I started pricing my trip for Aug 22 at the beginning of July, it was 1450.00. I kept watching the price and it started to drop. When It dropped to $750.00 I got it. A week ago it dropped to $593.00. I refunded my ticket and purchased it at 593.00. The next day it went up to $850.00. This is for one way from Sacramento to Chicago in a roomette. You can refund your ticket and buy it at a lower price if it drops.
Inspired by your videos, I just returned from bucket list trip with youngest granddaughter who is 14. Started with Cap Limited to Chicago, then CA Zephyr to Emeryville and down to LA on Coast Starlight. We returned to Chicago on Southwest Chief! Fantastic trip. Empire Builder is still on bucket list. I'm 74 years old so I won't wait too long. Already have Texas Eagle from Chicago to LA and back to Chicago then on to NYC on Lake Shore Limited to NYC. I ❤ Amtrak!
Am also in my mid 70's and enjoy Amtrak 'land cruises.' I have the Amtrak Preferred guest rewards card and get the senior discount on top of that... always in a roomette. By booking several months in advance and going in low season I have been able to snag low bucket fare levels. The other important thing when booking is to get an experienced agent to help you; many times I have to keep trying. Finally when booking ask for the complimentary 8 day hold so you can go over your plan; check hotels, and be sure you are ok with the itinerary. Just booked a circuitous circle trip from PDX to LAX to WAS and back through New Orleans for $3200.
Thank you for your channels! I booked my own version of the Grand Loop last year right after Thanksgiving. ATL -NOLA-LA, then rented an Airbnb in Joshua Tree and hung out in Palm Springs. Back on in LA to Emeryville, CHI-DC-ATL. Now with my Amtrak card I'm earning points to use towards the upper Loop! Thanks again; maybe we'll bump into each other in one of the lounges! 👍🏾🙏🏾☺️
I love train travel. There is something about the sound and sway on the rail that feels relaxing. Long travel would be great the problem being switching trains so often. I dream of going from East to north across the states, down the west coast and across the south back up the east coast. That would be soooo amazing.
7:50 p.m. - Father's Day - Happy Father's Day. Enjoy your videos! Clicked on the word "thanks" thinking I was thanking you and $2.00 comes up. Had no idea I was donating something. Hope it was a mistake. No idea what it is for.
I've only been to Seattle once and it was AWESOME. I can't wait to go back. Loved going to the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden & Glass. Of course the Seattle Public Market is a must do. I also took a ferry across to Bainbridge Island, listened to some live music, and enjoyed DELICIOUS coffee and a fresh blueberry scone. One thing about Seattle is that there's no shortage of great coffee places that aren't S-Bucks. There are so many places I want to visit during my next trip there. Oh, and if you're a sports fan, go to a game.
When you get to the Chicago Union Station Metropolitan Lounge, I’m pretty sure they still have free shower facilities for passengers with rooms/roomettes. Yes. Lou Malnati’s>Giordanos. Lou’s has the buttercrust.
I adore train travel. My father worked for the Great Northern Railway out of Whitefish MT. We grew up riding on the Fast Mail train pulled by a Steam Engine before they were discontinued. We rode the Fast Mail train between Whitefish and Minot, ND. It had 1 passenger coach, used mainly by employees deadheading home. All 5 of us kids got our own bench (coach seats at that time) seat and being a night train, we slept most of the way. Was fun to watch the mail sorting coach grab the mail sacks that were hung on a pole as the train passed through all the small towns. Have rode many lines to date. Next trip will be Fullerton CA to Clemson SC, to Delaware, to Syracuse, to Whitefish, to Seattle, to Ventura.
I'm taking this trip in Oct. this year leaving from Memphis on the City of New Orleans and returning to Memphis. I live in Nashville so I have to bus to Memphis and back. Also I'm going to ride the San Jauquine from Emeryville to Stockton. When I leave I will Throughway bus to Sacramento to catch the Zephyr. Rommettes all the way. I called the 800 number and they were terrific and got me booked in no time. I'm also a rewards member.
I'm sure you''ve done a lot of the popular deep dish pizza.. You owe it to yourselves to go to Peqod's Pizza in Lincoln Park. Guarantee you won't be disappointed! In my opinion, best pizza on the planet. Have an awesome trip. I did Capitol Limited from Pitt to Chi, them the CZ from Chi to Mtz. Epic! will definitely do again. My loop will be Coast Starlight, EB, TE to Sunset Limited CS. Happy Rails.
I know you have been on the Empire Builder from Seattle to Chicago several times, but I recommend taking the EB from Portland to Chicago. The views along the Columbia Gorge are incredible, especially in the fall! You will want to sit on the south side for the views. (PS love your channel and thank you for all the advice!)
