Amtrak EMPIRE BUILDER Sleeper Train (Seattle to Chicago)

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  • Опубліковано 20 вер 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,4 тис.

  • @MilesinTransit
    @MilesinTransit Рік тому +347

    Whoa, thank you so much for the shoutout, I really appreciate it!!!! It's fitting that I'm typing this from on board the Amtrak Palmetto 😂

    • @GreenerGrass
      @GreenerGrass  Рік тому +71

      You bet! Loving your channel! Have a great trip!!

    • @djohn118
      @djohn118 Рік тому +48

      Please do a trip together. Chaos meets control. One way go the Miles path, come back the Jeb way.

    • @nyc90
      @nyc90 Рік тому +18

      @@djohn118 I would literally pay to watch this

    • @NJTrain
      @NJTrain Рік тому +8

      My favorite guys to watch ride the trains!

    • @eddog6666
      @eddog6666 Рік тому +4

      When I went on a road trip with my dad to glacier National park we were a little surprised to see the Amtrak right above the entrance to the park.

  • @susanclubb7175
    @susanclubb7175 3 місяці тому +24

    Just ending a wonderful Empire Builder trip from Seattle to Chicago. I was all set for everything that happened because I watched your video several times. My husband kept saying, “How do you know that?!”😊
    We left 3-4 hours late so I told him that it was OK because we would see Idaho in daylight.
    I knew there wasn’t food at the station in Seattle … and I knew it was going to gorgeous.
    I told him what to order on the train.
    We brought a power strip and duct tape
    I pointed things out along the way.
    He thinks I have super powers
    Thanks so much!
    Best wishes to you and Suzanne - hope you have as happy a life as we’ve had.

    • @GreenerGrass
      @GreenerGrass  3 місяці тому +4

      Suzanne and I are so stoked to know you found our tips useful. Also, secret’s safe with us. We won’t tell him where you learned your secrets!

  • @lindawheeler3242
    @lindawheeler3242 Рік тому +65

    I am a mobility impaired senior citizen and traveled the City of New Orleans by myself in an accessible room. No problems. Staff was attentive and very helpful.....if you want to take a trip, do it.....very well worth it.....

    • @robpittstop1797
      @robpittstop1797 Рік тому +3

      Yes I agree, my ex took a trip to I think ark. to see her ex. a month later she came back to cleveland. (Shes gone now - in Iowa since 2011) She was on wheelchair.

    • @Bigfoot-px9gj
      @Bigfoot-px9gj 6 місяців тому +1

      Did you leave the traditional KFC bucket of Chicken Bones in the aisle? I sure did. :)

    • @chrisdobrowolski2783
      @chrisdobrowolski2783 6 місяців тому

      Sorry for your loss!!

  • @csbrooks
    @csbrooks Рік тому +145

    Jeb's humble and positive attitude is why I keep coming back, and Suzanne is also a top notch travel buddy. All the best, cheers guys.

  • @netjetman360
    @netjetman360 Рік тому +363

    My grandpa is buried just north of Sand Point, so it was nice you guys mentioned it and showed just a tiny clip of it. I miss him

    • @RnW9384
      @RnW9384 Рік тому +9

      💟

    • @Interesting_Banana
      @Interesting_Banana Рік тому +14

      @@Cheesemo Yikes that was insensitive, unnecessary, and unfunny.

    • @Cheesemo
      @Cheesemo Рік тому

      @Interesting_Banana ur lame as heck it's true. Bird breath

    • @greenvillegodzilla
      @greenvillegodzilla Рік тому

      @@Cheesemowym he didnt say how he passes

    • @buttfucker911
      @buttfucker911 Рік тому

      ​@@Cheesemo have you ever been with an older guy?

  • @daniellemarie1299
    @daniellemarie1299 Рік тому +27

    I've taken the Amtrak from NY to FL and back again many times, and love it. I always have a sleeper unit. It helps to think of it as a "glamping" experience. Bring food, a small blanket, a book,, maybe a tablet or some device, and be flexible-minded about your schedule.

    • @rexremedy1733
      @rexremedy1733 9 місяців тому +3

      Also water, boots, jacket, tent, cooking stove, food, disinfectant, water filtration, and anything else required for a heavy duty exploratory assignment. :-)

  • @cherishb6227
    @cherishb6227 Рік тому +40

    My father worked for Amtrak. I used to travel from Spokane to Chicago on the Empire Builder every summer. Great memories!

    • @tayh3168
      @tayh3168 5 місяців тому

      Can I bring my foldable electric scooter onto the train from Seattle ? Its 67 lbs but I also have one that is 44 lbs.

    • @Jaxsinholt
      @Jaxsinholt Місяць тому

      ​@tayh3168 no u can't. Don't be lazy

  • @teazerfemi
    @teazerfemi Рік тому +9

    From the comfort of my room here in Nigeria, I sincerely enjoy your voyages I often daydream of being tagged along with you fantastic couple, America is such a great country with lovely scenery

  • @suelandis4511
    @suelandis4511 Рік тому +12

    I loved this route. I did it from Portland in 2021. I didn’t want to fly during the pandemic and I was going to meet my new granddaughter and a bedroom was the perfect way to minimize contact. I ate in my room and only left my room to stretch my legs during longer stops.

