Does anyone know anything about the Empire Builder Train?

Question

I am heading out on the Empire Builder from Chicago to Glacier National Park. I have a roomette. Do you suggest that I get the Digi Player. I have heard that there is a Movie Theater there, but on www.363360.com it says that the movie theater is only on one train so is there or isn't there? How is the food and how much is it on average? How are the bathrooms? And anything else if you know anything tell me it. Thanks

Answer 1

I haven't been on it, but I can tell you some of the history; It is named after the Empire Builder himself, James J Hill, owner of the Great Northern Railway and used to be owned by the G.N. until the 70's hit and they ran out of business, but thanks to Amtrak they resurrected the old Empire Builder and the line hasn't shut down since.

Answer 2

The Movie Theater is only on the Coast Starlight (and even then, only on a good day). However, the lounge car on Superliner trains (which the Empire Builder uses) does show 1-2 movies a day on TVs at the ends of the car, and 1 downstairs.

Take a DigiPlayer if you're easily bored by the natural movie running outside your window.

Food has gotten a little "airline-style" recently but isn't too bad. More than anything it's a social experience to meet others who will be seated at your table. Menus can be found on Amtrak's website.

Bathrooms entirely depend on your fellow travellers and the diligence of the car attendant. Sleeper bathrooms tend to be better than coach bathrooms.

Timekeeping on the EB is better than most other long distance trains.

Answer 3

with amtrak I would bring whatever you can to enjoy the long hours, rather than expect them to provide anything.  bring a good book, bring good food/drink, and something to do, especially when crossing the plains and most of montana.  bathrooms are not sparkling in passanger cars.  look for bears by the rivers when you get into the mountains, quite scenic the last 3-4 hours into glacier.