A place you should really get off and spend a day or two is Glenwood Springs CO... the hot springs pool is amazing, but the Colorado & Roaring Fork rivers, Hanging Lake are just a couple reasons to spend some time in the area!
In case you guys haven’t been yet and have the time, there’s a Bavarian-styled village in the Cascade Mountains in Leavenworth, WA. It’s about a 2-hour, scenic drive.
Hi Rob and Ally, I saw many videos from your travel experiences. You inspired me. So last week I took the California Zephyr from Emeryville to Chicago. In Emeryville I stayed in the Hilton Gardens Inn and in Chicago in Sonesta Simply Suites ( in Schillerpark ) I have to say, I was choosing the Amtrak Route and the Hotels well. And it wasn’t my last Amtrak Ride. So …. thank you 😎 Sabine
Thanks for doing this for all of us. Your videos as well as your website have been of great help and inspiring to us. We've got a couple of Amtrak trips booked between now and end of this year. We'll be on the Empire Builder round trip by itself then the Coast Starlight, Zepher, Pacific Surfliner, Capitol Limited, Silver Meteor (not in that order lol) trying out a few challenging trip travel ideas. We're in our mid-70's and travel has begun to be challenging for a couple years now. We've only done the auto train a few times and some short Amtrak day trips in the past. We figure if all goes well on these 2 trips, the sky is the limit on Amtrak for us!
I hate to say it, Amtrak's prices have continued to go up. Booking 11 months out, which is the cheapest. Booking a roomette for 2 11 months out is up to almost $3500 ($3457.40 today's pricing). I'm with you two, I highly recommend it. I live in the San Francisco North Bay and am planning on doing this circuit in a roomette in the spring 2024. I'll go Emeryville to Seattle, then to Chicago, then back home. I hope one of my best friends can join me, otherwise I'm planning to pay $2788.70 for my own tickets. Great channel you two!
I think you've struck up the travel bug in a lot of viewers. I usually make reservations 11 months prior in order to get the desired sleeper car accommodations since they sell out faster than coach seats. Also, if I need to reserve adjoining deluxe bedrooms B&C or D&E, I would need to phone Amtrak & speak with a rep. The type reservations requesting specific bedrooms & roomettes (not including family & accessible bedrooms) cannot be made online. Their online system places passengers randomly until cars are filled.
Thanks for all the insights on your videos. We are just back from the reverse trip - sort of - beginning in Reno. Coach from Reno to Sacramento, Coast Starlight north to Seattle, then Empire Builder to Chicago and Lakeshore Limited to Rochester, NY. Thank goodness for the accessible rooms on all, although I could not do the upper bunks on Superliner - too warm (and never cooled down) and too confining; I guess I do have a little claustrophobia!? Due to temp, I put the mattress on the floor, and while firm, it was OK. Did the same going east from Seattle. I probably would have been OK in the upper berth on Lakeshore Ltd, but again, it was about 15 degrees warmer up there, even with fans going full blast. We managed to head-to-toe it on the wider lower berth. We did find that some of the track on EB - especially the eastern half, I would say, and most of the LSLtd to be VERY rough. We really got thrown around a bit moving through car and in bed. At one point, the side-to-side thrashing was so bad the trash can in the bathroom area flew open and spilled all over my feet/bed. I honestly don't know if I would have been able to hang on so as not to tumble out of the upper (with the harness in place) on LSLtd; even below I was thankful I hadn't stowed the ladder as I needed it to stay in place. We were quite surprised at this. We are not prima-donnas and expected some "turbulence" but were both very surprised, and other passengers made similar comments. We used several of your suggestions - of course, the outlet cube (that I'll use in Greece this fall!); I also brought a three-across outlet extender. The outlet in our EB room was very worn and the plug would not keep a connection, but I used the clear waterproof medical tape I brought (against recommendations!) to hold it in place and it worked for at least part of the trip. A 3-foot extension cord with a three-outlet head allowed us to expand the sink outlet (and lift cords away from the water. No ZAPS!) Overall, although the ride was rough for much of the way, the weather was really perfect so we always had great views. Station and train staff were all wonderful. Redcaps were always ready to assist in advance and really helped. On thing that surprised us was the lack of a "first class" lounge -or other place for sleeper car passengers to "hang" and stash carry-on luggage. The clerk there was the only rude person we ran into. As a result we couldn't sightsee in Seattle and other than a quick meal nearby, stayed in the station most of the time. All your tips were helpful, and while we may not do it again, I will keep watching and tracking the travel tips for other adventures. So many thanks!!! Come visit the Finger Lakes of New York State - just south of Rochester!!😎
Starting from Canada I would love to go on Amtrak from Maine or Boston to Miami stopping at main religious sites , Washington DC , Bible Museum, Charlotte, Billy Graham museum, ark encounter in Kentucky., over to Florida to Orlando then taking brightline to West palm beach then from there to Tampa. 👍🏻
Superliner roomette is limited to the size of luggage space. If you want to keep your luggage with you, there is area under the 2 seats 22” x 26” x 9” each. Also 2 wall hangers for small backpacks or duffel bags. Storage for larger luggage available in lower level of Superliner or baggage car.
