Amtrak EMPIRE BUILDER Sleeper Train (Seattle to Chicago)

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 13 มิ.ย. 2024
  • Watch this video in order to experience the Amtrak Empire Builder train as it crosses some of the most dramatic land in the United States, passing through Washington State, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois
    Thanks to a delay, we saw more than most passengers would expect, including some of the most stunning scenery we’ve ever encountered in Northern Idaho.
    The entire Amtrak Empire Builder route is scheduled to take 46 hours, but our trip ended up taking a lot longer. We were supposed to leave Seattle at 4:55 in the afternoon, but didn’t get going until nearly 8:00 at night.
    The Amtrak Empire Builder is certainly one of Amtrak’s most iconic routes, passing through the very heart of Glacier National Park. My first experience onboard an Amtrak overnight sleeper train was this route, but Westbound back in 2020. It felt incredible to be back onboard!
    In this video, you’ll see the unmatched scenery and spectacular sights along the route, get a tour of Amtrak’s Bedroom, learn the history of this route, and we’ll even answer some of the most frequently asked questions we get asked about Amtrak Train Travel.
    We’ll also showcase Amtrak’s Traditional Dining, which has (finally) returned to their long-haul western routes like the Empire Builder!
    The Amtrak Empire Builder route traces its heritage back to 1929 when it was the flagship route of the vaunted “Great Northern Railway.” In the early part of the 20th century, railroad companies were the airlines of their time. Perhaps none were as storied as the Great Northern Railway.
    The Amtrak Empire Builder is the latest incarnation of a route The Great Northern Railway operated. This is the northernmost transcontinental railway in the country and was also the only privately funded transcontinental railroad in the nation’s history. Unlike every other one, it was built without any federal funding.
    Today, Amtrak is the only passenger operator the Empire Builder route and, as with nearly all of Amtrak’s operations, we competed with freight traffic, which always takes priority because the freight lines own the track on this route. Amtrak is just borrowing it for the Empire Builder, which means delays are very possible. But, it turns out, our delay was the best thing that could have happened on this journey…
    Watch this video to see one of the most luxurious experiences available on the rails in the United States: Amtrak’s Empire Builder in an Amtrak Bedroom!
    0:00 Introduction
    2:04 Boarding the Amtrak Empire Builder
    3:28 Wake Up Day Two
    7:14 Getting Ready on Amtrak
    11:44 Amtrak Bedroom Tour
    16:28 Amtrak Dinner
    19:37 Amtrak FAQ's
    28:44 Bloopers
    Check out Miles in Transit here:
    / @milesintransit
    And here’s a link to Simply Railway:
    / @simplyrailway
    For more trip reports, please subscribe to my channel!
    www.JebBrooksFlies.com
    Here are my other Train Videos:
    Jeb.Flights/Trains
    Check me out on Instagram:
    / jebbrooksflies
    Check me out on Twitter, too:
    / jebbrooks
    And don't forget to take a look at my travel blog:
    greenergrass.com/
    MUSIC:
    I Will Be Gone (Instrumental Version) - Vicki Vox
    First Glimpse of You - Victor Lundberg
    A Sweet Dream - Victor Lundberg
    A Dance in the Sun - Erik Fernholm
    The Sun Will Shine (Instrumental Version) - The Eastern Plain
    Free Mind - Wildflowers
    Summer Love (Instrumental Version) - Kylie Dailey
    Calming Rain - Candelion
    Swaying - Candelion
    I Wish (Instrumental Version) - Mindme
    If I Wrote You a Song (Instrumental Version) - Melanie Bell
    Songs for a Mockingbird (Instrumental Version) - Gabriel Kelley
    This Poor Love Song (Instrumental Version) - Sture Zetterberg
    On and On (Instrumental Version) - Lars Eriksson

ความคิดเห็น • 1.3K

  • @MilesinTransit
    @MilesinTransit ปีที่แล้ว +307

    Whoa, thank you so much for the shoutout, I really appreciate it!!!! It's fitting that I'm typing this from on board the Amtrak Palmetto 😂

    • @GreenerGrass
      @GreenerGrass  ปีที่แล้ว +63

      You bet! Loving your channel! Have a great trip!!

    • @djohn118
      @djohn118 ปีที่แล้ว +44

      Please do a trip together. Chaos meets control. One way go the Miles path, come back the Jeb way.

    • @nyc90
      @nyc90 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      @@djohn118 I would literally pay to watch this

    • @NJTrain
      @NJTrain ปีที่แล้ว +8

      My favorite guys to watch ride the trains!

    • @eddog6666
      @eddog6666 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      When I went on a road trip with my dad to glacier National park we were a little surprised to see the Amtrak right above the entrance to the park.

  • @netjetman360
    @netjetman360 ปีที่แล้ว +351

    My grandpa is buried just north of Sand Point, so it was nice you guys mentioned it and showed just a tiny clip of it. I miss him

    • @RnW9384
      @RnW9384 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      💟

    • @Interesting_Banana
      @Interesting_Banana ปีที่แล้ว +13

      @@Cheesemo Yikes that was insensitive, unnecessary, and unfunny.

