Wish I would have came here prior to getting on this POS train. No food, no stops to get food, because the train is 6hrs late. Such shit.

Train on the way to chicago was canceled, had to transfer to bus. The train back was the most confusing thing to find, asked 5 employees for help, with all of them giving us different directions. Was frustrating. Eventually found the train but with much difficulty. Take peoria charter. Station was so so loud, ears hurt :( read more

I bought a first class ticket, which includes meals and drinks. The racially predjudiced staff decided to serve the entire car except me. Staff refused to serve me and were disrespectful. Car ride was rough, first class is the same as coach. But the racist staff is unacceptable. 1/10 experience, don't waste your money just so you can be discriminated against. Customer service refused to investigate or issue a refund. read more

Better to leave outta Chicago than NY any day of the fuckn week. NY Amtrak service to Chicago was unprofessional and lackluster, will not ever in my fuckn life travel with Amtrak NY to Chi ever again. read more

Amtrak runs three cross-country trains west from Chicago (and back); The Empire Builder runs to Seattle/Portland, the California Zephyr runs to San Francisco, and the Southwest Chief runs to Los Angeles. All take about 2 days one-way and depart every day, so on any route there are four trains running at any time - two in each direction. All trains have coach seats, 3-levels of sleeper car berths, a dining car, and an observation car with a convenience store in the lower level. The sleeper cars are much more expensive than coach, and for that you get three meals per day in the dining car and access to private bathroom/shower facilities. There is also a "car attendant" in the sleeper car areas, which is similar to a flight attendant when flying. The dining car meals are a bit pricey and these days run by contract vendors (think Aramark=stadium food). It's a pretty boring menu but at least you're sitting down and having someone wait on you, plus if there's not four in your party you'll be seated with someone else (which can be interesting - or not). You can bring on food/drinks on in any class. In coach you're not allowed to bring alcoholic beverages (they want to to purchase them from the store), but if you're discreet it's not a big deal. When you board they form you into groups on the platform based on where you're going. So everyone going to Denver for example gets on the same car (same with sleepers). Once on the train though it's open seating within the car usually so pick one away from the doors on both ends (noisy), and try to stay away from the stairway in the middle of the car (people going up and down constantly - bathrooms are that way). Once you're seated the conductor will tag those seats for you for the duration of the trip. Big luggage is loaded on the lower level by the doors, and smaller stuff can fit above the seat. There is really no security to go through prior to boarding. For the journey: these trains rarely run on time because tracks are shared with freight trains (which have the right-of-way) and weather. So if you're in a hurry find a different way to travel. Most of the patrons are either budget minded or seniors (again, the not in a hurry thing). On a recent cross-country trip with took three different trains and they're all a little different. In the summer time you'll find more kids, families, school groups, etc. In the winter it's mostly seniors (except around the holidays). We've only stayed In the sleeper cars for two, which is the smallest berth of the three. It's basically two coach seats facing each other, with a small fold up table between them, and storage areas on the side of each seat. The two seats flatten into one bed, and there's a fold-down bed at the top for person #2. The lower sleeping arrangement isn't too bad, but the top can be kind of claustrophobic and uncomfortable (the mattress is thin). Not much room to turn over either. If you can afford it go for the next step up for comfort. You can stay private in the sleeper car berth (except for meals) or wander around the train at any time. The observation car is pretty fun with floor to ceiling windows but fills up fast in the scenic areas. So would we do it again? I would, but I got to sleep in the bottom bunk. Having an adventurous spirit is helpful (and not in a hurry) to enjoy it. I find the feel and the sound of the train relaxing. We played a lot of cards, watched a movie or two (no wireless - wifi is only on commuter trains), had a few cocktails, met some interesting people. See my other review of the California Zephyr, the Empire Builder and the Coast Starlight for more specific info about those routes. Next up, the Southwest Chief! All aboard! read more

