The CZ is truly Amtrak's greatest long distance train. One good thing to add about the Bus connection is that no matter how late the train is, the bus will wait; the bus is specially for CZ Passengers. Thanks for sharing
What about the opposite, a bus is late? Do the trains wait? Haha. I'd like to take the CZ but need to take an Amtrak bus get to emeryville. I'm nervous I won't make the train!
@@jasminer8455 the trains don't wait so you have to time it well. I'm planning to stay overnight in a hotel near the Emeryville station to catch the Amtrak that leaves early.
@@jasminer8455 I ride the HWY 17 (Santa Cruz, CA) bus a lot, and it does have an announcement that if you have a train connection and you're afraid you're going to miss it, you need to let the driver know. The driver then communicates with the trains at Diridon station (San Jose, CA), and the train SHOULD wait for you...because as a ticketed passenger, AMTRAK guarantees your connection. That's how I understand it, anyway.
@@jasminer8455 Another thing about the CZ going East from Emeryville--they don't serve breakfast. I forget if it's both cafe and dining car that doesn't, but I'd get breakfast in The City, or some munchies somewhere else to bring onboard.
You guys are great the only thing that drives me crazy is that you never say much about Denver Union Station and it is very nice beautiful historic Station with a hotel right inside and there is a lot to see in Denver. Just saying. 😊
Just took this train. If you travel say hello to Mark at the snack bar. He’s from the UK and was one of the nicest people I met on my entire vacation. Really appreciated his kindness and dedication to his job.
Thank you so much for all the info about this trip... I folllow your channel and, in each video I found the answers for my questions. You are amazing...
I'm a fairly recent subscriber and I love you guys! I'm trying to get my husband to agree to a trip on Amtrak. I've suggested that he watch some videos, I've sent him some videos to watch. I think he might be weakening a bit. Anyway, your videos are very informative and fun to watch. If you have never explored Ohio, do come here! We have a lot to offer in our great state. Cedar Point is in the north and it's right next to Lake Erie. Then we have the islands, not far from Cedar Point. And we have the largest Amish population in the world! We live up near the lake and will be going to Amish Country soon because I'm a quilter and I need more fabric!
My husband and I are planning a circuit vacation - Phoenix to New Orleans, a couple of nights there, then to Chicago, where we'll spend a couple of nights. Next we'll do the California Zephyr to Emeryville where we'll stay a few days. Next we go to LA, then back to Phoenix (actually Maricopa.) Your videos have been a massive help. Thanx!
I road CZ along with 20 friends and family. We loved it, 2 nights in coach, when there was real food. Truly enjoyed the dining car. Thanks for your great videos
You guys do great Amtrak videos! And, I have your 3 legged journey ... Emeryville, Seattle, Chicago, back to Emeryville ... on my Bucket list. One hint for your subscribers who might be using the bus service between Emeryville and San Francisco: When making your reservations, ask about which "stop" in San Francisco is most convenient for you. I live in SF, and didn't know, until a couple of years ago, that there are 3 places where you can board/de-board the Amtrak bus. -- The "Trans-bay" terminal, which is closest to the entrance to the Bay Bridge. (This is the only one that I knew about.) -- The Hyatt Regency Hotel, which is closest to "downtown," if that's where your hotel is. -- Fisherman's Wharf, which is also a popular hotel area. You could save money on a Taxi/Uber ride.
I love your videos! My wife and I will be going from Tucson to Los Angeles, up to Seattle, over to Chicago, then back to Tucson all via Amtrak sleepers, and we can't wait! Thanks for all the useful information you both provide.
Thank you for your informative and entertaining videos. you guys rock! You mentioned that the Observation deck car is first come first serve basis and that if you leave your seat, you basically give it up for grabs - Got That. I assume passengers are NOT allowed to "stay overnight" on the observation deck - not sure if you mentioned this point. I assume the deck would have special posted times for use. Again, thank you for vlogs - you guys are GREAT.
I took a wonderful trip eastbound from Emeryville to Mt. Pleasant Iowa. I plan on going all the way to Chicago next year. Thanks for the great content. 🚆🚇
I’m grateful for vlogs traveling this summer on route and just was concerned about Emeryville connection good to know there is an actual station n just street corner same regarding drop of location in San Francisco.
A quick correction, the lower bunk in the full Bedroom is technically large enough to fit two people if they are very friendly. It's about the size of a twin bed. For this reason, Amtrak allows you to book 3 people into a bedroom. They don't want people to misunderstand about the sleeping situation though, so they only allow you to book 3 people to a bedroom via the reservation phone line, not from the website. This gives them a chance to clarify with you about how close together you will be on the bottom bunk. Basically if you're a couple and you don't mind sleeping in a tight space, the bottom bunk is fine. I've done it before. Also a warning about the family bedroom. It does NOT fit 4 adults in a sleeping configuration. The windowside bunks are only about 5 feet long and are meant for children (hence the "family" name), so unless you're an unusually short adult, they will not be for you. The other two bunks are roughly the same as the full bedroom bunks, so two adults can fit tightly on the bottom bunk and one can fit on the top bunk. Amtrak generally will not let you book more than 2 adults to a family bedroom, though I've talked them into letting me book 3 adults into one before for a trip that did not include nighttime travel.
The good ole California Zephyr! I want to ride the CZ all the way to Chicago, and experience going through the Sierra Mountains, and of course experience riding through the awesome Moffat Tunnel along the way to Chi-town. Who would have thought that such a tunnel would be 6.2 miles long, and to experience riding through that particular tunnel on the California Zephyr? I would love that as my first long distance trip on that train.
I am so glad I found you guys. I love cruising, riding the train and listening to your videos. The California Zephyr is the only long distance train west of the Mississippi I haven't ridden yet and it is definitely on my bucket list. Thanks for sharing your experiences and tips.
If you guys ever traveled on the CZ again stop in Davis, CA 72 miles from San Francisco or 90mins train ride. Great downtown area with restaurants, pubs, and small shops. Also hotels within walking distance from the station (5 minutes). Great video and thank you!