    • @Cheesemo
      @Cheesemo ปีที่แล้ว

      @Interesting_Banana ur lame as heck it's true. Bird breath

    • @greenvillegodzilla
      @greenvillegodzilla ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Cheesemowym he didnt say how he passes

    • @buttfucker911
      @buttfucker911 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@Cheesemo have you ever been with an older guy?

  • @csbrooks
    @csbrooks ปีที่แล้ว +129

    Jeb's humble and positive attitude is why I keep coming back, and Suzanne is also a top notch travel buddy. All the best, cheers guys.

  • @susanclubb7175
    @susanclubb7175 6 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    Just ending a wonderful Empire Builder trip from Seattle to Chicago. I was all set for everything that happened because I watched your video several times. My husband kept saying, “How do you know that?!”😊
    We left 3-4 hours late so I told him that it was OK because we would see Idaho in daylight.
    I knew there wasn’t food at the station in Seattle … and I knew it was going to gorgeous.
    I told him what to order on the train.
    We brought a power strip and duct tape
    I pointed things out along the way.
    He thinks I have super powers
    Thanks so much!
    Best wishes to you and Suzanne - hope you have as happy a life as we’ve had.

    • @GreenerGrass
      @GreenerGrass  6 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      Suzanne and I are so stoked to know you found our tips useful. Also, secret’s safe with us. We won’t tell him where you learned your secrets!

  • @cherishb6227
    @cherishb6227 ปีที่แล้ว +30

    My father worked for Amtrak. I used to travel from Spokane to Chicago on the Empire Builder every summer. Great memories!

    • @tayh3168
      @tayh3168 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Can I bring my foldable electric scooter onto the train from Seattle ? Its 67 lbs but I also have one that is 44 lbs.

  • @KwakuAddoDanquah
    @KwakuAddoDanquah ปีที่แล้ว +16

    One day, I would love to travel across the United States on an Amtrak... You make me fall in love with trains every time I watch.

  • @stephenartner
    @stephenartner ปีที่แล้ว +167

    I can't BELIEVE Amtrak schedules trains to pass through that incredible Idaho scenery at night!

    • @davidm4689
      @davidm4689 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      Absolutely agree. Some really stupid people failing the tourists on train.

    • @David-dx5wz
      @David-dx5wz ปีที่แล้ว +35

      They only have 12-16 hours of daylight to work with and 40+ hours of riding to do. There has to be almost half of the ride at night lol.

    • @thetrainhopper8992
      @thetrainhopper8992 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      The Great Northern ran a secondary train called The Western Star through their during the day all the way to Chicago. Most routes had 2-7 runs per day at one point. Amtrak axed a bunch of them when they were created, including the Western Star.

    • @marcykaren
      @marcykaren ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@David-dx5wz This happens when you only have one train per day.

    • @briguy070
      @briguy070 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      the train to Cincinnati arrives at 3:30 am, it's the only train that comes there. no trains leave during the day. Expand Amtrak!

  • @alanjay35
    @alanjay35 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    As a huge fan and also an Amtrak Employee aboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder. Thank you for this awesome video of the train I work on!!!! Hope you had a wonderful experience!!!!!

  • @lindawheeler3242
    @lindawheeler3242 ปีที่แล้ว +41

    I am a mobility impaired senior citizen and traveled the City of New Orleans by myself in an accessible room. No problems. Staff was attentive and very helpful.....if you want to take a trip, do it.....very well worth it.....

    • @robpittstop1797
      @robpittstop1797 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Yes I agree, my ex took a trip to I think ark. to see her ex. a month later she came back to cleveland. (Shes gone now - in Iowa since 2011) She was on wheelchair.

    • @Bigfoot-px9gj
      @Bigfoot-px9gj 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Did you leave the traditional KFC bucket of Chicken Bones in the aisle? I sure did. :)

    • @chrisdobrowolski2783
      @chrisdobrowolski2783 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Sorry for your loss!!

  • @Shadowlegend25
    @Shadowlegend25 ปีที่แล้ว +100

    I really enjoy how you both travel together and show what it means to find joy in the smallest moments. I am looking forward to making this trip with my wife one day!

    • @williamhunt2647
      @williamhunt2647 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Yikes. He already has LOADS of money. Ask for a refund!

    • @tryphineshumba1181
      @tryphineshumba1181 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      I know right....I love this channel, and I too look forward to doing this with my husband one day.

    • @GreenerGrass
      @GreenerGrass  ปีที่แล้ว +28

      Wow! Thank you so much Kevin!!

    • @DMAJOR2K
      @DMAJOR2K ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I live in Greensboro 🎉

    • @LuisUrbieta
      @LuisUrbieta ปีที่แล้ว +2

      ​@@GreenerGrass What if Amtrak had a 100% perfect schedule?