I've taken the Amtrak from STL - Chicago several times over the years. It is generally timely and a comfortable, more affordable way to travel. The employees are rushed and not always kind, and they keep the train freezing cold. read more

very disappointed in the staff attitudes towards travelers. They could have been much more understanding. When leaving Chicago to KC there were was no announcement that the observation car or snack car would not be available, so basically you were forced to purchase the $45 meal from the dining car. i have made this trip many times and have always had an enjoyable experience, but I see staff that obviously do not enjoy their jobs anymore and should retire all ready. read more

Re: AMTRAK, an online purchase on 5/13/21 An amazing (--) NEGATIVE EXPERIENCE: Facts: 1. I'm an Amtrak Rewards Member; 2. I'm a Senior (70+); 3. I'm Disabled. I tried an online Train, R/T from Union Station, Chicago to NYC, Penn Station. The trip is for mid-July. There were NO DISCOUNTS VISIBLE ON THEIR WEBSITE I Emailed Amtrak right away. They answered saying, "Just go to Main Page go to Drop-down Menu, and Click "Travelers." Do you think any of this actually was there? Take a guess----NO NO NO & NO!!! I then arranged a trip anyway w/o any Discounts. I got aFare each way for about $102, so $204; then I took + $19/ Trip Cancellation and Protection, so about $223 total. They asked for Visa Credit info. I filled out the form, including "NAME ON CARD"--Of course, after placing my First Name/Middle Initial/Last Name, it bounced saying "Not Valid Name on Card!"...Can U imagine this? I then called Amtrak Customer Service, at 800 Amtrak USA. I waited 15 minutes and got a Tel. Rep. where I explained all. She commented, "Just put Senior/Disabled on your fare for Reduction..." I said, "There was none given--just Go to Cart". She then hung up, not able to answer me and then I was given an after-call Survey! So she and Amtrak received the lowest #1/out of 5 Rating. More like a "0". I think the bottom line is, either Greyhound or Plane. And Airlines have their "Tricks as Well" to make things as difficult as possible. Perhaps I should drive!!! Good luck to ALL. read more

So tacky. We've been riding first class for years. I've been on 4 cross country trips in the last 14 months. Today is the third time in a few days, I've heard the crew talk openly about tips. I'm a very generous tipper for good service, and don't need to be told to tip. I'm not sure if the employees are sneaking this in or if managers are telling them to say it. Two dining room host/servers have announced to the whole train, that sleeper cars have complimentary meals, but alcohol and tips aren't included, so 'settle up before we go.' First, it's not complimentary. We pay about an extra $300 a day, in addition to the regular fare. Second, begging for tips makes the company look bad. I'm on a quick over night train where meals are not included. The steward will make our bed once. Nothing else for them to do. And in the quick intro, the line was, "-although gratuities are not required, they are appreciated.' Employees need to STOP begging. In the WAS station a first timer asked the red cap what she's supposed to 'pay' for a ride to the train. He said, "usually $5-$10." That isn't true. I've seen people tip $3-$5. Again, not cool to lie in order to get more tips. read more

Hiawatha! The Amtrak train between Chicago and downtown Milwaukee is convenient, clean, relatively cheap ($22 each way), and fast (75 minutes). It stops at: -Union Station (two blocks from CTA Clinton Blue Line) -Glenview Metra Station -Sturtevant, Wis. -Mitchell Airport (with shuttle service to/from airport) -Downtown Milwaukee (most hotels will come pick you up for free) I've taken the Hiawatha Line a few times, usually if my car is out of commission. I recently was in that position, and found it to be nice and relaxing. There's an electric outlet for every traveler, and a quiet car with NO CELL PHONES, if you crave a simpler quiet time. The only minus points were earned on my last return trip from Milwaukee Airport on July 3. Amtrak was only running one train between the cities in the evening, and zoomed passed us at 55mph, as we stood on the platform waiting to get on. A two hour delay without much communication was kind of crappy, but totally out of character for this Line, so they still get big ups. No car, no worries, Hiawatha! read more

