32+ Hours in a NEW Amtrak Viewliner II Bedroom

[@joelk4751]

About ensuring that you get a new (VLII) sleeper: First off, nothing is guaranteed. Amtrak occasionally substitutes a VLI for a VLII, or vice versa. Second, the other FL train, the Silver Meteor, is currently suspended, and its cars have been added to the Silver Star. As Jeb said, the even-numbered cars are the VLII's. But Amtrak is planning to resume service on the Silver Meteor on 10/3//22, at which time the Silver Star will probably go back to its normal consist of just 2 sleepers. Prior to the Meteor's suspension, the Star's sleeper ending in 10 was the VLl, and the new VLII was the car ending in 11, which is opposite of what they are currently. We won't know until 10/3 which car or cars will be VLII's after that date.

[@amaan-aliladak]

Thanks for the info

[@surrealchemist]

I found a thread on an Amtrak forum that had up to date info. Good thing about trains is there are a lot of rail fans paying attention to the details.

[@maryprochilo4498]

What's VLI and VLII?

[@joelk4751]

@@maryprochilo4498 VL stands for Viewliner, which is the name of Amtrak's single-level sleeping cars, dining cars, and baggage cars. VLI is Viewliner One, the first order of sleepers that were built in the 1990's. VL II is Viewliner Two, built in the 2010's thru 2021. The VL I & VL II sleepers have similar layouts but have some differences, like the VL II's not having a toilet in Roomettes.

[@maryprochilo4498]

@@joelk4751 thanks for your reply!

[@macman2500]

I love bringing my radio scanner and headphones when riding Amtrak long distance. Gives you a little more insight into what's going on when the train is just sitting there due to a delay. You also hear about track work and traffic ahead from the dispatchers. Bonus, you get to hear your conductors and engineers make fun of each other when one Amtrak passes another. 😂

[@suspicionbridge]

Ooh that sounds fun. I could imagine listening to pilots talking to ATC during the flight, way better than any IFE

[@JoshDoesTravel]

@VinnyT How do you know what frequencies to use?

[@Anolaana]

Oh no, the telegram spam n' scam bot showed up

[@pdxjets501]

@@JoshDoesTravel if you look up the name of the subdivision you’re traveling along, there are many website that’ll get you that info, just have to know landmarks along the route

[@Grahamrobinsonvt802]

any good jokes

[@DailySource]

I have done the car train between DC and Florida twice and both times it was excellent. It was so much better than driving… It was definitely worth it. It was also faster because during the eight hours that I slept, we covered a ton of ground. During the time I was awake, I got a bunch of work done, I saw some nice sites and scenery out the window and ate delicious food including a very tasty steak. I would love to see Amtrak do more car trains to other parts of the country, and I would like to see Amtrak train service expanded in general, especially more high-speed trains. When I lived in Boston, I took the high speed Acela to New York and back several times and it was great. I was able to easily park my car and walk about four minutes through a parking lot then board the train. I loved not having to arrive to an airport 90 minutes before takeoff … And that saved me a lot of time. I also loved arriving in Manhattan and not having to take a taxi or Uber from an airport. I find it between hard and impossible to get work done on an airplane with the super cramped seats, Not much space for a laptop and a person 1 inch from me etc. I got far more work done on an Amtrak train, plus the scenery is nice, plus the spaciousness and legroom is great, plus I love having the freedom to get up and walk around. Everything about it is better.

[@hermanuslemmer1695]

I would definitely consider doing it between L.A. or San Francisco and Seattle.

[@thatguy7085]

That would have been my first guess

[@bettiethompson5039]

No

[@Joesolo13]

@@bettiethompson5039 YES

[@K.D-1109]

Yeah the Auto Train is a very convenient way to get between D.C/Maryland/Virginia and Florida 👍

[@miketackabery7521]

You are absolutely right. I used to take a book on the train but never cracked it open. I sit in my roomette, look out the window, and feel my blood pressure drop. It's a marvelous surprise. Every time! Just so you know, I'm from Alaska and usually go to Southern California for a vacation once a year. Coast Starlight Seattle to LA & back. Wonderful!

[@christophercole8114]

My brother-in-law is a mechanical engineer with Alstom, which is working in conjunction with Amtrak to help build the new fleet of Acela engines. Nice to see you're enjoying some of the work he's done.

[@loricarroll5277]