  • @1firstchef
    @1firstchef 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    My wife and I took the same trip many years ago. We had a blast. One lesson I learned was pack light, less is more.

  • @daniellemarie1299
    @daniellemarie1299 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +17

    I've taken the Amtrak from NY to FL and back again many times, and love it. I always have a sleeper unit. It helps to think of it as a "glamping" experience. Bring food, a small blanket, a book,, maybe a tablet or some device, and be flexible-minded about your schedule.

    • @rexremedy1733
      @rexremedy1733 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Also water, boots, jacket, tent, cooking stove, food, disinfectant, water filtration, and anything else required for a heavy duty exploratory assignment. :-)

  • @fantuabadir8151
    @fantuabadir8151 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I am sure the life lesson you mentioned is that you should always look for silver linings in every situation.
    Wow! That was some incredible landscape. Thank you for sharing it with us.
    Peace to all

  • @catylynch7909
    @catylynch7909 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Good call ... taking some wine on board! I love to sit in my roomette, and sip wine. They do the driving, and I relax and enjoy seeing the country go by.

    • @codytylek7836
      @codytylek7836 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I take the Northeaster all the time. You can bring your own booze on board even in coach.

  • @sarahhearn-vonfoerster7401
    @sarahhearn-vonfoerster7401 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I grew up on trains...any situation is acceptable. It is really a mindset. As an adult, I gave up flying, except for emergencies, and settled back to always give myself time and enjoy the journey, meeting new people from all over the world, and getting work done as our great country rolls by in all it differences and greatness. No other way to achieve this !

  • @suelandis4511
    @suelandis4511 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I loved this route. I did it from Portland in 2021. I didn’t want to fly during the pandemic and I was going to meet my new granddaughter and a bedroom was the perfect way to minimize contact. I ate in my room and only left my room to stretch my legs during longer stops.

  • @csunil9963
    @csunil9963 ปีที่แล้ว +32

    That delayed departure actually turned out to be a "Blessing in Diguise" for you guys as you got to witness some awesome scenery (to say the least.) in Idaho and elsewhere ...

  • @nuckyduk15
    @nuckyduk15 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I used to ride the Empire Builder from Wisconsin Dells to St. Paul monthly when I went to school in Minneapolis. The views of SW Wisconsin and the Mississippi River throughout Minnesota are pretty remarkable.

  • @dsop
    @dsop 2 วันที่ผ่านมา

    The fresh flowers on Amtrak is a very nice touch.
    And seeing a bald eagle on Amtrak....if you were eating an apple pie that would be the most American thing ever.

  • @JuanJimenez-od1ho
    @JuanJimenez-od1ho ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Montana in the winter is not matched in it’s beauty. Did Yellowstone tour two February ago, and it was a life changing event. The beauty is only magnified by the amazing snow cover.

  • @maxandmyamom
    @maxandmyamom ปีที่แล้ว +16

    As a former Minnesotan, I enjoyed those views!

    • @robrmartin9369
      @robrmartin9369 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi Cat, I'm North St. Paul....living in Washington State now. Moving home next year!

  • @mcain2911
    @mcain2911 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I love how you can take multiple inconveniences that would piss anyone else off and make the best of it.

    • @firstlast1282
      @firstlast1282 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Yup, they turn the not so positive, into positive. They really just enjoy the trip as a whole. Great content and great people.

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Frankly when you consider how old the Superliner cars are, nearly 50 years, Amtrak has done a good job just keeping them running. It isn't easy keeping equipment 50 years old running. Not a refrigerator, HVAC, or the hot water tank... Railroads are linear, not point to point like airlines, so every mechanical issue of any train on that route will cause delays on the entire route. Those freight train cars may be even older than Amtrak Superlliner or Viewliner cars. European trains outside of Russia have considerably shorter routes of a 300 hundred miles, 450 kilometers at most, whereas Amtrak and Via have transcontinental routes from coast to coast of around 4 thousand miles, 6 thousand kilometers... When your route is ten times longer, well, there are more chances of things going wrong, ten times more...

    • @sturmovik1274
      @sturmovik1274 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      You don't take Amtrak to get there, you take Amtrak for the experience of getting there. I remember one trip I took years ago, Denver to Iowa on the California Zephyr. They'd had a fire in the dining car kitchen somewhere in Nevada that had contaminated all their pre-loaded ingredients and destroyed their freezers. So, they called ahead to every place the train stopped and, at every station, there was a truck from the local supermarket to load whatever they had been able to throw on the truck at short notice. Sure, the chefs had to improvise, but they adapted and kept everyone fed.

  • @salmanalibhai9148
    @salmanalibhai9148 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Hey man, love the videos and you are very lucky that you have a wife who can support you when u do the videos, it's just amazing to see that. Love from Canada

  • @Navyuncle
    @Navyuncle 7 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

    My granddaughter was two or three at the time, she really loved her Amtrak ride. She loved the fact that she wasn't confined to a car seat. She was able to walk from parent to grandparents while the train was moving. We did a short 100 mile day trip from Alton, IL to Springfield, IL .I was impressed how quickly we got to our destination. Our tiny granddaughter slept all the way home.