Positives: convenient for my needs, reasonable price polite staff on trains. Cons: AC cranked too high. Seldom on time. I use train between Chicago and New Buffalo, MI often. Trip to NB is usually pretty reliable. Train into Chicago is a joke. It's an hour trip but I have to plan on a minimum of 2 hours because the train is at least an hour delayed every time. Staff then proudly makes an announcement that they've made up 5 minutes on the trip. read more

The Hiawatha is a reliable, easy way to get from Milwaukee to downtown Chicago. I take it regularly for work as a single round trip fare ($48) is far less than gas, mileage and parking. You can pick the train up at the airport or downtown, make stops at Sturtevant and Glenview and end up at Union Station. Pluses: *Not having to drive in Chicago traffic *Good connections to Metra and the Ogilvie transport station is just a block away *Clean MKE station with free wifi *Trains are generally on time *Conductors are generally pleasant, especially Marty on the 5pm Minuses: *Union station, especially the Amtrak waiting area, is an absolute disgrace. Ugh. *Return train times to MKE kind of suck. If you miss the 5:08pm (easy to do) you're stuck til 8. After that, you're stuck! *Amtrak is not great at forecasting demand. The trains in the AM get packed when major conventions/events are going on so people end up standing. How about adding an extra car for peak days? All in all, it's the easiest way to get to Downtown Chicago! read more

I'm a huge fan of trains, as I dislike driving. This is the easiest way, bar none, to get up to Milwaukee. Board the train at Union station, lounge around in a comfortable chair, read a book - even drink a glass of wine! Why would anyone drive?! It drops you off right in downtown Milwaukee, most everything you would want to do there is within walking distance. read more

Now here is a surprise! Me, writing a positive review for Amtrak. After all, the last time I took a train anywhere was a commuter trip between Chicago and Milwaukee. But recently, my nephews wanted to come and visit me in Chicago from Detroit. A little far for these young men to drive unaccompanied, and a little to close to fly (for those of you who have done it- it takes almost as long to drive as fly given all the delays etc) So when they said they were coming on the train, I thought for a minute and then said, "Perfect". Turns out it was quite a deal. Two boys- one still on the child rate of $15 and the other on the adult rate of $30 came to Chicago for the bargain price of $90 round trip! Now that's a deal!! Gas for driving both ways would have been more. Tickets were easy to get on line and the Amtrak website helped me track the train minute by minute so I knew what time to get to Union Station to pick them up. Surprisingly enough- they arrived right on time! And when it came time for them to leave- the System was organized, the boarding simple and they even let me wait with them in the boarding area (try doing that in an airport these days!) Granted I wasn't the one sitting on the train for the 5 hour trip but the boys said it was okay; the bathrooms were clean, the snack bar had soda and sandwiches and they had a plug to charge their phone and other electronics (funny what's important to the youth of today!) Next time I have someone on a limited budget who is coming this way for a visit-I'm going to suggest Amtrak. You sure can't beat the price! read more

As a reward to my preschooler memorizing all 50 states and capitals, I agreed to take him on "the great train adventure" where we would take the Cardinal and hit up 10 states (okay - 9 states and Washington DC) on our way to Philadelphia. What a wonderful experience. We went from Chicago to Philly in about 31 hours and spent 24 hours in Philly and then, came back on a 29 hour train trip. The seats were pretty comfortable - I would definitely recommend bringing your own pillow and blankets like we did (my son was fine in a fleece snuggie and I had a fleece blanket, as well). I wish that we had wifi but there was outlets right there that kept our kindle charged as we read books, studied maps, played games. There was plenty of leg room as we were able to keep our backpacks and food right by us, as well as the leg rest that lifted up pretty high. We also had some activity books and other activities to help us pass time. My son really loved the fact that we were passing through so many states (Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, Washington DC, Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania). I would recommend bringing your own food if you can to save some money, but just for the experience, we did order food in the cafe and ate in the lounge for a change of scenery. We also enjoyed a meal in the dining car, as well. Overall, if you are not in a rush to get anywhere, I would recommend taking the train to travel. We might consider a sleeping car next time (especially since meals are included) especially if we have the little sister in tow. Our roundtrip ticket for both of us cost us less than $250 - what a steal! I'm definitely looking forward to our next train adventure and we might even make this an annual thing! read more