Similar to trip I have planned for the unlikely time when I can afford it. My plan is empire builder to coast starlight to sunset limited to crescent , in order to include new orleans
@GroundedLifeTravel no, I'd take the crescent to atlanta.....I live in walton county. I've been dreaming about this trip and built the idea of it around the empire builder, the route I most want to do
Love your videos. Would you consider doing a rail pass video that would use 2 - 4 weeks to see the US? It’s such a good price even at $499 and using great city stops instead of using a sleeper on Amtrak.
A ferry to Bainbridge or Bremerton from Seattle is interesting too. Quite cheap to get a ride on the sound, water view of the city, and lunch. Bainbridge probably has better food options.
Agreed! Bainbridge Island is a great place to just walk around leisurely for a few hours. There is an art museum, cool little shops, some walking trails, and cute places to eat.
Can you do a video on tips for renting cars when travelling by Amtrak? When you fly, rental cars are available at most airports, but not at train stations. For example, if you were to take the Vermonter to Burlington, VT (Essex Junction) from NYC, Enterprise is the only feasible option (since they pick you up) but they close early...before the train gets there. If you are just doing in-town sightseeing in major cities (like Chicago or SF) you don't need a car, but in other destinations, the minute you get off the train, you are so limited in where you can go (like, Glacier National Park?!) So it would be great if you could share your experiences and insights on this topic! (P.S. I'm so glad I found your channel. Great stuff. Subscribed!)
I suggest you phone the representatives at Amtrak (especially if you are a guest rewards member because the 'on hold' time is less) and ask them for assistance--they are very helpful. Focus on your abilities and find things that will help you strengthen them. If you have mobility issues decide if it's better to get a roomette or bedroom on upper level with the restaurant and sightseer lounge and steps only twice or to get the assessable bedroom on the 1st level with a toilet and a bigger room. Steps are narrow to the second level. We've been putting off travel in the hope that issues will improve. We finally decided that getting back out there was the answer. We address issues as best we can and take any available assistance to make things as good as they can be. We have a couple bucket list Amtrak trips coming up between now and the end of this year...so excited.
got my trip booked from NYC-CHI-SFC on the lake shore limited and california zephyr at the end of oct. really looking forward to seeing CHI and SFC, having not been there before. PS any tips for riding the public transport in SFC coz by golly is it complicated for foreigners.
Love your videos. You really make me want to get on a train. I can't find any videos that can help me plan a trip to Niagara Falls. What would it be like to go from NYP station to Niagara Falls alone what is there to do is it expensive? Thank you.
Thankyou, awesome video guys, I'm planning to do the exact plan. I do have one Q, whats the sleeping like when you have screeching brakes and horns blarring. Cheers.
Very informative. Thank you for this information. I want to know- if a woman is traveling alone, what steps does the company take to ensure their safety?
Hopefully the power outlets on the train work. Was on Texas eagle/ limited couple weeks ago, no power outlets worked in lounge car and phone almost died when I got off, almost couldn’t call a Uber!! Bring a portable charger to incase outlets don’t work
Yes they do. I just booked my parents for that discount…but you can save more if you apply for the Amtrak Mastercard and use their discount benefits and coupons.
Did a similar trip last year but from LA. The travel Power adapter worked great except in my roomette on the Zephyr. It would stayed plugged in. Would like to recommend also having an adapter / extension cord with three prongs as that was the only thing that would stay plugged in. Great trip and advice from you both as always.
Happy Father's Day Rob. Nice information. I have a question. If there's 2 people in a car crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, can the passenger get a good video or picture or would it be better to pull to the side near the bridge for a good picture?
Great video!! Thanks for the tips. One question - would it be practically feasible to break up the Empire Builder ride in two segments, or do you have to ride the whole route (CHI-SEA) as one thru-trip? We'd love to get off at Glacier Nat'l Park and spend a couple of days to explore on our own, but we are afraid of getting stranded in Montana, even if we reserved a roomette/sleeper in advance...even assuming Amtrak lets you book them in partial segments. (We see that Amtrak offers a "Glacier National Park Getaway" tour package but it's expensive!)
The tour you are looking at is Amtrak Vacations, and not Amtrak. That is a more expensive tour operator. You can book 2 separate segments on Amtrak and rent your own car and it'll be much cheaper.