First time I took Amtrak was the Auto Train, and I was hooked!! I was in the military, transferring out of South Florida to Staten Island. My parents lived near Sanford, so this was great for me! I was traveling in the dead of winter, so took a lot of interstate driving stress off me (and my car!). I got a sleeper, and it was WONDERFUL!! I had already eaten before boarding, so all I needed that evening was a little snack. I arrived in Lorton the next morning fully rested, and ready to take on the day, jumping onto I-95 enroute to my new home! I highly recommend it to anyone making the trek north or southbound who wants to take their car with them. I currently live between Deland and Sanford FL. I have used Amtrak often to travel to Tampa. So relaxing, far better than fighting I-4 to get to the other side of the state. The seats in coach are comfortable, and the leg room is great. For those departing Sanford... LOCAL PRO TIP----- The city of Sanford operates a free trolley to take you into old downtown Sanford (loads of great local restaurants to choose from, but I tend to favor long time favorites like Hollarbach's Willow Tree Inn, The Colonial Room, Zorba's and Christo's. Drop off your vehicle as early as you can if you have kiddos, and take advantage of a trolley ride to the Sanford Zoo (psssst.... they have ziplines!). If you want to adventure out a little further, get off the trolley at the Sanford SunRail station (literally about 1.5 miles from the Amtrak station) and check out places like Winter Park (SunRail shares stations with Amtrak in Winter Park, Orlando (Orlando Health station) and Kissimmee). Winter Park has a lovely area for shopping and dining, and it starts right across the street from the station... and right down the street is the Morse Museum (home to the most expansive collection of Tiffany glass!). The AdventHealth station is home to the Orlando Science Center. Looking for great BBQ? Check out Big John's Rockin' BBQ... literally just across the tracks from the Kissimmee Amtrak station, and to the right. I'm truly looking forward to Brightline's second phase to open up next year from South Florida to Orlando (the new intermodal station at Orlando International Airport is ready to go, and just awaiting SunRail and Brightline trains to make travel here in the Sunshine State more seamless!) Brightline currently operates between Miami and West Palm Beach... after the Orlando extension opens, they will be extending service to Tampa and Jacksonville. The terminals are sleek and modern, have all the amenities you could possibly want, and beautiful waiting rooms. The trains are sharp looking, and move at a higher rate of speed than Amtrak . If you have the opportunity, check it out!

[@loricarroll5277]

@snooze12 thank you... it's an honor and a privilege to serve!

[@katharinelockhart2637]

My grandmother took me on my first train trip from Los Angeles to Tacoma right after the Space Needle was built. I remember every moment of that trip. It is my favorite memory.

[@jamesk370]

I'm glad your Mrs. talked you into taking a train trip. Your train travels have become the videos I look forward to the most.

[@pennyamyot4215]

Me too!

[@The4905]

I have to say, Jeb Brooks is the Bob Ross of trip reports!

[@GreenerGrass]

I’ll take it! 🤣

[@danadamczyk3295]

There’s a happy little food car over there (in my Bob Ross voice)

[@1lapmagic]

Bob Ross was comforting. People who fake smile nonstop like this unnerve me

[@The4905]

@@1lapmagic well to each their own I guess 🤷‍♂

[@douglaskilmer8830]

Jeb and Susan a refuge from the World. Thank you two for the relief.......Cheers!

[@dwdw90]

A lot of people felt the same way as you during the pandemic but you can be sure that your videos helped a LOT of people get through some tough times so please keep making them 🙂

[@percismehta8959]

I beleive that a train journey is no doubt one of the most romantic gift a man can present to his Beloved.

[@hockey1freak]

Until you get the microwave Amtrak food lol

[@williammodlin2621]

Jeb, the best thing about your videos is how excited you are to experience these journeys and, even more, to SHARE them with us. Keep journeying!

[@monocline9430]

This December I decided to do a solo trip for my birthday. Gonna do a full circuit, going from Omaha to Sacramento, then Sacramento to Portland, then Portland to Chicago, then finally back home. I've been rewatching all your amtrak videos in anticipation!

[@caliphax70]

As a Brit, I'm quite jealous of the long train journey's you guys get to take. The best I can get is to get on the caledonian sleeper here in London up to Edinbrugh and as the name says it's not nescessarily the best one for seeing the country! Would love to see you come over to Europe to try out some of our trips you can do by train!

[@GreenerGrass]

Caledonian Sleeper video coming soon!

[@caliphax70]

@@GreenerGrass :O :D

[@egpx]

The Caledonian Sleeper is a mixed bag. Despite the new rolling stock it’s not a great ride and there’s lots of creaks and groans. I didn’t find it conducive to a good night’s sleep. However, take the sleeper from London to Fort William and, if you manage to get some sleep, waking up to find yourself on the West Highland Line north of Glasgow is fantastic. I had breakfast on a snow covered Rannoch Moor, mesmerised by the view.

[@planningandtravelling]

@@egpx the Night Riviera to Penzance is a more comfortable journey and the interiors are better designed, but nothing compares to the morning view on the Caledonian route towards Fort William.

[@egpx]

@@planningandtravelling yes, I’m going to have to do the Night Riviera some day. Noel Philips did a video on it a few months ago, as a sleeper it looks preferable to the Caledonian Sleeper effort.

[@wayneschaffer8305]

I'm so glad KZbin brought me to your channel. I'm also kind of bummed at the same time. I'll never be able to watch anyone else's reviews of planes and trains. The way you narrate and describe things is so genuine. We hear the excitement and joy in your voice. Top notch video quality and music selection.

[@side-fish]

It's actually nice that you decided to cover trains. I like your airline reviews, but my most favorite video in this channel is the luxury train you took in the Andes.

[@davidoickle1778]

Me too. I haven't actually watched his plane videos. Perhaps I should!

[@dr.a.995]

No matter what or where, you express the fresh-eyed wonder of a novice rail rider, which I know you aren’t. Thanks for the enthusiasm!