  • @LisaMarli
    @LisaMarli Рік тому +5

    My husband was handicapped, so we've taken the handicapped room. It's a roomette for sitting and sleeping with an open bathroom on the other part of the room. You have a sink and a toilet, but no shower. Since it is on the lower level, the train car shower is near by. The open space is big enough to store a wheelchair and the extra stuff one brings with the handicapped.
    They will bring you your meals so you don't have to go upstairs to the dining car. Snacks and other goodies from the snack bar depend on how busy the car attendant is. I usually went over to get him those kinds of things.
    Tipping is real important.
    Price was the same as a roomette.

  • @stephenartner
    @stephenartner Рік тому +178

    I can't BELIEVE Amtrak schedules trains to pass through that incredible Idaho scenery at night!

    • @davidm4689
      @davidm4689 Рік тому +15

      Absolutely agree. Some really stupid people failing the tourists on train.

    • @David-dx5wz
      @David-dx5wz Рік тому +39

      They only have 12-16 hours of daylight to work with and 40+ hours of riding to do. There has to be almost half of the ride at night lol.

    • @thetrainhopper8992
      @thetrainhopper8992 Рік тому +11

      The Great Northern ran a secondary train called The Western Star through their during the day all the way to Chicago. Most routes had 2-7 runs per day at one point. Amtrak axed a bunch of them when they were created, including the Western Star.

    • @marcykaren
      @marcykaren Рік тому +8

      @@David-dx5wz This happens when you only have one train per day.

    • @briguy070
      @briguy070 Рік тому +6

      the train to Cincinnati arrives at 3:30 am, it's the only train that comes there. no trains leave during the day. Expand Amtrak!

  • @fanab8151
    @fanab8151 10 місяців тому +11

    I am sure the life lesson you mentioned is that you should always look for silver linings in every situation.
    Wow! That was some incredible landscape. Thank you for sharing it with us.
    Peace to all

  • @alanjay35
    @alanjay35 Рік тому +32

    As a huge fan and also an Amtrak Employee aboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder. Thank you for this awesome video of the train I work on!!!! Hope you had a wonderful experience!!!!!

  • @sarahhearn-vonfoerster7401
    @sarahhearn-vonfoerster7401 Рік тому +13

    I grew up on trains...any situation is acceptable. It is really a mindset. As an adult, I gave up flying, except for emergencies, and settled back to always give myself time and enjoy the journey, meeting new people from all over the world, and getting work done as our great country rolls by in all it differences and greatness. No other way to achieve this !

  • @1firstchef
    @1firstchef Рік тому +13

    My wife and I took the same trip many years ago. We had a blast. One lesson I learned was pack light, less is more.

  • @Navyuncle
    @Navyuncle 3 місяці тому +3

    My granddaughter was two or three at the time, she really loved her Amtrak ride. She loved the fact that she wasn't confined to a car seat. She was able to walk from parent to grandparents while the train was moving. We did a short 100 mile day trip from Alton, IL to Springfield, IL .I was impressed how quickly we got to our destination. Our tiny granddaughter slept all the way home.

  • @catylynch7909
    @catylynch7909 Рік тому +13

    Good call ... taking some wine on board! I love to sit in my roomette, and sip wine. They do the driving, and I relax and enjoy seeing the country go by.

    • @codytylek7836
      @codytylek7836 4 місяці тому

      I take the Northeaster all the time. You can bring your own booze on board even in coach.

  • @KwakuAddoDanquah
    @KwakuAddoDanquah Рік тому +18

    One day, I would love to travel across the United States on an Amtrak... You make me fall in love with trains every time I watch.

  • @okeesmokee6658
    @okeesmokee6658 Рік тому +53

    Born and raised in Idaho. Sandpoint is a very nice town/area. Couer D' Alene is spectacular - northern Idaho has some fantastic scenery. Thanks for taking us along.

    • @braun3659
      @braun3659 Рік тому +4

      Sandpoint and CDA are beautiful. Great places to explore

    • @wingflex5367
      @wingflex5367 Рік тому +2

      I was born and raised in Boise/Nampa :)

    • @Hoovie9596
      @Hoovie9596 Рік тому +4

      We go every summer from Calgary. 5 hour drive

    • @DaveChamberlain-DTSinIdaho
      @DaveChamberlain-DTSinIdaho 11 місяців тому +1

      Shush!!!

    • @okeesmokee6658
      @okeesmokee6658 11 місяців тому

      @@DaveChamberlain-DTSinIdaho Yeah - good point 😁.

  • @ianscott3180
    @ianscott3180 Рік тому +4

    We live in the UK and use trains regularly across Europe. The biggest thing for us is to see the counrty not from 35000 feet and no airports. I have always wanted to cross the USA by train and you have got us seriously thinking about it. Your trip to NC may be a clincher as my wife's brother lives in Hickory NC. I will start planning a visit, thanks guys.

  • @mcain2911
    @mcain2911 Рік тому +14

    I love how you can take multiple inconveniences that would piss anyone else off and make the best of it.