I have always wanted to do a cross country trip via Amtrak. I live on east coast (PA) so are there itineraries starting from Philadelphia perhaps? Plus, I am vegan, are there food options for me on the train?
By booking with an Amtrak agent, for Roomette, are you more likely to get the side of the train that you want? To me that would be a benefit to using the Amtrak agent. I can do my homework and know the schedules and trains but I haven't been able to get a specific side of the Roomette train by booking myself on the app. Thanks for the great videos.
@@GroundedLifeTravel thank you for the reply. We love your videos. Our home station is Creston Iowa. We are considering a vacation to see Glacier in 2 years when I retire.
Not understanding the math. Y'alls suggested budget for traveling full time is $4k a month. This one trip in something other than coach (which y'all rarely ever utilize) for just 12 days exceeds that. I suppose you're going to say you use points or something, but I just do not understand how anyone thinks the room options on Amtrak are "doable" or "affordable"....
The 4k is an average per month for the year. It's always over that in the USA and we'll under it when not in the USA. But yes, we mostly use points from the Amtrak card.
Are those rewards programs of any use to someone coming in from overseas to do this loop tour? I assume you have a guide on tipping/gratuities as where I live it's not common and not required at all? You started and ended in Chicago but for me I think I would start and end in Vancouver(Canada) as I know Amtrak goes up there and then start/finish this in Seattle(well back to Vancouver to fly home)
A friend and I want to do this next year. I am a Marriott member with points that could be used for hotels. How would we find the closest to the train station?
I’m no good with directions so when you recommend rooms on north side or east side etc I have no idea. Would be more helpful if you would just say get a roomette on the right side or left side (in the direction of travel). Also what can I do with a couple $350 vouchers that I won’t be able to use? Are they transferable?
I am retired and living on social security at a little over 2 grand a month what would be the best and cheapest way for me to take this route as a solo traveler ?
It sounds like bad scheduling for baseball and or football guys. Especially for baseball as they will usually have three or four days in the series. But trust me, it will happen.
I started pricing my trip for Aug 22 at the beginning of July, it was 1450.00. I kept watching the price and it started to drop. When It dropped to $750.00 I got it. A week ago it dropped to $593.00. I refunded my ticket and purchased it at 593.00. The next day it went up to $850.00. This is for one way from Sacramento to Chicago in a roomette. You can refund your ticket and buy it at a lower price if it drops.
That is what I love about traveling when retired we can go during the cheap times of year.
Exactly, us too!
Inspired by your videos, I just returned from bucket list trip with youngest granddaughter who is 14. Started with Cap Limited to Chicago, then CA Zephyr to Emeryville and down to LA on Coast Starlight. We returned to Chicago on Southwest Chief! Fantastic trip. Empire Builder is still on bucket list. I'm 74 years old so I won't wait too long. Already have Texas Eagle from Chicago to LA and back to Chicago then on to NYC on Lake Shore Limited to NYC. I ❤ Amtrak!
Am also in my mid 70's and enjoy Amtrak 'land cruises.' I have the Amtrak Preferred guest rewards card and get the senior discount on top of that... always in a roomette. By booking several months in advance and going in low season I have been able to snag low bucket fare levels. The other important thing when booking is to get an experienced agent to help you; many times I have to keep trying. Finally when booking ask for the complimentary 8 day hold so you can go over your plan; check hotels, and be sure you are ok with the itinerary. Just booked a circuitous circle trip from PDX to LAX to WAS and back through New Orleans for $3200.
That is awesome!
How far in advance should you book for a sleeper on any of the west coast routes out of Chicago ? Love your channel been following for a long time .
Thank you for your channels! I booked my own version of the Grand Loop last year right after Thanksgiving. ATL -NOLA-LA, then rented an Airbnb in Joshua Tree and hung out in Palm Springs. Back on in LA to Emeryville, CHI-DC-ATL. Now with my Amtrak card I'm earning points to use towards the upper Loop! Thanks again; maybe we'll bump into each other in one of the lounges! 👍🏾🙏🏾☺️
Your videos are an enigma. Every video is the same a previous one in content, route and/or information. Yet I watch them all and enjoy.
I am. So. Inspired. By. Your. Videos. I've. Traveled. Amtrack. A. Lot. In. The. Past. Coach. To. First. Class. You. Bring bit. All. Back. So. Real. And. You care. Great. Hosts....
This trip would be very wonderful to see. I’m anticipating watching it as soon as it is available. Love all your adventures. ❤❤
Thanks so much!
I love train travel. There is something about the sound and sway on the rail that feels relaxing. Long travel would be great the problem being switching trains so often. I dream of going from East to north across the states, down the west coast and across the south back up the east coast. That would be soooo amazing.