[@Paul_Lucas]

Thanks for the shout out Jeb and I'm so glad my videos helped you get back up and out there! Glad you enjoyed the Silver Star! Question is...did I like it as much on the northbound trip just a couple of days later? 😀

[@GreenerGrass]

Can’t wait to find out!!

[@mrbpdx]

Can’t wait until the video!

[@margaretanncarno4014]

Hi Jeb, I understand completely about the calmness feeling traveling on a train. While you never know what will happen ( delays) you just need to sit back as say “oh well” as opposed to flying issues, where you are surrounded by people upset, nervous and sometimes yelling.

[@TheRareVideosXL]

Train travel is so underrated. Great video as always. Keep it up.

[@tfries72]

It is awesome but it is slow as heck in the US. If it was faster it would be my go to way of traveling.

[@dlagrua]

We have traveled coast to coast and North to South many times if only to escape the filthy crowded airports where they treat you like an animal. Train travel is relaxing but obviously not fast. A few years back our trip Philadelphia to Seattle took three days but it was so pleasant that we found it pleasurable. We did opt for a bedroom both ways and slept and dined on the train. It is very expensive but for us its worth it.

[@deekang6244]

And so expensive

[@janenejones2036]

I love that … ‘rail zone’! I have experienced that many times. I’ve always chalked it up to the fact that you are pretty much cocooned and can’t really deal with the busyness and everyday problems of home. The gentle rocking movement lulls you into a very relaxed state.

[@nathanjiang100]

fun fact, P42DC #207, the one leading your train, was the last P42 delivered to Amtrak in 2001 completing the order of 207 locomotives which are starting to be replaced by the new ALC-42s. also every time you post one of these videos it always makes me want to take a true overnight Amtrak train. I've taken countless Northeast Regionals and other Northeast Corridor trains, but the longest train I've taken was 15 hours on the Palmetto, which covers much of the same route as the Silver Meteor, but does not offer sleeper or diner accommodations.

[@stenbak88]

I can’t believe I just watched the whole video. It’s my first time watching and I was stuck here bc it was so enjoyable

[@GreenerGrass]

Thanks so very much for watching!!

[@verne5024]

Jeb, I really enjoy your videos, especially involving Amtrak trains. I'm a railfan who has been riding trains since 1958. I was a frequent rider of the Silver Star, over its entire route, as well as other Florida trains, back in the 1970's. I'm glad you had a good experience, but i wish you could have ridden this train back then. Amtrak once ran several trains over this route, both to Miami and Tampa and St Petersburg. Before April 30,1971, Seaboard Coast Line RR ran a superior passenger train operation between the Northeast and Florida. I have a lot of neat memories of riding this train out of Alexandria, Fredericksburg, Richmond, Raleigh and several Florida stops. Thanks for bringing back a lot of pleasant memories to me of this route, from all the way from New York down to Miami. My brother lives in Sebring,FL, one of the stops of the Silver Star. Thanks for this terrific video, very well done! - Verne Brummel, Madison,WI

[@mycb1993]

My father was an engineer for the Coastline RR . He would take the train from Savannah to Jacksonville routinely. My childhood was filled with RR trips! This was very nostalgic for me🚞♥️

[@toymaster5464]

Just wanted to mention that your comments wether bad or good, makes these trips worth watching and (in the future) the actual adventure!

[@Bobmcjoepants]

Idk what you mean for certain by bad comments, but if you mean criticism* then that should always be important because the good, the bad and the ugly is important to know before you spend a lot of money on something. As well, as it can be used to improve *I'm not trying to be rude, I genuinely don't understand what you mean

[@lisaf4585]

We rode on the AutoTrain last month from Lorton, VA to Sanford, FL and had sit down meals for dinner and breakfast. The dinner was FABULOUS!! Steak cooked to order with a green salad, green beans and baked potato, and salmon with green salad, quinoa and edamame and green beans. We got a bedroom cabin and it was fabulous. Our first time on a train!! We loved it. We were going to Florida for vacation. Definitely going to suggest this to my husband for an idea for a trip to Florida going further South than our normal Clearwater area. Thank you!!

[@JackieDannenberg]

With all the cancelled flights right now, Amtrak maybe the best way to go. Thanks for a great video.

[@ashersharon7488]

Until they decide to remove your sleeper car for your return trip and offer zero solutions because coach is sold out. Yes, that is what happened this past Thanksgiving. Thankfully I was able to get a coach plane ticket home! My first experience with Amtrak was not great as a result.

[@JackieDannenberg]

@@ashersharon7488 That’s sad. Probably more likely during holidays. I’ve never heard of that. Wow !

[@trudyedwards5825]

I live in North Carolina and my daughter in law and grandson rode Amtrex to Philadelphia and then rented a car an drive to Altoona PA...my grandson is now a junior at Penn. State where he is going to be a Amtrex engineer...he dearly lives trains...we had a awesome time on the train and we had tge best steak I have ever had in my life...I would ride it again HAD A BLAST...THANKS FOR SHARING FROM NORTH CAROLINA....ENJOY

[@jstoney6471]

Wife & I have taken the AutoTrain 3 times and found it to be a pleasant way to avoid the long drive. In St Augustine full time now but will be taking the Silver Service in December to DC and NYC to visit family.