    • @firstlast1282
      @firstlast1282 Рік тому +5

      Yup, they turn the not so positive, into positive. They really just enjoy the trip as a whole. Great content and great people.

    • @ronclark9724
      @ronclark9724 Рік тому +2

      Frankly when you consider how old the Superliner cars are, nearly 50 years, Amtrak has done a good job just keeping them running. It isn't easy keeping equipment 50 years old running. Not a refrigerator, HVAC, or the hot water tank... Railroads are linear, not point to point like airlines, so every mechanical issue of any train on that route will cause delays on the entire route. Those freight train cars may be even older than Amtrak Superlliner or Viewliner cars. European trains outside of Russia have considerably shorter routes of a 300 hundred miles, 450 kilometers at most, whereas Amtrak and Via have transcontinental routes from coast to coast of around 4 thousand miles, 6 thousand kilometers... When your route is ten times longer, well, there are more chances of things going wrong, ten times more...

    • @sturmovik1274
      @sturmovik1274 Рік тому +5

      You don't take Amtrak to get there, you take Amtrak for the experience of getting there. I remember one trip I took years ago, Denver to Iowa on the California Zephyr. They'd had a fire in the dining car kitchen somewhere in Nevada that had contaminated all their pre-loaded ingredients and destroyed their freezers. So, they called ahead to every place the train stopped and, at every station, there was a truck from the local supermarket to load whatever they had been able to throw on the truck at short notice. Sure, the chefs had to improvise, but they adapted and kept everyone fed.

  • @nuckyduk15
    @nuckyduk15 Рік тому +12

    I used to ride the Empire Builder from Wisconsin Dells to St. Paul monthly when I went to school in Minneapolis. The views of SW Wisconsin and the Mississippi River throughout Minnesota are pretty remarkable.

  • @Shadowlegend25
    @Shadowlegend25 Рік тому +102

    I really enjoy how you both travel together and show what it means to find joy in the smallest moments. I am looking forward to making this trip with my wife one day!

    • @williamhunt2647
      @williamhunt2647 Рік тому +11

      Yikes. He already has LOADS of money. Ask for a refund!

    • @tryphineshumba1181
      @tryphineshumba1181 Рік тому +8

      I know right....I love this channel, and I too look forward to doing this with my husband one day.

    • @GreenerGrass
      @GreenerGrass  Рік тому +28

      Wow! Thank you so much Kevin!!

    • @DMAJOR2K
      @DMAJOR2K Рік тому +2

      I live in Greensboro 🎉

    • @LuisUrbieta
      @LuisUrbieta Рік тому +2

      ​@@GreenerGrass What if Amtrak had a 100% perfect schedule?

  • @matthines4748
    @matthines4748 Рік тому +5

    I’ve been on The Empire Builder about ten times. It’s why I love trains.

  • @maxandmyamom
    @maxandmyamom Рік тому +18

    As a former Minnesotan, I enjoyed those views!

    • @robrmartin9369
      @robrmartin9369 Рік тому +1

      Hi Cat, I'm North St. Paul....living in Washington State now. Moving home next year!

  • @csunil9963
    @csunil9963 Рік тому +33

    That delayed departure actually turned out to be a "Blessing in Diguise" for you guys as you got to witness some awesome scenery (to say the least.) in Idaho and elsewhere ...

  • @kennethwu115
    @kennethwu115 Рік тому +3

    Jen has a very soothing voice. Great for relaxing before a long trip.

  • @nickpapagiorgio5056
    @nickpapagiorgio5056 Рік тому +58

    Delays usually stink but sometimes they also remind us it’s time to slow down and enjoy are surroundings and this video seemed to be perfect example of that notion. Thank you so much for sharing Jeb the views were absolutely majestic! I also have to add that those new Siemens locomotives are gorgeous!

    • @lyndastarwriter8507
      @lyndastarwriter8507 Рік тому +2

      Yes...whether you're on your bicycle, in a taxi, a bus, an aircraft, a train, a car, delays happen - and most of the delays aren't related to something disastrous. A true blessing to have so many modes of transportation - if one or all doesn't work, most people and service providers are resourceful.

    • @justmeandthethree
      @justmeandthethree Рік тому

      What if you really wanted to use the bathroom in a certain city and the train was late? You'd have to hold it maybe a long time, and that is not very romantic.

    • @badguy5554
      @badguy5554 Рік тому +1

      I've NEVER complained about a schedule slip...especially when I'm on board. Rail trips are like land cruises. The longer the better!

  • @thomaskessler2596
    @thomaskessler2596 Рік тому +17

    Jeff, my oldest brother and me are taking the C.Z. the 2nd week of May. Thank You for sharing all these Amtrax videos. I love my several trip to Seattle areas. Beautiful country there. America is so Great! God Bless.

  • @maritasue5067
    @maritasue5067 Рік тому +7

    In the FAQs section you mentioned “it’s not the most efficient”. Well, in one way it is. I read an article a couple of years ago that compared the amount of fuel per passenger per mile. Trains were the most fuel efficient way to travel.

  • @JuanJimenez-od1ho
    @JuanJimenez-od1ho Рік тому +5

    Montana in the winter is not matched in it’s beauty. Did Yellowstone tour two February ago, and it was a life changing event. The beauty is only magnified by the amazing snow cover.

