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		<title>Protected: The Crescent City Limited</title>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 12 Jun 2013 20:10:24 +0000</pubDate>
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		<title>The American Flyer &#8211; 2013</title>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 10 Feb 2013 20:00:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Steve</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>SOLD OUT - Thank You!</strong></span></p>
<p><strong></strong>Travel with us to Washington DC  to enjoy the sights and sounds of our Nation's Independence Day celebration.  Tour Washington D.C. at your own pace.  Visit the many famous sights and enjoy the most spectacular Fourth of July fireworks display in America.</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><FONT COLOR="ff0000" size="+3"><br />
<marquee behavior="scroll" direction="left" height="54">SOLD OUT &#8211; Thank You!</marquee><br />
</FONT></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/AmericanFlag001.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-425" title="AmericanFlag001" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/AmericanFlag001.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="146" /></a><strong style="font-size: 1.17em;">Trip# AR-13-G-1</strong></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">St. Louis – Chicago – Washington, DC <br />and return</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">July (1)2 – July 7(8) 2013</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Up to eight days &#8211; seven nights</strong></p>
<p>The <em>American Flyer</em>, a nostalgic private rail-car trip, aboard our vintage streamliner, turning back time to a period when life was a little slower, more simplified with time for fun and enjoyment.</p>
<p>Travel with us&#8230; experience a most memorable overnight rail journey aboard our art-deco train, featuring classic, comfortable Pullman accommodations, fine dining, complimentary premium beverages, beautiful scenery and first-class service reminiscent to that of the Golden Age of rail travel!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Washington-Collage.jpg" alt="" width="630" height="270" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em style="font-size: 2em; line-height: 19px;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">All Aboard!</span></strong></em></p>
<p>If you haven&#8217;t experienced overnight train travel in a while, then the <em>American Flyer</em> should be your choice.  Our train will become your transportation, restaurant, nightclub and hotel&#8230;all on the silver rails. Our train will summon the romance of the Golden Age of rail travel.  Smiling and pampering first-class on-board attendants, delicious meals served by uniformed wait staff, on tables adorned with flowers and crisp linens. Enjoy the sleek styling of our &#8220;Lookout Lounge&#8221; meticulously refurbished,, creating that special place for passengers to meet socially and relax.  Just imagine for a moment&#8230; your enjoying the sights from your comfortable lounge seat and a dapper waiter pops by to freshen your drink.  Pampered and relaxed while this great land of ours passes by the rear of our train.</p>
<p>Travel with us the care free, car free way&#8230; no airport hassles&#8230; no checking in and out of hotels&#8230; just great comfortable rail travel at see level.</p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"> <em>Tour Highlights:</em></h1>
<p style="text-align: left;"> <strong>•</strong> We&#8217;ll begin our trip from either the &#8220;Gateway City&#8221;, St. Louis, MO, Springfield, IL, Bloomington, IL or <br />    the &#8220;City That Works&#8221;, Chicago, IL<br /> <strong>•</strong> Travel east- and west-bound on the original B&amp;O line through the cornfields of Indiana, the industrial <br />    areas of Ohio, Pittsburgh  PA, the Allegheny Mountains, Cumberland Narrows, historic Harper&#8217;s Ferry <br />    and the beautiful Potomac River valley.<br /> <strong>•</strong> Sleep, dine and travel aboard our historic nostalgic rail-cars that make up our <em>American Flyer</em> streamliner.<br /> <strong>•</strong> Enjoy pampered first-class service by our attentive on-board staff.<br /> <strong>•</strong> Complimentary premium beverage and snack service throughout our trip.<br /> <strong>•</strong> Visit Washington D.C. and explore our nation&#8217;s capital during the Fourth of July holiday celebration.<br /> <strong>•</strong> Enjoy Washington D.C. Union Station, just foot steps away from our rail-cars.  As one of Amtrak&#8217;s premier<br />    stations, you&#8217;ll enjoy dozens of restaurants, shops, a multiplex theater and direct access to Washington D.C.<br /> <strong>•</strong> Tour Washington D.C. at your own pace with an included step-on/step-off trolley pass.  Visit famous <br />    sights like the U.S. Capitol Building, The Jefferson Memorial, The Lincoln Memorial, The Vietnam <br />    Memorial and The Smithsonian to name just a few.<br /> <strong>•</strong> Enjoy the most spectacular Fourth of July fireworks display in America.</p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><em><strong style="font-size: large;">Itinerary:</strong></em></h1>
<h2><strong>MONDAY, July 1, 2013<br />   (DAY 1, ST. LOUIS BOARDING PASSENGERS ONLY)</strong></h2>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>2:30 PM: (Approx)</strong></span> St. Louis boarding passengers, and their luggage, will meet and board our private rail-cars as soon as Amtrak #304 arrives at the St. Louis Gateway Multimodal Station, 430 S 15th St, St. Louis, MO 63103. </p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">3:00 PM: Depart St. Louis: Amtrak #304 Lincoln Service to Chicago, IL.<img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/St_Louis_arial_view.jpg" alt="St Louis" width="126" height="142" /></span><br /></strong>Enjoy complimentary premium beverage and snack service upon boarding.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">4:56: Depart: Springfield, IL.</span></strong>  You may join the trip here.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">5:56: Depart: Bloomington, IL.</span></strong>  You may join the trip here.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>6:00 PM: (Approx)</strong></span> Dinner will be served on-board en-route to Chicago&#8217;s Union Station.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Evening:</strong></span> Complimentary premium beverage and snack service will continue to be available until 11 PM local time.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>8:40 PM Arrive Chicago Union Station</strong></span> After some dwell time, our cars will be moved to Amtrak&#8217;s coach yard for necessary post-trip service and inspection. </p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Night:</strong></span> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in Chicago.</p>
<h2><strong>TUESDAY, July 2, 2013 (DAY 2, ST. LOUIS PASSENGERS)<br />   (DAY 1, CHICAGO Boarding PASSENGERS) </strong></h2>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>7:00 &#8211; 9:00 AM:</strong></span> Breakfast will be served on-board while parked in Chicago.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>*NOTE – due to re-positioning movements, our private rail-cars may not be <br /></strong><strong>readily accessible during the course of the day.<br />Please plan accordingly.</strong></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Morning / Afternoon: </strong>May we suggest you take this opportunity to alight from our private rail-cars and tour the &#8220;Windy City&#8221; on you own.  Visit the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) for a great view of the city, visit State Street, that &#8220;Great Street&#8221; with many famous stores such as Macy&#8217;s.  Walk along the <em>Magnificent Mile</em>, visit <em>Water Tower Place</em> or <em>Navy Pier</em>.  The day is yours to enjoy the many offerings that Chicago can provide.  Lunch is on your own while you tour the city.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>5:00 PM: (Approx) </strong></span>American Rail Excursions Inc. on-board service manager<img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/20thCentboarding.jpg" alt="20th Century boarding" width="150" height="222" /> will meet all our Chicago boarding passengers, with their luggage in Chicago Union Station. We will gather under the escalator adjacent to the Amtrak Ticket counter, by the fountain.</p>
<p>Complimentary baggage handling is provided by American Rail Excursions Inc. in Chicago. Please <strong>DO NOT</strong> check any bags with Amtrak!</p>
<p>As soon as our pre-boarding check-in is completed, our on-board service manager will escort our group to your awaiting train.  </p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>5:15 PM (Approx):</strong></span> Board our <em>American Flyer</em>. Our on-board staff welcomes all our Washington, DC bound travelers. Your luggage has already been placed in you room. After a review of your accommodations, amenities, and safety instructions, we invite all to our lounge to get acquainted, enjoy complimentary premium beverages and snacks.  An included dinner will be served just after our departure from Chicago.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>6:10 PM: Depart: Chicago Amtrak&#8217;s # 30, the <em>Capitol Limited </em>(our <em>American Flyer</em>)  </strong></span>As our conductor calls &#8220;All Aboard&#8221;, our train gradually glides out of the confines of Chicago Union Station. The distinctive Downtown Chicago skyline gradually disappears behind us. With the city giving way to the suburbs, and the more rural surroundings now in view through the windows. The buzz of exhilaration is in the air as our passengers get acquainted. Premium snack and beverage service continues.</p>
<p><img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/HappyPassengeronSQ.jpg" alt="Happy" width="175" height="140" /> While all passengers have been getting settled and enjoying complimentary premium beverages and snacks in the lounge, our first-class on-board chef has been busy preparing a scrumptious dinner for all to enjoy.</p>
<p><strong>6:30 PM: (Approx) </strong> Dinner served on-board en-route.</p>
<p><strong>Late Evening</strong>: While all are enjoying conversation, camaraderie and the next sights, rooms have been readied in anticipation of weary travelers. The gentle sway and rhythm of the rails are a night time lullaby coaxing you to retire.  Enjoy the night.  Sweet Rail Dreams!</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while en-route to Washington, DC.</p>
<h2><strong>Wednesday, July 3, 2013 (Day 3 St Louis/Day 2 Chicago)</strong></h2>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>6:30 AM:</strong></span> Wake-up coffee is available in our lounge.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>7:30 AM &#8211; 9:30 AM:</strong></span> Our on-board chef has prepared a delicious breakfast for your enjoyment this morning.</p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> As you rise this morning, the sun is trying to peek around the drawn shade. The tantalizing aroma of freshly brewed coffee awakens your senses. A refreshing shower is all you need to get your motor running.  Enjoy!  The scenic Cumberland Narrows, the farmland and rolling hills of West Virginia and Maryland grace our windows this morning.</p>