Love all of the information that you both provide! My husband and I have traveled to New Orleans on the City of New Orleans via Capitol Limited from Cleveland to Chicago. I've also traveled from Philadelphia to NYC on the Keystone Service. Husband has traveled on the Capitol Limited from Cleveland to Washington, DC and from Cleveland to Boston on the Lakeshore Limited for work. He also came back to Cleveland from California on the California Zephyr. I am looking forward to be able to do more traveling by train in the next few years.
Thanks! Taking the Texas Eagle from Tucson to Chicago before Thanksgiving, the California Zephyr and Coast Starlight to Portland after the holiday. This is my first trip in bedrooms... looking forward to the Zephyr segment!
One aspect of the Bay Area side of the Zephyr that should be mentioned is the poor public transit connections at Emeryville. While Amtrak will bus you into downtown San Francisco from there, that's about it. There are some AC Transit buses and the Emery Go Round circulator, but they aren't good for getting to your final destination unless it's already closeby. The last stop on the Zephyr BEFORE Emeryville, however, is Richmond, which it shares with BART. BART trains can take you all over the Bay Area, including all the way down to north San Jose, San Francisco's central and southern parts, northern San Mateo County, all up and down the East Bay, etc. The major caveat is that you cannot drop off or retrieve checked baggage at Richmond, so that option can only be used if you carry on all your luggage. In the end though it provides a far more convenient way to get to many destinations than getting off in Emeryville. The only other issue is that it is RARE but possible for the westbound Zephyr to be delayed so badly (like 6 hours delayed) that you miss the last BART train. That situation is easy to deal with though -- just politely explain the situation to the Amtrak staff on the train and they will let you stay on the last few miles into Emeryville, where you can get an uber/lyft/taxi whatever to finish your trip. In short, if you are not going to Emeryville or to downtown San Francisco, but to someplace else in the bay area, then Richmond is a far better bet than Emeryville. In addition to the Zephyr, this station also lets you access BART to/from all Capitol Corridor and San Joaquins Amtrak trains (but not the Coast Starlight, which does not stop at Richmond because it often arrives too late for BART to be open) Here is a map of the bay area rail systems showing all the places you can go -- BART is the thick blue lines: www.urbanrail.net/am/snfr/sf-bay-area-map.htm
30th Street Amtrak station in Philadelphia, PA is very similar in appearance to Chicago, albeit it’s square reliefs on the ceilings and not circle ones. It’s quite old... maybe could use a touch up here and there and fix their wooden seats in many places, but still historical and awesome IMHO. Lots of food places too.
So much good information. I am taking my father Washington DC to Reno NV the second week of October which, of course, includes the CZ. Got a roommette!
I’ve become such a fan! I’ll be traveling to Kenya on a mission trip next month. I usually follow up with my design team, when I return and this time I’ll be traveling to Colorado Springs from my home in western Maryland by train. I really don’t like cramped airline seats! 😀
Back in ‘96 my dad and I did the zephyr! West to Reno two nights there and got back on from there to San Francisco. It got interesting though when the Martinez railroad bridge opened while the train was on the bridge.
@@gregtrain1 But if the bridge opened all the way open you would be on an angle and easy to slide down the bridge and the train did not slide at all on the bridge, that would of been really scary for me.
I am just me only taking two... my hiking bag and one luggage... it's going to be so nice! I want you to know that I just purchased my ticket for June 2021... The roomette cost me $822 from Chicago to Emryville. I also got Business class... One way is $1,095... round trip is $1,850... This is well worth it...
Hi guys thanks for the informative videos. I really enjoy watching your videos! I am a solo traveller and am planning to purchase the USA Rail Pass for $499 allowing me 10 travel segments. I am not sure if this USA Rail Pass is worth it and whether I am allowed to ride on California Zephyr from San Francisco to Chicago and the pros and cons of this rail pass. I also plan to stop along the way at Salt Lake City and Denver for visiting the nearby natiional parks. However I do not drive and plan to take public transport (possible?) to the national parks or should I sign up local days tour in Salt Lake City and Denver for the nearby national parks. OR join AMTRAK vacation packages? Your informative and useful advice is very much appreciated. Thank you very much.😀😀
Chico Ca to Eugene Or, we did coach not checked bags with 2 girls 10 & 12 this 18-26 year old guy was walking up and down the train pointing at the ladies saying I’d do you I’d do you not you and so on all the way down the train. Our train was super full. They ended up arresting him and kicking him off the train. They were totally on it and we felt safe. Coming home we did upgrade our tickets to business class and had a empty train and it was totally worth the extra money, Empty train. I have been on I think 3 times now and we love to travel this was. Always leave our bags on the lower stair area and have never had things stolen fingers crossed. Haven’t gotten a room yet but I hope soon with the sale!!
I always get a roomette. You'll take your chances with having to deal with riff-raff scummy people in coach. Also the idiots blabbing away on their phones. There's a reason coach is so cheap.
@@fiddlyphuk6414 totally you definitely loose that by up grading to business class. It was so nice full train to ourselves and the little perks that come with it was fun for the Kids definitely didn't like my kids around the people in coach. Sure it's a little different when the train isn't completely full too
California Zephyr a handful at times. Great. last time was 5 years ago.. Looking into going again because of family issue's. But it's like 3000 round trip now for 2 people From Chicago to California. Ugh. Trying specials or deals or something
I thought they got rid of the dining car and went to vending for everyone on the train. Good to know the diner is back and exclusive to only sleeper car passengers. Coffee- YES- some airline coffee is kinda good, United's isn't bad most of the time. When I rode the C.Z. in 2014 the sleeper cars had a coffee nook up front in the car where you could pour your own coffee. Wonder if they still have them now with all the covid restrictions. Loved that feature. Gotta give 'Amtrak Joe' and Congress credit for supporting Amtrak. I hope it leads to major improvements.
