If you’ve been following my traveling exploits in the past, then you know that I’ve taken Amtrak a lot to travel to Chicago. Because of the pricey parking in the Windy City, I opt to travel by train or plane, so that I don’t have to pay a mint to house my vehicle daily. Sometimes I can catch a cheap price on airfare, but most of the time, especially during the summer, it isn’t cost effective to fly to Chicago from St. Louis. So for me, taking the train is the next best thing. Recently, I was contacted by Amtrak to try a complimentary round trip train ride from St. Louis to Chicago and back, while sharing my experiences with photos on Instagram and other social media using the #AmtrakGram hashtag. Of course I said yes, because it is something that I do already.
I opted to use the Lincoln Service train departing from St. Louis. My experience traveling to Chicago was pretty much perfect. We left on time and also arrived on time, even though there were a few stalls in the service (we had to wait for a freight train to pass us and then when we got to Chicago, there was a short wait before we could pull into the station). I tend to enjoy train travel because it is very peaceful. Unlike plane travel, with all of the stress of going through security, finding your seat, and then taking off, the train is quite different. It’s more relaxing. You are allowed two carry on bags free of charge and you can put in it regular sized items. You also don’t have to worry about powering down your devices—I pretty much stayed on my iPhone and tablet the whole entire way to and from Chicago.
And did you know there are power outlets at every seat? If you are a business traveler, the train may be more convenient for you. Most train routes also have free WIFI on board, so you can stay plugged in during your trip.
There’s also a Cafe Car filled with goodies to keep you content during the trip. Longer routes have actual dining cars and sleeping cars too.
I was already a fan before I participated in #AmtrakGram, but being a part of it means I get to share what I like about train travel with the masses. For short trips and excursions, it is the perfect way to go. It’s affordable (a Coach Class Round Trip ticket between St. Louis and Chicago averages about $75 when purchased in advance), worry-free, and a great way to travel.
I am not sure if I would take a trip on a train that is longer than the 5 and a half hours it takes to get from St. Louis to Chicago, but for short jaunts to nearby cities, Amtrak is a very viable travel resource for me.
Here are some pictures from my train ride below:
A selfie taken at about 7:00am just as we were entering Illinois from Missouri.
The Cafe Car has everything from breakfast sandwiches to pizza to veggie trays—everything you need for a short trip.
Look, Ma—power outlets!
Seating on the train is similar to the plane, but a little more leg room, even in Coach.
Home of Lincoln. ‘Nuff said.
Have you ridden on Amtrak recently? What are your thoughts?
Amtrak Disclosure: I was not financially compensated for this post. I received a free trip courtesy of Amtrak for review purposes. The opinions, photos, and videos are completely my own based on my experience.
I very much enjoyed your blog on your Amtrak ride. My husband and I rode for the first time together a few weeks ago from Norfolk, VA to Washington, DC. It was wonderful! We so enjoyed the quiet car, use of free Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, the cafe car, the roominess and the fact that we were able to get up and move around. We are already planning a fall trip on Amtrak to New York!
I’ve taken the train from D.C. to NYC before as well and it was a great trip. I do like the fact that you can get up and move around on the train. On the plane, you pretty much have to stay in your seat unless you are going to the bathroom. Happy and safe travels!
Everything lined up for you on this trip. Left on time. Arrived on time. The train is always the way to go if you can help it. I know I want to take my boys to Hannibal sometime soon and the train, like you said for short jaunts, would be perfect.
I think you and the boys will love the train. Please make sure you blog about your excursion. Thanks for commenting 🙂
I haven’t been on a train since childhood. My uncle worked as a conductor actually. How long was the trip from STL to Chicago on the Amtrak?
Depending on the service and route, about 5.5 hours. A little longer than taking a car, but worth it because the gas prices are so high right now. Thanks for commenting.
I haven’t tried Amtrak yet but I was looking at it for my trip to Chicago for Blogher. I think I may try it for my next trip to Chicago in the fall. It is a 10 hour ride so I will def have to get a sleep car.
Looks you had a great time! I agree that Amtrak gives you a lot more leg room and you an get up and walk around if you want.