<p><strong>10:55 AM: Ar/Dp:</strong> Harper&#8217;s Ferry, WV.  Our travels this morning have so entranced you,&#8230; the beautiful natural scenery, wild springs and white water of the Shenandoah River that our eastward journey is about over.</p>
<p><img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/BO-Columbian.jpg" alt=" " width="200" height="122" />It&#8217;s noon somewhere!  Enjoy a complimentary premium beverage and snack.  That should quell your appetite until our arrival in to Washington, DC.</p>
<p>Meanwhile,&#8230; Harper&#8217;s Ferry is a very historic town.   Situated at the confluence of the Potomac  and Shenandoah Rivers.  During the civil war, the battle for Harper&#8217;s Ferry saw the town change hands eight times between the Confederate and Union army&#8217;s.</p>
<p><strong>Early Afternoon:</strong> With the historic remnants of the old C&amp;O Canal, now the C&amp;O Canal National Historic Park, the suburban influx of urban sprawl becomes more prevalent.  After our brief pause at Rockville, MD, Washington, DC will be just minutes ahead.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>12:40 PM: Arr. Washington, DC Union Station</strong>, Predicated on our timely arrival into Washington, DC we suggest that once we are stopped in the Station you take this opportunity to step off the rail-cars and explore Washington, DC&#8217;s Union Station with its shops and fine dining on the main level and upper floors or the food courts on the lower level.  We&#8217;re sure you&#8217;ll find just the right dining establishment for lunch on your own this afternoon.  While you are out exploring, our rail-cars will be switched to our special parking spot, where we should remain for the duration of our visit.<img class="aligncenter" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/washington-dc-union-station.jpg" alt="Union station" width="300" height="145" /></p>
<p><strong>5:00 PM:</strong> (Approx) Our <em>American Flyer</em> should now be situated on the track that will be our &#8216;home-away-from-home&#8217; for the next several days.  Contact our on-board service manager for the exact location.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service will commence upon re-boarding.<strong></strong></p>
<p><strong>Dinner:</strong> On your own this evening at any of the fine restaurants in the station or nearby neighbor restaurants.</p>
<p><strong></strong><strong>Evening:</strong> After your return, stroll on down to our lounge for a nightcap.  We&#8217;ll remain open until 11 PM.  And when you feel &#8220;it&#8217;s time&#8221; to retire to your accommodations, our first-class on-board staff will have transformed it from a comfortable day room to its restful nighttime configuration.</p>
<p><strong></strong><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in Washington, DC.</p>
<h2><strong>Thursday, July 4, 2012 (Day 4/3)</strong></h2>
<h3><strong><em>         Happy Birthday America!</em><img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/American-Flag-03.jpg" alt="American Flag" width="303" height="256" /></strong></h3>
<p><strong>6:30 AM:</strong> Wake-up coffee is available in our lounge.</p>
<p><strong>7:30 – 9:30 AM:</strong> Breakfast will be served on-board while parked in Washington, DC.</p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> With the 4th of July celebration in Washington, DC being one of the most attended events of the year you may want to check out the various Metro transportation options for getting around Washington, DC.</p>
<p><strong>11:45 AM:</strong> Washington, DC&#8217;s Independence Day Parade.  The parade route starts at 7th Ave and Constitution Ave., just a few blocks from Union Station (<a href="http://dc.about.com/library/maps/blmap4thofJulyParade.htm" target="_blank">Route map</a>).  The parade features marching bands, military and specialty units, floats, and VIP&#8217;s.  The parade draws a large crowd, so plan to arrive early to stake out a good viewing spot.  <a href="http://dc.about.com/od/4thofjuly/a/IndDayParade.htm" target="_blank">Read more about the Independence Day Parade</a>.</p>
<p>After the parade, enjoy lunch on your own.</p>
<p><strong>Afternoon / Evening:</strong> You should enjoy some of the following activities;</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Smithsonian Folklife Festival</strong> </span><br />The annual event includes daily and evening music and dance performances, crafts and cooking demonstrations, storytelling and discussions of cultural issues. The themes of the 2012 program will be: Campus and Community, Citified: Arts and Creativity East of the Anacostia River and Creativity and Crisis: Unfolding The AIDS Memorial Quilt. The hours on the 4th of July are 11 a.m to 5 p.m. <a href="http://dc.about.com/od/specialevents/a/FolklifeFest.htm" target="_blank">Read more about the Smithsonian Folklife Festival.</a> </p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>4th of July at the National Archives</strong></span><br />The National Archives celebrates the 4th of July with special family programming celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Visit the National Archives Building for this special birthday party from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. <a href="http://dc.about.com/od/4thofjuly/a/NArch4thJuly.htm" target="_blank">See the schedule of events.</a> </p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/washington-dc-white-house-s.jpg" alt="White house" width="200" height="160" />White House Visitor Center Family Events</strong></span><br />Between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., stop at the <a href="http://dc.about.com/od/governmentbuildings/a/WhiteHouseVisit.htm" target="_blank">White House Visitor Center</a> and enjoy games, crafts and other activities celebrating America&#8217;s Birthday. National Park Service rangers and volunteers will give you the opportunity to sample the sights, sounds, activities and personages that helped finalize the Declaration of Independence and create the United States of America on July 4, 1776. </p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Concert on the Washington Monument Grounds</strong></span><br />From 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. the U.S. Navy Band performs on the Southwest corner of the grounds of the <a href="http://dc.about.com/od/monuments/p/WashMonument.htm" target="_blank">Washington Monument.</a> The concert includes the United States Army Blues Jazz Ensemble, featuring guest artist Ben Vereen. </p>
<p><strong>A Capitol Fourth Concert</strong><br />Time: 8 &#8211; 9:30 p.m. (Admittance begins at 3 p.m.)<br />Location: West Lawn of the <a href="http://dc.about.com/cs/walkingtours/a/Capitol.htm" target="_blank">U. S. Capitol</a></p>
<p>A 4th of July tradition in the nation&#8217;s capital includes a live concert by the National Symphony Orchestra and several pop artists performing patriotic music on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building. The concert and show is followed by a spectacular display of fireworks over the Washington Monument. The concert is free and open to the public. No tickets are necessary. The annual event will be broadcast live on WETA TV 26 with a repeat airing at 10:00 p.m. <a href="http://dc.about.com/od/specialeventphotos1/ss/CapitolFourth.htm" target="_blank">See photos of A Capitol Fourth</a> </p>
<p><strong>Evening: </strong>With all the hustle and bustle of the July 4th Holiday celebration going on, don&#8217;t forget to enjoy dinner on your own before the fireworks!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Washington-Fireworks-small.jpg" alt="Washington Fireworks" width="490" height="141" /></p>
<p><strong>4th of July Fireworks on the National Mall</strong><br />Fireworks Time: At dark, usually around 9:15 p.m. Rain Date: July 5th<br />Launch Location: The fireworks are launched from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and light up the sky over the Washington Monument. <a href="http://dc.about.com/od/specialeventphotos1/ss/FireworkPics.htm" target="_blank">See Photos of the Fireworks</a> </p>
<p><strong>Getting to the National Mall<img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/National-Mall-01.jpg" alt="Mall" width="165" height="248" /></strong><br /><span style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal;">The best way to get to the National Mall is to take the </span><a style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal;" href="http://dc.about.com/od/transportation/a/Metro.htm" target="_blank">Metro</a><span style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal;">. Stations nearby include Smithsonian, Metro Center, Gallery Place-Chinatown, Judiciary Square, Federal Triangle and L&#8217;Enfant Plaza.  </span><strong style="font-size: 13px;">The Smithsonian Metro station will be open all day!  </strong><span style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal;">Please note that due to construction this year, the grass panels on the Mall between 3rd and 7th Streets are closed to the public. It typically takes 1 ½ to 2 hours to clear the Mall after the fireworks.</span></p>
<p>Washington, DC is a spectacular place to celebrate July 4th! <a href="http://dc.about.com/cs/sightseeing/a/OntheMall.htm" target="_blank">The National Mall,</a> with Washington, DC’s monuments and the U. S. Capitol in the background, forms a beautiful and patriotic backdrop to America&#8217;s Independence Day celebrations. This is an all-day event in the nation&#8217;s capital, beginning with a parade along Constitution Avenue and ending with a spectacular display of fireworks over the Washington Monument. Following is a guide to all of the 4th of July events on the National Mall.</p>
<p><strong>Late Evening: </strong>With all the late night festivities going on we know you&#8217;ll be out late.  We&#8217;ll keep the vestibule light on for you.  Cap off a great day with a celebratory, complimentary premium beverage and snack in our lounge until 11 PM local time.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong>  Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked to Washington, DC.</p>
<h2><strong>Friday, July 5, 2013 (Day 5/4)</strong></h2>
<p><strong>6:30 AM:</strong> Wake-up coffee is available on our lounge.</p>
<p><strong>7:30 AM &#8211; 9:30 AM:</strong> Another delicious breakfast will be prepared and served by our on-board first-class staff for your enjoyment this morning.</p>