The dinning car is back now on all trains and only for sleeper passengers allthogh the train east from Chicago have fleixble dinning besides the auto train and the Texas Eagle north of San Antonio. and also on the Empire Builder the small segment where the train splits into 2 the portland portion is flexible dinning which are all microwave meals but still good. All the train west of chicago beside what I mentioned above and the auto train has traditional dinning for sleeper passengers only and that is cooked food on the train. Coach passenger can only purchase food from the cafe which is different items but still pretty good. Maybe the end of the year 2022 the dinning car will open to coach passengers to purchase food from there but do not hold your breath.
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 I really need to plan another roomette trip on Amtrak. Last time I had the car attendant bring my meals to me in my room. I never considered that you are expected to tip when they do that for you. Won't happen again.
Another question: I´d love to travel during a period where I could see snow along the way. In Mexico WE DON'T SEE SNOW EVER! So traveling across the USA (LAX-CHI) which train would you recommend? My plan is traveling along the west coast to Seattle, visit Victoria and Vancouver CAN, continue to the east to Chicago. From there I still don't know if I will continue to NYC or return to LAX. I am so excited planning the "trip of my life" since I will be doing it all by myself. woooooHoooooo !!!!!!
I do not think Canda is open yet check the Amtrak Cascades, or Maple Leaf train, or the other train that goes into Canada- if not running the closest to Canda you will be able to get to his Niagra Falls. I will give you the most expensive route but the most scenice route First somewhere from Mexico get to LA. After that take the Coast Starlight up to Emeryville, afther that take the Zephyr from Emeryville to Chicago, and after that take the Lake Shore Limited to New York, and then commute somehow from there to Niagra Falls us side, then get back to the Station and take the LakeShore Limited or The Cardinal back to Chicago, then the Empire Builder to Portland or Seattle, and then Coast Starlight to LA and then return from there to Mexico. Those above are the best ways to see snow in the mountains if you want to see some snow in the desserts (if it happens) or other place you can get back to Chicago and then take the Southwest Chief back to LA. Or if you want to have some more fun, from New York you can take the Crescent from New York to New Orleans, and then take the Sunset Limted to LA.
I wanted to book round trip from NYC to SF, but my agent suggest taking flight back. This will be my 1st rail trip & basically using it as a vacation to catch America's scenery! ❤❤
In the past I know they had a map in my room but do they make any kind of announcements about sites coming up? How do you know when you have entered into another state ect
You have to be in the observation car to hear when sites are coming up and facts. There was a mini announcement to encourage people to go to that car, but if you're in a coach seat just look out your window! You can't miss them unless you're sleep or in the bathroom
Thanks guys. Great Channel. Could you advise if the top roomette rooms have the same or better/worse view than the lower roomette rooms? I am subject to motion sickness so I've been advised the lower room is better for that, but don't want to miss out on views. Any help is appreciated.
Thanks! The top rooms have a better view. Depending on the route, you may not be seeing over the tree line from the lower level some of the time. We always go for the top if we can.
@@GroundedLifeTravel Thanks for this response. I guess i'll have to deal with the motion sickness if the top view is better. Can you speak on the differences of motion sickness for bottom or top? Probably not if you don't have motion sickness.
@@scfizzy I heard people react differently try to always face forward while sleeping and sitting, take pills just in case for motion sickness with you, also take something calming like a book to read, and a soothing drink link mint water or something else or you can also ask the attendent for more water that is free but that will either be plain or I think sparking (or Soda) Water.
When you say check your luggage. Does that mean that you have to go to the luggage area to retrieve you daily outfits? I'm just a little confused about that. You two make me want to jump on the next train and just ride
This is exactly the loop I want to take,except i am co,ming from Charleston SC...Wish I could talk to you guys n find out about your whole trip.Like did you get off and stay a night or two in the middle say,like denver,then go back to the train where you left off? or did you just stop at the end of each run?I am saving up as hard as i can!!!
Does this train have a kids play area? The only time I have taken the train was in 97 from Sacramento to San Diego and I remember taking a couple of kids to that car. Just curious if they still have that car
is there a Timeline for the map as your are traveling? In other words, does the app or any written material on board tell me that we should be passing X location from 2:00 to 2:30, and entering the xyz tunnel from 3pm to 3:20pm, etc.? How do you know when to plan your meals and naps so as not to miss anything?
You can take any food you want on board, you just have to eat it in your seat or in the Sightseer Lounge Car (you can’t eat your own food in the dining car). The prices for the cafe are very reasonable with most items at nine dollars or under.
I have questions that may be silly. If you have a roomette, what about tipping? If you are going to do a loop and are taking a second train, do you spend a day or two in between? Are the train stations normally in a safe area where taxis or a Uber would be available. I used to live in Kingman, AZ and there was nothing, absolutely nothing but a crummy bar near the station and no transportation. I have never used Amtrak in the US, but used trains in the UK, which were wonderful.
To answer your questions: 1. Tipping is nice but not expected. 2. Depending on the connection times you can get on another train the same day or you might have to wait a night. I’d recommend spending a night to explore the city you’re in. 3. Train stations are almost always safe. For example, Chicago Union Station is located downtown and is close to the most popular sites and restaurants with many taxis, ubers, buses, metro, and commuter trains near the station.
Loved the video. Taking my first long distance train ride in September - SW Chief (CHI-LA) and Texas Eagle (LA-CHI) with a bedroom. Did you say you only get one free alcoholic beverage for the entire trip or is it one with each dinner?
I’m taking the California Zephyr from Chicago to Cali is there any way I can look up roughly what times the really good views come up to plan in advance when to go to the scenic cart? I’m trying to look up things but haven’t had luck
I took the California Zephyr from CA to Chicago. Currently I’m in Chicago and trying to decide if I want to take the empire builder or southwest chief back west. The west destination doesn’t matter since I just need to get to the coast and fly back to Hawaii. Would you suggest the empire builder or southwest chief?
Is the modality "hop-on, hop-off" available in this type of trips? Like if you want to hop off in Denver and stay there for a couple of days, and then hop on the train to Salt Lake City and hop-off, and so and so. Is that possible?