I should have done this a long time ago. My experience on Amtrak is ALWAYS great!!! I've taken many trips to Chicago from Indianapolis, and all the way up to La Crosse, WI. The rates are very reasonable. Who can beat a 40 dollar round-trip to Chicago from Indy??? It's very cheap. You compare that to 60 bucks or more in gas, and not to mention you're not driving!! You're enjoying the ride to where you need to go. It's always been such a pleasant experience. Chicago Union Station is my favorite place to wait for the train, next to La Crosse Union Station. Chicago US has so many things you can do while you wait, so you are never bored. It's always very clean, and the people there for the most part are friendly. It's funny that I have traveled Amtrak so much they know me by name!! Lol...seriously!! They have a really nice food court, and basically anything you could possibly want. I was a little upset when they took out the Burrito place and Cinnabon place in there. They replaced it with a Starbucks, as if we need anymore? Starbucks is becoming the new crack of America...lol, no joke. My train always boards a little early, but never late from Chicago. My ride is usually a pleasant one until they have to seat you by number because they are trying to fill up the seats. It doesn't always happen, but it can get full! I've loved Amtrak so much that at one point, I wanted to be a chef on the train. On the bigger trains such as the Empire Builders, they have chefs on the train. The Cardinal which is also known as the Iowa Pacific that runs from Indy to Chicago and vice versa I believe has chefs on there now too. The Cardinal Amtrak brand used to be just from frozen or microwaveable stuff. I love Amtrak. It's one of my favorite ways to travel!! If you have never experienced it or are on the bubble about traveling Amtrak, just do it!!! You will love it, I promise! read more

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Terrible experience will never use Amtrak again I do not recommend if traveling use grayhound

A few points, limited to my experience as a weekly commuter between MKE and CHI: Location: 4 out of 5 The Hiawatha service does go out of Union Station, which happens to be a quick 8 - 10 minute walk away from the loop (Clark and Jackson) in Chicago where I work. If I were truly apathetic or tired or lazy or just didn't feel like walking, I could take one of the buses that runs along Adams or any of the other east/west streets. Comfort: 5 out of 5 I'll keep saying this to anyone that will listen, but the comfort on these trains is far superior to any comparable airline seat. The seats are wider and they have a much wider recline angle, plus the leg room is nice and ample. Since there's not as many people with carryons, I've never had to fight for space for any of my items above my seat. When you parlay this with the quiet car (rear car of each train in the direction of travel), I'm able to either nap on the way in from MKE (that 615 train from MKE to Chicago in the mornings is ideal), or do work on the way back up home on the 508pm train. Cleanliness: 4 out of 5 People in the quiet car generally "know the score" and they're good about taking stuff with them that they bring in like food or beverage wrappers/bottles. In the other cars you have a hit or miss type mentality - some people are really good about putting their garbage in the receptables, and others are not (just WALK to the end of the car, people). The floors are generally clean, as are the interchangeable fabric head rest covers. Amenities on Train: 3 out of 5 For some reason I thought that the trains used to be equipped with WiFi, but maybe that was just some fabrication in my brain. They definitely got rid of the food service on the train at the end of June, so now you're left with things such as...power outlets and reading lights (both wonderful things), a drinking fountain here and there, and nice spacious lavatories if you need them. Amenities of Union Station: 5 out of 5 Union Station itself is pretty great, as there's a food court, two bars (Snuggery and Metro; Metro is a little closer and probably a little more pleasant since it's not as crowded), self serve kiosks for tickets, and full service counters for those that need it. Should you find that you're lacking electronics, there is a Best Buy vending machine close to the place where you purchase Metra Tickets, and there is a Relay franchise for your other travel needs (magazines, sundries, etc.) Organization: 3 out of 5 Since I am a weekly traveler to and from MKE/CHI, it's nice that there's a priority boarding line for those holding 10 rides and monthly passes. While there is clear signage as to the boarding gates, this doesn't preclude less seasoned travelers from getting confused, and understandably so. Between multiple trains at multiple gates and not as many uniformed Amtrak employees to help out when needed, it can get to be a hot mess in there sometimes. Price: 4 out of 5 A 10-ride comes out to 18$ each way, and generally lasts me one entire month (I stay overnight in Chicago some days). When you consider the fact that I don't have to deal with parking, traffic, or gas costs, it's not such a bad deal. Overall: 4 out of 5 Enjoyable commuter experience for the short-ish ride between Chicago and Milwaukee. read more