  • @okeesmokee6658
    @okeesmokee6658 ปีที่แล้ว +53

    Born and raised in Idaho. Sandpoint is a very nice town/area. Couer D' Alene is spectacular - northern Idaho has some fantastic scenery. Thanks for taking us along.

    • @braun3659
      @braun3659 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Sandpoint and CDA are beautiful. Great places to explore

    • @wingflex5367
      @wingflex5367 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I was born and raised in Boise/Nampa :)

    • @Hoovie9596
      @Hoovie9596 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      We go every summer from Calgary. 5 hour drive

    • @DaveChamberlain-DTSinIdaho
      @DaveChamberlain-DTSinIdaho 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Shush!!!

    • @okeesmokee6658
      @okeesmokee6658 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@DaveChamberlain-DTSinIdaho Yeah - good point 😁.

  • @bryanmathison1754
    @bryanmathison1754 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    My grandfather was a conductor on the Burlington Northern based in LaCrosse WI. Your LaCrosse & Wisconsin Dells shots brought back good memories. 💚

  • @danielmoose1273
    @danielmoose1273 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    "She didn't say 'Uno'" LOL(!!) 🙂 ... As always, Thank You Both for the informative and entertaining videos. Traveling always presents unexpected setbacks, and your thoughtful videos with thorough evaluations prevent countless unsavory surprises for vacationers. Very Well Done(!!) 🙂 ...

  • @eddalexander9005
    @eddalexander9005 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    My first train trip included the Great Northern Empire Builder from Williston, ND, to St. Paul. This was in 1966 and the train was completely full. I was traveling in "steerage" and had to sit on a stool in the restroom for part of the trip. Still, it was an exciting adventure!

  • @teazerfemi
    @teazerfemi ปีที่แล้ว +3

    From the comfort of my room here in Nigeria, I sincerely enjoy your voyages I often daydream of being tagged along with you fantastic couple, America is such a great country with lovely scenery

  • @matthines4748
    @matthines4748 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I’ve been on The Empire Builder about ten times. It’s why I love trains.

  • @MatthewSmith-cv7op
    @MatthewSmith-cv7op 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Seeing this video inspired me to take the Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle in September!!!

  • @raykrv6a
    @raykrv6a ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Interesting video. My grandfather on my dad's side was an engineer for Great Northern. I grew up in St. Paul where my dad's family lives and worked downtown St. Paul for years. Used to walk a couple of blocks down to the river during lunch when the weather was nice and watch the trains and barges on the river. Funny you mentioned Cutbank. I met a guy in school and he was from outside of Cutbank where his family had a 17,000 acre farm. Blew my mind. He only came to the university during the winter as he was busy on the farm the rest of the time.

  • @carolyncornelius1492
    @carolyncornelius1492 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    Suzanne And Jeb Brooks, I absolutely always look forward to your truly exciting and humorous travel videos. .. You both always make me smile and I do enjoy the wonderful descriptions of the lovely scenery as the train rolls on!! . ... I shall always enjoy travelling on Amtrak no matter how late it always is (fact)!! .. Thank you again for this lovely journey across our amazing country!! .. God Bless You, CC 🥰

  • @sweetpea8091
    @sweetpea8091 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    The Amtrak trip was both beautiful, and very interesting. Thank you Jeb and Suzanne.

  • @user-ch1ld9ou2d
    @user-ch1ld9ou2d 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Please God look down upon this Empire Builder track and bless all of their adventures. This Amtrak line has been the key to my survival more than once. Each and every time they were always loving and supportive. I do miss them, and hopefully one day I will be able to ride again. Thank you Jeb, you and your wife are dictating/conveying far more dreams than you know. One day very soon I hope to cross paths with you all and tell you how much you truly have helped me during this down time. To Infinity and Beyond!!! I also must add that the lack of services at the King Street Station adds to the calmness and peacefulness that we all used to have whilst travelling. Suzanne, you are riding for me, and I thank you so much. I pray that all of your adventures are fondly looked down upon from above. We all love you, and we are are grateful for your work.

  • @rickibelden986
    @rickibelden986 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    As a child I took the amtrak train from spokane to Seattle, Seattle to Portland and Portland back to spokane.
    It was unforgettable for sure and has left me with a want to travel by train again.
    The trip from spokane to Chicago would be awesome for sure.
    Maybe someday I will get the chance to travel by train again. ❤

  • @nickpapagiorgio5056
    @nickpapagiorgio5056 ปีที่แล้ว +57

    Delays usually stink but sometimes they also remind us it’s time to slow down and enjoy are surroundings and this video seemed to be perfect example of that notion. Thank you so much for sharing Jeb the views were absolutely majestic! I also have to add that those new Siemens locomotives are gorgeous!