<p><strong>Morning: </strong>After enjoying breakfast may we suggest you take this opportunity to alight from our private rail-cars and explore our Nation&#8217;s Capital at your own pace.  An included step-on/step-off  trolley tour pass will enable you to navigate the Washington, DC sights.  Trolley tour boarding is conveniently located at the front of Washington, DC&#8217;s Union Station.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><span style="font-family: Arial;"><img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Washington-DC-Collage-sm.jpg" alt="Washington-DC-Collage-sm" width="230" height="158" />Afternoon:</span></strong></span><span style="font-family: Arial;">  With nearly two full days left to spend in Washington, you should be able to take in a good number of the sights.  Lunch will be on your own today while sightseeing.</span></p>
<p><strong>Late Afternoon:</strong> As our passengers return to our rail-cars after a pleasant day exploring Washington, DC our staff is ready to quench your thirst with the beverage of your choice and tantalizing snacks should temporarily quell your appetite.  Freshen up; Enjoy a hot invigorating shower to re-energize before this evening&#8217;s quest.</p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong> Enjoy dinner on your own this evening at one of the fine dining restaurants located right in the station or step away to any of the close by great ethnic restaurants. The choice is yours. Bon appétit!</p>
<p><strong>Late Evening:</strong> Our lounge once again proves to be a fantastic gathering place. Complimentary premium beverage and snacks service continues until midnight, Enjoy!</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in Chicago.</p>
<p> <strong style="font-size: 1.5em;">Saturday, July 6, 2013 (Day 6/5)</strong></p>
<p><strong>6:30 AM:</strong> Wake-up coffee is available on our lounge.<img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/US_Marine_Corps_War_Memorial-small.jpg" alt="US Marine Corps Memorial" width="200" height="150" /></p>
<p><strong>7:30 AM &#8211; 9:30 AM:</strong> Another delicious breakfast will be prepared and served by our on-board first-class staff for your enjoyment this morning.</p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Morning:   </strong>Enjoy most of this last day in Washington, DC. This afternoon lunch will be on your own!  </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Washington, DC has an all-around appeal. With all our country&#8217;s culture, heritage and world renowned monuments and museums, this diverse urban Spectacle should provide an endless array of attractions for your touring enjoyment. That&#8217;s why Washington, DC is the Capitol of the United States.</span></p>
<p><strong style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3:15 PM:</strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Re-board our private rail-cars, which have now been made part of today&#8217;s departing Amtrak train #29 </span><em style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Capitol Limited</em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. Please check the Amtrak TV monitors in the station for the correct track location. Our </span><em style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">American Flyer</em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> rail-cars will be on the rear of the Capitol Limited today.</span></p>
<p>Upon your re-boarding, you&#8217;ll enjoy hors d&#8217;oeuvres along with our complimentary premium beverage and snack service.</p>
<p><strong>4:05 PM: Depart Washington <strong>Amtrak&#8217;s # 29, the <em>Capitol Limited</em> (our <em>American Flyer</em>)<img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/union-station-small.jpg" alt="Union Station" width="220" height="166" /></strong><br /></strong>As the final &#8220;All Aboard!&#8221; is called, we gently glide out of the station, and in a wink of the eye, Washington, DC is just but a fond memory. Premium snack and beverage service is already underway and shortly dinner will be served. For now, sit back, enjoy the view as we follow the Potomac River Valley to Harper&#8217;s Ferry. </p>
<p><strong>6:00 PM:</strong> Dinner served on-board en-route.  Our on-board chef has worked hard this afternoon preparing for our final dinner together this evening. It&#8217;s promised to be a real &#8220;feast&#8221;!</p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong> We&#8217;ll continue to work our way westward following the historic Baltimore and Ohio Railroad line paralleling  the Potomac River Valley, Shenandoah River Valley and it&#8217;s many tunnels as we travel through the Allegheny Mountains to Pittsburgh, PA and beyond.  Premium snack and beverage service continues until 11 PM this evening.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while en-route to Chicago.</p>
<h2><strong>Sunday, July 7, 2013 (Day 7/6)</strong></h2>
<p><strong><img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Meal-Service-small.jpg" alt="Meal service" width="149" height="100" />6:30 – 8:30 AM</strong>: Breakfast served on-board en-route.  Chicago passengers, if you have risen early, you will have one last chance to view the beautiful natural scenery passing by our <em>American Flyer</em>&#8216;s windows. The countryside is certainly different, as farms and cornfields dot the landscape. Soon the farm fields turn to suburban sprawl and in the distance, the towering skyscrapers of downtown Chicago.</p>
<p><strong>8:45 AM: Arrive Chicago&#8217;s Union Station</strong>. <br />As our train thunders and clanks in to the cavernous Chicago Union Station our rail odyssey is now coming to a close. The woosshhh! of the air brakes signal the end of the line for our Chicago passengers, at least for this trip. As our staff assists all with their luggage and the good-byes are given by new found friends, we at American Rail Excursions, Inc. thank you for traveling with us. </p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong><em>St. Louis passengers only</em></strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> Passengers continuing on to St. Louis with us are encouraged to step off our <em>American Flyer</em> while our train is in the station and once again enjoy the &#8220;City That Works&#8221;, Chicago on your own.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Note: Within an hour, or so, of our arrival our train will be moved to </strong><strong>Amtrak’s <br />coach yard.  There it will receive a post-trip inspection.  <br />During this time the train will be inaccessible and unavailable for occupancy <br />for several hours while the equipment is being serviced and inspected.  <br />Please plan accordingly.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Afternoon:</strong> Enjoy a some summer fun at Navy Pier or maybe an Architecture Boat Tour along the Chicago River.  There are many ways to enjoy a sunny Sunday afternoon.  While touring enjoy lunch and dinner on your own.<img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Chicago-Navy-Pier.jpg" alt="Navy Pier" width="200" height="156" /></p>
<p><strong>Early Evening:</strong> After a fun-filled day in Chicago return to the friendly confines of our <em>American Flyer</em> private rail-cars.  A call to our on-board service manager will inform you as to the location of our train.</p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong> Once back on-board, our first-class service staff probably knows just what will “hit the spot” for you. Enjoy that complimentary nightcap in the lounge as Chicago big city lights illuminate the night.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service continues until 11 PM.</p>
<p>Your accommodations have once again been magically transformed by our staff in anticipation of your need for rest!  Enjoy this last night aboard our rail-cars while in Chicago.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in Chicago.</p>
<h2><strong>Monday, July 8, 2013 (Day 8/7)</strong></h2>
<p><strong><strong>6:30 AM:</strong> </strong>Wake-up coffee is available on our lounge.</p>
<p><strong>7:00 AM: Depart Chicago&#8217;s Union Station</strong> Amtrak&#8217;s #301, <em>Lincoln Service</em> to St. Louis, our <em>American Flyer</em></p>
<p><strong>7:30 – 9:30 AM:</strong> Breakfast served on-board en-route</p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> This morning will make a quick sprint to St. Louis along some of the newest “high speed” line in Illinois as we travel at speeds up to 110 MPH.</p>
<p><strong><strong>12:20 PM: </strong>Ar: St. Louis </strong> With the Gateway Arch now visible, we’ll soon arrive at our final destination, St. Louis, MO.  On arrival our first-class on-board staff bids a farewell and thanks!</p>
<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/rails.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-401" title="rails" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/rails-300x176.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="176" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">_____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">What&#8217;s Included:</span><br /></strong><strong> •</strong> Attentive first-class service provided by our American rail Excursion, Inc. staff.<br /><strong> •</strong> Round-trip rail and accommodations charges aboard our private rail-cars for this trip based upon <br />    your reservations.<br /><strong> •</strong> Double Bedroom, Single or double occupancy or Roomette, single occupancy aboard our private <br />    rail-cars (per your reservation).<br /><strong> •</strong> Complimentary baggage transfer at St Louis Gateway Transportation Center or Chicago Union Station<br />    to our private rail-cars.<br /><strong> •</strong> Up to eight days and seven nights lodging and transportation accommodations aboard our private rail-cars based <br />    on your itinerary.<br /><strong> •</strong> Up to seven breakfasts, one lunch and three dinners all served on-board while en-route or while parked, <br />    based upon your itinerary.<br /><strong> •</strong> All meals prepared fresh by our on-board chef<br /><strong> •</strong> Complimentary premium beverage and snack service throughout our entire trip.<br /><strong> •</strong> Included two day &#8220;step-on/step-off&#8221; trolley tour pass in Washington, DC.</p>
<p>____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Why you should participate in this Unique Excursion</strong></span></p>
<p>This is the comfortable, hassle-free way to see our Nations 4th of July in all its splendor. We will be attached to Amtrak trains, but only our passengers will have use of our private cars. Your room on the train is your hotel. No checking into and out of hotels. No unexpected hotel charges. No baggage hassles. Just excellent service by a friendly crew. We make it simple and pleasant for you. </p>
<p> _____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong style="font-size: medium; line-height: 19px;">About Your Accommodations:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Double Bedrooms:</strong></p>
<p>Double bedrooms have space for two passengers. Each double bedroom features either one large couch or a small couch and lounge chair for comfortable private day travel. Every double bedroom has a large window. By night, each double room has two beds (1-upper and 1-lower). Every room is furnished with adjustable climate control, fan, reading lights, fold-down table, garment closet and full-length door mirror. The annex (your private bathroom) has a fold-down sink; large lighted wall mirror, toilet and a 110-volt convenience outlet. Your linens, towels and soap are also provided. Best of all, your attendant will turn down your bed, arrange for a wake-up call and bring your morning tea, coffee, or juice right to your room. All sleeping cars are equipped with a shower.</p>