Amtrak - Beer in the waiting lounge. Beer from local liquor store is much cheaper. - Trains Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

You'd think that a city made by, and famous for, its railroads would have figured the whole thing out over the last century. You'd be wrong. Amtrak trains are routinely late to depart and late to arrive, but I know they are only one entity among many who contribute to congestion in Chicago. Even if blame might be spread around, we pay Amtrak to depart and arrive whithin a reasonable time, but they regularly falls down on passengers' expectations. read more

1st time on a train & not bad....I definitely gonna take another ride. Very peaceful & got a lot of studying accomplished. read more

Worst fucking train ever 448 Bryan Ohio to Chicago,never on fucking time going or coming back!

We took the Southwest Chief from Kansas City to Chicago. It's an easy, comfortable and inexpensive way to travel. The station in Chicago was offering a membership to their Legacy Club which could be worth the $20 if you need a place to hang out with free WiFi, snacks and comfortable seating.... We assumed that we would have wifi on our trip because on previous rides from Kansas City to St Louis we did; however, different trains have different amenities. The seats were comfortable and the club car was a nice place to sit for a little more room and a change of scenery. If you are interested in visiting the dining car, be aware that you should stop in for a reservation as soon as you can. On our trip here, they filled up during lunch and some people left disappointed. read more

Amtrak treats me well. They get me to and from my friends in Milwaukee without the hassle of pumping gas, paying for the gas, reading road signs, dealing with detours, traffic, left lane snoozers, state troopers... And whatever other annoyances that manage to crop up during the 90 minute commute. With Amtrak, I simply log in to my online account and use their efficient search tools to select and pay for my desired train. That's it. I'm all set until boarding time. $25 bucks all in. And I earn points through the free Amtrak Guest Rewards program, eventually good for free travel. I'm a sucker for frequent flyer programs ;) It's a bargain, especially considering I'm bring spared the above mentioned driving annoyances. After boarding the train, I plug in and log on to Amtrak Connect, their free wifi. 1/3 into the trip, mister handsome conductor scans my e-ticket. Boom. We're done. Sit back, read, surf or snooze while the stretchiest limo around escorts me to my destination. I'm sold. read more

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I absolutely had the worst experience with amtrak. This would have been my first train trip with my kids. The employees were rude and union station. No one was trying to help us with what we was supposed to do when we got there and we ended up missing our train standing in line for tickets. They acted as if they could careless then told me to call the customer service number. Whole time the customer service place was closed on weekends and it was a Saturday. When i finally called they told me i abandoned my trip. I was sooooo mad. Why would i abandoned a trip i spent 3 grand on. Nobody was any help or anything. They still giving me the run around. At this point i just want my money back. read more

Absolutely dishonest customer service. We misplaced a lot of money on a train plus the wallet, going to Chicago. We literally ran everywhere around the station trying to get help. The staff was: asympathetic, not helpful, *slow*, and they were so dishonest when they "found nothing" while supposedly looking through the train they at first somehow couldn't recall. We made a sad return to Carbondale the same day, and there we were finally told the truth when we asked someone there if they could do more help than Chicago. They could recall the train, unlike what Chicago told us. AND they found the wallet but no money. The facility is ok. It's getting dirty and overrun with beggars. But horrible and dishonest staff. read more

