Amtrak from New York City to Chicago

Question

We're thinking of travelling by train from NYC to Chicago and would be interested in hearing from anyone who has booked a private cabin for the trip.

Answer

Traveling by train from New York City to Chicago with Amtrak is a scenic and enjoyable experience, especially if you decide to book a private cabin. The route, typically taken on the Amtrak Lake Shore Limited, offers a comfortable ride through several states with lovely views of the countryside. For a more comfortable and private experience, booking a private cabin is a great choice. Here's a detailed look at what to expect:

Amtrak offers a few different options for private cabins on the Lake Shore Limited, including Roomettes and Bedrooms. Here's what you can expect from each:

Roomette: This is a small, private space with seating during the day that converts into a bed at night. Roomettes are great for solo travelers or couples. They come with two comfortable seats, a small fold-down table, and large windows. The Roomette also includes access to shared restrooms and showers, as well as complimentary meals in the dining car. The size is compact, but it provides a good level of privacy, and it's a great option for short trips like the NYC to Chicago route.
Bedroom: A Bedroom is more spacious than a Roomette and is ideal if you prefer extra room or are traveling with a companion. It includes a larger bed, a private restroom with a shower, and a sofa. Meals in the dining car are also included. A Bedroom offers more space and privacy, which makes it a better choice for longer trips or if you just prefer more comfort. It’s also suitable for families with one or two kids, as it can accommodate more people than a Roomette.

Booking a private cabin offers a few perks:

Privacy: You’ll have your own space away from the rest of the passengers, which is especially nice if you prefer a quiet environment.
Meals: Both Roomettes and Bedrooms include complimentary meals in the dining car, which is a nice touch for the journey.
Scenic Views: The large windows in the private cabins allow for excellent views of the passing landscape, especially during the daylight hours.
Extra Comfort: The cabins provide a level of comfort that standard seats simply can't match, particularly for overnight journeys like the one from NYC to Chicago.

One thing to keep in mind is that private cabins on Amtrak can be more expensive than regular seats, but they provide a higher level of comfort and privacy, which many people find well worth the extra cost. It's also important to note that the Lake Shore Limited typically takes about 20-24 hours, depending on delays, so booking a private cabin can make the long ride more pleasant.

It’s highly recommended to book your cabin in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons or weekends. You can also reach out to Amtrak’s customer service for more specific details on cabin availability, as there are limited cabins available per train.

If you're looking for more opinions, many travelers who have booked private cabins on Amtrak describe the experience as comfortable and relaxing. The staff is generally friendly, and the meals in the dining car are quite good. However, it's worth noting that the cabins are not luxurious like those on some other trains (e.g., in Europe or Japan), but they do provide a solid level of comfort for the price.

Overall, taking the train from NYC to Chicago in a private cabin is a great way to enjoy a leisurely and scenic journey. Whether you choose a Roomette or a Bedroom, you're in for a more comfortable and private ride than standard seating, making it a good option for a long-distance trip.