A first time riding the rails

I recently did something I had never done before. I rode a train, and found it to be a pleasant experience. We rode in to Chicago from La Crosse for a getaway. I had never ridden Amtrak before, and found it to be quite different than taking a plane. Not only did I not have to take my shoes off, there is no scanner, no checking of bags. At boarding, I only had to give my last name. No ID, and they never even checked my tickets once we got on board. Frankly, there was more security at the Chicago Blues Festival, a free event in Millennium Park. There is much more room on the train. Plenty of legroom, and the freedom to move around. You can bring your own snacks and beverages on the train, or sit in the bar car or observation car. The train was predictably late both leaving La Crosse and arriving in Chicago, but we built in the extra day for travel. On the train, it is not uncommon to see another train on the adjacent track. If you’re in a plane and see another plane that close, there’s trouble. Our trip home, because the westbound Empire Builder originates in Chicago, was right on time returning to La Crosse. It was less stressful than flying, a lot quieter, and my ears never popped. Amtrak is working to add a second daily run to Chicago, making it even more convenient, as I look forward to my next trip down the rails.