Has anyone traveled with Amtrak?

Question

I'm thinking of taking a train (Amtrak) from Michigan to Chicago...just want to know if anyone is familiar with trains or with the trains on this route. Is it clean and safe??? Any advice or things I should keep an eye on?

Answer 1

It is much cleaner and hospitable than a bus.  You will have more room than on a plane.  You should like it even if you don't purchase first class accomodation.

Answer 2

I just had a trip with Amtrak's Acela Express from NYC-Washington just yesterday.

It's a great train, super safe, very comfortable, and lots of features; there's a quiet car, cafe car (mostly fatty food sold here but still nice), and nice seats and big windows where you can see a lot of scenery of the American countryside.

Amtrak is probably the best American train brand in my opinion; myself has been on MARC, NJ Transit, Washington Metro, New York Subway, and others. I say Amtrak all the way. You won't regret your choice.

Answer 3

The trains on this route are fine.  You have a couple of choices of train...one is the Ann Rutledge.   The other train is the Wolverine.  Both trains are comfortable, and for the most part reliable.  I have been on both, so I know from personal experience.  I hope this has been helpful for you.  Good luck with your travels.

Answer 4

I haven't. And with all the negative comments I come across regarding Amtrak, I'm not sure I really want to.

Answer 5

I haven't taken that specific route, but I have taken the New York to DC trip.  It is pretty easy, but the first time I did it, their loudspeaker wasn't working so I had to look out for the train stations myself or ask a conductor to tell me when mine was coming up.  They are safe, just be aware of your belongings and if you are traveling alone, tell the conductor this is your first train trip and to let you know when your stop is coming up -- even if the announcements are working.  Sometimes it's a good idea to get all your things together ahead of time, especially if a lot of people are getting off/on at once (which I think there will be in Chicago).  Have fun on your trip!

Answer 6

Very safe.  I have taken Amtrak from Virginia to Florida and New York to Philadelphia.

Answer 7

I am very familiar with trains. I haven't taken that specific route, but I have rode on the Empire Builder before. I would definetly say that Amtrak is very clean & safe. I would recomend train travel any time it's possible. Flying is faster, but if you have the time I would definetly say take the train. Plus, you get to see the scenery pass by riding the train, you don't in an airplane.