[@marleneblack7606]

I loved seeing this. I took an Amtrak a "long " time ago . We chose a roomette for our 1st trip on a train. Traveled to Fort Lauderdale to visit my best friend . Long delays on way home...quite an experience!

[@stacydelgado3285]

My parents have done the Auto Train several times. They really like it. They usually get a roomette for that trip. It tends to get delayed though because, as you know, Amtrak uses the freight rail tracks outside of the BOS-WAS corridor.

[@StephanieBrigham-Brock]

You are so positive and delightful. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us.

[@jonathankleinow2073]

I just marvel at the fact that you manage to produce a video each week like this. Last week, the Faroe Islands, this week a train trip down the East Coast... I don't think anyone would blame you if next week's video was just "A Little Over an Hour from Greensboro to Atlanta in Delta Comfort+. It Was Fine."

[@GreenerGrass]

Thanks for noticing! The pressure to create is at once challenging and fulfilling! I feel so fortunate to get to do this. More to come!!

[@janwight9554]

Great!

[@fleishum]

I've been on the Auto Train several times. I greatly appreciate not having to drive I-95. The experience once on board is great as there are no stops between Lorton, VA and Sanford, FL. It's great to have your car and store as much as you can in it during travel. The terminals on each end are a little more on the minimal side so it's important to be flexible and prepared. I will take the Auto Train again at the next opportunity.

[@joanphilbin8210]

I have used Amtrak several times and always opt for the sleeper car. It is great since the diner is part of the package, and the food was always top notch, and since I am a vegetarian, I was really pleased with the options available to me. Really worth the price. I recommend it to anyone who wants to enjoy the trips.

[@cshubs]

I took the Empire Builder to Portland OR. It was a grand experience I'll always remember! The best part was watching the sun rise over the Columbia River as we raced along the north shore. The river is about a mile across there. But I also remember Glacier Natl Park.

[@mindlessdroid3630]

We have done the Auto train several times pre pandemic and loved it. Being able to have your car is a big plus. You can pack whatever you want and don't have to worry about the stuff you might want to bring home. Also watching the loading process is fascinating. The only drawback is there are no stretch breaks although you leave at 4 and get in in the morning.

[@stloucat]

how much does it cost for the car?

[@mindlessdroid3630]

@@stloucat it's been ten years (wow can't believe it's been that long ) so I don't remember I think it was a couple of hundred.

[@polivepea]

​@@stloucatit's about $500 extra to transport your car.

[@FraserAtSea]

This accommodation looks excellent considering it's on a train - thanks for sharing this with us!

[@Cassie4486]

What I love about taking Amtrak? You go through areas throughout the entire United States that has not been touched by man. No buildings, no towns, all open untouched land. Beauty at its best!

[@davidpearson3304]

They have been “touched by man”…how do you think the tracks got there and how do you think they are maintained

[@jeffkramer9511]

You're content is incredibly good. Having been in the Media for 20+ years with CBS Radio, I honestly can say your posts are addictive and I always watch all the way through. Great job and all the best!

[@STOCathain]

I took the Auto Train northbound from Florida to Virginia at the beginning of August. Great service! They use superliners on it and they restarted the traditional dining on board. Well worth the trip and expense.

[@FanRailer]

It’s also nice if you want to utilize your own vehicle as opposed to renting when you get to the other end of the line.

[@STOCathain]

I would like to see Amtrak expand Auto Train service elsewhere in the country. Say having one Auto Train going from the East Coast to the Midwest (DC-Chicago say). That way if you wanted to drive from one region to the other you could take the train most of the way and drive from its terminus to your final destination.

[@squalli1297]

Does Amtrak sell tickets to passengers wanting to ride the AutoTrain without an auto?

[@STOCathain]

No, you have to have a car booked as well.

[@STOCathain]

Or a motorcycle

[@dhgast4198]

My father was a passenger trainman, so I grew up riding the rails. There is little that is more relaxing than travel by train!

[@JoshDoesTravel]

Jeb, Your reflections on Amtrak is similar to my own experience. I too wanted to travel, and didn’t feel comfortable flying, so looked to the train as an alternative means of travel. I ended up booking a cross country trip to see Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Glacier National Park, and it was just what I needed to settle my travel itch. I’m so glad I did that trip when I did, since I got to experience relatively calm parks, and enjoy my favorite mode of transportation. I’m elated that you’ve become KZbin’s most famous train vlogger, and can’t wait to see more train related content from you in the future

[@richardtaylor9798]

I love train travel especially when going cross country!! When I took the family from LA to MPLS was about 30-ish years ago we booked a roomette for the kids and a handicap room for my wife and I. The accommodations weren’t as luxurious as the new Acela but was comfortable. The food was also included with the rooms. While the menu was limited to about five options for dinner everything was cooked and it was all excellent!! You nailed it by saying it was a totally relaxing experience. As soon as I stepped onto the train all stress vanished. I didn’t have to stop for gas and the need for bathroom stops,feed the family or find a hotel or motel!! A truly great trip!!!Empire Builder going and Southwest Chief returning. Our only rule for the kids was that when the train stopped they DO NOT get off. They met other kids and had a great time playing. We usually saw them when it was time to eat!

