Good morning America, how are ya?
Me and kiddo have been wanting to make a trip up to visit my sister for a while, and recently had the time to take a little adventure. Most any parent can attest, long drives with toddlers are painful. Especially if you are going about to solo. So, as I was weighing travel options, I decided to give Amtrak a go.
My advice. Don't ride coach with a two year old. Trains could potentially be very dangerous with little exploring fingers, when the train his a bump, and you are standing it can knock you down (or into a fellow passenger) and if your toddler decides to have a meltdown of epic proportion there is no where to run (and not disturb fellow sleeping passengers). The bathrooms are like a glorified port-o-potty.
Having learned that lesson on the way up there, so on the way back home to Nola, we upgraded to an econo-sleeper. Man, did that make a huge difference! You have two captains chairs that fold out to a small bed, black out curtains, and a door that you can close so the kid can scream NONONONONONO to her hearts content, and no one wants to throw you from the train. Also, meals are provided (I'm not saying good meals, but edible) and that's one less thing you have to worry about. The bathrroms are wayyyyy nicer in the sleeper cars. They even have little showers. I think the upgrade was around $60-$70 bucks.
All passengers on the train can indulge in a beer or coctail, as they serve alcohol. There is a car made all clear, for those who want to look at the scenery. They make stops where smokers are allowed a chance to go grab a cigarette, or others can step out for a few minutes of fresh air.
The staff were all really helpful and friendly. It was kind of fun sitting in the common area and visiting with other passengers.
Now, lastly. This is a leisurely ride. If you are an impatient person, this may not be your best bet for travel. Also, then they say what time the train leaves, your butt better be there, or you will get left!
The website is very user friendly. They keep it updates with arrivals and departures (our train was running a little late, and it was nice to be able to get on my smartphone and check that). read more