7:50 p.m. - Father's Day - Happy Father's Day. Enjoy your videos! Clicked on the word "thanks" thinking I was thanking you and $2.00 comes up. Had no idea I was donating something. Hope it was a mistake. No idea what it is for.
I Love your videos! You both explain everything so well with great information:) Thank You!
Our pleasure!
I've only been to Seattle once and it was AWESOME. I can't wait to go back. Loved going to the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden & Glass. Of course the Seattle Public Market is a must do. I also took a ferry across to Bainbridge Island, listened to some live music, and enjoyed DELICIOUS coffee and a fresh blueberry scone. One thing about Seattle is that there's no shortage of great coffee places that aren't S-Bucks. There are so many places I want to visit during my next trip there.
Oh, and if you're a sports fan, go to a game.
When you get to the Chicago Union Station Metropolitan Lounge, I’m pretty sure they still have free shower facilities for passengers with rooms/roomettes.
Yes. Lou Malnati’s>Giordanos. Lou’s has the buttercrust.
Thanks!
This is exactly what I have been waiting for!!!! ❤❤❤❤
Thank you so much!!!❤❤❤❤
You're so welcome!
I adore train travel. My father worked for the Great Northern Railway out of Whitefish MT. We grew up riding on the Fast Mail train pulled by a Steam Engine before they were discontinued. We rode the Fast Mail train between Whitefish and Minot, ND. It had 1 passenger coach, used mainly by employees deadheading home. All 5 of us kids got our own bench (coach seats at that time) seat and being a night train, we slept most of the way. Was fun to watch the mail sorting coach grab the mail sacks that were hung on a pole as the train passed through all the small towns. Have rode many lines to date. Next trip will be Fullerton CA to Clemson SC, to Delaware, to Syracuse, to Whitefish, to Seattle, to Ventura.
Awesome, thanks for sharing!
I'm taking this trip in Oct. this year leaving from Memphis on the City of New Orleans and returning to Memphis. I live in Nashville so I have to bus to Memphis and back. Also I'm going to ride the San Jauquine from Emeryville to Stockton. When I leave I will Throughway bus to Sacramento to catch the Zephyr. Rommettes all the way. I called the 800 number and they were terrific and got me booked in no time. I'm also a rewards member.
Have fun!
I'm sure you''ve done a lot of the popular deep dish pizza.. You owe it to yourselves to go to Peqod's Pizza in Lincoln Park. Guarantee you won't be disappointed! In my opinion, best pizza on the planet. Have an awesome trip. I did Capitol Limited from Pitt to Chi, them the CZ from Chi to Mtz. Epic! will definitely do again. My loop will be Coast Starlight, EB, TE to Sunset Limited CS. Happy Rails.
I know you have been on the Empire Builder from Seattle to Chicago several times, but I recommend taking the EB from Portland to Chicago. The views along the Columbia Gorge are incredible, especially in the fall! You will want to sit on the south side for the views. (PS love your channel and thank you for all the advice!)
Thanks, we do need to do that. We haven't yet
You will love the incredible Columbia gorge.😊
Looks like a good trip
Thanks
Great video! Thank you
Glad you liked it!
Doing that exact trip in September.
Getting to chicago by Silver Meteor and Cardinal.
Can't wait. Thanks for all the info.
Have fun!
A place you should really get off and spend a day or two is Glenwood Springs CO... the hot springs pool is amazing, but the Colorado & Roaring Fork rivers, Hanging Lake are just a couple reasons to spend some time in the area!
It does look great!
My loop trip was Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, Cardinal, Crescent, Sunset Limited. Whew! And I agree, hotels in Chicago are pricey!
Awesome trip!
@@GroundedLifeTravel thanks! Great fun but it took about a month…
In case you guys haven’t been yet and have the time, there’s a Bavarian-styled village in the Cascade Mountains in Leavenworth, WA. It’s about a 2-hour, scenic drive.
I agree, I loved visiting Leavenworth!
Hi Rob and Ally, I saw many videos from your travel experiences. You inspired me. So last week I took the California Zephyr from Emeryville to Chicago. In Emeryville I stayed in the Hilton Gardens Inn and in Chicago in Sonesta Simply Suites ( in Schillerpark ) I have to say, I was choosing the Amtrak Route and the Hotels well. And it wasn’t my last Amtrak Ride. So …. thank you 😎 Sabine
Great idea, I am now planning a cross country trip on Amtrak with several stops along the way. Thank you for the inspiration.
Have fun!
Thanks for doing this for all of us. Your videos as well as your website have been of great help and inspiring to us. We've got a couple of Amtrak trips booked between now and end of this year. We'll be on the Empire Builder round trip by itself then the Coast Starlight, Zepher, Pacific Surfliner, Capitol Limited, Silver Meteor (not in that order lol) trying out a few challenging trip travel ideas. We're in our mid-70's and travel has begun to be challenging for a couple years now. We've only done the auto train a few times and some short Amtrak day trips in the past. We figure if all goes well on these 2 trips, the sky is the limit on Amtrak for us!
