Along with 10 other staffers, Dan, a member of our Marketing team, recently took part in a familiarization trip along one of our most popular routes: from Chicago onboard the Empire Builder to Glacier National Park, and onward to Seattle.

Below are Dan’s seven top tips for this fantastic rail vacation through America’s upper Midwest to the peaks and lakes of the Pacific Northwest.

1. Enjoy Chicago… There’s Plenty to Do

As America’s “Second City”, there’s something to offer nearly every type of traveler before or after they step on the Amtrak train. From historic, grand luxury hotels to convenient and modern accommodations in the heart of the city, Amtrak Vacations offers 3-, 4- and 5-star hotel options to start or end your vacation in your desired style.

One of our most popular sightseeing activities is also one of the most scenic, the 75-minute architecture cruise down the Chicago River. It’s a fantastic way to learn about the history and edifices of the city, while also providing plenty of Instagram-worthy photo ops.

One area not to miss is Michigan Avenue — from the “Magnificent Mile” featuring high-end and popular shopping options across to the Millennium and Grant Park areas — home of the iconic “Cloud Gate” sculpture, also known as The Bean.

2. Take Advantage of the Metropolitan Lounge

Just off of Chicago Union Station’s vaunted Great Hall lies the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge, included for passengers traveling in First Class Private Rooms. (Metropolitan Lounges are available at all of Amtrak’s major stations.)

Beyond a comfortable place to wait for your train with restrooms and other facilities, one of the best amenities is the luggage storage room. When you check in, you can leave your carry-on bags behind the desk, freeing you up to explore more of the city before departure. Don’t miss out on the nearby Skydeck or ask about our other suggested activities!

Inside the lounge is a nice assortment of complimentary hot and cold drinks and snacks, as well as alcoholic beverages available for purchase. There are ample screens and announcements keeping guests informed on their train departure, so you can sit back and relax.

3. Pack a “Train Bag”

Whether you check or carry-on, you won’t want to unpack while on the train. That’s why we recommend packing a small “train bag” to keep in your first-class private room or at your seat. This is in addition to any checked luggage or larger carry-on suitcases for your entire vacation.

Inside, you’ll want to include any necessary medications and personal care items, as well as your valuables, a change of clothes for overnight trips, and other items.

We also recommend packing a book, deck of playing cards, tablet or other device with downloaded content, a portable charger, a power strip, snacks and anything else to enhance your journey. Of course, you’ll be plenty occupied taking in the views out your window!

4. Enjoy a Stroll After the Train… Don’t Worry About Bags

When you arrive at East Glacier Park, if you’re staying at the lodge it couldn’t be easier. Bellmen will be there in the historic red wagon to take your bags to the hotel, letting you enjoy the beautiful walk to the lodge, less than five minutes and right across the street!

If you’d prefer, there is room for guests inside the vehicle for the less-than-1 minute ride across to check in.

These services are also available for your departure from the Lodge to the Amtrak station, and are scheduled with plenty of time to comfortably check in at the station and prepare for your train.

5. Seamless Connections to Activities in Glacier Park

Amtrak Vacations’ included activities will usually pick up directly at the front door of Glacier Park Lodge.

Whether it’s a shuttle to an area of the national park, or the start and end of a full day tour, everything is right there and easy to find.

There are loads of activities at the lodge as well, from yard games, live music and educational programming to comfortable rocking chairs (both indoors and outdoors) to unwind and enjoy the spectacular views.

6. Wake Up with Stunning Views on the Empire Builder

The train route between East Glacier Park and Seattle onboard the Empire Builder may be one of Amtrak’s hidden gems for scenery.

You’ll skirt the edge of Glacier National Park along the tracks, and depending on the time of year, enjoy beautiful mountain vistas as the sun sets as you’re heading westbound.

Wake up early to enjoy the vast expanse of eastern Washington state before following the Columbia River and hugging the Puget Sound coastline. There’s a wide variety of scenery to enjoy!

7. Hop On and Off to Tame Seattle’s Hills

Seattle is one of America’s most beautiful cities, with stunning views of Puget Sound and even Mount Rainier to the south on a clear day, but it is very hilly!

One of the best ways to make the most of your vacation is to include a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour. It will take you to all of Seattle’s top attractions and easily transport you around the city, from the harbor shoreline and hillside Pike Place Market all the way up to the iconic Space Needle and more.

These tours will give you an educational and fun way to see and learn about the city, while making it easy to get around as well!

These are just a few tips to help make the most of an Amtrak Vacations trip to Glacier National Park through Chicago and Seattle. Of course, if you’ve got other ideas in mind, give us a call today and our Rail Experts will put together your dream Glacier getaway!