<p><strong>Costs:</strong> Double Bedroom, Double Occupancy:</p>
<p>2 people, 1 room, one upper and one lower bed at night</p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding: $2,299.00 per person double occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $2,199.00 per person double occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p>Double Bedroom, Single Occupancy:</p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding: $3,899.00 per person single occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $3,799.00 per person single occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p>____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong>Roomettes:</strong></p>
<p>Roomettes have space for one traveler. Roomettes feature a small couch, in-wall fold-down sink, garment closet, large overhead luggage rack and a huge lighted wall mirror with an electrical outlet. By night, each room has one lower bed. For your added travel comfort, each room has an adjustable climate control, fan and reading/night lights. Roomettes 1-6 additionally have an in-room toilet. A general toilet is located down the hall for your use in Pacific Union. Your linens, towels, bath towels, soap and shampoo are also provided. A shower and changing room is located at the end of the car.</p>
<p><strong>Costs:</strong> Roomette, Single Occupancy:</p>
<p>1 person, 1 roomette,  one lower bed at night</p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $2,399.00 per person single occupancy<strong> in a Roomette</strong>.</strong></p>
<div>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding:  $2,499.00 per person single occupancy<strong> in a Roomette</strong>.</strong></p>
</div>
<p> ____________________________________________________________</p>
<div>
<p><strong>En-suited Two Double Bedrooms (Suite)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Two Double bedrooms:</strong> bedrooms have space for two passengers. Each double bedroom features either one large couch or a small couch and lounge chair for comfortable private day travel. Every double bedroom has a large window. By night, each double room has one bed (1-lower). Every room is furnished with adjustable climate control, fan, reading lights, fold-down table, garment closet and full-length door mirror. The annex (your private bathroom) has a fold-down sink; large lighted wall mirror, toilet and a 110-volt convenience outlet. Your linens, towels and soap are also provided. Best of all, your attendant will turn down your bed, arrange for a wake-up call and bring your morning tea, coffee, or juice right to your room.</p>
<p><strong>Costs:</strong> En-suited two Double Bedrooms, Double Occupancy:</p>
<p>2 people, 2 rooms en-suited, one lower bed at night in each bedroom</p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $3,799.00 per person double occupancy, <strong>en-suited</strong> bedroom.</strong><strong>   </strong></p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding:  $3,899.00 per person double occupancy, <strong>en-suited</strong> bedroom.</strong></p>
<p>  _____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong>Master Suite, <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/southern-hospitality/" target="_blank">Southern Hospitality Dome Car</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Master Suite:</strong> Southern Hospitality Master Suite ranks among the best in opulent <img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/SH_Dome_013.jpg" alt="Dome" width="112" height="149" />rail travel accommodations.  The Master suite&#8217;s huge floor plan covers  more space than three conventional double bedrooms on a rail-car.  The queen sized bed with double thick pillow top mattress and multiple over-sized pillows provide the &#8220;most&#8221; in comfort!  The Honduras Mahogany walls, trayed ceiling and soft lighting provide a most inviting feel.  The granite top vanity sink, large and small mirrors and arched armoire with drawers provide ample garment storage.  The marble tiled bathroom features a toilet and full size glass door enclosed marble shower with full sized rain fall shower and hand held shower.  A marble shower bench provides a safe and comfortable alternative for those that might need more stability while our train is in motion.  And when you just want the solitude of your own space, just curl up with a good book and relax in privacy and comfort in your own easy chair and ottoman.</p>
<p><strong>Cost: </strong>Master Suite</p>
<p>2 people, 1 room, one queen bed</p>
<p><strong>   Southern Hospitality Master Suite one or two persons: $11,499.</strong></p>
</div>
<p>  _____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong>Food and Beverage Service</strong>:</span></p>
<p>American Rail Excursions Inc. nostalgic rail tour includes (as per your itinerary) nostalgic rail dinning featuring traditional American cuisine, freshly prepared by our on-board chef. The combination of fine food, crisp white linens, first-class on-board service and awe inspiring scenery set the stage for a most memorable trip. Menus are ever-changing, reflecting the influences of the towns and cities we visit. Bon appétit!</p>
<p>The following is a sample of cuisine, freshly prepared aboard our rail cars.</p>
<p><strong>Our sample menus include:</strong></p>
<p> <em><strong>Sample Breakfast Menu</strong></em></p>
<p><strong> •</strong> Piping hot fluffy pancakes<br /> <strong> •</strong> Hash brown potatoes<br /> <strong> •</strong> Tender Sausage links<br /> <strong> •</strong> Crisp Bacon<br /> <strong> •</strong> Assorted Fresh Fruit<br /> <strong> •</strong> Assorted Cold Cereal<br /> <strong> •</strong> Assorted Breakfast Pastries<br /> <strong> •</strong> Bagels with Cream Cheese<br /> <strong> •</strong> English Muffins<br /> <strong> •</strong> Toast &amp; Jelly<br /> <strong> •</strong> Assorted Chilled Juice,<br /> <strong> •</strong> Freshly Brewed Coffee, (Regular or decaffeinated)<br /> <strong> •</strong> Assorted Teas<br /> <strong> •</strong> Milk, Hot Chocolate<br /> <strong> •</strong> Complimentary Eye-opener from our bar</p>
<p> <em><strong>Sample Lunch Menu</strong></em></p>
<p> <strong>•</strong> Fresh garden salad served with choice of homemade dressings<br /> <strong>•</strong> Chicken Provel<br /> <strong>•</strong> Garlic mashed potatoes<br /> <strong>•</strong> Green Beans Almondine<br /> <strong>• </strong>Assorted baked breads and butter<br /> <strong>•</strong> Apple pie alamode<br /> <strong>•</strong> Freshly Brewed Coffee (Regular or Decaffeinated)<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Teas<br /> <strong>•</strong> Soft Drinks<br /> <strong>•</strong> Milk<br /> <strong>•</strong> Domestic and Imported Beers, or Wine<br /> <strong>•</strong> Your Favorite Mixed Drink from the Bar</p>
<p> <em><strong>Sample Dinner Menu</strong></em></p>
<p> <strong>•</strong> Soup Du Jour<br /> <strong>•</strong> Mesclun salad, served with bosch pears, gorgonzola crumbles, crazines and topped with a <br />    Raspberry Vinaigrette dressing<br /> <strong>•</strong> Tender Medalions of Beef Tenderloin topped with Béarnaise Sauce<br />      or<br /> <strong>•</strong> Filleted baked Orange Roughy<br /> <strong>•</strong> Idaho Oven-Baked Potato with butter and sour cream<br />      or<br /> <strong>•</strong> Rice Pilaf <br /> <strong>•</strong> Fresh steamed asparagus <br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Dinner Rolls and Butter<br /> <strong>•</strong> Chocolate Torte Cake<br /> <strong>•</strong> Fresh Brewed Coffee, Regular and Decaffeinated<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Teas<br /> <strong>•</strong> Soft Drinks<br /> <strong>•</strong> Milk<br /> <strong>•</strong> Domestic and Imported Beers, or Wine<br /> <strong>•</strong> Your Favorite Mixed Drink from the Bar</p>
<p>Our on-board chef prepares all meals fresh.</p>
<p><strong><em>Premium Beverage Service Includes:</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em></em>•</strong> Miller Lite and Heineken beers<br /><strong>•</strong> Chardonnay, Merlot, and White Zinfandel wines<br /><strong>•</strong> Mixed drinks derived from scotch, bourbon, gin, vodka, rum and mixers. (No blender or frozen drinks)<br /><strong>•</strong> Soft Drinks including Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Ginger Ale<br /><strong>•</strong> Bottled still waters<br /><strong>•</strong> Fresh Brewed Coffee (Regular or Decaffeinated)</p>
<p><strong><em>Dry Snacks include:</em></strong></p>
<div><strong>• </strong>Planter&#8217;s dry roasted peanuts<br /><strong>• </strong>Goldfish<br /><strong>• </strong>Chex mix<br /><strong>•</strong> Gardetto&#8217;s Mix</div>
<div> _____________________________________________________________</div>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; color: #000000;">May we make your reservation today?</span></p>
<p>a 50% deposit per person is due at time of booking.<br />Full open balance due by 6/1/13<br />No refund unless trip is canceled.<br />Tickets are transferable to another person with prior approval.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Please reserve your space by 5/31/13</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">&#8220;<em>The American Flyer</em>&#8220;</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">July (1)2 – July 7(8) 2013</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Trip #AR-13-G-1</span></strong></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Reservation-form-The-American-Flyer-20130220.pdf" target="_blank">Click here for printable reservation form</a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-large;">Thank You!</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: large;">American Rail Excursions, Inc.</span></em><br /><span style="font-size: small;">P.O. Box 2345</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Dearborn, MI 48123-2345</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Frank Corley, reservations<br />Phone 313-300-8411 <br /></span>Email: franktrainman23600@hotmail.com<br />or<br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Roger J. Verbeeren Jr., home office <br />Phone 618-451-0100</span><br />Email: roger@americanrail.com<br /> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><strong>Important Information &#8211; Please Read</strong></em></span></p>
<p>American Rail Excursions, Inc. welcomes everyone who wishes to travel with us on our public trips. However, because this is vintage railway equipment produced in the 1940&#8242;s and 1950&#8242;s, there are no special facilities available for those passengers that might have a disability.  We welcome those passengers that are disabled, but please consider the suitability of these trips carefully. We encourage you to call us at 618-451-0100 or e-mail us at roger@americanrail.com for additional information for your specific situation.</p>