    • @lyndastarwriter8507
      @lyndastarwriter8507 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yes...whether you're on your bicycle, in a taxi, a bus, an aircraft, a train, a car, delays happen - and most of the delays aren't related to something disastrous. A true blessing to have so many modes of transportation - if one or all doesn't work, most people and service providers are resourceful.

    • @justmeandthethree
      @justmeandthethree ปีที่แล้ว

      What if you really wanted to use the bathroom in a certain city and the train was late? You'd have to hold it maybe a long time, and that is not very romantic.

    • @badguy5554
      @badguy5554 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I've NEVER complained about a schedule slip...especially when I'm on board. Rail trips are like land cruises. The longer the better!

  • @thomaskessler2596
    @thomaskessler2596 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    Jeff, my oldest brother and me are taking the C.Z. the 2nd week of May. Thank You for sharing all these Amtrax videos. I love my several trip to Seattle areas. Beautiful country there. America is so Great! God Bless.

  • @jimbernard71
    @jimbernard71 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Hello from Hendo NC- Love your content!!! Will be taking 1st Amtrak trip in over 20 years again. Your an inspiration to venture throughout America with Amtrak at the wheel...

  • @wesleyhunter2834
    @wesleyhunter2834 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I took this same trip over 20 years ago during the winter months, and it was magical outside. Going through Glacier National Park was like being in a snow globe. Enjoy.

  • @gkhutch
    @gkhutch ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I did the same trip last summer. Summer was beautiful too. The mountains still snow on the mountain peaks. One thing I found that was very interesting was, many of the small towns in the plains all had gambling houses.

  • @lindawatkin8577
    @lindawatkin8577 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Another nice trip with the Brooks couple.

  • @badguy5554
    @badguy5554 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I've taken the Empire Builder many times...and will again take it next month. As you point out, UNFORTUNATELY, the timing of the train's schedule places it in some of the most beautiful parts of the country...AT NIGHT. I PRAY for a schedule slip for my coming trip!

  • @brianglass-ex9gi
    @brianglass-ex9gi ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Great video. You two need to more of the back and forth commentary. Suzanne is a wonderful addition to the videos and has real charisma and charm.

  • @drewrydell27
    @drewrydell27 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I miss my solo trip to Chicago last summer from St. Cloud, MN. It was the most peaceful and life just slowed down. Only thing I wish I would’ve done is explore the train more like dining car and bedrooms. Brings back amazing memories

  • @theathjr
    @theathjr ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love your channel. Who’d have thought Amtrak would have a great steak. It looked amazing

  • @s.macintosh-jc9rf
    @s.macintosh-jc9rf 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Hi Jeb,
    Thank you for your reply to me recently. I really appreciate your humble attitude and your ability to connect with the camera. Suzanne is a pure delight with her indescribably and wonderful attitude about travel!
    Thank you again for the pleasure that you two have given me and many others.
    Have a great evening, and Merry Christmas to you and Suzanne,
    Peter

  • @mdotto9
    @mdotto9 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    If you loved what you saw in Minnesota, you should definitely adventure along the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers and head up to the North Shore. Absolutely incredible scenery! We have a beautiful state if you don't mind the weather. 🙂

  • @christopherhuggins3212
    @christopherhuggins3212 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I have taken my first ride with my children on Amtrak today and even though we only went to 1 town over it was an amazing experience seeing things with a different perspective than my normal commute to work

  • @GNoteSmith
    @GNoteSmith 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    More great information and photography especially the "Get ready with me". Amtrak addition. LOL. My wife liked that one. She wasn't sure how her "mornings" would proceed. Thank you guys. Great video as usually. 👍

    • @GreenerGrass
      @GreenerGrass  4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      🤣glad she enjoyed that segment!

  • @stetsonmcelhaney2312
    @stetsonmcelhaney2312 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Jeb I grew up in North Idaho in Clark Fork, 20 miles east of Sandpoint on the Montana boarder. It was so wonderful to see we’re I grew up for 18 years. Made me cry, such a beautiful area!

  • @XOkie
    @XOkie ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Incredible travel journal. I did the Empire Builder last year (Sept 2022) in roomette and will be doing it again in April on a 6000 mile Amtrak journey! I really appreciate your enthusiasm for Amtrak and train travel. Thanks!

  • @Kimbuucha
    @Kimbuucha 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I took this route once many years ago and we were delayed by about 7 hours and let me tell you, it was worth it. Montana looks like something out of a story book in the winter. Such a beautiful state and not having cell phone reception makes it so you get up and talk to others. Would happily do it again. Thanks for sharing

  • @gregadams6827
    @gregadams6827 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great Video!!!! Interesting seeing the Mississippi up north, unlike my hometown of Memphis and my second home town of New Orleans. Try the City of New Orleans, very festive crowd on that train. To Chicago to Minot. Wisconsin was just beautiful on the Empire Builder. Again just a great video. Greg Adams, Springfield, Louisiana and 31 year retired Federal Express (Fedex Express) employee.