Have a great time!
I hate to say it, Amtrak's prices have continued to go up. Booking 11 months out, which is the cheapest. Booking a roomette for 2 11 months out is up to almost $3500 ($3457.40 today's pricing). I'm with you two, I highly recommend it.
I live in the San Francisco North Bay and am planning on doing this circuit in a roomette in the spring 2024. I'll go Emeryville to Seattle, then to Chicago, then back home. I hope one of my best friends can join me, otherwise I'm planning to pay $2788.70 for my own tickets.
Great channel you two!
I think you've struck up the travel bug in a lot of viewers. I usually make reservations 11 months prior in order to get the desired sleeper car accommodations since they sell out faster than coach seats. Also, if I need to reserve adjoining deluxe bedrooms B&C or D&E, I would need to phone Amtrak & speak with a rep. The type reservations requesting specific bedrooms & roomettes (not including family & accessible bedrooms) cannot be made online. Their online system places passengers randomly until cars are filled.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for all the insights on your videos. We are just back from the reverse trip - sort of - beginning in Reno. Coach from Reno to Sacramento, Coast Starlight north to Seattle, then Empire Builder to Chicago and Lakeshore Limited to Rochester, NY. Thank goodness for the accessible rooms on all, although I could not do the upper bunks on Superliner - too warm (and never cooled down) and too confining; I guess I do have a little claustrophobia!? Due to temp, I put the mattress on the floor, and while firm, it was OK. Did the same going east from Seattle. I probably would have been OK in the upper berth on Lakeshore Ltd, but again, it was about 15 degrees warmer up there, even with fans going full blast. We managed to head-to-toe it on the wider lower berth. We did find that some of the track on EB - especially the eastern half, I would say, and most of the LSLtd to be VERY rough. We really got thrown around a bit moving through car and in bed. At one point, the side-to-side thrashing was so bad the trash can in the bathroom area flew open and spilled all over my feet/bed. I honestly don't know if I would have been able to hang on so as not to tumble out of the upper (with the harness in place) on LSLtd; even below I was thankful I hadn't stowed the ladder as I needed it to stay in place. We were quite surprised at this. We are not prima-donnas and expected some "turbulence" but were both very surprised, and other passengers made similar comments. We used several of your suggestions - of course, the outlet cube (that I'll use in Greece this fall!); I also brought a three-across outlet extender. The outlet in our EB room was very worn and the plug would not keep a connection, but I used the clear waterproof medical tape I brought (against recommendations!) to hold it in place and it worked for at least part of the trip. A 3-foot extension cord with a three-outlet head allowed us to expand the sink outlet (and lift cords away from the water. No ZAPS!) Overall, although the ride was rough for much of the way, the weather was really perfect so we always had great views. Station and train staff were all wonderful. Redcaps were always ready to assist in advance and really helped. On thing that surprised us was the lack of a "first class" lounge -or other place for sleeper car passengers to "hang" and stash carry-on luggage. The clerk there was the only rude person we ran into. As a result we couldn't sightsee in Seattle and other than a quick meal nearby, stayed in the station most of the time. All your tips were helpful, and while we may not do it again, I will keep watching and tracking the travel tips for other adventures. So many thanks!!! Come visit the Finger Lakes of New York State - just south of Rochester!!😎
Starting from Canada I would love to go on Amtrak from Maine or Boston to Miami stopping at main religious sites , Washington DC , Bible Museum, Charlotte, Billy Graham museum, ark encounter in Kentucky., over to Florida to Orlando then taking brightline to West palm beach then from there to Tampa. 👍🏻
Superliner roomette is limited to the size of luggage space. If you want to keep your luggage with you, there is area under the 2 seats 22” x 26” x 9” each. Also 2 wall hangers for small backpacks or duffel bags. Storage for larger luggage available in lower level of Superliner or baggage car.
Fantastic video, can't wait to make this trip!!
Have fun!
Great video! Love you guys!
You might be able to see Mt. Hood, also.😊
Thanks for the great information. I’m determined to do this trip!
Have fun!
Similar to trip I have planned for the unlikely time when I can afford it. My plan is empire builder to coast starlight to sunset limited to crescent , in order to include new orleans
It's a great trip. Would you take the Lake Shore Limited back to Chicago after?
@GroundedLifeTravel no, I'd take the crescent to atlanta.....I live in walton county. I've been dreaming about this trip and built the idea of it around the empire builder, the route I most want to do
Love your videos. Would you consider doing a rail pass video that would use 2 - 4 weeks to see the US?
