like overnight from Omaha to Denver. Nothing beats the romance of train travel.
Traveled from Seattle to Sacramento and then to Omaha and back a few years ago. Great trip!
I took a 19 hour train trip across Texas this past June. I really liked it. Watching this makes me want to do the Zephyr in Winter. Thanks for posting.
Took Amtrak Vancouver to LA some years ago. Pushed the boat out and went first class; Everything was absolutely brilliant! The service, the food, and during the day our train never really got above 40mph, so you had time to take in the gorgeous scenery. (They'd crank it up at night). Highly recommended!
The U.S is beautiful. I took a bus from NC to Montana when I was in my early 20’s. It was a stressful trip but I got to see a lot of the country like never before.
As a girlfriend of a Amtrak conductor recently turned engineer, I loved watching this! So neat to see what he gets to!
Flat Earth.
No u didn’t.
My uncle was a conductor on the train from Chicago to Los Angeles when I was young (early 50's to late 60s) and I always wanted to do this. Great job!!
Penell, sounds as if that may have been The Super Chief (LA to Chi) Seen that train speed by our farm in Finney County Kansas about 10,000 times
I can't believe you stepped barefoot into that shower, you need to get some shower shoes aka cheap flip flops, that way you won't get foot fungus.
We are from the UK. For my 50th we travelled from North to South in the U.S. We used Amtrak from Vancouver to Seattle, Memphis to New Orleans and New Orleans to Atlanta. We flew between L.A. And Memphis. The train was far superior to flying! Can’t wait to do it again.
it takes almost 5 times more time by train
If you are travelling on work, train is literally a nightmare.
Looks like a hell of a good time to me! I’m 32 years old and have never been on a train before. As a kid I’ve always wanted to go on a train ride but have never been. I really wanna take sometime to actually go on a train ride. I’d love to go on this 52 hour ride, looks beautiful.
It's fun to get drunk on a train! Bring a growler and a case of beer, figure out how to get it dropped at smoke/refuel 🛑....good times!
YOU NENER BEEN ON A TRAIN?? OMG. Then maybe You should settle for a shorter trip and don´t start with 52h
You will always be happy that you chose to take a train trip! And this one looks fabulous.🎶🐦✌🏼
I went on this train at the end of April, it's one of the best trips I've ever done. If your alone make sure to get a roomette, be sure to get it as soon as you know you want to go. I went from Denver to San Fransico. Also do not expect the train to be on time, luckily mine was only 2 hours late, but the one before was actually cancelled due to being 18 hours late. The sooner you book the cheaper it will be, I booked mine in January (2022) for the end of April (2022) and it wasn't too bad. The entire trip after you leave Denver is amazing view after amazing view.
Bruh 32 years of your life and you have never been on a train
You did a good job of looking at the bright side and not dwelling on the drawbacks and inconveniences. Many people are too impatient for a journey like this. I was glad to hear your fresh take and to witness your appreciation of the scenery.
This looks like absolute hell. Just absolute complete hell. I have no idea why anyone would subject themselves to this voluntarily.
What’s the point of making a trip like this as compared to flying? I’m assuming it costs more, is obviously longer, and more uncomfortable. For the scenery, experience, or something else?
People are just too impatient nowadays, im 18 and can see the reason why someone would do this. Unexplainable feeling id imagine to be in that confined space with the world at your gaze, ive never travelled but id love to do something like this.
@@VENOM_kills you are missing the whole point but go off I guess 🤷♂️🤦♂️
@@Dr.TJ_Eckleburg you must be really young .. and don’t tell me “well actually I’m 35 years old” because from the response you definitely are a kid that has no sense of enjoying an experience share your opinion when you get older 👋
So... you talked us into it. It's our 15-year (wedding) anniversary this year, and we're taking it from Chicago Emeryville. We'll spend a couple of days in SFO then the rest of the time in Healdsberg, CA (wine country). Can't wait!
Whoa, Will. This is the most comprehensive review of a long distance Amtrak journey that I have seen so far. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ You highlighted the most important features of traveling on Amtrak in a sleeping car. I am so glad that you had this experience especially since Amtrak has brought back better meal service. I love air travel across oceans(cruises are too slow and I can't afford to book a suite on a long cruise) but the best way to see a country is by train. I hope you will get a chance to try "VIA RAIL" across Canada, "The Ghan" in Australia and other great trains available in quite a few countries. Thanks for making my week with this review of yours. Take care and have a pleasant and rewarding week.