If the price for the roomette is $1000 per say. And it fits 2 people. Is that $1000 for both individuals or $1000 each? Excuse my ignorance I've never been on an Amtrak and looking to make a vacation.
depends how many people who put on the website if you choose 2 people that it would be the price of 2 people one way or round trip-what every you chose on the Amtrak Website. Book early since prices increase when the train gets more full.
Is the dining car on the first level? And, if someone is unable to take stairs, is there a way to get to the observation car without going up the stairs?
The dinner and the way to cross between cars is actually on the second level, however, because of flexible dinning you can actually have your food brought to your room. Not to mention if you get the accessible room, you get windows on both sides so it's a win win.
@@ClearTrackSpeed thank you, I didn’t know that about the accessible room. But if we wanted to go upstairs, to the observation car, we would have to take the stairs, correct? There is not a lift ?
@@cherialwayslearning4646 Correct, there are only stairs. If you cannot climb stairs you cannot get to the observation/lounge car. Dining has never been a problem as one of the jobs of the car attendant is to bring you meals, etc. if you either can't or do not wish to go to the dining car or lounge.
The Chicago station (Union Station) is fantastic and the Metropolitan Lounge is so nice. However Denver and DC are also great stations. What are your favorite stations?
I jus want to go all the way San Francisco from Chicago sightseeing ONLY! And back what do u suggest? I live in Detroit NEVER Rode a train, I'm 54 and it's on my bucket list! Help lol!
I would recommend taking Amtrak’s high speed Wolverine Service from Detroit to Chicago (the are three round trips a day), exploring Chicago for a few days, and then going on the California Zephyr to San Francisco.
@@ajo5602 After arriving in Emeryville you can take a bus to San Fransicco included in the cost, going back you can take the same way or if you want to take a different train take the Amtrak bus back to Emeryville then you can take the Coast Starlight up to Portland or Seattle, then you can take the Empire Builder back to Chicago and then take the Wolverine train back to Detroit, or you can take the Coast Starlight South to Los Angles and then Take the Texas Eagle or Southwest Chief to Chicago and then take the Wolverine back to Detroit.
I have a question...Since I live in Denver and want to take the California Zephyr, do I have to go to Chicago first and then hop on? or can I get on at the Denver station (If so, is the ride cheaper?).
You can call amtrak or use the resevation system and check the prices like put in Denver to LA, and then go back and do Chicago to LA and see what you get, it might be cheaper since if you go west it won't take that long and the best scenic views, but if you go east longer trip and less senic views.
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #30 ДВА В ОДНОМ [Один человек]• Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/nrXy15orKhY/mqdefault.jpg)
The CZ is truly Amtrak's greatest long distance train. One good thing to add about the Bus connection is that no matter how late the train is, the bus will wait; the bus is specially for CZ Passengers. Thanks for sharing
What about the opposite, a bus is late? Do the trains wait? Haha. I'd like to take the CZ but need to take an Amtrak bus get to emeryville. I'm nervous I won't make the train!
@@jasminer8455 the trains don't wait so you have to time it well. I'm planning to stay overnight in a hotel near the Emeryville station to catch the Amtrak that leaves early.
@@jasminer8455 I ride the HWY 17 (Santa Cruz, CA) bus a lot, and it does have an announcement that if you have a train connection and you're afraid you're going to miss it, you need to let the driver know. The driver then communicates with the trains at Diridon station (San Jose, CA), and the train SHOULD wait for you...because as a ticketed passenger, AMTRAK guarantees your connection. That's how I understand it, anyway.
@@mariahwaite thank you, I appreciate it
@@jasminer8455 Another thing about the CZ going East from Emeryville--they don't serve breakfast. I forget if it's both cafe and dining car that doesn't, but I'd get breakfast in The City, or some munchies somewhere else to bring onboard.
You guys are great the only thing that drives me crazy is that you never say much about Denver Union Station and it is very nice beautiful historic Station with a hotel right inside and there is a lot to see in Denver. Just saying. 😊
Going on a rail pass journey, leaving on Wednesday! Happy to hear that Amtrak is opening the dining car to us peasants in coach again
There you are!!! I love your sense of humor, the dry wit. Very Midwest, both of you. I'm Illinois.
Just took this train. If you travel say hello to Mark at the snack bar. He’s from the UK and was one of the nicest people I met on my entire vacation. Really appreciated his kindness and dedication to his job.
Both of you did an incredible job with this post! Extremely informative!👏👏👏
The enchilada meal is wonderful.
You just convinced me that this is our family ‘experience’ this year for our Anniversary trip. My goodness the breakdown was fantastic.
Thanks! we appreciate it!
Thank you so much for all the info about this trip... I folllow your channel and, in each video I found the answers for my questions. You are amazing...
I did this one a few years ago. The hot springs at Glenwood Springs are worth the stopover.
My wife and I have done Chicago to Glenwood Springs as well as Grand Junction both are excellent vacations in their own right
I'm a fairly recent subscriber and I love you guys! I'm trying to get my husband to agree to a trip on Amtrak. I've suggested that he watch some videos, I've sent him some videos to watch. I think he might be weakening a bit. Anyway, your videos are very informative and fun to watch.
If you have never explored Ohio, do come here! We have a lot to offer in our great state. Cedar Point is in the north and it's right next to Lake Erie. Then we have the islands, not far from Cedar Point. And we have the largest Amish population in the world! We live up near the lake and will be going to Amish Country soon because I'm a quilter and I need more fabric!
You two are amazing. Many thanks for all your great videos..Hello from Puerto Rico..God bless you..
My husband and I are planning a circuit vacation - Phoenix to New Orleans, a couple of nights there, then to Chicago, where we'll spend a couple of nights. Next we'll do the California Zephyr to Emeryville where we'll stay a few days. Next we go to LA, then back to Phoenix (actually Maricopa.) Your videos have been a massive help. Thanx!