It’s such a good price even at $499 and using great city stops instead of using a sleeper on Amtrak.
Great idea! We will work on it!
@@GroundedLifeTravel We second that idea. How would you do it?
That sounds interesting
A ferry to Bainbridge or Bremerton from Seattle is interesting too. Quite cheap to get a ride on the sound, water view of the city, and lunch. Bainbridge probably has better food options.
Thanks for the tip!
Agreed! Bainbridge Island is a great place to just walk around leisurely for a few hours. There is an art museum, cool little shops, some walking trails, and cute places to eat.
Amtrak just did the rail pass special a couple months ago
Love it, thank you!
You are so welcome!
this is great, i am planning a trip in October to do a big loop!
Have fun!
@@GroundedLifeTravel you guys were very helpful on my first ever train trip .
Yes Lou Malnatiis. I know I spelled that wrong. But we ate there and my kids scarfed it down quicker than we could.
It was great!
Can you do a video on tips for renting cars when travelling by Amtrak? When you fly, rental cars are available at most airports, but not at train stations. For example, if you were to take the Vermonter to Burlington, VT (Essex Junction) from NYC, Enterprise is the only feasible option (since they pick you up) but they close early...before the train gets there. If you are just doing in-town sightseeing in major cities (like Chicago or SF) you don't need a car, but in other destinations, the minute you get off the train, you are so limited in where you can go (like, Glacier National Park?!) So it would be great if you could share your experiences and insights on this topic! (P.S. I'm so glad I found your channel. Great stuff. Subscribed!)
Please make a video on crossing american/canadian border by train, the whole experience
I am going to have to look up disabled traveling . My daughter in law and i want to do train travel soon .
I suggest you phone the representatives at Amtrak (especially if you are a guest rewards member because the 'on hold' time is less) and ask them for assistance--they are very helpful. Focus on your abilities and find things that will help you strengthen them. If you have mobility issues decide if it's better to get a roomette or bedroom on upper level with the restaurant and sightseer lounge and steps only twice or to get the assessable bedroom on the 1st level with a toilet and a bigger room. Steps are narrow to the second level. We've been putting off travel in the hope that issues will improve. We finally decided that getting back out there was the answer. We address issues as best we can and take any available assistance to make things as good as they can be. We have a couple bucket list Amtrak trips coming up between now and the end of this year...so excited.
got my trip booked from NYC-CHI-SFC on the lake shore limited and california zephyr at the end of oct. really looking forward to seeing CHI and SFC, having not been there before. PS any tips for riding the public transport in SFC coz by golly is it complicated for foreigners.
We haven't done much there, but I will say it is very hilly, so you'll want to use it.
Love your videos. You really make me want to get on a train. I can't find any videos that can help me plan a trip to Niagara Falls. What would it be like to go from NYP station to Niagara Falls alone what is there to do is it expensive? Thank you.
Thankyou, awesome video guys, I'm planning to do the exact plan. I do have one Q, whats the sleeping like when you have screeching brakes and horns blarring. Cheers.
Thanks, we find that you get used to it. Allie uses headphones though so she really doesn't hear it.
What fun!
Very informative. Thank you for this information. I want to know- if a woman is traveling alone, what steps does the company take to ensure their safety?
Hopefully the power outlets on the train work. Was on Texas eagle/ limited couple weeks ago, no power outlets worked in lounge car and phone almost died when I got off, almost couldn’t call a Uber!! Bring a portable charger to incase outlets don’t work
What is the best time of year to do this loop…for a couple who are retired? Thank you. Really enjoy watching your videos!
I would say when fall colors are hitting in Colorado would be my choice
I absolutely love your videos! I’m ready to do this. My husband is a big guy. Will he be comfortable in a room?
The bedroom is fairly spacious, but the roomettes are tighter than most think.
Does Amtrak have discounts for senior citizens?
Yes they do. I just booked my parents for that discount…but you can save more if you apply for the Amtrak Mastercard and use their discount benefits and coupons.
Did a similar trip last year but from LA. The travel Power adapter worked great except in my roomette on the Zephyr. It would stayed plugged in. Would like to recommend also having an adapter / extension cord with three prongs as that was the only thing that would stay plugged in. Great trip and advice from you both as always.
Great video thank you for breaking it down - so user friendly. Question can you get off the train let's say in Denver for a few days ?
Yes you can! But you need a new ticket to get back on.
Happy Father's Day Rob. Nice information. I have a question. If there's 2 people in a car crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, can the passenger get a good video or picture or would it be better to pull to the side near the bridge for a good picture?
Can a single book a roommette and is there a surcharge?
Yes, I did and no surcharge.