Thank you so much for watching John, i'm glad you enjoyed it. I'd love to try the Ghan, and with Aus open again I think that could be on the list later this year. Take care too :)
It would be great to see!!
Can we take a second to appreciate how much effort Trek puts into his videos
My granddaddy was an engineer on this train for many years 1930s-1950s. We lived on the route and it is a glorious trip. Just Boulder Canyon which you have to hike in for would be enough but…all the other amazing sites! Thanks for the memories♥️
I think you hit the nail on the head with two comments. That it had been fantastic because you were disconnected and everything was at a much slower pace. We are now so conditioned to rush everywhere, doing everything at 90mph and never stopping. But you can’t do that on a train. A valuable lesson.
Living vicariously through this channel, incredible scenes
1 reply
Patterrz you sure get around RUclips comment sections.
Same!
Did not see those
ruclips.net/video/TCSUKIhjevo/видео.html
So glad you tried the steak. It’s wonderful. When my son was younger we often took the train from Kansas to Wisconsin (about 10 years ago). We’ve done the roomette and coach seats. Really better than flying when kids are young, because you can move about, and they love the observation car.
I feel like doing this trip with some close friends while visiting a new place would be an awesome experience
What a wonderful way to travel! It is like in Europe! Imagine crusing long distances in a relaxing, pleasant train! Loved it!
Wow, that is a very very nice journey. Love to do it one time (if possible). This gave a great impression and I never knew trains were still running like this. Well done!!!!
I rode from Cleveland to Chicago then on to Sacramento round-trip. I had more fun with people I met on the train than I did in Ca.
Never knew trains were running like this wtf 😂
Appreciate the good resolution and photography! Made this trip a couple of times myself, and enjoyed watching to remember what it was like, and to see what the current COVID-restrictions are. Thanks!
As much as I enjoy your normal content, I think there was more genuine fun in this video than any of the other. Excellent.
Loved watching this...My parents and I did this same trip, same route when I was a teen-ager, back in the last millenium, and loved every minute! I "made" my own family (wife and two boys, then 11 & 6) do a shorter version, from Salt Lake CIty to Emeryville at the end, just to experience an over night and the Sierras and the experience. They (and my wife) enjoyed much of it, but the 21 hours on board was way too much for them, and they still prefer air travel...But I am still a lover of the rails and look forward to doing this again out West, and in Canada one day too!
Did you guys get sleepers?
Thinking about taking this trip (solo) but a little concerned I’d feel the same as your wife and children. (Would be getting a sleeper)
@@MehulP30 j
Did you get the family bedroom for that trip since it fits 2 adutls and 2 kids.
When I was 11 (in the early 90s) I took Amtrak from Jacksonville, FL to Tucson, AZ with my grandmother. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Watching the landscape change from swamp to desert was a pretty cool site. I keep telling my wife that we have to do a cross country Amtrak trip sooner or later.
im from jacksonville florida lol
@@KaylaPedrazaa ✊🏾🖤♥️🖤♥️
I did this trip in December 2019; in the same class he is traveling. Recalled everything. California Zephyr- one of the best travel experience.
How much does this travel cost?
What was the cost
What was the cost
@@rosenava321 this is real life ruclips.net/video/fjW1RWupLds/видео.html
I appreciate it when people from other countries explore more of my country other than the coastlines. Ive been on a an amtrak trip that parallels this but more north through montana. It's an experience I think everyone should have. its definitely about the trip and not the destination.
That's a WAY better trip than this one
I’ve been to the US once and I had an amazing time there. I would love to visit it again.
@@HazardousChaos1 yeah plus you're not ending up in San Francisco
@@HazardousChaos1 Our locomotive went down in Havre in the middle of the night in mid January. so no heat or anything until they could get a freight locomotive to come rescue us. It got a bit brisk, but it just added to the experience to me.
To think that Amtrak had many more stops and stations across the country some 30 years ago, but have slowly been removed along with the tracks to make room for more roadways. I wish they reconsidered bringing back again those train services, it would be a great way to get to know America’s countryside plus it would be a really nice adventure for the kids.