[@mrbpdx]

Hey Jeb, another fantastic video! I want to try another long haul train. Preferably The Lake Shore Limited or Cardinal. I really am glad Suzanne talked you into trying Amtrak. It is great!

[@cowboygeologist7772]

Another great video; thanks for posting. I used to ride the Santa Fe passenger train back and forth between Amarillo, TX and Bakersfield, CA a lot as a kid. Love trains.

[@Juliet_Whiskey]

Happy to see more Amtrak content! Covid really did a number on Amtrak, and since most of your Amtrak content is during the pandemic, I'm hoping that your experience gets better and better

[@sakenu16]

Unfortunate that we don’t invest in high speed train due to car and airline lobbyist.

[@donaldvonglitchenberger4108]

@@sakenu16 thank god

[@vincekilloran843]

Just once I would like to see a train leave from a "leg stretching" stop without one of our narrators! Pure gold!

[@thetravelingirishman4372]

Love the bloopers !! It’s totally the behind the scenes of us creators and what we go through. Loved the video as I always love your train adventures.

[@DavidLovesJesus]

Thanks!

[@cmooris]

Already liked the video before watching it because I already know it'll be killer. I'm so happy you're doing more Amtrak videos ❤️ I could watch you and Suzanne on your travels all day 🚅✈️

[@pagefoshee6067]

Yet ANOTHER great revirew - Thak you, jeb. When I think of service, I think Amtrak. I have enjoyed enthusiastic service almost every time I travel by train. After the gaunlet passengers have to deal with at airports, travel by rail is superb.

[@mholtebeck]

Between your videos, Downie Live, Noel Phillips, and Josh Cahill, I was inspired to take the train from Oakland to Portland, which was the 2nd overnight train I. The first one was City of New Orleans on coach, and then I went Quebec to New York on coach. Both with good- but I never truly entered the Trainzone until I had a roomette from Oakland to Portland. You just go with it. I had so much fun, i took the train from Oakland to Denver, hoping to see the Rockies. Instead we had breakfast over the great salt flats and didn't get to Glenwood Springs until 8pm. We got to Denver at 2am (8 hours late). I would say I didn't care- but I did, but instead I got to enjoy a part of this country that I had been to in a car- but a train is just so much better. Pre-pandemic I figured out how to go around the world from Oakland (my home) to Oakland with a flight from St. Johns to London and Narita to Seattle

[@daveedmonds9717]

I just booked my trip yesterday and I’ve taken this train 30 plus years ago. I booked a Bedroom and I can’t wait for this

[@mholtebeck]

@@daveedmonds9717 which train are you taking? It's fun.

[@Bus4025]

Jeff, your videos are spot- on! Some of the members of my family are naysayers. Now I have a true weapon to show how much fun it is to "fly by train". Being a foamer, you bring the passion out in training travel. It IS my airplane (Zephyr and Coast Starlight). Keep up the AWESOME work and fantastic videos.

[@zackschwab5036]

Great video! My wife and I went on the auto train on our move from Orlando to Pittsburgh last year! We had both always wanted to go on an overnight train trip, and this achieved that as well as being functional and eliminating hours behind the wheel. We were in a roomette and it was an enjoyable experience. Everyone was very friendly, the food wasn’t bad, and we enjoyed the scenery.

[@tammypearson4500]

I love Amtrak ❤️ Was able to travel through Moynihan Station very recently. Such a beautiful train station, with many small businesses to see.

[@HotVoodooWitch]

Having to walk outdoors to access the new station isn't fun. It used to be that you entered Penn Station on Seventh Ave. and remained indoors to get to Amtrak, which was a hop, skip, and a jump. You're now subject to the elements, which includes a rather unsavory area. A very stupid move on both Amtrak's and NYC's parts.

[@spuds6423]

@@HotVoodooWitch The whole city is becoming unsavory, and I hail from there. The train hall was a monument to some politicians egoes. The tried to emulate the grandeur of the former Penn Station that was torn down in the 1960's. Grand Central almost suffered the same fate had Jackie Onassis not helped lead a concerted effort to save it. Unfortunately, GCT is being used as a dumping ground for homeless because an unsavory administration is incompetent after a lot of taxpayer's Money went into restoring the facility.

[@Joesolo13]

@@HotVoodooWitch You don't have too, but it is the fastest and more direct route. If you go into Penn Station and through the right tunnels, you can follow the signs for LIRR to get to Moynihan. But it's not terribly intuitive and I do usually just got to the surface and travel across the street.

[@6lemans10]

Thanks for giving Richmond, VA some love!😎

[@KyNYC212]

I LOVE Amtrak...take it on my trips from NYC to Nebraska and Colorado. Now I'm in Lincoln, NE, looking into heading back to NYC. All my trips have been in Coach but I hope to get a sleeper this time! Thanks for the video!