<p><em><strong>Responsibility</strong></em></p>
<p>Enrollment in and payment for a tour shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the passenger of the terms and conditions set forth herein.  In the responsibility of their own negligence, neither American Rail Excursions, Inc., Crown Rail Inc., Mid America Rail Car Leasing LLC, Pacific Union Sleeping Car Co. L.L.C., Southern Hospitality Dome Car Co. LLC, The Silver Sleeping Car Company, NYC Investments, LLC, Powhatan Rail Services, Inc. dba American Rail Excursions or IFE Leasing, Inc. nor their agents shall be responsible for cancellations, delays, diversions, or substitution of  equipment or any act of omission whatever by Amtrak, transportation companies, of any other persons providing any of these services necessitated by same.  Nor shall they be liable for any loss or damage to baggage or property, or for injury, illness, or death, or for any damages or claims whatsoever arising from the loss or the negligence of any person not their direct employee or under their exclusive control. Transportation companies, Amtrak, etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board train or conveyances.  The passenger contracts in use by Amtrak or transportation companies and passengers or purchasers of this tour, assumes no responsibility in this connection.  Payments are not refundable unless the trip is canceled.  We reserve the right to cancel a trip prior to departure, in which case your entire payment to us will be refunded without further obligation on our part.  Smoking is not permitted on these cars (except in vestibules between cars and on the ground at the longer station stops).  As is the case of all travel, regardless of destination, we cannot guarantee clear weather at all times. Clouds, rain or other weather conditions beyond our control may obscure scenic highlights.  We have no control over the various transportation companies providing services for the excursions, and thus it must be understood that changes in the equipment, dates, routes, or other accommodations, though unlikely, can occur.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Travel insurance is recommended for any extended trip to protect your interest.</p>
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		<title>Glacier National Park &#8211; 2013</title>
		<link>http://americantraintrips.com/glacier-national-park-2013/</link>
		<comments>http://americantraintrips.com/glacier-national-park-2013/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 10 Feb 2013 04:31:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Steve</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Rail Tours]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[What's New]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americantraintrips.com/?p=1470</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p><FONT COLOR="ff0000"><strong>SOLD OUT - Thank You!</strong></font><br />Come and experience Glacier’s pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is a hiker’s paradise for adventurous visitors seeking wilderness and solitude. Relive the days of old through historic chalets, lodges, transportation, and stories of Native Americans. Explore Glacier National Park and discover what awaits you.</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em><span style="color: #000000;">American Rail Excursions, Inc.<br /><span style="font-size: large;">Presents </span></span></em></strong></span></p>
<p style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: italic; line-height: normal; font-weight: bold; color: #000000; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> <strong><em> <span style="color: #000000;"> &#8220;The Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special&#8221; </span></em> </strong> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #000000; font-size: small;"><em><strong>A Fun Filled Private Car trip</strong></em></span><em style="font-size: small; line-height: 19px;"><strong> </strong></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #000000;">Up to 9 days and 8 nights based on your itinerary</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #ff0000; font-size: medium;"><br />
<marquee behavior="scroll" direction="left">SOLD OUT &#8211; Thank You</marquee><br />
</span></p>
<table style="background-color: #ffffff; width: 100%;" border="0" cellspacing="3" cellpadding="3">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="225px"><center><img src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Northern-Pacific-circle-logo-02.jpg" alt="Northern Pacific logo" width="150" height="150" /></center></td>
<td><center><br /> <img class="alignnone" title="Glacier National Park" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/glac_01.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="166" /><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 19px;">Trip# AR-13-F-1</span></center></td>
<td width="225px"><img src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Great-Northern-circle-logo-03.jpg" alt="Great Northern logo" width="150" height="150" /></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <em style="line-height: 19px; font-size: 13px;"><strong>Departing from either St. Louis or Chicago</strong></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">June (16)17 &#8211; June 23(24), 2013</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;"><em>All Aboard!</em></span></strong></p>
<p>Many travelers have asked for a western tour and now we have one to the magnificent State of Montana and Glacier National Park.</p>
<p>Come and experience Glacier&#8217;s pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is a hiker&#8217;s paradise for adventurous visitors seeking wilderness and solitude. Relive the days of old through historic chalets, lodges, transportation, and stories of Native Americans. Explore Glacier National Park and discover what awaits you.</p>
<p><strong style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Tour Highlights</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>  • </strong>Convenient boarding locations in St. Louis, MO, Springfield, IL, Bloomington, IL &amp; Chicago IL <br /> <strong>  • </strong>Travel Westward then eastward on the railroad that the free-wheeling &#8211; big-dealing tycoon James J. Hill built,<br />    &#8220;The Great Northern Railway&#8221;, route of today&#8217;s Amtrak <em>Empire Builder</em><br />  • Enjoy attentive first-class service provided by our on-board service staff<br /> <strong>  • </strong>Travel, dine and sleep aboard our nostalgic, privately owned rail-cars<br /> <strong>  • </strong>Experience breathtaking scenery while dining on freshly prepared meals by our on board chef<br /> <strong>  • </strong>See the prairies, kettle moraines and Mississippi River vistas slowly give way to the rugged Rocky Mountains<br />     with their snow capped peaks <br /> <strong>  • </strong>Hotel aboard our rail-cars while parked in Whitefish, MT <br /> <strong>  • </strong>Enjoy the quaint shops, art galleries, restaurants and interesting people of Whitefish, located just steps away <br />     from our train.<br /> <strong>  • </strong>Experience the beautiful lake McDonald by boat as we cruise this pristine mountain lake.<br /> <strong>  • </strong>Visit nature from high above as we travel on a Gondola to the  top of &#8220;Big Mountain&#8221;.  We&#8217;ll also stop off at the <br />     &#8221;Nature Center&#8221; with its many &#8220;hands on&#8221; exhibits.<br /> <strong>  • </strong>Experience the adventure and spectacular beauty of Glacier National Park in an all day tour.  We will travel on <br />     the &#8220;Going To the Sun Road&#8221; and cross the Continental Divide at 6,680 feet.  And be sure to have your camera <br />     ready to capture that special view just around the next bend of the road.<br /> <strong>  • </strong>In addition to all your on-board dining, two off-train dinners are included.</p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><em><strong style="font-size: large;">Itinerary:</strong></em></h1>
<h2 style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Sunday June 16, 2013 <br />   (Day 1, St. Louis boarding passengers only)</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Morning &amp; Early afternoon:</strong> If you have arrived in St. Louis early and would like some close-by sightseeing may we suggest you stroll near-by historic <em>St. Louis Union Station</em>.  Every vacation starts at the Station and St. Louis is no exception.  <em>St. Louis Union Station</em> was, at one time, the largest and busiest railroad terminal.  There is a self-guided tour covering this National Historic Landmark&#8217;s 100 years of history through an award-winning collection of letters, memorabilia and exhibits.</p>
<p>Today the hustle and bustle around the Station is the special charm that this unique shopping and dining destination offers.  Take some time out and try anyone of the many exciting restaurants located in and around the Station.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" title="St. Louis Amtrak Station" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/St.-Louis-Amtrak-Station-02.jpg" alt="St. Louis Amtrak Station" width="360" height="181" /></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>2:30 PM:(approx)</strong></span> Passengers wising to join our <em>Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special</em> rail tour in St. Louis should plan to meet our on-board service manager at Amtrak&#8217;s Gateway Transportation Center, 430 S.15th St., St. Louis 63103.  Prearranged cell phone contact numbers will allow our on-board staff to guide you to our private rail-cars and will transfer your luggage directly to your accommodations.  After our on-board staff has reviewed the amenities of your accommodations and <img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/allaboard.jpg" alt="All Aboard" width="130" height="184" />you have read the on-board information packet, feel free to step down to our lounge and enjoy a complementary premium beverage and snack while getting acquainted with other passengers.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">3:00 PM: Depart St. Louis on Amtrak #304, <em>Lincoln Service</em>, to Chicago, IL.</span></strong>  <br />After the conductor calls &#8220;All Aboard&#8221; our <em>Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special</em> Limited eases out of the station and we begin by crossing the Mississippi River.  Peering through the windows of the train, the Gateway Arch gradually disappears behind us as we pick up speed for the journey to Chicago.  The rolling hills, forests and occasional small town create the ever-changing scenery along with the train&#8217;s gentle sway, the rhythm of the rails sing their song.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">4:56: Depart: Springfield, IL.</span></strong>  You may join the trip here.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">5:56: Depart: Bloomington, IL.</span></strong>  You may join the trip here.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>6:00 PM:(approx) </strong></span>Dinner will be served on-board while en-route to Chicago.  As our train races northward on our trek to Chicago and beyond, our on-board chef has freshly prepared a delicious dinner for your enjoyment!  During dinner we will pause briefly in Springfield,  the capital city of Illinois.  The beautiful dome will be visible to all as we pass.</p>