Thanks that is a great round trip!
How was your trip if you took it already?
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 We head out in April.
@@jennekern2473 That cool, thats a while away but it should be fun.
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 We got great rates by booking early.
Thank you for your very informative videos. My friend and I are taking this train from San diego to Denver in 2 days.
Have fun!
How was your trip?
I road CZ along with 20 friends and family. We loved it, 2 nights in coach, when there was real food. Truly enjoyed the dining car. Thanks for your great videos
You guys do great Amtrak videos! And, I have your 3 legged journey ... Emeryville, Seattle, Chicago, back to Emeryville ... on my Bucket list.
One hint for your subscribers who might be using the bus service between Emeryville and San Francisco: When making your reservations, ask about which "stop" in San Francisco is most convenient for you. I live in SF, and didn't know, until a couple of years ago, that there are 3 places where you can board/de-board the Amtrak bus.
-- The "Trans-bay" terminal, which is closest to the entrance to the Bay Bridge. (This is the only one that I knew about.)
-- The Hyatt Regency Hotel, which is closest to "downtown," if that's where your hotel is.
-- Fisherman's Wharf, which is also a popular hotel area.
You could save money on a Taxi/Uber ride.
I’m glad u post this, I was thinking about that.
I didn't know about the Hyatt or Fisherman's Warf stops. Thanks for the tip!
Great to hear about some of the landmarks we're going to see on this route! Knowing which side of the train to sit on is SUPER helpful!
We are seniors planning our first train trip to California. Just found your channel and Love! Thank you for all of your advise and tips.
Awesome, thank you!
After looking at a lot of videos about this train yours was the best and most informative. Thank you
Just love y'all's videos so educational an lot of information
Our pleasure!
I love your videos! My wife and I will be going from Tucson to Los Angeles, up to Seattle, over to Chicago, then back to Tucson all via Amtrak sleepers, and we can't wait!
Thanks for all the useful information you both provide.
Thank you for your informative and entertaining videos. you guys rock! You mentioned that the Observation deck car is first come first serve basis and that if you leave your seat, you basically give it up for grabs - Got That. I assume passengers are NOT allowed to "stay overnight" on the observation deck - not sure if you mentioned this point. I assume the deck would have special posted times for use. Again, thank you for vlogs - you guys are GREAT.
I took a wonderful trip eastbound from Emeryville to Mt. Pleasant Iowa. I plan on going all the way to Chicago next year. Thanks for the great content. 🚆🚇
I have been planning the zephyr for my 35th bday in July. Your vids have been so helpful! 😊
awesome! have a great trip!
Happy Belated Birthday, hopefully all your wishes came true. Also how was the trip?
You have a great channel. Very informative. I have viewed your website and blog too. All will help when planning a trip.
I’m grateful for vlogs traveling this summer on route and just was concerned about Emeryville connection good to know there is an actual station n just street corner same regarding drop of location in San Francisco.
I’m going on a train for the first time on Monday. Short trip of a few hours. Prepping for a round the country trip. Bucket list thing!
If you reemember the trip, how was it?
A quick correction, the lower bunk in the full Bedroom is technically large enough to fit two people if they are very friendly. It's about the size of a twin bed. For this reason, Amtrak allows you to book 3 people into a bedroom. They don't want people to misunderstand about the sleeping situation though, so they only allow you to book 3 people to a bedroom via the reservation phone line, not from the website. This gives them a chance to clarify with you about how close together you will be on the bottom bunk. Basically if you're a couple and you don't mind sleeping in a tight space, the bottom bunk is fine. I've done it before.
Also a warning about the family bedroom. It does NOT fit 4 adults in a sleeping configuration. The windowside bunks are only about 5 feet long and are meant for children (hence the "family" name), so unless you're an unusually short adult, they will not be for you. The other two bunks are roughly the same as the full bedroom bunks, so two adults can fit tightly on the bottom bunk and one can fit on the top bunk. Amtrak generally will not let you book more than 2 adults to a family bedroom, though I've talked them into letting me book 3 adults into one before for a trip that did not include nighttime travel.
We did two adults, one in each of the full size bunks, and two small kids in the perpendicular kids bunks. Perfect for grandma, mom and two kids.
@@kenneycobb6462 Yup that's exactly the sort of situation is was designed for.
I enjoy your channel!! Thanks for the information.
i have ridden the zypher several times love it
The good ole California Zephyr! I want to ride the CZ all the way to Chicago, and experience going through the Sierra Mountains, and of course experience riding through the awesome Moffat Tunnel along the way to Chi-town. Who would have thought that such a tunnel would be 6.2 miles long, and to experience riding through that particular tunnel on the California Zephyr? I would love that as my first long distance trip on that train.
@@jacobpoucher Yes it does.
I am so glad I found you guys. I love cruising, riding the train and listening to your videos. The California Zephyr is the only long distance train west of the Mississippi I haven't ridden yet and it is definitely on my bucket list. Thanks for sharing your experiences and tips.
Thanks for the video, I want to take this to visit my cousins
So glad I ran across your channel. Thank you for the great information.
If you guys ever traveled on the CZ again stop in Davis, CA 72 miles from San Francisco or 90mins train ride. Great downtown area with restaurants, pubs, and small shops. Also hotels within walking distance from the station (5 minutes).
Great video and thank you!
Another great video! Thanks!
One of these days, I'll hopefully get out west on Amtrak.
This video was really informational thank you
the california zypher is worth it as i have 10 round trips on it
the california zypher is worth it as i have 10 round trips on it
The day I wanted to check out the Amtrak service from SF to LA on the Coastal Starlight, well it arrives 3 days a week only, at odd hours
Love all of the information that you both provide! My husband and I have traveled to New Orleans on the City of New Orleans via Capitol Limited from Cleveland to Chicago. I've also traveled from Philadelphia to NYC on the Keystone Service. Husband has traveled on the Capitol Limited from Cleveland to Washington, DC and from Cleveland to Boston on the Lakeshore Limited for work. He also came back to Cleveland from California on the California Zephyr. I am looking forward to be able to do more traveling by train in the next few years.
