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Has anyone here been to Omaha Amtrak station lately? What is it like at 5AM when the eastbound Zephyr comes through. OK for me to go there by taxi (alone)? Thanks! Also, any hotel tips in Omaha?
Gilbert B Norman Member # 1541
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Ms. Sojourner, if you are prepared to use a taxicab, the Marriott Courtyard is fairly convenient. However, with the "rebranding" to "Millennial" tastes, or apparently so, Courtyard has moved from my "preferred" to "avoid". I stayed there during 2010.
However, from reviewing "Mr. Gates' map", there is a Hyatt Place (Hyatt's econobrand) located in the Old Market entertainment district. If you choose, you could even hoof it from there to Amtrak. Union Station/Durham Museum is within sight; the Amshack is "over the tracks" from there.
sojourner Member # 3134
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I do expect to take a taxi.
Do you (or anyone else) know what the station itself is like (lately), and what waiting there at 5AM is like? I have the alternative option of a bus to Chicago and train from there but of course I'd rather be on a train. . . . I am interesting mainly in safety/crime issues, knowing nothing about Omaha.
Gilbert B Norman Member # 1541
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The station is an Amshack built adjacent to a platform that was part of the Q's station. While there have been plans to redevelop that property, I'd dare say nothing has come of such.
If you plan to use a taxicab to the station, I can't imagine any personal safety issues. The station is Amtrak employee staffed.
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Thanks--you are right, Palmland, very reassuring. I had heard some negative things but that was clearly before the TV station moved in.
Gilbert B Norman Member # 1541
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Here's more on the "Renaissance" of the Omaha Burlington Station.
Was I ever mistaken!!!
PullmanCo Member # 1138
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Not a renovation, as happened at Union Station KC, but a rehab, to make it a modern building. Good work, and the incumbent will be there for many years.
TV stations don't move easily.
dpudave Member # 162885
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This is my first entry here. I am honored to find myself involved with such an august, literate and well informed group. Sojourner need have no worries at the Omaha depot. I've used it often driving down from the Twin Cities. The cab will let her out within mere feet of the rear door. Area is well lit, and there are many people at train time. Staff is friendly and building is clean and neat. Zephyr pulls up right in front and car attendants are there to greet you. I would not hesitate to send my grandmother through there. Enjoy the journey, the scenery is outstanding. David
RRRICH Member # 1418
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Welcome to the forum, Dave!! You will find lots of interesting and informative material here. I am curious -- does your name of "dpudave" perhaps indicate that you are a graduate of De Pauw University (DPU)? I am a DPU graduate myself -- got my B.A. there in Geology in 1970!
dpudave Member # 162885
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Sorry, RRRICH, it's just the old RR acronym, in my case--one I have a fondness for since I've had the pleasure, dubious to some, I suppose, of riding in them. So...not a long lost fellow De Pauw alum, I'm afraid, rather, the spawn of a giant Land Grant U. I sent my son to a small school--arguably a better idea. Many thanks for the kind words of welcome. David
palmland Member # 4344
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Dave, let me also welcome you. Some of us are old curmudgeons but we like to think we know a little bit about RR and Amtrak. So, new thoughts welcomed! And as a graduate of a small college (about 800 at the time) I know your son enjoyed it. I suppose I learned a few things, but real value was growing up a bit and coming out of it with life long friends.
dpudave Member # 162885
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Thank you palmland. Amen to your last sentence. David
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