  • @pamelaklemp5615
    @pamelaklemp5615 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    So very great to see the Empire Builder again! What a treat, our son regularly traveled from our home in Minneapolis to Chicago on it and also on the Zephyr. He loved it them both. Bummer about the Observation Deck car on the Empire Builder being absent for repairs on your trip. He used to take a deck of Tarot Cards and do "Readings " for a fun pastime for anyone who wanted one, free of course. As a college student he meet many other travelers doing that and laughed saying it was a "babe magnet " to meet beautiful college girls from different schools traveling to and from. 😄😁😅😍😂.

  • @granthaynes2213
    @granthaynes2213 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Saint Paul Union Depot is beautiful, 10/10 do recommend visiting it.

    • @tomfields3682
      @tomfields3682 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Built by the guy after whom this train was named, James J Hill, the empire builder himself!

  • @balesjo
    @balesjo 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    The Empire Builder is the Amtrak route I'd love to travel. A trip in the winter would be spectacular, but I imagine any season would be an adventure. I'd also love to do some of the Canadian trans-Canada routes as well.

  • @cthulhuismychild
    @cthulhuismychild ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I've taken the Empire Builder 4 times. 2 times from Milwaukee to Seattle. And last 2 times, Hiawatha to Chicago to ride it the entire route. Just such a peaceful, relaxing way to travel. Yes old cars, but the pace and scenery make it so worth it. I always travel alone hoping someday to travel bring someone with me to share the trip. Thank you for all your Amtrak videos. Makes a long day at the office so much better

  • @kennethwu115
    @kennethwu115 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Jen has a very soothing voice. Great for relaxing before a long trip.

  • @DC-id2ih
    @DC-id2ih ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Another great rail journey!! Thanks Jeb and Suzanne for sharing the trip! As someone who grew up in Canada - I love Winter landscapes (from the mountains to the plains)!! Don't get me wrong - Summer is great and all - but there is really something special about fresh/deep snow covering both the ground and the trees under a brilliant blue sky....and even though the late start was probably inconvenient for everyone - you really can't beat those views that would normally have been hidden in the dark (also loved the scenes you captured of wildlife near the tracks!).

  • @SD45-ET44AC
    @SD45-ET44AC ปีที่แล้ว +4

    The best thing about ALL my vacations, and that includes a 9 hour ride on a beat up old train that leaked exhaust into the carriage which replaced a 4 hour high speed train (in the U.K.) on a bank holiday, is having someone to share it with (28+ years). Great video, as always!! 👍🏼👍🏼

  • @ianscott3180
    @ianscott3180 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    We live in the UK and use trains regularly across Europe. The biggest thing for us is to see the counrty not from 35000 feet and no airports. I have always wanted to cross the USA by train and you have got us seriously thinking about it. Your trip to NC may be a clincher as my wife's brother lives in Hickory NC. I will start planning a visit, thanks guys.

  • @russellcronk1224
    @russellcronk1224 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I enjoy watching your videos. Over the last several years, I have gained a renewed enthusiasm for train travel. In June 2021 I went on a cross country vacation to coastal Washington and Oregon state. I started off on the Michigan Blue Water from Flint, Michigan to Chicago, and after a 2 hour layover, went on Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle. 5 days later I went back on Coast Starlight from Tacoma, Washington to Sacramento and then a 5 hour layover and went on California Zephyr from Sacramento to Chicago. And then returned home on the Michigan Blue Water. It was a vacation of a lifetime.

  • @heyaswinp
    @heyaswinp ปีที่แล้ว +14

    This is so beautiful! Hopefully Trains become more commonplace and efficient sometime soon.

  • @maynard_ross
    @maynard_ross ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I live in Spokane, thanks for saying our name right, by the way. The Empire Builder is one of the most scenic trips in the country. I really hope Amtrak will offer a day trip through the Cascades, now that would be a trip to enjoy.

  • @shanepalmer887
    @shanepalmer887 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Hi there, I’m from Sydney, NSW, Australia 🇦🇺
    My wife and I really enjoyed your rail adventure. Thank you for your efforts and sharing your trip. The scenery was beautiful….

  • @graceverssen5651
    @graceverssen5651 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Loved how relaxed you guys were, and the casual banter. It really added to the train content. Thanks for sharing. 🙏

  • @jonbradshaw3385
    @jonbradshaw3385 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    That is a trip I would love to take someday! I used to live in Williston, ND and would see the train coming into town often. I also picked up lots of friends from the train station.

  • @nightbird4747
    @nightbird4747 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Thanks for sharing your trip!
    Living in Minne-snow-ta during this time was no treat for me to see all that snow, we're into our 4 month of winter now. And we just got another 4.5" of snow over the last two days. I'm so ready for spring weather, temps in the 40's would be wonderful at this point!
    Taking my Grandson on a trip for graduation this summer, not sure of the direction yet....
    Hoping to see sunshine, green grass or an warm ocean view!
    "See you on the rails!"

