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I was wondering if there is anyway to view a sleeper car (similar to one like we will be taking on the Sunset Ltd) that we could view prior to our trip next month.
Specifically, is it possible to go to the station in LA and look inside a train very briefly to check out what the sleeper is like? We were thinking about maybe trying to go down to the station and look at a train that has arrived at the end of a trip before they are ready to go later that day.
Would I contact Amtrak or the Union Station prior to ask permission or just show up and see if we can do it? Thanks!
Posts: 45 | From: San Diego, CA | Registered: May 2002
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A quick phone call to Amtrak's station office (or try first at 1-800-USA-RAIL) would save a lot of time if it turns out you are not able to do an inspection.
Posts: 363 | From: Southwest North Central Florida | Registered: Apr 2002
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Although I have yet to go near LAUPT, that formerly hosted some 10 intercity train departures per day, since its metamorphsis to a mass transit center named LAUS, it was always quite a "fortress" (abundant security personnel)in days gone by. Therefore any trackside visit best be coordinated through Amtrak.
I would like to think they would sooner "show off" a departing train rather than an arriving one. No different than an airline flight; all everyone wants to do is "get off".
Posts: 9976 | From: Clarendon Hills, IL USA (BNSF Chicago Sub MP 18.71) | Registered: Apr 2002
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Let me clairify something - I live near the station (well not right near it but reasonably close) I've been there many times over the years taking the train to San Diego. So it would be fairly easy for me to go to the station - I just did not know how tight security was now post 9-11.
I realize that during an arrival it is not convenient to inspect a train - I merely meant that after the train had arrived while they were getting it set up for the return trip to ORL or perhaps a train that is not being used or something. Does Amtrak allow train inspections? I work in the travel industry and we often do site inspections on hotels - was wondering if Amtrak did such thing for trains. Thanks!
Posts: 45 | From: San Diego, CA | Registered: May 2002
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Gilbert says; I would like to think they would sooner "show off" a departing train rather than an arriving one. No different than an airline flight; all everyone wants to do is "get off". _____________________________
Exactly. Amtrak will most likely not allow you to board a train that has just arrived. They will be busy detraining passengers & trying to move the train to the yards to ready for the next trip. As Gilbert says, it would be better to arrive at the station for a departing train. Just go to the info booth & explain your request, I'm sure they will allow you to check out a sleeper car.
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