  • @eddalexander9005
    @eddalexander9005 Рік тому +5

    My first train trip included the Great Northern Empire Builder from Williston, ND, to St. Paul. This was in 1966 and the train was completely full. I was traveling in "steerage" and had to sit on a stool in the restroom for part of the trip. Still, it was an exciting adventure!

  • @carolyncornelius1492
    @carolyncornelius1492 Рік тому +23

    Suzanne And Jeb Brooks, I absolutely always look forward to your truly exciting and humorous travel videos. .. You both always make me smile and I do enjoy the wonderful descriptions of the lovely scenery as the train rolls on!! . ... I shall always enjoy travelling on Amtrak no matter how late it always is (fact)!! .. Thank you again for this lovely journey across our amazing country!! .. God Bless You, CC 🥰

  • @gkhutch
    @gkhutch Рік тому +6

    I did the same trip last summer. Summer was beautiful too. The mountains still snow on the mountain peaks. One thing I found that was very interesting was, many of the small towns in the plains all had gambling houses.

  • @wesleyhunter2834
    @wesleyhunter2834 Рік тому +5

    I took this same trip over 20 years ago during the winter months, and it was magical outside. Going through Glacier National Park was like being in a snow globe. Enjoy.

  • @bryanmathison1754
    @bryanmathison1754 7 місяців тому +4

    My grandfather was a conductor on the Burlington Northern based in LaCrosse WI. Your LaCrosse & Wisconsin Dells shots brought back good memories. 💚

  • @thewolfethatcould8878
    @thewolfethatcould8878 Рік тому +6

    Please God look down upon this Empire Builder track and bless all of their adventures. This Amtrak line has been the key to my survival more than once. Each and every time they were always loving and supportive. I do miss them, and hopefully one day I will be able to ride again. Thank you Jeb, you and your wife are dictating/conveying far more dreams than you know. One day very soon I hope to cross paths with you all and tell you how much you truly have helped me during this down time. To Infinity and Beyond!!! I also must add that the lack of services at the King Street Station adds to the calmness and peacefulness that we all used to have whilst travelling. Suzanne, you are riding for me, and I thank you so much. I pray that all of your adventures are fondly looked down upon from above. We all love you, and we are are grateful for your work. 🌻

    • @sarahhearn-vonfoerster7401
      @sarahhearn-vonfoerster7401 Рік тому

      Beautiful post...I agree about the peace and quiet in the depots. There are so many shops and restaurants surrounding the depots, so why clutter up a resting area?

  • @rickibelden986
    @rickibelden986 Рік тому +2

    As a child I took the amtrak train from spokane to Seattle, Seattle to Portland and Portland back to spokane.
    It was unforgettable for sure and has left me with a want to travel by train again.
    The trip from spokane to Chicago would be awesome for sure.
    Maybe someday I will get the chance to travel by train again. ❤

  • @sweetpea8091
    @sweetpea8091 Рік тому +11

    The Amtrak trip was both beautiful, and very interesting. Thank you Jeb and Suzanne.

  • @cthulhuismychild
    @cthulhuismychild Рік тому +2

    I've taken the Empire Builder 4 times. 2 times from Milwaukee to Seattle. And last 2 times, Hiawatha to Chicago to ride it the entire route. Just such a peaceful, relaxing way to travel. Yes old cars, but the pace and scenery make it so worth it. I always travel alone hoping someday to travel bring someone with me to share the trip. Thank you for all your Amtrak videos. Makes a long day at the office so much better

  • @XOkie
    @XOkie Рік тому +4

    Incredible travel journal. I did the Empire Builder last year (Sept 2022) in roomette and will be doing it again in April on a 6000 mile Amtrak journey! I really appreciate your enthusiasm for Amtrak and train travel. Thanks!

  • @drewrydell27
    @drewrydell27 Рік тому +5

    I miss my solo trip to Chicago last summer from St. Cloud, MN. It was the most peaceful and life just slowed down. Only thing I wish I would’ve done is explore the train more like dining car and bedrooms. Brings back amazing memories

  • @mdotto9
    @mdotto9 Рік тому +10

    If you loved what you saw in Minnesota, you should definitely adventure along the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers and head up to the North Shore. Absolutely incredible scenery! We have a beautiful state if you don't mind the weather. 🙂

  • @raykrv6a
    @raykrv6a Рік тому +2

    Interesting video. My grandfather on my dad's side was an engineer for Great Northern. I grew up in St. Paul where my dad's family lives and worked downtown St. Paul for years. Used to walk a couple of blocks down to the river during lunch when the weather was nice and watch the trains and barges on the river. Funny you mentioned Cutbank. I met a guy in school and he was from outside of Cutbank where his family had a 17,000 acre farm. Blew my mind. He only came to the university during the winter as he was busy on the farm the rest of the time.

  • @danielmoose1273
    @danielmoose1273 Рік тому +9

    "She didn't say 'Uno'" LOL(!!) 🙂 ... As always, Thank You Both for the informative and entertaining videos. Traveling always presents unexpected setbacks, and your thoughtful videos with thorough evaluations prevent countless unsavory surprises for vacationers. Very Well Done(!!) 🙂 ...

