Here are some gleanings from my wife and my trip on the Crescent Limited and the Sunset Limited.
* Great regional food in the diner. The best place to meet new people since they fill up tables. A+
* Snack Car is OK for microwaved typed food and junk food. C+
* Usually pretty good scenery and excellent close up views of passing trains and railroad yards. A+
* Lots of common folk riding the rails. We met all kinds of characters. B
* Very hard to sleep in coach cars. D
* On the eastern corridor we were on time. East to west & back we were always late. 5 hours at one point. D
*Once the "train excitement" gets thin have something to read. Intermittent boredom. B-
*Always pay attention to your valuables. OK to leave most carry on near seat but keep expensive stuff with you. Always be aware....
All in all, we loved riding the train. It is not just transportation but an adventure to be sure. Don't have too many expectations about comfort and luxury but enjoy the robust and "pioneer" spirit of the rails. If you want to spend the extra $1,000 for a sleeper it is probably worth it (meals included) but it was too pricey for us.
I much prefer rail over flying. My wife thinks the other way.
Have fun!
