Embarking on a family vacation can be a magical experience, especially when it involves the charm of train travel. This past Christmas, our family chose a unique adventure, opting for the scenic rails over the usual car or plane journey. We booked an overnight trip on Amtrak's Empire Builder, traveling from Seattle, WA to Whitefish, MT. The skiing in Whitefish was fantastic, but the train ride itself turned out to be the highlight, particularly for the kids. The ease of ticketing, the breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains, and the novelty of sleeping in bunk beds on a moving train made for an unforgettable experience. Our adventure has sparked a new interest in exploring other destinations accessible by train, proving that the journey can be just as thrilling as the destination.
Amtrak's ticketing and baggage check-in process is a breath of fresh air compared to the usual travel rigmarole. With no long lines or security headaches, we found ourselves breezing through the station and onto the train with time to spare. This ease of access is a significant advantage of train travel, particularly for families with young children.
The Empire Builder's route took us through some of the most stunning landscapes America has to offer. The snow-capped peaks of the Cascade Mountains provided a picturesque backdrop to our journey. Opting to leave electronic distractions behind, our family immersed ourselves in the natural beauty, engaging in books, card games, and enriching conversations.
Our ten-year-old, usually glued to her gadgets, didn't miss them one bit, while our two-and-a-half-year-old was overjoyed at the experience of riding a "real" train, reminiscent of his beloved Thomas the Tank Engine. Although movies and games were available in the Lounge Car, we found our own ways to relax and enjoy the trip.
The kids were particularly fascinated by the train tunnels, including the mile-long tunnel under downtown Seattle and the 7.79-mile Cascade Tunnel under Stevens Pass. The journey from Seattle to Whitefish lasts just over 13 hours, with much of the travel time occurring overnight. We reserved a family-sized room in the Sleeping Car, which provided both privacy and comfort. The traditional attire of the train conductor and the attentive service, complete with champagne and sparkling cider, added to the charm of the experience.
Seating on the train was spacious, with ample legroom and the option to reserve a room with a private lavatory. The freedom to move around the train as desired was a welcome change from the confines of an airplane cabin.
Our visit to the dining car was a pleasant surprise. The ambiance, complete with white tablecloths and candles, set the stage for a meal that surpassed typical airline fare. While the food may not have been gourmet, it was a satisfying and enjoyable part of our travel experience.
Returning to our room after dinner, we found the seats transformed into cozy bunk beds by the attentive staff. The novelty of sleeping on a train was a thrill for the kids, and the gentle rocking motion provided a soothing environment, despite the unfamiliarity of the sleeping arrangements.
The following morning, we were greeted with a hot breakfast in the dining car just before arriving in Whitefish. The train trip had been such a hit with the kids that we're now eagerly searching for our next train-accessible vacation spot.
Train travel offers a unique and memorable way to explore new destinations, providing a blend of comfort, convenience, and adventure. It's a mode of transportation that invites travelers to slow down, appreciate the journey, and create lasting family memories.
Our family's positive experience with train travel has opened our eyes to the possibilities of rail-based vacations. With an extensive network of routes, Amtrak offers access to a variety of destinations across the United States, from the bustling cities to the serene countryside. We're already planning our next train adventure, eager to discover what other treasures lie along the tracks.
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