Thanks! Taking the Texas Eagle from Tucson to Chicago before Thanksgiving, the California Zephyr and Coast Starlight to Portland after the holiday. This is my first trip in bedrooms... looking forward to the Zephyr segment!
One aspect of the Bay Area side of the Zephyr that should be mentioned is the poor public transit connections at Emeryville. While Amtrak will bus you into downtown San Francisco from there, that's about it. There are some AC Transit buses and the Emery Go Round circulator, but they aren't good for getting to your final destination unless it's already closeby. The last stop on the Zephyr BEFORE Emeryville, however, is Richmond, which it shares with BART. BART trains can take you all over the Bay Area, including all the way down to north San Jose, San Francisco's central and southern parts, northern San Mateo County, all up and down the East Bay, etc.
The major caveat is that you cannot drop off or retrieve checked baggage at Richmond, so that option can only be used if you carry on all your luggage. In the end though it provides a far more convenient way to get to many destinations than getting off in Emeryville. The only other issue is that it is RARE but possible for the westbound Zephyr to be delayed so badly (like 6 hours delayed) that you miss the last BART train. That situation is easy to deal with though -- just politely explain the situation to the Amtrak staff on the train and they will let you stay on the last few miles into Emeryville, where you can get an uber/lyft/taxi whatever to finish your trip.
In short, if you are not going to Emeryville or to downtown San Francisco, but to someplace else in the bay area, then Richmond is a far better bet than Emeryville. In addition to the Zephyr, this station also lets you access BART to/from all Capitol Corridor and San Joaquins Amtrak trains (but not the Coast Starlight, which does not stop at Richmond because it often arrives too late for BART to be open)
Here is a map of the bay area rail systems showing all the places you can go -- BART is the thick blue lines:
www.urbanrail.net/am/snfr/sf-bay-area-map.htm
Great tip. Thanks!
30th Street Amtrak station in Philadelphia, PA is very similar in appearance to Chicago, albeit it’s square reliefs on the ceilings and not circle ones. It’s quite old... maybe could use a touch up here and there and fix their wooden seats in many places, but still historical and awesome IMHO. Lots of food places too.
So much good information. I am taking my father Washington DC to Reno NV the second week of October which, of course, includes the CZ. Got a roommette!
Awesome, that'll be a great trip!
How was the trip?
I’ve become such a fan! I’ll be traveling to Kenya on a mission trip next month. I usually follow up with my design team, when I return and this time I’ll be traveling to Colorado Springs from my home in western Maryland by train. I really don’t like cramped airline seats! 😀
Thank you for sharing your experience and this info. We're in Chicago and my family will definitely look into this. ✌
Back in ‘96 my dad and I did the zephyr! West to Reno two nights there and got back on from there to San Francisco. It got interesting though when the Martinez railroad bridge opened while the train was on the bridge.
Called a ' Draw Bridge', for younger folks, who do not know the term. America, doesn't have too many 'Draw Bridges'left, they were once common.😊
was everybody okay on the train and did the train survive or get severely damaged
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 : the train had to stop on the bridge. It wasn’t at the section that opens up. Our car was on the bridge and it was over water.
@@gregtrain1 But if the bridge opened all the way open you would be on an angle and easy to slide down the bridge and the train did not slide at all on the bridge, that would of been really scary for me.
I am just me only taking two... my hiking bag and one luggage... it's going to be so nice! I want you to know that I just purchased my ticket for June 2021... The roomette cost me $822 from Chicago to Emryville. I also got Business class... One way is $1,095... round trip is $1,850... This is well worth it...
Thank you for this video. I’m really excited about my trip. I appreciate the tips. 👍🏾
Hi guys thanks for the informative videos. I really enjoy watching your videos!
I am a solo traveller and am planning to purchase the USA Rail Pass for $499 allowing me 10 travel segments. I am not sure if this USA Rail Pass is worth it and whether I am allowed to ride on California Zephyr from San Francisco to Chicago and the pros and cons of this rail pass.
I also plan to stop along the way at Salt Lake City and Denver for visiting the nearby natiional parks. However I do not drive and plan to take public transport (possible?) to the national parks or should I sign up local days tour in Salt Lake City and Denver for the nearby national parks. OR join AMTRAK vacation packages?
Your informative and useful advice is very much appreciated.
Thank you very much.😀😀
Taking the Zephyr in September. Can’t wait for my wife to see this! Great job folks
How was the trip?
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 It was exactly one year ago. It was just fantastic!
@@tedpilchak7096 Thats great than.
Chico Ca to Eugene Or, we did coach not checked bags with 2 girls 10 & 12 this 18-26 year old guy was walking up and down the train pointing at the ladies saying I’d do you I’d do you not you and so on all the way down the train. Our train was super full. They ended up arresting him and kicking him off the train. They were totally on it and we felt safe. Coming home we did upgrade our tickets to business class and had a empty train and it was totally worth the extra money, Empty train. I have been on I think 3 times now and we love to travel this was. Always leave our bags on the lower stair area and have never had things stolen fingers crossed. Haven’t gotten a room yet but I hope soon with the sale!!
I always get a roomette. You'll take your chances with having to deal with riff-raff scummy people in coach. Also the idiots blabbing away on their phones. There's a reason coach is so cheap.
@@fiddlyphuk6414 totally you definitely loose that by up grading to business class. It was so nice full train to ourselves and the little perks that come with it was fun for the Kids definitely didn't like my kids around the people in coach. Sure it's a little different when the train isn't completely full too
California Zephyr a handful at times. Great. last time was 5 years ago.. Looking into going again because of family issue's. But it's like 3000 round trip now for 2 people From Chicago to California. Ugh. Trying specials or deals or something
Great Video 😎👍
Thank you for these videos!
My pleasure!
Wow! I am leaving in 2 days to go from California to Denver. Two tickets were $918 for coach!
