Amtrak (train) question-Has anyone taken the Coast Starlight in California and into Oregon? What was your?

Question

experience of it? And what is the difference between "reserved coach seating" and "lower level coasch seating." The price is the same, but how are they different in terms of space, views, window size, etc.

Answer 1

there should have been a difference of price due to amtrak reserving of lower level seating for handicapped or seniors, or even someone with alot of carry -on baggage, there's really no difference in windows or space.

Answer 2

Yes, it's a really lovely trip.  The views are just incredible.  You'll see llamas and Mount Shasta.  The food is the best on Amtrak.  I mean the food in the real, sit-down dining car.  (forget the cafe car with its microwave pizzas.)

I highly recommend it, with one crucial proviso.  Right now, America's railways are desperately overloaded, and many long-haul Amtraks can run very, very late.  Really, unbelievably late. 4 hours late is very likely. 12 hours late is possible.  It varies dramatically by route, but the Coast Starlight is one of the worst for this.  If this sort of thing bugs you, don't ride the Starlight, or certain other trains.

All the seating on the whole train is reserved.  Lower level seating is generally held back for elderly and mobility-impaired people and their escorts.  Same space, same windows, but the view's lower, so not as nice.

Answer 3

I have made that trip a number of times, and it was wonderful and delightful. The scenery is spectacular of the coast and the great fields of crops growing.  It is a day long or night long, depending on which direction but you will love it.