This is my second time riding the Amtrak train for a weekend trip. On time both times. All the staff has been kind and curteous. Great food at low prices. Clean and spacious. Tickets are very affordable. The station in Chicago has a nice selection of places to eat. Several areas to sit and relax while you wait. I recommend avoiding the traffic if you can by taking the train!! read more

Amtrak - My special needs clients big trip to Chicago by train. - Trains Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Yaaay Amtrak! Cheap, easy and sit back and relax! It cost me $30 round trip to go from Chicago to where my family is from near Bloomington. The seats are comfy, enough room, the employees nice and the snack car is reasonably priced. Definitely a good way to go! read more

Amtrak - Trains Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Train Attendant Carlos Rodriguez who has been there 15 years is so pleasant seems to enjoy his job very personable just a good person Ms Flossie although she is new she engages customers She can be curt but she does her job-- The night I met her she needed help read more

Very rude staff and uncomfortable chairs and they will leave without you even if you arrive on minute late. Would recommend other forms of transport if necessary. read more

Traveled from Seattle to Chicago by the Amtrak. It was a 49 hour train ride. I would highly recommend going with the Superliner Roommette. It's the cheapest sleeper car but is comfortable for two people. Note that they are smaller than twin size mattresses and are bunk bed like. Two seats fold out to form the bottom bed. Though there were a couple insignificant delays (~10-30min) along the way, I'm giving the service 4 stars for the quick service by the train staff, the amenities, and the overall hospitality of everyone working on the train. If you book a sleeper, all meals are included (and the meals are GOOD). My meals through the trip included a vegetarian pasta with soy protein, a southwestern omelette, a black bean and corn burger, butternut squash risotto. Other meal options included pancakes, mussels, steak. Dinner was always accompanied by rolls and we were provided with a wide selection of non-alcoholic drinks with every meal. You have to pay extra for alcoholic drinks. There was also a comfortably sized shower and changing area, probably 6 by 4 ft. The water was also nice and hot!! (Temperature control was accurate). The roommettes have reading lights, a single outlet, a tiny closet, two coat hooks, a fold out table. Though there was no WiFi on this route but some routes have it. read more

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Great we going to Washington DC Getting into Ohio state car get crash w/the train amtrak 2 hours delay. Pluss Mini bottle of milk $2 dllrs At least no get hurt Or kill they said Amtrak staff read more

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This was my first and absolutely last time riding with Amtrak. Texas Eagle #21 that left from Chicago on 10/18/18 was initially delayed about an hour due to mechanical issues. As the trip went on to Dallas the delays did nothing, but steady climb. I literally had to spend my Birthday on Amtrak losing the little time I already had for my trip because I arrived in Dallas pretty much 7hrs later than what I should have. Amtrak ruined my birthday and all the plans I had went down the drain because of it. By the time I finally got someone to pick me up after delaying my ride several times and getting to my hotel to freshen up. It was after 9pm. My entire B-Day basically gone. The very purpose of my trip was to come and enjoy myself in Dallas. Amtrak totally took that away from me. Then when I called I was told they couldn't do anything about the inconvenience because my trip had not yet been completed. WTF? I had to call back between Mon-Fri from 5am-5pm Pacific time to speak to the Customer Relations Department. Guess what? I'm now trying to return back home on Texas Eagle #21 that was late yet again pulling out of Dallas on 10/21/18. I thought we were finally doing ok until it's been over 2hrs that I'm sitting in STL being told that we're waiting on the new crew. This is absolutely the WORSE ran company I've ever seen in my life. First impressions are lasting impressions. I promise if I can't drive it, I'll just pay the high air fare. It's true you get what you pay for. NEVER AGAIN!!If I could have gave no stars that's what I would have gave. read more

Took the Amtrak train from Chicago to California and departed on July 14th for the trip across country. I had booked a sleeper car and the space itself was very cozy, nice, relaxing, easy to get work done. Pluses on the trip: -Met a variety of people in the dining car on the trip -Excellent attendant by the name of Roman -Food better than expected -Scenery across the country was breath taking read more