This was wonderful! Lots of memories for me. My father retired from the railroad and taking trips on Amtrak was such a great growing up experience. Actually, spurred me on to travel!
Thank you again for sharing your adventures, it’s VERY exciting to “travel” and see the sites!😎
I've done this, it's amazing. Great way to travel. Met loads of interesting people. Fabulous views of throughout the journey, especially the rockies. Best adventure this Yorkshire lass has ever been on ❤
You'll have to do it again. You missed Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park, the most incredible place on Earth. Trees the size of skyscrapers and as old as the Great Pyramids. Don't make that mistake again. It will change your life.
I did this back in 2017 and it was one of the best things I've ever done! Would recommend to anyone. My best friend and I had a roomette and it was fine for 2 of us, we spent most of our time in the viewing car or the cafe or the dining car so we didn't feel too cramped. Top bunk isn't the most comfortable but it's fine for 1 or 2 nights. The menu looks have improved dramatically. Such a shame about the covid restrictions because its a really sociable environment, you get chatting to so many people. The scenery is incredible from start to finish and you just feel so chilled watching the world go by
I took the California Zephyr just a few months ago, in late May and there wasn't any restrictions for me. They just wanted people to cycle in and out of the viewing car and not camp there all day. But yeah you are right, even as an introvert conversations on the train are pleasant.
I took a solo trip in the roomette and having all that room to myself felt amazing
I did as well. Totally agree.
Do you feel huge movement/travel sick on the train or is it quite smooth?
@@oldschoolabrahamhicks2742 no, I don't recall too much swaying motion.
Wow!@@jpg3702
As someone who has done this trip in both a family bedroom and a room, I can say that it is immensely more enjoyable than flying
I'd sure hope so the as this takes 50 hours longer than flying the same distance lol
Did you prefer the family bedroom or the roomette
I wish to say thank you for all of the places you take us. I appreciate how much you emphasize what you enjoy and what you don’t prefer is just not given much ado, unless it’s really noteworthy. I think it’s brilliant how you never compare apples to oranges. You don’t dislike a meal you receive on an Amtrak, because you have had an extremely luxurious experience on a plane. 😊
I did a "Train as much as possible around the world" journey back in 1994. The Californian Zephyr was on my list and I travelled from Oakland to Chicago. My memory is that this train felt luxurious. Especially when compared to the trains I travelled with in Russia, China and Vietnam.
Your video brings back a lot of good memories, thanks mate!
Did this when I was a teenager with my grandparents. Started in South Station, went to Canada, then the Grand Canyon, then back. I've always wanted to go another another trip but man, it's like a million dollars.
As someone from Colorado who has a house in Fraser it is always cool to see other people be amazed by the scenery. It reminds me to not take the beauty for granted.
You should never
I always want to take a train trip ride and this one is absolutely in my bucket list. Thank you for sharing your video and I love it 🥰
I moved to chicago from Houston 2 years ago for school, I’ll be graduating in a few months, and when my mother said she was going to take the train up from Houston I was very confused lol. She said “it’ll be so fun and relaxing!” And I was like “what is this lady talking about?”. Now I see! 😍 I’ll have to do this one day! As an introverted creative with a deep appreciation for the beauty of everything and slow quite times, I can’t see why I haven’t done this sooner! A solo trip with Books! Movies! A bag full of snacks! A wide angle camera! Some jazz and classical music on my playlist! A journal! A bottle of wine (are we allowed to bring our own alcohol??). I’ll probably do the bedroom even as a solo traveler though because, I’m not a fan of the shared shower 😅
Who gives a fuck
😍
@@tsmattic3192 💀💀
I think that’s a lovely idea! I’ve been taking Amtrak trips on and off with my mother since I was 5 (I’m 20!). I have to recommend that if you’re coming from the Midwest, the three day trip from Chicago to Seattle on the Empire Builder is absolutely breathtaking, especially in the summer. It takes you through Montana and Glacier National Park towards the Western end of the trip and it’s wonderful. Also, I’ve quite literally never met an on-board staff member that I haven’t loved!
I took Amtrak from Chicago to DC in a sleeper car. Just rise early and be the first one to use the shower and it'll be ok.😊 Our car attendant kept everything neat, clean, and well supplied.