<p><strong><img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/vestibule-01.jpg" alt="Vestibule" width="125" height="188" />Evening:</strong> With the sun setting on the Illinois prairie, the last glimmer of light silhouettes the trees and farms that dot the horizon.  Enjoy a complimentary after dinner drink in the lounge while enjoying the sights from the comfort of your own chair. </p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>8:40 PM: Arrive: Chicago Union Station.  </strong></span>As our train thunders in to Chicago&#8217;s Union Station we will pause here for a while.  First to discharge passengers and then to be switched to the passenger coach yard so that our cars may be serviced in preparation for the journey to the west, aboard M&amp;GP.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Late Evening: </strong></span>Our first-class on-board staff has transformed your accommodations from it&#8217;s daytime configuration to one set for sweet slumber tonight.  When you decide&#8230; retire to overnight comfort of your own private room.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service will be available until 11:00 PM local time. </p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Night: </strong></span>Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in Chicago.</p>
<h2 style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Monday June 17, 2013 (Day 2, St. Louis passengers)<br />    (Day 1, Chicago boarding passengers)</strong></h2>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>7:30 – 9:00 AM</strong></span> Breakfast served on-board while parked in Chicago for St. Louis passengers.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>9:30 AM (Approx)</strong></span> St. Louis passengers de-train for a half-day of exploration as you enjoy an included, guided  tour of Chicago .</p>
<p><img class="alignright" title="Chicago Union Station" src="../../wp-content/uploads/2012/02/CHI_union01-300x225.jpg" alt="Chicago Union Station" width="240" height="180" /></p>
<p><strong>1:00 PM (Approx)</strong> All St. Louis re-boarding passengers and Chicago boarding passenger will meet the American Rail Excursions Inc. on-board service manager at the fountain under the escalators adjacent to the Amtrak Ticket counter for special check-in. For our Chicago boarding passengers, <strong>DO NOT</strong> check any luggage with Amtrak. Complimentary baggage handling is provided by our on-board service attendants who will transfer your luggage directly to your accommodations.</p>
<p><strong>1:30 pm: (Approx)</strong> Board our <em>Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special</em>.  Our on-board staff welcomes all our Montana bound travelers.  Your luggage has already been placed in your room.  After a review of your accommodations, amenities and safety instructions, we invite all to our lounge to get acquainted and enjoy complimentary premium beverages and snacks.  An included bon voyage hor d’oeuvres party is underway, ENJOY!</p>
<p><strong>2:15 PM DP Chicago</strong> Amtrak #7, the <em>Empire Builder</em>, our <em>Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special</em>.  As our conductor calls &#8220;All Aboard&#8221;, our train gradually glides out of the confines of Chicago&#8217;s <em>Union Station</em>.  The distinct Downtown Chicago skyline gradually disappears behind us.  With the city giving way to the suburbs, and the more rural surroundings now in view through the windows, the buzz of exhilaration is in the air as our passengers get acquainted.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service continues.</p>
<p><img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/HappyPassengeronSQ.jpg" alt="Happy Passenger" width="162" height="130" />While all passengers have been getting settled and enjoying complimentary beverage and snack in the lounge, our first class on-board chef has been busy preparing a scrumptious dinner for all to enjoy.</p>
<p><strong>3:55 PM DP Milwaukee</strong></p>
<p><strong>6:00 PM (Approx)</strong> Freshly prepared dinner, served on-board en-route.</p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong> Continue to enjoy the complimentary premium beverage and snack service until 11 PM local.</p>
<p><strong>10:31 AR Minneapolis/St. Paul</strong><br /><strong>11:15 DP Minneapolis/St. Paul</strong></p>
<p><strong>Late Evening:</strong> While all are enjoying conversation, camaraderie and the next sights, rooms have been readied in anticipation of weary travelers.  The gentle sway and rhythm of the rail are a night-time lullaby coaxing you to retire.  Enjoy the night.  Sweet Rail Dreams!</p>
<h2 style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Tuesday, June 18, 2013 (Day 3 St Louis/2 Chicago):</strong></h2>
<p><strong>6:13 AM DP Devils Lake, ND  </strong>If you are awake, you can witness first-hand the &#8220;slow growing monster&#8221;, Devils Lake ND.  Since the 1990&#8242;s Devils Lake, the largest fresh water lake in North Dakota with over 1,000 miles of shoreline, has slowly submerged over 150,000 acres of land and 100&#8242;s of homes.  <img class="alignright" title="Devils Lake" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/devils-lake-state-park.jpg" alt="Devils Lake" width="150" height="150" />The railroad roadbed that we are traveling on has been raised 8-12 feet since 2010 in an attempt to keep the line open.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>7:30-9:30 AM</strong> Breakfast served en route.  As you awaken this morning, it&#8217;s the dawn of another day on the high-iron and promises to be one to be remembered.</p>
<p><strong>8:34 AM AR</strong> Minot, ND – our train will pause here for necessary en-route serving.  You may de-train here at the attended vestibule steps and stretch your legs.  Stay close by&#8230; so you&#8217;re not left behind.</p>
<p><strong>9:08 AM DP</strong> Minot, ND  As our engineer whistles off, the diesels throttle up to speed, the bobbing up and down of the gentle hillsides pass without missing a beat.</p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> The rhythm of the rails sings its soothing song as our passengers enjoy some of the most picturesque views of the country side and small town America.</p>
<p><strong>11:07 AM DP Williston, ND.</strong> Williston is in the midst of a giant oil boom. A second, new bypass is being built this summer to re-route heavy truck traffic away from the business and residential areas of town. 1,500 to 2,000 new wells are being drilled each year.<img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Meal-Service-small.jpg" alt="Meal Service" width="149" height="100" /></p>
<p><strong>Noon:</strong> Luncheon: Served on-board en-route.  You&#8217;ve been so entranced by the beautiful natural scenery, wild springs, rivers and rolling hills of North Dakota that you forgot that it is time for lunch.  Well, we won&#8217;t interrupt, you&#8217;ll continue to see all the sites as can only be seen by train.  Relax; enjoy an enticing luncheon prepared by our on-board chef, just for you!</p>
<p><strong>Afternoon:</strong> Complimentary premium beverage and snack service continues as the scenic vistas and distant  mountains are visible through our windows.</p>
<p><strong>2:39 PM AR Havre, MT</strong> is a station, re-fueling, and service stop for the Am<img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/GN-2584.jpg" alt="GN-2584" width="250" height="144" />trak Empire Builder. On display, next to the station, is Great Northern Railway steam locomotive #2584, a 4-8-4 S-2 &#8220;Northern&#8221; Class. Nearby is a sculpture representing &#8220;U.S. – Canada Friendship&#8221; and a statue of James J. Hill, the man for whom the Empire Builder is named and the developer of the Great Northern Railway.  You may take this last opportunity to step off as our train, at an attended vestibule, to stretch your legs and, &#8230; oh, you know the routine&#8230;</p>
<p><strong>3:04 PM DP Havre, MT</strong> after train servicing is completed.  </p>
<p><strong>Late Afternoon:</strong> Our <em>Montana &amp; Glacier <em>National </em>Park Special</em> continues on our westward quest, tracing the Great northern Railroad passage to the west.  The mountains continue to grow as our train whistles through historic western towns, some seem frozen in time!</p>
<p><strong>6:00 PM (Approx)</strong> Dinner served on-board en-route.  The sun is over the mountains and the silhouettes of the Rocky Mountains have begun to cast their shadows upon us.  The culinary talents of our on-board chef have once again been called upon to satisfy the appetites of our passengers.  Enjoy a glass of wine and friendly conversation over dinner while the scenery passes by.</p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong> We continue to wind our way up to higher elevations as daylight wanes.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service continues through our arrival in Whitefish, MT and concludes at 11 PM local time.<img class="alignright" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Izaak-Walton-Inn.gif" alt="Izaak Walton Inn" width="279" height="185" /></p>
<p><strong>7:41 PM DP Essex, MT</strong> (Flag stop) – Home of the famed Izaak Walton Inn built by the Great Northern Railway in 1939 to house railway workers. The Tudor Revival inn was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.</p>
<p><strong>8:23 PM DP West Glacier, MT</strong></p>
<p><strong>8:56 PM AR Whitefish, MT</strong> Upon arrival in Whitefish MT, Amtrak&#8217;s <em>Empire Builder</em> will perform its station work.  During this time a BNSF Ry switch crew will assist to switch our <em>Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special</em> to the Whitefish MT house station track, our home for the next four nights.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in Whitefish, MT.</p>
<h2 style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Wednesday, June 19, 2013 (Day 4/3):</strong></h2>
<p><strong>6:30 AM:</strong> For those early risers, wake up coffee will be available in our lounge for your enjoyment.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>7:30 – 9:30 AM</strong> Breakfast served on-board while we are parked in Whitefish, MT  Our on-board chef has prepared a hearty breakfast for all our guests this morning.  The beautiful sunrise and brisk mountain air beckon our passengers to the great outdoors.  </p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> Following breakfast, may we suggest you take this opportunity to alight from our train <img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Whitefish-MT-01A.jpg" alt="Whitefish MT" width="175" height="120" />and explore the charming, quaint town of Whitefish, MT.  Stroll the streets, visit the shops, enjoying this small North West town on your own.</p>