  • @russellcronk1224
    @russellcronk1224 Рік тому +2

    I enjoy watching your videos. Over the last several years, I have gained a renewed enthusiasm for train travel. In June 2021 I went on a cross country vacation to coastal Washington and Oregon state. I started off on the Michigan Blue Water from Flint, Michigan to Chicago, and after a 2 hour layover, went on Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle. 5 days later I went back on Coast Starlight from Tacoma, Washington to Sacramento and then a 5 hour layover and went on California Zephyr from Sacramento to Chicago. And then returned home on the Michigan Blue Water. It was a vacation of a lifetime.

  • @salmanalibhai9148
    @salmanalibhai9148 Рік тому +7

    Hey man, love the videos and you are very lucky that you have a wife who can support you when u do the videos, it's just amazing to see that. Love from Canada

  • @christopherhuggins3212
    @christopherhuggins3212 Рік тому +4

    I have taken my first ride with my children on Amtrak today and even though we only went to 1 town over it was an amazing experience seeing things with a different perspective than my normal commute to work

  • @balesjo
    @balesjo Рік тому +8

    The Empire Builder is the Amtrak route I'd love to travel. A trip in the winter would be spectacular, but I imagine any season would be an adventure. I'd also love to do some of the Canadian trans-Canada routes as well.

  • @stetsonmcelhaney2312
    @stetsonmcelhaney2312 Рік тому +1

    Jeb I grew up in North Idaho in Clark Fork, 20 miles east of Sandpoint on the Montana boarder. It was so wonderful to see we’re I grew up for 18 years. Made me cry, such a beautiful area!

  • @MatthewSmith-cv7op
    @MatthewSmith-cv7op Рік тому +4

    Seeing this video inspired me to take the Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle in September!!!

  • @badguy5554
    @badguy5554 Рік тому +2

    I've taken the Empire Builder many times...and will again take it next month. As you point out, UNFORTUNATELY, the timing of the train's schedule places it in some of the most beautiful parts of the country...AT NIGHT. I PRAY for a schedule slip for my coming trip!

  • @Kimbuucha
    @Kimbuucha Рік тому +3

    I took this route once many years ago and we were delayed by about 7 hours and let me tell you, it was worth it. Montana looks like something out of a story book in the winter. Such a beautiful state and not having cell phone reception makes it so you get up and talk to others. Would happily do it again. Thanks for sharing

  • @zquark1
    @zquark1 4 місяці тому +1

    Suzanne is a great travel partner...and a good sport for taking the top bunk! Plus she's as cute as a bunny (beautiful smile)!

  • @nightbird4747
    @nightbird4747 Рік тому +7

    Thanks for sharing your trip!
    Living in Minne-snow-ta during this time was no treat for me to see all that snow, we're into our 4 month of winter now. And we just got another 4.5" of snow over the last two days. I'm so ready for spring weather, temps in the 40's would be wonderful at this point!
    Taking my Grandson on a trip for graduation this summer, not sure of the direction yet....
    Hoping to see sunshine, green grass or an warm ocean view!
    "See you on the rails!"

    • @lizcademy4809
      @lizcademy4809 Рік тому +3

      I was amused when Jeb said a 39°F temperature in St. Paul was chilly ... for us locals, that's a warm day!
      Nice to see my office building through the train window.

    • @aldelvex233
      @aldelvex233 Рік тому +3

      I thought I was the only one from St. Paul watching this 🤔

    • @lizcademy4809
      @lizcademy4809 Рік тому +3

      @@aldelvex233 You might be ... I'm in Minneapolis 😀

    • @nightbird4747
      @nightbird4747 Рік тому +2

      I'm down by Iowa border, getting more snow right now!

  • @pamelaklemp5615
    @pamelaklemp5615 Рік тому +2

    So very great to see the Empire Builder again! What a treat, our son regularly traveled from our home in Minneapolis to Chicago on it and also on the Zephyr. He loved it them both. Bummer about the Observation Deck car on the Empire Builder being absent for repairs on your trip. He used to take a deck of Tarot Cards and do "Readings " for a fun pastime for anyone who wanted one, free of course. As a college student he meet many other travelers doing that and laughed saying it was a "babe magnet " to meet beautiful college girls from different schools traveling to and from. 😄😁😅😍😂.

  • @newzealanddoesntexist7505
    @newzealanddoesntexist7505 Рік тому +3

    I’ve used the Empire Builder to get from one side of Wisconsin to the other (Milwaukee to La Crosse) to see family. Even in a Coach car it was comfortable for that 2-2.5 hour trip, no delays either which was lucky. Besides just being a great way to see the country, trains also provide reasonably priced travel to smaller towns that may otherwise not be serviced by planes or other systems of transportation. I saw a lot of college students like myself along with some Amish getting off at my stop, reminded me of that.