How was the trip and how was the food in the Cafe car.
Thank you for all your amazing information!
You are so welcome!
As always, great review.
I appreciate that
Thanks for your informative videos. Though the ticket sales are outdated, have they offered BOGO recently?
I read somewhere Amtrak will resume offering coach riders dining car service at the end of this year (2022). Have you heard this?
Yes we were told that they will
Thank you for putting together these videos! You have mentioned checking baggage in several videos. Is there a fee to check bags (esp if in coach)?
All passengers can check two bags for free. You can also have up to four carry on bags per person.
I thought they got rid of the dining car and went to vending for everyone on the train. Good to know the diner is back and exclusive to only sleeper car passengers. Coffee- YES- some airline coffee is kinda good, United's isn't bad most of the time. When I rode the C.Z. in 2014 the sleeper cars had a coffee nook up front in the car where you could pour your own coffee. Wonder if they still have them now with all the covid restrictions. Loved that feature. Gotta give 'Amtrak Joe' and Congress credit for supporting Amtrak. I hope it leads to major improvements.
The dinning car is back now on all trains and only for sleeper passengers allthogh the train east from Chicago have fleixble dinning besides the auto train and the Texas Eagle north of San Antonio. and also on the Empire Builder the small segment where the train splits into 2 the portland portion is flexible dinning which are all microwave meals but still good. All the train west of chicago beside what I mentioned above and the auto train has traditional dinning for sleeper passengers only and that is cooked food on the train. Coach passenger can only purchase food from the cafe which is different items but still pretty good. Maybe the end of the year 2022 the dinning car will open to coach passengers to purchase food from there but do not hold your breath.
@@chrisdobrowolski2783 I really need to plan another roomette trip on Amtrak. Last time I had the car attendant bring my meals to me in my room. I never considered that you are expected to tip when they do that for you. Won't happen again.
Great video, very informative
Another question: I´d love to travel during a period where I could see snow along the way. In Mexico WE DON'T SEE SNOW EVER! So traveling across the USA (LAX-CHI) which train would you recommend? My plan is traveling along the west coast to Seattle, visit Victoria and Vancouver CAN, continue to the east to Chicago. From there I still don't know if I will continue to NYC or return to LAX. I am so excited planning the "trip of my life" since I will be doing it all by myself. woooooHoooooo !!!!!!
I do not think Canda is open yet check the Amtrak Cascades, or Maple Leaf train, or the other train that goes into Canada- if not running the closest to Canda you will be able to get to his Niagra Falls. I will give you the most expensive route but the most scenice route First somewhere from Mexico get to LA. After that take the Coast Starlight up to Emeryville, afther that take the Zephyr from Emeryville to Chicago, and after that take the Lake Shore Limited to New York, and then commute somehow from there to Niagra Falls us side, then get back to the Station and take the LakeShore Limited or The Cardinal back to Chicago, then the Empire Builder to Portland or Seattle, and then Coast Starlight to LA and then return from there to Mexico. Those above are the best ways to see snow in the mountains if you want to see some snow in the desserts (if it happens) or other place you can get back to Chicago and then take the Southwest Chief back to LA. Or if you want to have some more fun, from New York you can take the Crescent from New York to New Orleans, and then take the Sunset Limted to LA.
Can you book a trip on this route in a sleeper car to Chicago and then a lake shore limited to New York
Yes you can but you might need to get a hotel in Chicago for a night or 2 depending how late Amtrak is and what time is your connection in Chicago.
I wanted to book round trip from NYC to SF, but my agent suggest taking flight back. This will be my 1st rail trip & basically using it as a vacation to catch America's scenery! ❤❤
Thank you! Great Video!
In the past I know they had a map in my room but do they make any kind of announcements about sites coming up? How do you know when you have entered into another state ect
You have to be in the observation car to hear when sites are coming up and facts. There was a mini announcement to encourage people to go to that car, but if you're in a coach seat just look out your window! You can't miss them unless you're sleep or in the bathroom
Thanks guys. Great Channel. Could you advise if the top roomette rooms have the same or better/worse view than the lower roomette rooms? I am subject to motion sickness so I've been advised the lower room is better for that, but don't want to miss out on views. Any help is appreciated.
Thanks! The top rooms have a better view. Depending on the route, you may not be seeing over the tree line from the lower level some of the time. We always go for the top if we can.
@@GroundedLifeTravel Thanks for this response. I guess i'll have to deal with the motion sickness if the top view is better. Can you speak on the differences of motion sickness for bottom or top? Probably not if you don't have motion sickness.
@@scfizzy I heard people react differently try to always face forward while sleeping and sitting, take pills just in case for motion sickness with you, also take something calming like a book to read, and a soothing drink link mint water or something else or you can also ask the attendent for more water that is free but that will either be plain or I think sparking (or Soda) Water.
When you say check your luggage. Does that mean that you have to go to the luggage area to retrieve you daily outfits? I'm just a little confused about that. You two make me want to jump on the next train and just ride
You need to keep your clothes for the train in a separate carry on bag, you wouldn't have access to the checked bags.
My phone lockscreen and background photos are both the snow and red cliffs of Colorado from the zephyr
I learned that the Metropolitan lounge is available for sleeper cars and Business.
thank you
This is exactly the loop I want to take,except i am co,ming from Charleston SC...Wish I could talk to you guys n find out about your whole trip.Like did you get off and stay a night or two in the middle say,like denver,then go back to the train where you left off? or did you just stop at the end of each run?I am saving up as hard as i can!!!
Love your videos❤
Does this train have a kids play area? The only time I have taken the train was in 97 from Sacramento to San Diego and I remember taking a couple of kids to that car. Just curious if they still have that car
No they do not have that now
Is the food prepared or microwaved and bought to you?
On the Zephyr it is cooked now and served in the dining room
I am a solo traveller, do I share the bunkbeds with stranger? like your vlogs.
