Amtrak is poorly managed and the trains never run on time. But the Empire Builder from Seattle to Chicago makes you feel special and like a pioneer. Seeing Glacier National Park from untouched territory is indescribable. I also saw two wolves just frolicking together from the train window and a wild horse (so, I don’t know that it was wild, but that’s my story). Chicago to Boston/NY is way more crowded and doesn’t quite fulfill that nostalgia.

The sleeper car is incredibly more costly than coach and, if you’re lucky like I was, you probably won’t have anyone sitting next to you anyway. Bring a pillow and a light sleeping bag to really curl up. I did this from TX to Chicago and it made all the difference. And earplugs allow you to enter your own little world. Look for the scarce seats with electrical outlets if you have an iPod to charge.

They actually serve vegan burgers at the snack bar, but the whole spread is pretty crappy and the restaurant is pricey. Pack some food. The human can live on peanut butter and bread alone. Trust me. And dried fruit is wondrous.