  • @MaggieWillis-n2j
    @MaggieWillis-n2j 6 місяців тому +1

    Please God look down upon this Empire Builder track and bless all of their adventures. This Amtrak line has been the key to my survival more than once. Each and every time they were always loving and supportive. I do miss them, and hopefully one day I will be able to ride again. Thank you Jeb, you and your wife are dictating/conveying far more dreams than you know. One day very soon I hope to cross paths with you all and tell you how much you truly have helped me during this down time. To Infinity and Beyond!!! I also must add that the lack of services at the King Street Station adds to the calmness and peacefulness that we all used to have whilst travelling. Suzanne, you are riding for me, and I thank you so much. I pray that all of your adventures are fondly looked down upon from above. We all love you, and we are are grateful for your work.

  • @jonbradshaw3385
    @jonbradshaw3385 Рік тому +5

    That is a trip I would love to take someday! I used to live in Williston, ND and would see the train coming into town often. I also picked up lots of friends from the train station.

  • @TheLewistownTrainspotter8102
    @TheLewistownTrainspotter8102 Рік тому +6

    9:13 - 11:44 Gives me memories of driving trains in Microsoft Train Simulator through these mountains.

    • @grandtrunk5416
      @grandtrunk5416 Рік тому +2

      Open rails can return you to that 👍it's great and it's basically just upgraded msts
      Doppler is better and updated models, but you can still get the og trains

  • @DC-id2ih
    @DC-id2ih Рік тому +8

    Another great rail journey!! Thanks Jeb and Suzanne for sharing the trip! As someone who grew up in Canada - I love Winter landscapes (from the mountains to the plains)!! Don't get me wrong - Summer is great and all - but there is really something special about fresh/deep snow covering both the ground and the trees under a brilliant blue sky....and even though the late start was probably inconvenient for everyone - you really can't beat those views that would normally have been hidden in the dark (also loved the scenes you captured of wildlife near the tracks!).

  • @shanepalmer887
    @shanepalmer887 Рік тому +2

    Hi there, I’m from Sydney, NSW, Australia 🇦🇺
    My wife and I really enjoyed your rail adventure. Thank you for your efforts and sharing your trip. The scenery was beautiful….

  • @heyaswinp
    @heyaswinp Рік тому +14

    This is so beautiful! Hopefully Trains become more commonplace and efficient sometime soon.

  • @brianglass-ex9gi
    @brianglass-ex9gi Рік тому +15

    Great video. You two need to more of the back and forth commentary. Suzanne is a wonderful addition to the videos and has real charisma and charm.

  • @justinnielsen8756
    @justinnielsen8756 Рік тому +6

    Grew up right next to Elk River MN so seeing the water tower made my day!! Was happy to hear about the delay at the beginning of the video, because otherwise the train normally goes by pretty early in the morning.

    • @sturmovik1274
      @sturmovik1274 Рік тому +1

      Coon Rapids here. "Hey, I know that apartment complex! That's Fridley!"

    • @AndrewOsborne
      @AndrewOsborne Рік тому +2

      I live in Saint Cloud AND I work for Amtrak as a conductor on the Builder! I see that water tower often driving through Elk River or passing through on the train!

    • @justinnielsen8756
      @justinnielsen8756 Рік тому +1

      @AndrewOsborne okay question for you!! You probably have no idea but I gotta ask. A handful of years ago I saw Amtrak westbound pull out of St. Cloud around midnight, pulling like 50 intermodel cars. Any idea what that might have been about? I managed to film it with my potato iPod at the time, its the first video on my UA-cam channel if you want to see it.

  • @nathanjiang100
    @nathanjiang100 Рік тому +7

    I’m currently on Amtrak’s westbound Pennsylvanian right now. This video is seriously a life saver since our engine broke down in Harrisburg and we’ve been stuck here for 2 hours and counting. Not gonna lie I wish this was longer because I still have an hour to kill before they can send another engine up here from Philly.

    • @GreenerGrass
      @GreenerGrass  Рік тому +1

      What good timing…hope you made it and thanks for watching!

    • @nathanjiang100
      @nathanjiang100 Рік тому +1

      @@GreenerGrass still on the train over 4 hours late on a scheduled 9-hour train. fell a sleep for about 2 hours though

    • @stevendelavaux1426
      @stevendelavaux1426 Рік тому +1

      Amtrak is kind of in a state of purgatory right now with their engines. The P42s are way past their expiration date and are breaking down. Not to mention all the freight engines that are increasingly breaking down today. There have been significant teething issues with the ALC-42s. They are making software improvements and handling these as they come up. Hopefully, in a year or so these issues will be resolved and we will see far better reliability with the ALC-42s.

    • @nathanjiang100
      @nathanjiang100 Рік тому +2

      @@stevendelavaux1426 funny enough, I was chatting about this very issue with the head conductor during this whole layover. she said that all the protect power in Harrisburg also broke down, so that's why they had to send a diesel all the way up from Philly. the ALC-42s have also had many issues so she was wondering why Amtrak spends so much money with stupid things like battery-electric cars for the Empire Corridor rather than putting focus on the boring but important issues of everyday operations

    • @gchampi2
      @gchampi2 Рік тому +1

      @@nathanjiang100 Public Relations. Adding "Shiny & New!" to a system looks better than fixing "old & familiar", especially if they can add a few buzzwords. Battery electric? That's "Environmentally friendly" (supposedly), and "forward looking". Diesel? Not so much...