<p><strong>Noon:</strong> After all the exploration of Whitefish, we&#8217;re sure you have picked the perfect spot for lunch on your own.  A few favorite spots are the Great Northern Bar and Grill, Bulldog Saloon &amp; Grill, The Naked Noodle or Tupalo Grill to name a few.  Enjoy!</p>
<p><strong>Early Afternoon:</strong> We will travel by deluxe motor coach to Glacier National Park, the &#8220;Crown of the Continent&#8221;.  This million acre wilderness park is crammed with mountain lakes, living glaciers, beautiful flowers, thick forests and an abundance of amazing wildlife.</p>
<p><strong><img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/mcdonald_body-sm.jpg" alt="Lake McDonald" width="200" height="132" />Afternoon: O</strong>ur exploration of Glacier National Park continues, but now,&#8230; by water!  Our travels bring us to the lakeside dock of the Lake McDonald Lodge.  We&#8217;ll board our historic flagship boat for our cruise on Lake McDonald.  Once on board, you&#8217;ll marvel at the memorable views and are sure to enjoy the majestic surrounding Lake McDonald that originally drew early explores to this tranquil lake nestled in the surrounding mountains.</p>
<p><strong>Late Afternoon:</strong> After the lake cruise you&#8217;ll have time to explore one of the finest examples of a Swiss Chalet hotel remaining in the United States, the Lake McDonald Lodge.  Originally opened on June 14, 1914 its three story, large open space lobby, with balconies on three sides.  The inscribed messages on the large floors in Kootanes, a local Native American dialect, translates into phrases such as &#8220;Welcome&#8221;, &#8220;Looking towards the mountain&#8221; and &#8220;Big feast&#8221;.  So take their advice, enjoy your favorite libation at Lucke&#8217;s Lounge, browse around the gift shop or just explore this rustic lodge designated a National Historic Landmark and placed on the National Register of Historic Places on May 28, 1987.</p>
<p><img class="alignright" src="../../wp-content/uploads/2012/03/glac_McDonald.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="146" /><a href="glac_McDonald_01.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-388" title="Glacier Nat. Park" alt="" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Early Evening:</strong> Our motor coach will return us back to the mountain town of Whitefish.  We&#8217;ll conclude our all day adventure with an included dinner in town this evening. </p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong> After dinner you are on your own!  You can search out some night life or return to the quiet comfort of our train.  Our lounge will be open for your pleasure.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service will be available until 11 PM local time.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> After a busy, fun-filled day, return to your private accommodations on-board our <em>Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special</em>.  Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in Whitefish, MT.</p>
<h2 style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Thursday, June 20, 2013 (Day 5/4):</strong></h2>
<p><strong>6:30 AM:</strong> For those early risers, wake up coffee will once again be available in our lounge for your enjoyment.</p>
<p><strong>7:30 &#8211; 9:30 AM: </strong>Breakfast served on-board parked in Whitefish, MT.  Our on-board chef has prepared another fresh &amp; tasty breakfast for your enjoyment.</p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> This beautiful morning is yours to enjoy on your own!  <img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/RedCaboose-Whitefish-MT-03.jpg" alt="Red Caboose" width="175" height="155" />Coffee at the Red Caboose, fresh pastries at Sally&#8217;s bakery and Deli.  The downtown streets of Whitefish are peppered with galleries which exhibit local artists that create &#8220;Big Sky&#8221; wildlife scenery, a popular local subject.</p>
<p><a href="glac_jammer.jpg"> <img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-388" title="Glacier Nat. Park" alt="" /> </a></p>
<p><strong>Noon:</strong> Time has passed much to quickly! By now you had the opportunity to find all of the out of the way, cozy local spots to enjoy lunch on your own.  Bon appétit. </p>
<p><strong>Early Afternoon:</strong> Following lunch, we&#8217;ll once again board our deluxe motor coach and travel to Whitefish Mountain Resort.  We&#8217;ll visit the Nature Center, a cooperative between the Flatland National Forest and Whitefish Mountain Resort.  The Nature Center offers a fun place to explore, with plenty of hands-on discovery learning about the mountain environment.<img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Whitefish-Summit-chair-lift.jpg" alt="" width="122" height="199" /></p>
<p><strong>Late Afternoon:</strong> Our exploration of &#8220;Big Mountain&#8221; wouldn&#8217;t be complete without a breath-taking lift ride, enjoy the great views of mother nature&#8217;s valley.</p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong> What could be better than a scenic lift ride up &#8220;Big Mountain&#8221;?  An included delicious dinner at the summit!!! Tonight we&#8217;ll all get high,&#8230;  At nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, The Summit House is the highest resort in NW Montana and boasts vivid views of Glacier National Park.</p>
<p><strong>Early Evening:</strong> After a splendid dinner our motor-coach returns us back to our train. The smiling faces of American Rail&#8217;s first-class on-board staff &#8220;Welcomes you home&#8221;.  Back home again in the safety and comfort of our <em>Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special</em>.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service will be available until 11 PM local time.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy your private accommodations overnight on our <em>Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special</em> while parked in Whitefish, MT.</p>
<h2 style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Friday, June 21, 2013 (Day 6/5):</strong></h2>
<p><strong>6:30 AM:</strong> Wake up coffee available in our lounge.</p>
<p><strong>7:30 &#8211; 9:30 AM:</strong> Breakfast served on-board, parked in Whitefish, MT.  The bright sunshine and crisp mountain air beckon all to yet another day of western Montana adventure.</p>
<p><strong><img class="alignleft" style="margin-top: 6px; margin-bottom: 6px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/glac_jammer.jpg" alt="Red bus" width="233" height="150" />All Day:</strong> This morning we&#8217;ll re-board our motor-coach and return to Glacier National Park.  Our travels today will take us on one of the world&#8217;s civil engineering marvels, The Going-to-the-Sun Road.  This is the only road that cuts through Glacier National Park and is regarded as one of the most scenic drives anywhere in the world!  You&#8217;ll have plenty time to see the splendor of Montana&#8217;s jewel.  From the countless glacier-covered peaks, beautiful blue lakes, wondrous  colorful wildflowers, forests, deep valleys with glistening rivers and streams just teaming with wildlife.  You&#8217;ll never forget the grandeur and beauty of this, unlike any other on earth!  At the conclusion of this day trip we&#8217;ll make our way back down to Whitefish and our train.  </p>
<p><strong>Dinner:</strong> An included dinner will be in Whitefish tonight.</p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong> It&#8217;s Friday night in Whitefish and your last night in town.  Let&#8217;s party!  For some live entertainment, you might try either the Great Northern Bar &amp; Grill or Craggy Range Bar &amp; Grill.  And, if you are having well,&#8230; to much fun! We&#8217;ll leave the vestibule light on for you.  As always, our <em>Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special</em> lounge will be open for our returning passengers.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service will be available until 11 PM local time.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in Whitefish, MT.</p>
<h2 style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Saturday, June 22, 2013 (Day 7/6):</strong></h2>
<p><strong>6:30 AM:</strong> Wake-up coffee available in our lounge.  <img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/signal_small.jpg" alt="signal" width="100" height="86" />Although you may be fast asleep in your comfortable bed, our <em>Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special</em> will be readied for departure this morning.</p>
<p><strong>7:26 AM</strong> Train #8, <em>Empire Builder</em>, arrives Whitefish. Our private cars will be attached to Train #8.</p>
<p><strong>7:30 – 9:30 AM</strong> Breakfast served on-board while parked in Whitefish and en-route.</p>
<p><strong>7:46 AM DP Whitefish, MT</strong> – private cars have been attached to Amtrak #8, the Empire Builder and we are on our return journey back home. Today we&#8217;ll be traveling eastward through Montana and into North Dakota.</p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> As our Glacier Park experience wanes, your able to see, new, different and exciting views from our train that were obscured by darkness on our westward leg.  Enjoy this breathtaking scenery from the comfort of our train.</p>
<p><strong><img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/nd_little_missouri_trnp_all.jpg" alt="Little Missouri" width="225" height="169" />Noon:</strong> Lunch server on-board en-route.  With the rugged mountain peaks slipping away, we once again gather together to enjoy a freshly prepared luncheon.</p>
<p><strong>Afternoon:</strong> Complimentary premium beverage and snack service is available once more in the lounge.  It&#8217;s been a wondrously busy week.  If you feel like a nap, go ahead and sneak off to someplace quite and comfortable for a nap.  You deserve it, after-all, you are on vacation.</p>
<p><strong>6:00 PM (approx)</strong> Dinner served on-board en-route.  With the ever changing landscape just outside our windows the rolling hills of North Dakota race past your windows.  Enjoy the fun and fellowship of your new travel friends over a delicious, freshly prepared, dinner.</p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong> Complimentary premium beverage and snack service is available in the lounge until 11 PM this evening.  Conversations abound about our western adventure.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Sleep in safety and comfort as your private accommodations convey you eastward.  For our Chicago bound travelers, this will be your last night to enjoy the sweet rhythm of the rails.  Sleep well.</p>
<h2 style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Sunday, June 23, 2013 (Day 8/7):</strong></h2>
<p><strong><strong>6:30 AM:</strong> </strong>For those early risers, wake up coffee will once again be available in our lounge for your enjoyment.</p>
<p><strong>7:05 AM: AR:</strong> Minneapolis, MN.  We&#8217;ll pause here to add a coach to the Amtrak consist.</p>