[@aaronh4026]

Hey Jeb, I absolutely love your videos, so relaxing and interesting. Reminds me of when I took the trip from Houston - Los Angeles on amtrak. Really beautiful trip.

[@benmaxwell4633]

Jeb, I always enjoy your videos highlighting the railway industry. I am particularly impressed with your enthusiasm for this trip and for the number of smiles you shared. Thank you so much. Looking forward to your next episode!

[@BigKy-Mart]

I just recently was on my very first Amtrak trip on the Lincoln Service. I was heading to Southern Illinois for work, and mentioned to my boss that I'll get there faster (and cheaper!) than if I had flown to St. Louis and gotten an Uber to where I was going. She was quick to agree. I flew into Chicago Midway on Southwest, after my original flight on American was cancelled due to weather the previous evening. My original plane was not able to leave Chicago to head to Cleveland to get us in the morning. Thankfully, the Southwest flight wasn't much more expensive, but it did mean that I was there over an hour and a half sooner than expected, and so for safety, I decided to book an Uber into the city instead of riding the rails. Once at Union Station, I asked the Metropolitan Lounge if they had Day Passes. I believe this is the only lounge that does. $35, for a whole day, or in my case, two and a half hours, I believe was worth it. I was able to watch KZbin in 1080p, grab some okay breakfast. Honestly, the food selection is quite bad, you will go hungry if you're needing something to eat. There are other places available in Union Station, but I wasn't going to leave just to get a bit more food. It's enough to sustain you for a couple of hours. They also have a shower inside the lounge, just ask the attendant, they'll hold your ID, give you a keycard and towels, and then you're all set. Very spacious, and after already having to run around for a couple of hours earlier in the day, it felt great to freshen up. A bit before 9:00 AM, for a 9:30 departure, the lounge attendant gave us the boarding call. Headed through the doors, through the labyrinth to where we would be boarding. You do stand around for about 15 minutes or so before you do actually board. I was in coach, closest to the cafe car. The seat was decently comfortable, however I was unable to figure out how to recline the seat, and I tried just about everything! Legroom was comparable to domestic first, and I was lucky enough to not get a seat mate, so two seats to myself. You do get a full-sized tray table, big enough for most laptops, and a full meal right at your seat. I was on-board for right around 4 hours. I purchased lunch around 11AM. It was the old menu, they were out of the pizza, so I chose the Turkey & Swiss sandwich. It was quite good, and very filling. Just don't look at the sodium content and you'll be happy! I did, and was shocked. Back to the train car, this was one of the new Venture coaches. Bathroom was very large, and easy to get around it. The aisles are tight, but still bigger than a plane aisle. Finally, wifi... it was spotty to say the least. I thought that they had been improved on the Venture coaches, but maybe it just wasn't my day. I would have to cycle my phone from wifi to data occasionally to get things to work. I didn't try streaming, like Simply Railway did, on his trip of the Lincoln Service. I'd love to take Amtrak again, but around here it arrives at such late hours, or takes too long, that it'll be difficult to convince my boss unless it's going where I need it to faster than flying.

[@lswest48]

Aww, glad I watched! The park just outside the train station in Winter Park is where my wife and I were engaged! There’s a bench right by the station that we lovingly call ours. Thank you for that brief glimpse and sweet moment.

[@mbbuckeyes8386]

I was on the auto train in January 22 headed from Lorton to Sanford. I had a roomette and it was a great trip. Friendly staff. Vehicle was off loaded within 20 minutes but paid extra for that convenience Only negative - passed thru Ashland VA just after 5pm and then it was dark and you could not see the other towns the train went thru. I’d do it again only this time in late March or April.

[@allangoodfriend480]

I love your watches as well as your commentary and humor. Keep leading the good life!

[@ChrisHockman]

Similarly to Paul for you. You have inspired me to do a long distance train. My parents arrive on the American leg of their retirement round the world Trip to Chicago so we’re taking the Texas Eagle back home to San Antonio with them. Being originally from Australia I’m used to trains and love them but excited for a long distance ride

[@lindahaydell5560]

So glad to watch these vids, I get a chance to see our beautiful country and parts of it I would never get a chance to see otherwise.thanks so much because I'm " riding the rails" through your travels!

[@DFrankie301]

Hey Jen! Another great video. I took the AutoTrain from FL to VA & back again in July. Although my car was about the 15th car on the train, it was the 2nd last one (of about 380 cars) off the train in VA…..took 2 hours to get my car!! Perhaps the Priority charge might be worth it. Train travel is very relaxing, & the service on board was great! However, I didn’t sleep nearly as well as you did. I nearly fell out of the top roommette bunk 4 times, as I grabbed for the safety strap! That said, I’m already planning my next Auto Train trip, this time in a bedroom….a great way to avoid the stress of driving I-95. Can’t wait to see your review of the Auto Train, when you make the trip.

[@mbbuckeyes8386]

I was on the auto train in January and paid for priority off loading and I had my vehicle in about 20 minutes after stepping off the train. It was well work the cost which I think was $60.