  • @SD45-ET44AC
    @SD45-ET44AC Рік тому +4

    The best thing about ALL my vacations, and that includes a 9 hour ride on a beat up old train that leaked exhaust into the carriage which replaced a 4 hour high speed train (in the U.K.) on a bank holiday, is having someone to share it with (28+ years). Great video, as always!! 👍🏼👍🏼

  • @GNoteSmith
    @GNoteSmith 8 місяців тому +2

    More great information and photography especially the "Get ready with me". Amtrak addition. LOL. My wife liked that one. She wasn't sure how her "mornings" would proceed. Thank you guys. Great video as usually. 👍

    • @GreenerGrass
      @GreenerGrass  8 місяців тому

      🤣glad she enjoyed that segment!

  • @ultraviolettas
    @ultraviolettas Рік тому +27

    Ugh, I love all your Amtrak videos, but I especially loved this one so much!! Y’all’s excitement and enthusiasm had me smiling the whole way through. The terrain was gorgeous and I loved Suzanne’s impromptu professional beauty UA-camr get ready with me! So excited to see the rest of your Amtrak journey!! 🥲🥰

  • @jimbernard71
    @jimbernard71 8 місяців тому +2

    Hello from Hendo NC- Love your content!!! Will be taking 1st Amtrak trip in over 20 years again. Your an inspiration to venture throughout America with Amtrak at the wheel...

  • @jenniferkneller1228
    @jenniferkneller1228 Рік тому +6

    If you love the Empire builder and it’s amazing views, I highly encourage you to ride “The Canadian”. A very similar trip but a little more elegant with vintage equipment. I’ve taken both trains and love the majestic Rockies and serene prairie views.

    • @robrmartin9369
      @robrmartin9369 Рік тому +3

      Bonjour Jennifer: My husband and I are planning that next year!

  • @s.macintosh-jc9rf
    @s.macintosh-jc9rf 9 місяців тому +2

    Hi Jeb,
    Thank you for your reply to me recently. I really appreciate your humble attitude and your ability to connect with the camera. Suzanne is a pure delight with her indescribably and wonderful attitude about travel!
    Thank you again for the pleasure that you two have given me and many others.
    Have a great evening, and Merry Christmas to you and Suzanne,
    Peter

  • @seangenson721
    @seangenson721 Рік тому +3

    Loved the longer video on this trip...the scenery and your comments justified it very well. Thank you for all your videos!

  • @Zachinthus09
    @Zachinthus09 Рік тому +2

    My wife and I did the Empire Builder in 2021 from Portland to Chicago. It was the best vacation we ever did! Next time, take it from Portland so you can see the Columbia River Gorge. That was up there with Glacier for views. And Portland Union Station has a Metro Lounge. Cheers!

  • @lindawatkin8577
    @lindawatkin8577 Рік тому +3

    Another nice trip with the Brooks couple.

  • @maynard_ross
    @maynard_ross Рік тому +7

    I live in Spokane, thanks for saying our name right, by the way. The Empire Builder is one of the most scenic trips in the country. I really hope Amtrak will offer a day trip through the Cascades, now that would be a trip to enjoy.

  • @user-wt3rq1ic2u
    @user-wt3rq1ic2u 6 місяців тому +5

    11 months ago a roommette for two was about 700...now it's over 1400...that's a hell of a price hike.
    But my God Havre MT... my parents where stationed there back in the lat 80s... it's a beautiful part of the country.
    My dad and I spent so many hours down at the station and yard railfanning. That is a busy yard and at one point my Dad and I where invited up into the cab of a GN GP-38 yard switcher...best day of a young boys life... got to help push some engines into the service shack... back before litigation ruined everything.

  • @quasarsavage
    @quasarsavage Рік тому +1

    that loco is pretty the paint scheme is wonderful.

  • @seanromeo7916
    @seanromeo7916 Рік тому +5

    Jeb and Suzanne, your videos are beautiful. Your original Amtrak stuff was a huge part of the inspiration for my own cross country Amtrak trip last summer! What an amazing experience it was! Thank you so much for your work! (The videos also convinced my skeptical mother to go as well!)

  • @trainmanj
    @trainmanj Рік тому +3

    I am a railfan and quadriplegic and therefore use a wheelchair. It has been several years, but I have ridden on the Empire Builder, Coast Starlight, and California Zephyr using the accessible sleeper. It is spacious enough for my wheelchair and had great views even with smaller windows. The car attendant brings meals to your room after choosing what to eat. Getting in and out of the car is a little tight, but it does work well.

  • @lemonlemon7968
    @lemonlemon7968 Рік тому +7

    Amazing! I would love to see more longer videos like this, it's always nice to see you upload. Amtrak really looks nice.

  • @gregadams6827
    @gregadams6827 Рік тому +2

    Great Video!!!! Interesting seeing the Mississippi up north, unlike my hometown of Memphis and my second home town of New Orleans. Try the City of New Orleans, very festive crowd on that train. To Chicago to Minot. Wisconsin was just beautiful on the Empire Builder. Again just a great video. Greg Adams, Springfield, Louisiana and 31 year retired Federal Express (Fedex Express) employee.

