Amtrak turns 45 today

[left-of-center2012]

“Amtrak turns 45 today, leaving many people wondering how is it that a rich and powerful country that was a pioneer in railroad adoption in the 19th century has such terrible passenger trains today.”

Here's why American passenger trains are so bad.
1) Why doesn't the Northeast have a true high-speed rail?
2) Why are trains outside of the Northeast so unbelievably awful?
3) Why don't we build a state-of-the-art high-speed rail network?

For the answers to these questions (and more):
http://www.vox.com/2016/5/1/11539966/amtrak-45-anniversary

[underpants]

1. I had to book a trip for work and every train was sold out

Richmond to DC and back last week - day trip.

Everything was sold out at least a week out. I saw that as a good sign for Amtrak - National Railroad Passenger Corp actually.

[katmondoo]

2. I am so envious of the trains in Europe

How nice if we had a train that could take us all over the States, Just hop on go someplace, see more of America without a plane or a car. I love the train. Next week I will take Amtrak (our only train) from Jacksonville Florida to New York City. After Katrina we no longer have a train that goes West. I would love a train that would take us to more National Parks. I wont see it in my lifetime, maybe in the future after I am long gone.

[fizzgig]

3. i'll be taking the train next week

denver to western illinois. takes longer than driving but sure is a lot less stressful, especially since i'm making a solo trip.

there has been talk of a light rail along the I-25 corridor in colorado for years now but i don't see it happening any time soon. a good train system is bad for car manufacturers and oil companies.

[KamaAina]

4. That explains it. It's having a mid-life crisis!

2a) Trains in California aren't that awful, except that there's only one going from north to south.

[LanternWaste]

5. I took my first train ride (Amtrak's DFW to St. Louis) this past July

I took my first train ride (Amtrak's DFW to St. Louis) this past July. I had no idea what to expect, but when all was said and done, I've decided that the train is my go-to method of travel when applicable from now on. Roomy comfortable seats, smoke breaks every two hours or so, great scenery, and just a laid-back, hassle-free time.

So rather than struggle through airports, security and lines this next Thanksgiving, I'll take the same line-- but this time all the way to Chicago.

[left-of-center2012]

8. "next Thanksgiving"

Holidays, Summer, and 'spring break' times are always busy ~ so book early.
You can get lots of good advice and friendly suggestions on:
http://discuss.amtraktrains.com/

[Trailrider1951]

6. Happy Birthday, Amtrak! I absolutely LOVE riding the train!

It is so much better than flying! Here is what a typical coach class seat looks like:

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Compare that to your typical coach seat on an airplane. But you aren't belted into your seat for the trip, so you can get up and walk around. You can visit the Sightseer lounge if you like:

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There is a snack concession stand downstairs where you can purchase sandwiches and drinks. With the large wrap-around windows, it is the perfect place to take in the sights outside the window. Like the California coast:

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Or the Pecos River in West Texas:

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Or a blizzard in Arizona:

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Or Dealy Plaza in Dallas:

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But you don't have to buy you food in the Snack bar or the Dining Car if you don't want to. The food they sell is very expensive, so I bring all my own food aboard. This is a typical lunch:

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Cost is about $3. A typical dinner costs about $4, except for the booze:

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Coach passengers cannot partake of their own supply of alcohol, but sleeper passengers may bring their own. You can also get off the train at the longer stops, if you smoke:

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And you get to visit some historic old stations, like Union Station in Los Angeles:

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In two weeks, I get my next trip from Texas to Seattle to visit my son. I can't wait! Thanks, Amtrak!

[NuclearDem]

7. I love me some Amtrak!

[left-of-center2012]

9. You can get lots of good advice and friendly suggestions on:

http://discuss.amtraktrains.com/

[Trailrider1951]

10. Yes, I know that site well

I've been a member for years, though I post more here than there.