In late August, I will travel across country and I am wondering which route people would recommend. For example, do you think it is more scenic going through Montana or New Mexico in late summer?
I would also like to stop off in various towns on the way and spend a day or two. Does it make sense for us (my son and me) to buy a Rail Pass? Or pay for each leg of the journey?
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Hi, I'm sure some ofthe others on this site will be more helpful in terms of costs, but I would probably recommend the California Zephyr if you have the option. I guess it depends to on where you're starting. You don't say where in California. You mentioned Montana, which would mean a trip all the way up the coast to Seattle first. The Empire Builder is a nice train, but the views for the most part are uninspiring. What I would do is go to www.amtrak.com and go to "multicity" reservations and see what the prices would be. I think Amtrak still is running there specials, which will be mentioned on the homepage. There is always some code to write in at the bottom of the reservations page. Compare the prices to the railpass price. Do whatever is cheaper. Another consideration is whether or not you wish to go coach or get sleeping compartments. I would recommend the standard sleeper. A bit more expensive but worth it. Meals are then free and you can lay down all night instead of suffer in a coach seat. Good luck! Posts: 171 | Registered: May 2002
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While the scenery along the Empire Builder route is less dramatic than that seen from the California Zephyr, it is far better than what is seen from the Southwest Chief, in my opinion.
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You will have to change trains in Chicago. It's a wonderful city to to see and enjoy. From Connecticut to Chicago you would have to take the Lake Sgore Limited either at Albany,NY, New York City's Penn Ststion,or at one of it's station stops along the Hudson River. The scenic Hudson and Mohawk River valleys are along its route. Or if you are closer to Massachusetts you can take the Lake Shore connection (no changing at Albany) from one of its stops along the Boston-Albany route. Another alternative is to train it via Notheast Corridor to Washington D.C.where you can catch the Capitol Ltd. to Chicago. That route would probably cost more. Try to book a standard or Deluxe room according to your budget. Its better than coach for a long distance journey. I hope you enjoy the train trip!
Posts: 498 | From: New Hope, PA, USA | Registered: Jan 2003
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You didn't mention your final destination. But if you'll be visiting various places up and down the West Coast, consider returning by a different route.
In other words, if you decide to take the California Zephyr from Chicago to Emeryville/San Francisco, consider doing your return trip on the Southwest Chief (from Los Angeles) or the Empire Builder (from either Portland or Seattle).
Overall, you'll find the scenery far more varied when you sample multiple routes. Plus the fare might work out cheaper, depending on the days you travel and the trains you choose.
Also keep in mind that Amtrak's rail passes don't allow you to hop on and off trains on a whim. You'll still have to book each leg of your journey in advance -- which is especially essential in summer, when some trains (particularly the sleeping cars) are sold out well in advance.
[This message has been edited by dilly (edited 05-29-2003).]
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Thank you, everyone, for your advice! The CZ sounds wonderful and I will go to the Amtrak site to find the best fares.
Posts: 2 | Registered: May 2003
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