  • @adamjacquez9495
    @adamjacquez9495 Рік тому +4

    Possibly the most amazing scenery from one of your travels yet! Thanks for sharing your adventures with us!

  • @supericeman1
    @supericeman1 Рік тому +1

    I rode the Empire Builder last year from Fargo to Seattle and back except in Coach, our train was pulled by 2 p42 locomotives both going and coming back, the coach seats were comfortable, it had good recline, and power outlet, and leg rest, I booked an upper deck ticket on the superliner, however going to Seattle it was 7.5 hrs delayed, 2 hours delay at Minot waiting for a new crew, the old crew timed out, at MT, in the afternoon tracks were too hot the train can only go 40mph, that night, past Havre MT, there is a 60mph wind storm, the train came to a crawl at 20mph, everyone sitting in coach was compensated with snacks and a free meal in the dining car, we had beef stew and wild rice, our lounge car attendant that worked the café is a history buff, we had a informative lecture on all the history and sites of things along the way, including the missile silos, cold war, badlands, Williston oil fields, trading posts, etc, despite all the hiccups it was an awesome and scenic time especially going through Glacier National Park, and the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, and Columbia River and the forest in Washington before arriving in Seattle, it was an awesome journey!

  • @edvaira6891
    @edvaira6891 Рік тому +17

    Seeing you two traveling together, with all the little quirks and hiccups that travel entails, really just shows you two are kindred spirits! Also, how nice you were able to benefit from Amtrak’s incompetence by gaining such a wonderful scenic backdrop to your meals!

    • @sarahhearn-vonfoerster7401
      @sarahhearn-vonfoerster7401 Рік тому +2

      It isn't incompetence...it is circumstances. Give up your negative attitude. You'll never be a train traveler.

    • @edvaira6891
      @edvaira6891 Рік тому

      @@sarahhearn-vonfoerster7401 in the last 30 years, I have given Amtrak 11 different chances… I have only had a positive experience twice that hasn’t been marred by ridiculous delays, surly staff, or just rank incompetence… nine out of 11? Yeah, they’re incompetent!

  • @johndoyle3514
    @johndoyle3514 Рік тому +2

    I love your Amtrak/train journeys in addition to your air travel...THANK YOU!

  • @DannyA3579
    @DannyA3579 Рік тому +4

    I absolutely love train travel. I love Amtrak. One day I WILL try one of the longer routes and maybe get a roomette / bedroom.

  • @nick_kaamos
    @nick_kaamos 8 місяців тому +1

    I took a sleeper from Seattle to Minnesota during the fracking boom. It was pretty wild. One of the best experiences of my life

  • @granthaynes2213
    @granthaynes2213 Рік тому +3

    Saint Paul Union Depot is beautiful, 10/10 do recommend visiting it.

    • @tomfields3682
      @tomfields3682 Рік тому +2

      Built by the guy after whom this train was named, James J Hill, the empire builder himself!

  • @jhunjhunu1
    @jhunjhunu1 Рік тому +1

    Awesome Bedroom View of Snow Capped Mountains and Rivers

  • @dianeschroeder3980
    @dianeschroeder3980 Рік тому +7

    Such beautiful scenery. Your videos make me smile. Thanks for doing this guys!❤️✈️

  • @graceverssen5651
    @graceverssen5651 7 місяців тому

    Loved how relaxed you guys were, and the casual banter. It really added to the train content. Thanks for sharing. 🙏

  • @dexteralexander2437
    @dexteralexander2437 Рік тому +6

    Yes! Just as I was looking for another Jeb & Suzanne Amtrak video you delivered. Thank you. We rode the EB from Chicago to Seattle in June ‘22 and rolled in about 10 minutes late, so we were glad to see Idaho in this video, a state we traveled through asleep. Keep up the great train videos!

  • @hansTrauwitz
    @hansTrauwitz Рік тому +1

    Miss, the look he gives you at 8:02, is from a man in love, don't let him go nice video!!

  • @mygillian
    @mygillian Рік тому +5

    48 hours on the train is a really crazy amount of time! it's something that I would want to experience though if ever I'll visit the US. Thanks for sharing the experience Jeb!

  • @grtoocool
    @grtoocool Рік тому +2

    Been binge watching almost all your videos over the last few months Jeb. I just wanted to comment to say that I like how you and Suzanne are answering subscriber questions in your videos now. That's a pretty cool addition to the video!

    • @GreenerGrass
      @GreenerGrass  Рік тому +1

      Appreciate the feedback, glad you enjoyed it!

  • @priscillawakefield8439
    @priscillawakefield8439 Рік тому +4

    It is soo fun to virtual travel with you both. Much work is put into these videos. Thank you both.

  • @katielouise3924
    @katielouise3924 Рік тому +2

    Great video & such gorgeous scenery! I’d be overjoyed for that delay, too! 🎉

  • @RichardWagenknecht
    @RichardWagenknecht Рік тому +8

    Best travel channel on UA-cam! You guys do a great job!

  • @nathansyoutubeaccount
    @nathansyoutubeaccount Рік тому +2

    I rode this one last year with my wife, such a beautiful ride through glacier national park during our dinner!