You will never have to share a sleeper room with a stranger
is there a Timeline for the map as your are traveling? In other words, does the app or any written material on board tell me that we should be passing X location from 2:00 to 2:30, and entering the xyz tunnel from 3pm to 3:20pm, etc.? How do you know when to plan your meals and naps so as not to miss anything?
It's hard because the train isn't always on time
So for the broke coach travelers haha what are some tips? Which types of food do they allow you to bring in your bag? Are Cafe prices good?
You can take any food you want on board, you just have to eat it in your seat or in the Sightseer Lounge Car (you can’t eat your own food in the dining car). The prices for the cafe are very reasonable with most items at nine dollars or under.
My husband and I were interested in the sleeper car going to BC. I see they are closed for now. Have u been?
They just recently opened up but check the requirements for Canada before going on that train.
I have questions that may be silly. If you have a roomette, what about tipping? If you are going to do a loop and are taking a second train, do you spend a day or two in between? Are the train stations normally in a safe area where taxis or a Uber would be available. I used to live in Kingman, AZ and there was nothing, absolutely nothing but a crummy bar near the station and no transportation. I have never used Amtrak in the US, but used trains in the UK, which were wonderful.
To answer your questions:
1. Tipping is nice but not expected.
2. Depending on the connection times you can get on another train the same day or you might have to wait a night. I’d recommend spending a night to explore the city you’re in.
3. Train stations are almost always safe. For example, Chicago Union Station is located downtown and is close to the most popular sites and restaurants with many taxis, ubers, buses, metro, and commuter trains near the station.
i want to know how many days from michigan lansing to sandiego californnis
Loved the video. Taking my first long distance train ride in September - SW Chief (CHI-LA) and Texas Eagle (LA-CHI) with a bedroom. Did you say you only get one free alcoholic beverage for the entire trip or is it one with each dinner?
Currently it is one free drink per journey, but on June 23rd it will become one drink per dinner with the return of traditional dining.
If you check your bag would you have access to it if needed?
I’m taking the California Zephyr from Chicago to Cali is there any way I can look up roughly what times the really good views come up to plan in advance when to go to the scenic cart? I’m trying to look up things but haven’t had luck
It is after you leave Denver, for quite a few hours.
What do you recommend about getting on in Salt Lake City and riding to Reno with children? Do you forsee issues with seating together?
No it should be fine, the conductors at least in our experience look out for families and try to make sure they get together
I took the California Zephyr from CA to Chicago. Currently I’m in Chicago and trying to decide if I want to take the empire builder or southwest chief back west. The west destination doesn’t matter since I just need to get to the coast and fly back to Hawaii. Would you suggest the empire builder or southwest chief?
I'd take the Empire- better scenery out west.
Take the Empire Builder to Seattle.
Is the modality "hop-on, hop-off" available in this type of trips? Like if you want to hop off in Denver and stay there for a couple of days, and then hop on the train to Salt Lake City and hop-off, and so and so. Is that possible?
No you will have to get seperate tickets for each trip.
If the price for the roomette is $1000 per say. And it fits 2 people. Is that $1000 for both individuals or $1000 each? Excuse my ignorance I've never been on an Amtrak and looking to make a vacation.
depends how many people who put on the website if you choose 2 people that it would be the price of 2 people one way or round trip-what every you chose on the Amtrak Website. Book early since prices increase when the train gets more full.
Can you book a roomette on the Zephyr from/to Denver/Emeryville?
Do the conductors have a running commentary along the route??
Is the dining car on the first level? And, if someone is unable to take stairs, is there a way to get to the observation car without going up the stairs?
The dinner and the way to cross between cars is actually on the second level, however, because of flexible dinning you can actually have your food brought to your room. Not to mention if you get the accessible room, you get windows on both sides so it's a win win.
@@ClearTrackSpeed thank you, I didn’t know that about the accessible room. But if we wanted to go upstairs, to the observation car, we would have to take the stairs, correct? There is not a lift ?
@@cherialwayslearning4646 Correct, there are only stairs. If you cannot climb stairs you cannot get to the observation/lounge car. Dining has never been a problem as one of the jobs of the car attendant is to bring you meals, etc. if you either can't or do not wish to go to the dining car or lounge.
No elevator...
The Chicago station (Union Station) is fantastic and the Metropolitan Lounge is so nice. However Denver and DC are also great stations. What are your favorite stations?
I think our favorite is the new NYC station, Moynihan Train Hall
Do they do a bid service for unsold bedrooms from roomette upgrade like planes or cruising?
2 nights in coach isn't that bad. I sleep a lot better on the train than on a plane. Got 8ish hours uninterrupted each night.
That's real good!
That is suspringly since the trains stop at night for station and suprised who slept through that.
I jus want to go all the way San Francisco from Chicago sightseeing ONLY! And back what do u suggest? I live in Detroit NEVER Rode a train, I'm 54 and it's on my bucket list! Help lol!
I would recommend taking Amtrak’s high speed Wolverine Service from Detroit to Chicago (the are three round trips a day), exploring Chicago for a few days, and then going on the California Zephyr to San Francisco.
@@ajo5602 After arriving in Emeryville you can take a bus to San Fransicco included in the cost, going back you can take the same way or if you want to take a different train take the Amtrak bus back to Emeryville then you can take the Coast Starlight up to Portland or Seattle, then you can take the Empire Builder back to Chicago and then take the Wolverine train back to Detroit, or you can take the Coast Starlight South to Los Angles and then Take the Texas Eagle or Southwest Chief to Chicago and then take the Wolverine back to Detroit.
Leaving from Chicago, is there safe parking at the station?
Can you request a roomette on the top floor when you book?
I have a question...Since I live in Denver and want to take the California Zephyr, do I have to go to Chicago first and then hop on? or can I get on at the Denver station (If so, is the ride cheaper?).
You can call amtrak or use the resevation system and check the prices like put in Denver to LA, and then go back and do Chicago to LA and see what you get, it might be cheaper since if you go west it won't take that long and the best scenic views, but if you go east longer trip and less senic views.
If going west to east, when do the views start? Which side?