    • @lizcademy4809
      @lizcademy4809 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I was amused when Jeb said a 39°F temperature in St. Paul was chilly ... for us locals, that's a warm day!
      Nice to see my office building through the train window.

    • @aldelvex233
      @aldelvex233 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I thought I was the only one from St. Paul watching this 🤔

    • @lizcademy4809
      @lizcademy4809 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@aldelvex233 You might be ... I'm in Minneapolis 😀

    • @nightbird4747
      @nightbird4747 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I'm down by Iowa border, getting more snow right now!

  • @quasarsavage
    @quasarsavage 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    that loco is pretty the paint scheme is wonderful.

  • @Leonardo-cq4zd
    @Leonardo-cq4zd 13 วันที่ผ่านมา

    You guys are so informative, and also so upbeat no matter what the situation. Thoroughly enjoy your videos!!

  • @seanromeo7916
    @seanromeo7916 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Jeb and Suzanne, your videos are beautiful. Your original Amtrak stuff was a huge part of the inspiration for my own cross country Amtrak trip last summer! What an amazing experience it was! Thank you so much for your work! (The videos also convinced my skeptical mother to go as well!)

  • @justinnielsen8756
    @justinnielsen8756 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Grew up right next to Elk River MN so seeing the water tower made my day!! Was happy to hear about the delay at the beginning of the video, because otherwise the train normally goes by pretty early in the morning.

    • @sturmovik1274
      @sturmovik1274 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Coon Rapids here. "Hey, I know that apartment complex! That's Fridley!"

    • @AndrewOsborne
      @AndrewOsborne ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I live in Saint Cloud AND I work for Amtrak as a conductor on the Builder! I see that water tower often driving through Elk River or passing through on the train!

    • @justinnielsen8756
      @justinnielsen8756 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @AndrewOsborne okay question for you!! You probably have no idea but I gotta ask. A handful of years ago I saw Amtrak westbound pull out of St. Cloud around midnight, pulling like 50 intermodel cars. Any idea what that might have been about? I managed to film it with my potato iPod at the time, its the first video on my TH-cam channel if you want to see it.

  • @noemi8346
    @noemi8346 29 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I like when you guys mention the fare, it's always a better way for us to plan.

  • @nick_kaamos
    @nick_kaamos 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I took a sleeper from Seattle to Minnesota during the fracking boom. It was pretty wild. One of the best experiences of my life

  • @newzealanddoesntexist7505
    @newzealanddoesntexist7505 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I’ve used the Empire Builder to get from one side of Wisconsin to the other (Milwaukee to La Crosse) to see family. Even in a Coach car it was comfortable for that 2-2.5 hour trip, no delays either which was lucky. Besides just being a great way to see the country, trains also provide reasonably priced travel to smaller towns that may otherwise not be serviced by planes or other systems of transportation. I saw a lot of college students like myself along with some Amish getting off at my stop, reminded me of that.

  • @seangenson721
    @seangenson721 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Loved the longer video on this trip...the scenery and your comments justified it very well. Thank you for all your videos!

  • @luismunguia7738
    @luismunguia7738 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Amtrak is awesome

  • @Zachinthus09
    @Zachinthus09 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    My wife and I did the Empire Builder in 2021 from Portland to Chicago. It was the best vacation we ever did! Next time, take it from Portland so you can see the Columbia River Gorge. That was up there with Glacier for views. And Portland Union Station has a Metro Lounge. Cheers!

  • @adamjacquez9495
    @adamjacquez9495 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Possibly the most amazing scenery from one of your travels yet! Thanks for sharing your adventures with us!

  • @lemonlemon7968
    @lemonlemon7968 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Amazing! I would love to see more longer videos like this, it's always nice to see you upload. Amtrak really looks nice.

  • @jhunjhunu1
    @jhunjhunu1 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Awesome Bedroom View of Snow Capped Mountains and Rivers

  • @ultraviolettas
    @ultraviolettas ปีที่แล้ว +27

    Ugh, I love all your Amtrak videos, but I especially loved this one so much!! Y’all’s excitement and enthusiasm had me smiling the whole way through. The terrain was gorgeous and I loved Suzanne’s impromptu professional beauty TH-camr get ready with me! So excited to see the rest of your Amtrak journey!! 🥲🥰

  • @jenniferkneller1228
    @jenniferkneller1228 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    If you love the Empire builder and it’s amazing views, I highly encourage you to ride “The Canadian”. A very similar trip but a little more elegant with vintage equipment. I’ve taken both trains and love the majestic Rockies and serene prairie views.

    • @robrmartin9369
      @robrmartin9369 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Bonjour Jennifer: My husband and I are planning that next year!

  • @priscillawakefield8439
    @priscillawakefield8439 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    It is soo fun to virtual travel with you both. Much work is put into these videos. Thank you both.

