posted
I am taking the Cardinal from Chicago to Washington in a couple of weeks.
I know the meal service is different. Can someone describe it? Is it eat when you want?
I have only been on trains with dining cars.
Thanks,
Ray
notelvis Member # 3071
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I've not had the 'Cardinal' meal but I understand they are similar to what was served for first class passengers aboard the 'Three Rivers' shortly before that train lost it's sleeper.
From what I've heard, the table side of the Amcafe car is used to do table service for first class passengers. The meals are pre-packaged like frozen dinners, reheated on-board, and served during traditional meal times. You can live on 'em but they aren't going to win any culinary awards!
David Pressley
Ray S Member # 3175
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Not looking for anything special. I have a bedroom and it's only two or three meals to Washinton, DC.
I am riding the Cardinal because it is a new train for me. Looking forward to new landscapes.
Thanks.
Ray
notelvis Member # 3071
posted
quote:Originally posted by Ray S: Not looking for anything special. I have a bedroom and it's only two or three meals to Washinton, DC.
I am riding the Cardinal because it is a new train for me. Looking forward to new landscapes.
Thanks.
Ray
You'll love the ride then. From the time you wake-up until dark you'll be riding what I believe is the most scenic eastern Amtrak route. I've not been on it since before the superliners were pulled.......but from a viewliner bedroom you should be able to see enough to enjoy.
David Pressley
Ray S Member # 3175
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I look forward to the scenic route. I booked it after readind some of your past posts.
I am starting with the CZ from Emeryville to Chicago and ending with Silver Star back home to West Palm Beach. Two days in between each leg for visiting friends and family.
Ray
dk82 Member # 4086
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I was last on the Cardinal a couple months back and 'notelvis' is correct about the meal service in the lounge car. It's a very popular route (despite the 3/week frequency) but often overlooked by those seeking scenic routes. New River Gorge and east is all very scenic.
sojourner Member # 3134
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I was interested in taking the Cardinal and stopping off to see Indianapolis. However, I notice the arrival and departure times there are middle of the night--is this a problem for this station, or is it safe and comfortable to wait in?
Gilbert B Norman Member # 1541
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I'd think twice, Ms. Sojourner,ever since the shopping center built in the former Union Station flopped and closed.
But Indy is a great town and is truly a "liveable' city; it is "just not too much" with Amtrak service.
sojourner Member # 3134
posted
I also notice the cost for sleepers on the Cardinal is very high compared to Capitol Ltd, Lakeshore Ltd. This seems odd to me, considering the food quality is poorer!
I would have no problem sitting in coach for this time duration, esp if I stop in Indianapolis. But (since there is no observation car) I'd hate not to get a window seat when I'm going for the views!
Speaking of views, is there a better side to sit on?
train lady Member # 3920
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To see the New River valley the right side is the best. Unfortunatrely the trees have grown up so much that while the scenery is still good it's just not as spectactular as it used to be.
John J. Poshepny Member # 4088
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Ms. Sojourner, The reason the Cardinal prices are so high is that there is more demand for rooms then on the Capital Limited.
sojourner Member # 3134
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Thanks for the info. I figured that might be why the price was higher but I'm still not really prepared to spend it! Too poor!!!
When you say right side, do you mean front facing when heading toward DC? Thanks!!!
Also, are the trees mainly deciduous or conifer? If the former maybe I can go in late March or April--will that still give me enough light to see what I should see?
Thanks.
train lady Member # 3920
posted
I meant the right side facing front. If you have a bedroom you will be able to see both sides but the best view is on the right. On the left you do see all the little towns which I find interesting. I always get to the diner, which you won't have, to sit on the left for breakfast. The train goes along the river , I think it's the Ohio. The trees are mostly decidious but as to timing I can't tell you because we always went in the fall to see the folliage. We no longer use the Cardinal because of no diner and worst of all for us no checked baggage. I rode that train many years ago when it was called the James Whitcomb Riley and the view is one I have never tired of. Enjoy
notelvis Member # 3071
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quote:Originally posted by sojourner: Thanks for the info. I figured that might be why the price was higher but I'm still not really prepared to spend it! Too poor!!!
Thanks.
I'm thinking that the next time I ride sleeper on the 'Cardinal' it will be using Guest Reward Points!
David Pressley
George Harris Member # 2077
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Trees are mainly decidious. Therefore, late March or early April, should be bare. I rode this route eastbound when it was the Riley in December 1971. Way late due to Penn Central track conditions. C&O portion kept it to no further delay. Dome between Chicago and Charlottesville. The only way to really see the New River Gorge.
George
D. David Member # 4055
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What days do the Cardiinal run from NYC and from Chicago?
train lady Member # 3920
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nyc-chi.....Sunday, Wednesday, Friday chi-nyc.....Tues, Thurs, Sat
sojourner Member # 3134
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Train Lady, You missed the 2nd half of my question; did you mean right side facing front heading toward DC or heading toward Chicago? Thanks
train lady Member # 3920
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Sorry Sojourner. My mind seems to have gone on vacation and left my body behind. I meant right side facing forward headed for D.C.
SouthernServesTheSouth Member # 2284
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That will be the south side of the train.
Chicago to New York you are east bound. Right side of this train is South.
New York to Chicago you are west bound. Left side of train will be South.
We managed to hit a tree somewhere near Prince WV. when we were beside the New River. It smashed the windshield on the firemans's side of the engine and dented the front sheet metal.
We also killed a buzzard. It was impaled on the front coupler of the engine.
posted