@@ArmadilloGrl Thanks for your response 👍
Seattleite here: It’s PIKE Place Market, not “Pike’s”. 😊
Great video!! Thanks for the tips. One question - would it be practically feasible to break up the Empire Builder ride in two segments, or do you have to ride the whole route (CHI-SEA) as one thru-trip? We'd love to get off at Glacier Nat'l Park and spend a couple of days to explore on our own, but we are afraid of getting stranded in Montana, even if we reserved a roomette/sleeper in advance...even assuming Amtrak lets you book them in partial segments. (We see that Amtrak offers a "Glacier National Park Getaway" tour package but it's expensive!)
The tour you are looking at is Amtrak Vacations, and not Amtrak. That is a more expensive tour operator. You can book 2 separate segments on Amtrak and rent your own car and it'll be much cheaper.
@@GroundedLifeTravel Thank you so much!!!
Can you do something like this for the East Coast
Yes, planning on it!
Yeah, first viewer!!!
So a complete round trip from the Northeast might be about 24 days?
I am in Massachusetts.
With some stops in major cities that sounds about right.
I have always wanted to do a cross country trip via Amtrak. I live on east coast (PA) so are there itineraries starting from Philadelphia perhaps? Plus, I am vegan, are there food options for me on the train?
By booking with an Amtrak agent, for Roomette, are you more likely to get the side of the train that you want? To me that would be a benefit to using the Amtrak agent. I can do my homework and know the schedules and trains but I haven't been able to get a specific side of the Roomette train by booking myself on the app. Thanks for the great videos.
You can't guarantee it through an agent either, but you can specify top or bottom level on a Superliner
@@GroundedLifeTravel okay, thanks, good to know
great video....but my question is do you travel by train for the effect or to fill it in for destinations....luv you...
Thanks! We just like it more than flying and we have the time.
Have you ever stopped at Glacier and toured the national park?
We haven't, it's high on the list
@@GroundedLifeTravel thank you for the reply. We love your videos. Our home station is Creston Iowa. We are considering a vacation to see Glacier in 2 years when I retire.
Can you upgrade when you are on the train if a room is open, and you decide to want one? And how many points do you earn, and do they expire?
Not understanding the math. Y'alls suggested budget for traveling full time is $4k a month. This one trip in something other than coach (which y'all rarely ever utilize) for just 12 days exceeds that. I suppose you're going to say you use points or something, but I just do not understand how anyone thinks the room options on Amtrak are "doable" or "affordable"....
The 4k is an average per month for the year. It's always over that in the USA and we'll under it when not in the USA. But yes, we mostly use points from the Amtrak card.
@@GroundedLifeTravel Ahhh, didn't realize the number was overseas travel only. Thanks for the clarification!
Could've missed it but... would it be possible to put a printable version of the itineraries on the website?
We are working on it, now that we are off the cruise ships and have some time to write.
Can you use a sleeper car for one person. I’m recently widowed and would love to travel while I can.
Yes. It's perfect for solo travel.
How many inches wide are the aisles?
When you go to Emeryville, does it go there and not Martinez?
Yes, it ends at Emeryville.
Are those rewards programs of any use to someone coming in from overseas to do this loop tour? I assume you have a guide on tipping/gratuities as where I live it's not common and not required at all? You started and ended in Chicago but for me I think I would start and end in Vancouver(Canada) as I know Amtrak goes up there and then start/finish this in Seattle(well back to Vancouver to fly home)
Just know that God loves you. Please seek him and pray. Please let him in and enjoy the Sabbath day rest.
What hotel do you recommend staying at near Pier 91 for Carnival cruises?
A friend and I want to do this next year. I am a Marriott member with points that could be used for hotels. How would we find the closest to the train station?
For that we just look in Google maps
I found hotels within a 3-8 minute drive in Seattle, Emeryville and Chicago.
Is it possible to get a bedroom when using ail pass?
I’m no good with directions so when you recommend rooms on north side or east side etc I have no idea. Would be more helpful if you would just say get a roomette on the right side or left side (in the direction of travel). Also what can I do with a couple $350 vouchers that I won’t be able to use? Are they transferable?
Sadly, we no longer have any desire to go to any of these big cities. Definitely want to do a long train trip one day.
I am retired and living on social security at a little over 2 grand a month what would be the best and cheapest way for me to take this route as a solo traveler ?
Coach
Any recommendations as to what airport is best when flying into Chicago? (ORD vs. MDW)
They are both outside the city, so we just pick whichever is cheaper.
@@GroundedLifeTravel, appreciate the response. Thank you!
LOL I never realized ya'll were Atliens...
Yes we are!
It sounds like bad scheduling for baseball and or football guys. Especially for baseball as they will usually have three or four days in the series. But trust me, it will happen.
WhoHoo