I could snail mail a complaint letter and it would get to them before they got to their destination. do NOT count on them. Expect 3+ hour delays with no food or drink. Torture. read more

I've got a suggestion for Amtrak. I don't think that it's too much to ask to find out why trains are late, where the delay is, and what a reasonable ETA is. Tell me there was a medical emergency at Tulsa and the average delay time as a result. Then I'll know I can get myself a cup of coffee down the street or meet a friend for breakfast or something instead of stand around the station for hours. If I miss the train as a result, that's my own fault. Amtrak doesn't make money off people loitering around the station, but local businesses around the station might benefit from the increased foot traffic. I'll go get my steps for the day or something! (I had to wait about three hours first thing this morning. Being in a long-distance relationship, it would have been great to spend that time with my significant other...) The sad thing is that a big part of why these trains are consistently late (we're talking minor delays) is because the rails outside the northeast corridor are privately owned and the passenger trains have to yield to industrial vehicles per the rail owners. We just got delayed again, and I must scream. read more

I have to say I am a huge fan of this service. I could see how if you aren't traveling to bigger towns how it would be a pain but overall I think this is a great value. The train is comfortable, clean, and overall a great way to get to Chicago from southern Illinois. It could possibly have a little nicer cars, but honestly for the price it's a great deal. read more

With little surprise, we're stopped and over an hour and a half late to our destination with no clue as to when we will even move. If you decide to use this service, tell whoever is picking you up to plan on 45 minutes after your "arrival time." read more

This applies to June 16, 2017 on the Southwest Chief departing Chicago's Union station. They have changed the location of boarding. You no longer go to that ugly little waiting room that looks like it's out of a bad 70s film. Now you go and stand in the main hall (which is beautiful and not to be missed) and then they herd you like cattle to the train track. The problem? You have to know how to properly herd cattle for this to work well. They don't. And the other problem? Give yourself ample time to board everyone. This seems like Trains101 to me. Apparently, Amtrak missed that class. It is a complete and total cluster with staff not knowing wtf. I watched people be assigned seats only to find they were sitting in someone else's seat because the conductor passed out the same ticket twice. This happened to at least 20 people on board and to me TWICE. The train only left two minutes late. Basically they shoved everyone on the same car and figured out the seating while we were in motion. Superior cluster#$@! Here's a thought, dipshits.....you cannot pack a train full of people onto a train this large in ten minutes. Seriously? THIS is the major train system for America? Way to represent, USA. What a joke. read more

Here is my story. I'm in St Louis and I have a train for 4 Sunday to go to Chicago. There has been a crash on the tracks yesterday so we will be rerouted. Amtrak provided a bus at Alton and took us to Springfield. Throughout the trip in some places there was only one set of tracks open so we had to wait for other trains to go by. Ke p stopping over and over again.I left Alton at 5:30. It's 1:30 n the morning and I'm not the Chicago yet. This is brutal and ridiculous.. read more

Often my partner and I will take a train rather than fly, for the "train experience." We have been doing this for many years. Recently we traveled from Chicago (Union Station) overnight in a Roomette to Philadelphia (30th St. Station) aboard the "Cardinal." Traveling during a pandemic is an experience, and so many amenities were missing. The first class lounge had no snacks just a sign indicating they were "exploring options." Two months into the pandemic, one would think that Amtrack management could have come up with a few viable options: individually wrapped, single-servings perhaps? After we boarded, we met our porter, Taffy, who was extraordinary; checking in frequently, doing everything in her power the make the ride enjoyable despite essential being confined to the room. No dinning car service. Several of the dinner options were not available, Scotch was not available. Recently Amtrack has switched its food service from dining room service to "Grab-and-Go." Deplorable. Amtrack started cutting back amenities years ago: first flowers, then tablecloths, changed to plastic "silverware," now prepackaged meals. What is the point? Amtrack is a great option for short runs: Boston to NYC, or Philadelphia to Washington, etc. But I think my days of sleeper cars is ending. I'm giving Taffy , the ride, not so many. read more