[@jimbernard71]

Thank you for being so positive and politely criticizing areas that need improvement!!! Love your channel as well as Amtrak... Rail travel needs to improve in AMERICA and you are a huge help to leading people in this direction👍👍🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲

[@Jasonb203]

I always love your Amtrak videos. I became a huge fan after a 14 hour train ride to Chicago. I’m hoping that one day you check out the Capital Limited. That’s got some beautiful scenery to it as well.

[@HotVoodooWitch]

I was considering taking the train from Detroit to Cleveland. NINE HOURS. Ah, well.

[@MissEvv77]

I live in New Jersey, and I've taken that trip to Miami several times: sometimes in a sleeper and lately, a few times in the coach section. I haven't flown in over 30 years; I only travel using Amtrak. This country is BEAUTIFUL! You don't see it while flying or even driving because going from state to state, you're on a highway. Amrraks goes through farmland , rural, deserts, urban, etc. The sleepers are getting more expensive; I think if the prices go down, more people would take advantage of the sleeper experience. Thank you for sharing one of my favorite routes. You have a new subscriber.

[@TimThatTrainGuy]

im taking the silver meteor up north in November my family thinks im crazy because it take so long but i just find the train so much more relaxing than flying and it gets me alot closer to my relatives than flying

[@luruperchausse10]

Love traveling by train and admiring the scenery while not having a care in the world. Nothing like it! Enjoyed your video.

[@nateye2450]

Hey Jeb, I would love to see you try via rails two flagship trains. There’s the ocean (Halifax to Montreal) and The Canadian (Toronto to Vancouver). Just a suggestion for the future👍

[@jennabells7440]

Same! I also wouldn't mind seeing a Phenix to Seattle one (or vise versa lol)!

[@SD45-ET44AC]

Let us know when you are headed coast to coast.

[@daisyswimmer7728]

@@jennabells7440 No passenger trains service Phoenix, unfortunately. Tucson is the closest terminal, I think.

[@jennabells7440]

@@daisyswimmer7728 Oh, I just meant period 😅. I would love to take a train ride along the west coast someday. Until then, I'd be down to watch a video he makes about it.

[@mrbpdx]

I am with Nate on this. I hear it is a fantastic journey.

[@patrickandrews7893]

I LOVE that you tagged the chillness of a TRAIN THE "TRAIL ZONE" TOTALLY ACCURATE!!!!!😉😉😉

[@andersonfamily]

My family of 5 did the auto train one way to Orlando in June from Largo to Orlando. Typically this trip is very pricey at least for us but my husband found a great deal back in the winter...we ended up getting 3 roomettes... it was fun for the kids but the nighttime ride was very bumpy and hot and hard to sleep we kept the doors partially open. The food for dinner was really really good 👍 and our attendant was super nice. My only other complaint is the bathroom at the end of the hallway was very tiny.

[@hllymchll]

my husband and I took a cross country trip with our then 1 year old. the first night was fine but when we switched train routes to the cardinal the nighttime ride was insanely bumpy and fast. we thought we'd get thrown on the floor and or fall off the tracks. our baby somehow loved it and slept the whole time, so that's all that mattered lol

[@daniellucas1494]

I am soon to make one of these trips - been on my bucket list for a long while. Your videos have certainly taught me a lot. I will binge watch a few before my first trip. I am waiting for everything to go back to normal before I make the trip - and the Silver Star is the train I will experience first - as I live about 45 miles out from Savannah. Keep them coming and safe travels!

[@ryanlittleton5615]

I'd love to see Amtrak add more Auto Train destinations. Like maybe to the West Coast perhaps?

[@anitrain]

A West coast autotrain would be so useful. Bay area to LA/OC

[@mikecondon9576]

Thanks for another entertaining production. Jeb, I like how you present your productions, always putting a positive into the adventure makes it great viewing. I look forward to seeing many more adventures.

[@raegansnaddon]

What was really surprising was the whole locomotive had to be swapped out to change from electric to diesel, In the UK on the Highland main line the power mode has to be switched and it can be done while moving without any locomotive swaps!

[@TheMusicalElitist]

Only on some trains.

[@techmage89]

Amtrak only has a few locomotives that can run on both diesel and electric power right now. There's plans to buy more, but it hasn't happened yet, so long-distance trains still have to swap.

[@InCaseYouGetFamousPodcast]

These amtrak contents are great! Glad they keep coming

[@Susan-cu6ne]

Just last week, my husband and I completed travel from Seattle to Emeryville, CA on Amtrak's Coastal Starlight, and I have to say, although we probably paid the same amount of money for our tickets, your experience appears to have been markedly different. We, too, booked a bedroom, but while our accommodations basically resembled yours, ours were much older and lacked the modern amenities, i.e., more outlets, storage space, and I think, a slightly larger lower bed. Everything in the cabin was worn, worn, worn. The folding chair was broken, not badly enough that one couldn't sit in it, but just enough that it wasn't really comfortable. The water pressure in the sink was such that it couldn't be used unless one wanted to be sprayed down, which we didn't. Also, I think your cheery morning demeanor may have been somewhat dimmed if you had to share the bedroom with a companion. When you are two, someone has to sleep in that considerably shorter top bunk and negotiating that TINY ladder from that low-ceiling space in the middle of the night is no fun. I have traveled on Amtrak in the past and my main complaint is always the same: inconsistency in the customer experience. If you don't know to call Amtrak prior to traveling and ask to be assigned to one of the newer coaches, they will put you wherever they like and it won't be like the videos you see on KZbin. BTW, the cost of our two tickets for one night, meals included, was $1200

