How was the train trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco?

Question

Was it a good trip?

Would you recommend doing it round trip for a vacation (versus driving)?

Answer 1

I've heard it's a beautiful ride right along the coast, and they recently refurbished it with a kids' arcade and flat-screen TVs and they now have seat-side meal service as well.

The drawbacks are that it's long (11 hours) and often late.  So it's not really an efficient form of transportation if you just want to get from point A to point B.  If you just want to relax and have a good time, kind of like a cruise, then it's great.

Answer 2

I'm not sure.

Answer 3

Last year, we took the train from Santa Barbara to SF.  The train route ended in San Jose or Oakland (can't recall), and the train fare included the bus ride into the City.  It took about 10 or so hours.  Some beautiful coastal views, relaxing, good eats in the dining car (reservations for dinner are recommended).  We loved it.

This year, just three weeks ago, we drove from Santa Barbara to SF.  It took 5.5 hours (straight shot on 101).  The drive takes you through hugh vineyards and farm country.  Not stressful.

As a tip, parking your car in SF is very expensive.  Our hotel charged $130.00 for three days in their parking garage.  You don't need a car while there. We never used it.  Transportation - trolleys, buses, taxis, your feet, are accessible and convenient.

Overall, taking the round trip train takes 2 days travel time.  Driving affords you more time to spend in SF and doesn't adhere you to a schedule.

Have a great one.

Answer 4

Long!

Unfortunately, the Coast Starlight is routinely 4 hours late. I have been on it when it was 9 hours late, just LA to Oakland. And only running once a day, it's really a problem if you're on a schedule.

On the other hand, if your schedule is loose, it can be a nice trip.