The next time you are on an Amtrak long haul like this one, you should show the downstairs 2nd class seating. It is the better option for these trips if you can't afford a room. It is not very full, maybe 20 seats in total, and usually you get both seats. Plus, it tends to be quieter, and I have found you will have an attendant who will get you snacks/water/meals if needed. Oh, and they always give free hot water. So bring your own food and plan on having hot water!!! Pre-pandemic, you could eat in the dining room, but it looks like that has changed.
No they brought that back but charge cutomers in Coach for the traditional dinning a lot more than the cafe food they have on the train.
Made this trip a dozen or more times, ... it's the best!
This was a solid capture of the experience.
It's worth noting that dining with other travelers is oftentimes wonderfully rewarding... so unfortunate you missed that.
Also, Feather River Canyon between Truckee and the destination is spectacular area.
I've seen Eagles hunt in the adjacent rivers along the route, ... mammoth herds of deer numbering into the thousands...
Unfortunately, I've also experienced awakening @3am stopped unexplainably in the middle of nowhere... only to re-awaken a few hours later to still be stopped ... we had hit a car resulting in fatalities, investigation via first responders, etc, awaiting the Coroner's office prior to all parties releasing the train.
Also experienced flooding and rockslides destroying the tracks... in that instance, both the westbound, and the eastbound Amtrak trains stop, and all occupants of each train are bused to the other train, re-board, then your new train backs up for miles... sometimes, hundreds of miles... until they can turn the train around at a "wye".
Most every time had sleeping accommodations... but I've made the trip riding in coach a dew time... it's a grind... but still enjoyable.
I've seen so much. Perhaps the best advice; one can't be in a hurry, the trip will likely have no problems whatsoever... but things happen... just chill, enjoy every moment.
The overall tactile experience... the motion, that's the best part, it's very, very relaxing.
After you arrive at your destination, for a day or so you'll feel like your still moving.
Thanks
Can I ask u how much they charge for the trip ?
@@SilenceaboutthetruthisamuteDev was wondering the same thing
Flat Earth.
@@SilenceaboutthetruthisamuteDev
Prices vary dramatically... $500 - $1200 ... seriously, there's promos, specials... their pricing is all over the place.
The only consistent aspect, the more in advance you book, the better the price.
@@FOH3663 thank you very much !
Ridden the California Zephyr many times over 12 years visiting my parents in California when I lived in Illinois. Far more comfortable than riding in an airplane. I would always plan my trip to leave on Saturday (arriving Monday) and depart on Friday (returning home Sunday). Gave me 3 days to enjoy visiting with a great vacation that has scenic views at both ends. Only one train ever arrived on time, every trip had its quirks. Engine breaking down going up the Rockies, bathroom septic tanks being full, train hitting an elk, rail bridge that caught fire causing us to turn around, and so on. You meet all sorts of characters on the train, from pimps to Amish.
The only thing I didn't like is the toilets, not enough knee space, even the handicap stall. I would always have to sit at an angle. :(
How did you afford it? It’s as much as plane tickets if not more so now lol. My family just drives nation wide
@@kennypowers1945 If you don't have a family it's cheaper since the cost isn't amortized. My car gets 40mpg highway so 63 gallons needed from cali to east coast. Average $5 a gallon so $315 bucks. Doesn't include the 3k miles you're adding to the car. If you have a family of 5 that's just 60 bucks a person. If it's just you... might as well buy the $400 ticket.
How much are tickets
@@kennypowers1945 You can purchase an Amtrak credit card for points and sign up for Amtrak Guest Rewards its free and every train ride on Amtrack even economy you get points for that ride. Also when you have enough points you can get free roommates on the Amtrak trains. Also other perks after leveling up from the base level you will get a special number to call Amtrak if your train is late, also access to the metropolitan lounge for free at the stations that have one.
Always wondered about this particular trip on Amtrack + now all my queries have been answered in perfect detail. Thank you for sharing. I enjoyed every mile
Do you lock your cabin door before getting off at stops or dining, because anyone could get access to it otherwise
This is an excellent video! Will, you do so well remaining positive and have the best outlook throughout this video and I so appreciate that. I must say though, that it does make me embarrassed as an American that this is what we have to offer as far as train excursions.🙈 We could definitely learn something about trains from our European, Canadian, Australian, and Japanese friends!
Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, City of New Orleans roundtrip, and California Zephyr home. Took a few weeks with a few days at each endpoint of San Diego, Seattle, Chicago, a week in New Orleans for Mardis gras and a turn around in Chicago for a trip home to the Bay. Fun trip circa 2011.
Lovely video, I've always thought of business class as a waste of money for a short time of experience, but this journey is worth taking, primarily for the beautiful views from the train. I'm pretty sure Amtrak will see a big jump in ticket sales on this route, thanks to your lovely video!
You wouldn’t think business class is a waste of money on an 11.5 hour flight. Worth every penny! ( well maybe not on some U.S. airlines - lol)
Beautifully photographed, edited, and narrated. And fun! 50 years we did this in coach. I definitely would choose the sleeping room!
I've just stepped off this amazing journey myself, and it has to be up there with one of the best experiences of my life. I did this solo also, and stayed in a roomette - plenty enough room for one and I too was surprised by how good that cheesecake was!!
My wife and I took this train from Salt Lake to Glenwood Springs 14 years ago for our first anniversary. That little weekend trip is still one of my faves.
Hello,
I rode Amtrak as a kid from KC to St. Louis, and it was beautiful. I must say however given the changes of my tastes and love of scenery, I want to do such a trip. The sites were amazing. Love your channel.
Train travels are always a delight. Am from India and the main mode of long distance travel here is still the railways and I love enjoying the countryside landscape of India while traveling on the tracks, now I am intrigued to take this long journey on the American railways.
Agreed. I took a train from Kerala up to Goa a few years ago and loved it because of the sights. Think it was about 1,300 miles and took about 23 hours if I remember correctly. Travelled 2nd class air-con on the return and it cost £13!! Travelled up on just 2nd class- that was sticky I can tell you and cost about £8. This was about 2005.
@@alfredthegreat9543 never ever travel in non air-conditioned coaches on Indian trains when traveling for more than 3-4 hrs. I always travel on AC 2 Tier(2nd class air conditioning) and thanks that my father worked in the Railways (he retired a few years back) so we still get to travel for free on railways otherwise AC 2 Tier is pretty costly for an average Indian.
18:08 Even though it was around 18 years ago when I rode the CZ, I remember this image vividly. The Rocky Mountains were absolutely gorgeous!
I also remember that stop in Grand Junction, CO. Fascinating small town, I wish we could've stopped there longer.
30-45 minutes at least or overnight
Will, I have to say I was wondering how this would pan out, but OMG; it was absolutely brilliant!!! Loved the whole experience and something to add to my bucket list! Thanks and keep up the brilliant work!
Súper👍👍
I took an Amtrak train ride in a Sleeper car many years ago from Louisiana-California-Seattle, WA and what an experience. I would do it again, but you cannot be in a hurry and if you want to just enjoy to country side this is the way to go in my view. You did a great job on this video. Thanks
Great video. As the son of an Amtrak "OG", I grew up on trains. People would be amazed at how cool it is to see the country from a train.
I did this route in the early '90s. Joined it in Denver. I did it on coach. Had a blast. Wouldn't do it again with out a roomette. Beautiful ride.
It seems that the Amtrak food is "back on track" after a period of microwaved dinners. This trip may have taken much longer than flying, but there was a lot more to see along the way. For anyone who is not in a hurry, I'd say that the train is better than a plane.
I was thinking the same. Was concerned he'd get the dreaded meatballs!
@@wiggydebates3944 The frozen entrees that were microwaved weren't terrible, but the traditional dinner food is so much better. While it isn't Gordon Ramsay's five star cuisine found on a cruise ship, it is good small town cafe food...
Yeah, that’s nice to see! Several years ago (pre-COVID) we took this same train from Denver to Glenwood. The food was not good, nor was there even a choice for a higher class meal (that we would’ve happily paid for!). I’m glad to see they’ve stepped up their game, and I definitely recommend this train as it’s a unique and gorgeous experience!
I think it's only for the West Coast destinations. I.E. if going from Chicago to DC, I think they're still just serving microwave meals. If true, I hope they switch back soon, now that the virus seems to be winding down.
It’s also more expensive than a flight
I got this video as a recommendation from RUclips and I watched the whole thing. What a great experience! Cheers!
So glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching :)
You should have included the cost at some point during this video. I imagine a lot of people are curious what this kind of trip will set you back.