  • @grtoocool
    @grtoocool ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Been binge watching almost all your videos over the last few months Jeb. I just wanted to comment to say that I like how you and Suzanne are answering subscriber questions in your videos now. That's a pretty cool addition to the video!

    • @GreenerGrass
      @GreenerGrass  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Appreciate the feedback, glad you enjoyed it!

  • @nathansyoutubeaccount
    @nathansyoutubeaccount ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I rode this one last year with my wife, such a beautiful ride through glacier national park during our dinner!

  • @dianeschroeder3980
    @dianeschroeder3980 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Such beautiful scenery. Your videos make me smile. Thanks for doing this guys!❤️✈️

  • @maritasue5067
    @maritasue5067 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    In the FAQs section you mentioned “it’s not the most efficient”. Well, in one way it is. I read an article a couple of years ago that compared the amount of fuel per passenger per mile. Trains were the most fuel efficient way to travel.

  • @johndoyle3514
    @johndoyle3514 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I love your Amtrak/train journeys in addition to your air travel...THANK YOU!

  • @zquark1
    @zquark1 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Suzanne is a great travel partner...and a good sport for taking the top bunk! Plus she's as cute as a bunny (beautiful smile)!

  • @TheLewistownTrainspotter8102
    @TheLewistownTrainspotter8102 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    9:13 - 11:44 Gives me memories of driving trains in Microsoft Train Simulator through these mountains.

    • @grandtrunk5416
      @grandtrunk5416 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Open rails can return you to that 👍it's great and it's basically just upgraded msts
      Doppler is better and updated models, but you can still get the og trains

  • @DannyA3579
    @DannyA3579 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I absolutely love train travel. I love Amtrak. One day I WILL try one of the longer routes and maybe get a roomette / bedroom.

  • @katielouise3924
    @katielouise3924 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great video & such gorgeous scenery! I’d be overjoyed for that delay, too! 🎉

  • @hansTrauwitz
    @hansTrauwitz ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Miss, the look he gives you at 8:02, is from a man in love, don't let him go nice video!!

  • @mygillian
    @mygillian ปีที่แล้ว +5

    48 hours on the train is a really crazy amount of time! it's something that I would want to experience though if ever I'll visit the US. Thanks for sharing the experience Jeb!

  • @nathanjiang100
    @nathanjiang100 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I’m currently on Amtrak’s westbound Pennsylvanian right now. This video is seriously a life saver since our engine broke down in Harrisburg and we’ve been stuck here for 2 hours and counting. Not gonna lie I wish this was longer because I still have an hour to kill before they can send another engine up here from Philly.

    • @GreenerGrass
      @GreenerGrass  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      What good timing…hope you made it and thanks for watching!

    • @nathanjiang100
      @nathanjiang100 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@GreenerGrass still on the train over 4 hours late on a scheduled 9-hour train. fell a sleep for about 2 hours though

    • @stevendelavaux1426
      @stevendelavaux1426 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Amtrak is kind of in a state of purgatory right now with their engines. The P42s are way past their expiration date and are breaking down. Not to mention all the freight engines that are increasingly breaking down today. There have been significant teething issues with the ALC-42s. They are making software improvements and handling these as they come up. Hopefully, in a year or so these issues will be resolved and we will see far better reliability with the ALC-42s.

    • @nathanjiang100
      @nathanjiang100 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@stevendelavaux1426 funny enough, I was chatting about this very issue with the head conductor during this whole layover. she said that all the protect power in Harrisburg also broke down, so that's why they had to send a diesel all the way up from Philly. the ALC-42s have also had many issues so she was wondering why Amtrak spends so much money with stupid things like battery-electric cars for the Empire Corridor rather than putting focus on the boring but important issues of everyday operations

    • @gchampi2
      @gchampi2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@nathanjiang100 Public Relations. Adding "Shiny & New!" to a system looks better than fixing "old & familiar", especially if they can add a few buzzwords. Battery electric? That's "Environmentally friendly" (supposedly), and "forward looking". Diesel? Not so much...

  • @janncarden2873
    @janncarden2873 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Decades ago when I was 14, Amtrak had a route from Chicago west through Arizona with two overnights at the Grand Canyon (spectacular!) and on to and through Southern California, all the way up the West Coast with stops in LA and San Francisco and a day trip out to the islands off Washington State’s mainland and then back across passing Mt. St. Helen and on back toward Chicago. What an amazing journey. I will never forget it. I had always traveled by train from the time I was 3, and that trip at 14?..I was hooked! Trains for me! Always!

  • @trainmanj
    @trainmanj ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I am a railfan and quadriplegic and therefore use a wheelchair. It has been several years, but I have ridden on the Empire Builder, Coast Starlight, and California Zephyr using the accessible sleeper. It is spacious enough for my wheelchair and had great views even with smaller windows. The car attendant brings meals to your room after choosing what to eat. Getting in and out of the car is a little tight, but it does work well.

  • @gi169
    @gi169 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I really enjoy your Amtrek videos, thank you both for making awesome content 👍👍👍