[@diva70smusic]

Thank you Mr. Brooks for this video. You have given me another action item on my bucket list. Great video!! 👍🏽

[@tedharrison4522]

Love your videos, especially your Amtrak adventures. Amtrak is a great public service but if you're looking for a good comparison, have you thought about a trip north? VIA Rail's "The Canadian" is an iconic 4 day transcontinental train journey from Toronto to Vancouver complete with 5 star meals and historic dome cars. Should definitely be a bucket list trip for any fan of rail travel!

[@carsontardy]

Your pleasant demeanor and positive attitude is so refreshing!!,, Keep up the excellent work!!!!

[@garymathena2125]

The one thing I find totally disturbing about Moynahan station is there are NO chairs or benches to sit on, I know why they did it, but for people who cannot stand for long periods, I find this troubling.

[@juliebedford454]

@garymathena2125 - The lack of benches / seating in Moynihan Train Hall is meant to be a deterrent to homeless people.

[@molliedash6126]

It's inhumane. Coupled with the relentless 5g ads on those mammoth screens.

[@bishopweis]

There is seating for tkt-ed passengers! You enter behind that flower booth.

[@cynthiabobst8794]

I have completed this journey 4 times. Love it! Any one who asks you about this. Tell them to take the trip!

[@DestinationFawked]

Now that I have taken Amtrak across the USA last month I can say every KZbinr who gives Amtrak a positive rating is smoking the good stuff. Not a single reviewer has ever mentioned how you will be tossed around like a rag doll when your trying to sleep because the tracks are so horrific or that you are going to be delayed no matter what. They fail to mention how gross the bathrooms are because the train is rocking and nobody can hit the toilet bowl when taking a pee. Worst trip my family has ever taken, the newer rooms are not going to make the tracks better or Amtrak any less delayed. Only positive was the staff was friendly until we didn't make any planned smoke break stops because we were so delayed which caused the people in coach to riot and remove the emergency windows so they could smoke. The smell of cigarettes and weed even made it's way into the sleeper car we were in as a result. Oh and the grill was broken so no steaks and everything was microwave food. Keep up the videos Jeb, my wife and I have watched all of your videos and a lot of trips we have taken were because we watched you take them.

[@zebrashark23]

I've had a couple of trips like that as well. My last trip had a backed up toilet on our sleeper and the entire car smelled like you know what the whole journey.

[@BenHodgeThemeParkEndeavor]

I just love your videos, I did the Coast Starlight from L.A Union Station to Tacoma, Washington in coach, it was a 37 hour adventure, I want to do it again but next time I'll upgrade to the bedroom.

[@maxepstein4910]

For those of you who are wondering, Jeb's explanation of how to get the new rooms are at 17:47

[@LynnRedwine800]

I absolutely LOVE travelling by Amtrak. Thank you so much for sharing your BEAUTIFUL journey with us. 👍🏽👍🏽

[@ZEZERBING]

Ive been to Chicago and just got back from Washington. a lot of homeless people begging for money in the station. Is Amtrak addressing this?

[@carolynhill5938]

My partner and I traveled from Moynihan train hall (this station is AMAZING in person!) to Hartford Connecticut in August. It was such a lovely and relaxing trip. We were in coach and it was way more cozy than flying

[@hilove5658]

Should i hit the lottery. I will live aboard via am track with my own custom build studio rail car. With full bath. Sitting area queen bed. Break set area. With satellite tv. Travel usa . anytime i feel the urge. Just travel.

[@mrsh_2329]

I've just found your channel, this is such a great way to see the US when you'r in another country.Thank you. I've subscribed and will certainly be watching more :)

[@JoeR203]

I'd go broke just paying for food in the Cafe Car. Was that $7.25 for just a slice of DiGiorno pizza? I could get the whole pie in a grocery store for $8.

[@mysteepulcine2510]

When you have a sleeper room, meals are included

[@lisareed5669]

Then go to the grocery store. No brainer.

[@soloac3234]

Amazing footage, thank you so much. And your calming voice as always:)

[@stephenn6200]

The NYC train station has no seating because of NYC’s massive homeless/vagrant problem. People will just live in there if you give them a place to sit. This is unfortunately a very common site in predominantly democrat controlled cities throughout the US. I live in Denver and we are dealing with the same issues. Nobody wants to seem to correct the problem regardless of political party.

[@paulne1514]

But they have a first class lounge for sleeper and roomette ticket holders.

[@BeaconODeath]

I've ridden the Amtrak Auto Train several times and I love it! I've gone both directions on it, and I've found it is by far the most convenient and easiest way between the Orlando, FL area and Washington, D.C. If you go for a full bedroom and bring a vehicle, it can drive up the price pretty quickly, but the sales and deals are pretty frequent.