I'm interested in taking an excursion train heading west from Chicago. Can anyone give me some hints about "do & don't"?
HFR3929--I don't know much about the train situation in Chicago these days, other than there is a lot to chose from-- Metra, the loop, Amtrak. Maybe someone here on the board who lives in Chicago can help. As far as do's and dont's, I know one for sure. If you are traveling Amtrak, DON'T plan on being on time, just about anywhere in the west. Take a look at Amtrak's website Amrtrak Home On the other hand, if you are looking for steam or tourist railroads west of Chicago, I suggest you buy the latest Railfan & Railroad, or Trains magazines, and look in their calendar of events. There is a lot of that stuff going on in the US, you just have to be made aware of where and when, and those magazines are a good source. As a for instance, take a look at what I just published as a new topic on this forum. Sometimes we hear about this stuff after the fact. GRRRRRR.
Thanks. I'm well aware of Amtrak's deficiencies. I mentioned Chicago because I've been under the impression that the trains that pass through the scenic areas of the Rocky Mountains originate there. It seems I recall E Mails pertaining to rail excursions appearing on some of these forums in the past. Meanwhile, I'll look for those magazines.
Many of the rail tour operators advertise in "Trains" magazine. There are also several travel agencies that advertise in "Trains" that specialize in these tours and are aware of trips that do not advertise in "Trains". Be prepared to spend a great deal of money, perhaps ten times what an Amtrak ticket costs per person, but expect luxury not found except on the finest cruise ships or the best hotels. Even at the outrageous prices charged, profitability is very elusive.