It’s super expensive
It’s cheaper to fly
You can book this room for $650 per person or $1300 a couple that includes meals and snacks also 6 free cocktails. One person $1,200. You can fly one-way on average $390 per person w' a couple bags of peanuts, a coke, and a boxed sandwich. If you can stand just seated the trip is $260.
@@raymondcaylor6292 This is exactly what is wrong with train travel in America. It has to be cheaper than flying to be viable. In Asia I took a over 20 hour trip from Bangkok to Singapore in sleeper trains, I think the entire trip cost less than $100, closer to $50. That is 1,137 miles.
I did it Sacramento to Cleveland in 2009, coach seat, I spend for dinning car, no showers, long layover in Chicago....it was $500. The one way air fare was almost $1000
I’ve been there and done that many times. Been from Minneapolis to Providence, it’s about a two day trip and it’s absolutely amazing. Get the sleeper car, it comes with two free meals, I got the filet mignon for free. Note, the dining car is communal seating and you will have to sit next to people you don’t know. If that makes you uncomfortable, just order your meal in your room. The railroad French toast is absolutely amazing, make sure you let them know when you want to schedule your dinner reservations, when you want to turn your bed down, if you want to a wake up call and don’t be afraid to socialize in the sightseeing car. You’ll meet some awesome people. PS, the food is absolutely amazing and the views are absolutely beautiful. The train rocking you to sleep at night is the best feeling ever! They have honeymoon suites, which are like rooms for bigger families that come with a huge couches and a pull out bed. There’s even your own toilet and shower. All sleeper cars have a pull out bed and two chairs that turn into a bed. You wouldn’t think they were comfortable but they are so comfortable. And I used to sleep on a Simmons beauty rest mattress, so I would know. It’s so crazy to see you in the lounge. I’ve been in that exact lounge, don’t judge lounges based on that alone. Chicago is a very small train station, so the lounge is pretty small. But when you get a lounge in New York or Washington. They are so ritzy, big screen TVs, all you can eat food, beverages and they even check your baggage so you can walk around the city while you wait for your train. It’s like a first class lounge, because the sleeper car is considered first class. Since there is no business class. Make sure you wear comfortable clothing, comfortable shoes and make sure you have money when you layover. The thing about trains, you will have a layover at every train station. Some more fancy than others but you will want to get lunch or dinner or breakfast. Depending on which time you stop. If you go to the Chicago train station, you can walk right downtown and get fresh Chicago deep dish pizza. So it’s a 45 minute wait but it’s totally worth it if you have like a five hour layover. Me and my mother would always have super long layovers, so we’d always have fun in Chicago and go sightseeing until our train came. That’s the best part about going on the train, and stopping at all of the layovers and eating it all of the really cool restaurants. I’ve eaten in New York, Chicago and even Washington DC. Travel by train you guys, it will change your life. I love it, best way to travel in the entire world.
I've always wanted to use the Amtrak. Also as many times I passed Donner's pass, I never knew it's history. So that was interesting to learn. But I tell you, as trucker, that Pass sure is something when you hit the top of it and it's snowing like no man's business.
Seeing you bite into the tamale with the husk over it,was too adorable 😄. No judging here.
It's worth it if you can find the time, but the sleeper car's are over rated.
15:56 By the way, the Moffat Tunnel shaved over 30 miles off the route. Before it, trains had to take a treacherous 4% climb over Rollins Pass, a very windy route with multiple switchbacks, and a lot of exposed track that was vulnerable to being buried by avalanches in the winter.
Amtrak? Booooo! Crappy interiors....no "ambiance."
I live in Arkansas & take Amtrak every year to Dallas to see my best friend. You don’t have to worry about traffic, weather or anything else. Sometimes there are significant delays for a variety of reasons, so if you’re on a tight schedule, this is not the mode of transportation for you.
My last trip, I bid the minimum $ for an upgrade to a roomette, not expecting to get it.
But I did! It was great! Next time, that’s what I’ll book in the beginning.
Hi Becky, What do you mean you "bid" on the upgrade? Sounds like if there's an opening people see who'll pay the most and top bidder wins the space? Sounds peculiar. Could you have just paid a particular amount to get it and not bid at all? thnx!
Minor nitpick about your Coach comments: those aren’t used by people going the full length; rather, they’re used by people who are going on smaller segments of the route.