<p><strong>7:30 &#8211; 9:30 AM:</strong> Breakfast served on-board en route.  From your breakfast table <img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Granite-Falls-Wisconsin.jpg" alt="Granite-Falls-Wisconsin" width="200" height="150" />you&#8217;ll enjoy the headwaters and upper Mississippi River as we travel southward through Minnesota.<br /><strong></strong></p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> Enjoy our last day all together as the Wisconsin rivers and forests fill our windows.</p>
<p><strong>Noon:</strong> As has become somewhat of a tradition on the train a freshly prepared luncheon is ready to satisfy your hunger.  </p>
<p><strong>Afternoon:</strong> Complimentary premium beverage and snack service is available in the lounge until our arrival in Chicago.</p>
<p><strong>2:07 PM: DP: </strong>Milwaukee, WI. With the brewery of Milwaukee disappearing quickly our train high-steps on the fast-iron on our quest for &#8220;the Windy City&#8221;, Chicago.  </p>
<p><strong>3:55 PM:</strong> AR: Chicago Union Station.  With the <em>Wooossshhh</em> of the air-breaks our rail adventure for Chicago bound passengers has come to a close.  Farewells are said as our first-class on-board staff assists de-training passengers with their luggage.</p>
<p><strong>St. Louis passengers:</strong> You will take this opportunity to step off our arriving train while it dwells in Chicago&#8217;s Union Station and enjoy the &#8220;City that works&#8221;, Chicago.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Note: Within an hour or so of our arrival our train will be moved to </strong><strong>Amtrak’s <br />coach yard.  There it will receive a post-trip inspection.  <br />During this time the train will be inaccessible and unavailable for occupancy <br />for several hours while the equipment is being serviced and inspected.  <br />Please plan accordingly.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Dinner:</strong> An included off-train dinner will be available for St. Louis bound passengers.</p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong> As soon as our rail-cars are available, our on-board service manager will contact our tour hosts for re-boarding in the station.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service will be available until 11 PM local time.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in Chicago.</p>
<h2 style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>MONDAY, June 24, 2013 (DAY 9):</strong></h2>
<p><strong>6:30 AM:</strong> Wake up coffee available in our lounge for your enjoyment.</p>
<p><strong>7:00 AM: Depart: Chicago Union Station, Amtrak #301, Lincoln Service, our <em>Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special,</em> to St. Louis.</strong></p>
<p><strong>7:30 – 9:30 AM:</strong> Breakfast served on-board en route.  </p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> This morning will make a quick sprint to St. Louis along some of the newest “high speed” line in Illinois as we travel at speeds up to 110 MPH.</p>
<p><strong>12:20 PM: Arrive: St. Louis </strong>As we approach the Mississippi River the Gateway Arch is visible.  We’ll soon be arriving at our final destination, St. Louis, MO.  With all saying &#8220;Goodbye&#8221;, our on-board staff  bids a farewell and thanks!  Trip and services end.</p>
<p> <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/rails.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-401" title="rails" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/rails-300x176.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="176" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">_____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">What&#8217;s Included:</span><br /> </strong><br /> <strong>  •</strong> Attentive first-class service provided by our American rail Excursion, Inc. staff.<br /> <strong>  •</strong> Round-trip rail and accommodations charges aboard our private rail-cars for this trip based upon <br />    your reservations.<br /> <strong> •</strong> Double Bedroom, Single or double occupancy or Roomette, single occupancy aboard our private <br />    rail-cars (per your reservation).<br /> <strong>  •</strong> Complimentary baggage transfer at St Louis Gateway Transportation Center or Chicago Union Station<br />    to our private rail-cars.<br /> <strong>  •</strong> Up to eight days and seven nights lodging and transportation accommodations aboard our private rail-cars<br />    based on your itinerary.<br /> <strong>  •</strong> Up to eight breakfasts, three lunches and three dinners all served on-board while en-route or while parked, <br />    based upon your itinerary.<br /> <strong>  •</strong> All meals prepared fresh by our on-board chef<br /> <strong>  •</strong> Complimentary premium beverage and snack service throughout our entire trip.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">____________________________________________________________</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"> </span><strong style="font-size: medium; line-height: 19px;">About Your Accommodations:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Double Bedrooms:</strong></p>
<p>Double bedrooms have space for two passengers. Each double bedroom features either one large couch or a small couch and lounge chair for comfortable private day travel. Every double bedroom has a large window. By night, each double room has two beds (1-upper and 1-lower). Every room is furnished with adjustable climate control, fan, reading lights, fold-down table, garment closet and full-length door mirror. The annex (your private bathroom) has a fold-down sink; large lighted wall mirror, toilet and a 110-volt convenience outlet. Your linens, towels and soap are also provided. Best of all, your attendant will turn down your bed, arrange for a wake-up call and bring your morning tea, coffee, or juice right to your room. All sleeping cars are equipped with a shower.</p>
<p><strong>Costs:</strong> Double Bedroom, Double Occupancy:</p>
<p>2 people, 1 room, one upper and one lower bed at night</p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding: $3,599.00 per person double occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $3,499.00 per person double occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p>Double Bedroom, Single Occupancy:</p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding: $6,099.00 per person single occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $5,999.00 per person single occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p>____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong>Roomettes:</strong></p>
<p>Roomettes have space for one traveler. Roomettes feature a small couch, in-wall fold-down<img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/singlenight.gif" alt="roomette" width="100" height="137" /> sink, garment closet, large overhead luggage rack and a huge lighted wall mirror with an electrical outlet. By night, each room has one lower bed. For your added travel comfort, each room has an adjustable climate control, fan and reading/night lights. Roomettes 1-6 additionally have an in-room toilet. A general toilet is located down the hall for your use in Pacific Union. Your linens, towels, bath towels, soap and shampoo are also provided. A shower and changing room is located at the end of the car.</p>
<p><strong>Costs:</strong> Roomette, Single Occupancy:</p>
<p>1 person, 1 roomette, one lower bed at night</p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $3,699.00 per person single occupancy<strong> in a Roomette</strong>.</strong></p>
<div>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding:  $3,799.00 per person single occupancy<strong> in a Roomette</strong>.</strong></p>
</div>
<p><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"> ____________________________________________________________</span></p>
<div>
<p><strong>En-suited Two Double Bedrooms (Suite)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Two Double bedrooms:</strong> bedrooms have space for two passengers. Each double bedroom features either one large couch or a small couch and lounge chair for comfortable private day travel. Every double bedroom has a large window. By night, each double room has one bed (1-lower). Every room is furnished with adjustable climate control, fan, reading lights, fold-down table, garment closet and full-length door mirror. The annex (your private bathroom) has a fold-down sink; large lighted wall mirror, toilet and a 110-volt convenience outlet. Your linens, towels and soap are also provided. Best of all, your attendant will turn down your bed, arrange for a wake-up call and bring your morning tea, coffee, or juice right to your room.</p>
<p><strong>Costs:</strong> En-suited two Double Bedrooms, Double Occupancy:</p>
<p>2 people, 2 rooms en-suited, one lower bed at night in each bedroom</p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $5,999.00 per person double occupancy, <strong>en-suited</strong> bedroom.</strong><strong>   </strong></p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding:  $6,099.00 per person double occupancy, <strong>en-suited</strong> bedroom.</strong></p>
<p>  _____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong>Master Suite, <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/southern-hospitality/" target="_blank">Southern Hospitality Dome Car</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Master Suite:</strong> Southern Hospitality Master Suite ranks among the best in opulent <img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/SH_Dome_013.jpg" alt="Dome" width="112" height="149" />rail travel accommodations.  The Master suite&#8217;s huge floor plan covers  more space than three conventional double bedrooms on a rail-car.  The queen sized bed with double thick pillow top mattress and multiple over-sized pillows provide the &#8220;most&#8221; in comfort!  The Honduras Mahogany walls, trayed ceiling and soft lighting provide a most inviting feel.  The granite top vanity sink, large and small mirrors and arched armoire with drawers provide ample garment storage.  The marble tiled bathroom features a toilet and full size glass door enclosed marble shower with full sized rain fall shower and hand held shower.  A marble shower bench provides a safe and comfortable alternative for those that might need more stability while our train is in motion.  And when you just want the solitude of your own space, just curl up with a good book and relax in privacy and comfort in your own easy chair and ottoman.</p>
<p><strong>Cost: </strong>Master Suite</p>
<p>2 people, 1 room, one queen bed</p>
<p><strong>   Southern Hospitality Master Suite one or two persons: $13,999.</strong></p>
</div>
<p>  _____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong>Food and Beverage Service</strong>:</span></p>
<p>American Rail Excursions Inc. nostalgic rail tour includes (as per your itinerary) nostalgic rail dinning featuring traditional American cuisine, freshly prepared by our on-board chef. The combination of fine food, crisp white linens, first-class on-board service and awe inspiring scenery set the stage for a most memorable trip. Menus are ever-changing, reflecting the influences of the towns and cities we visit. Bon appétit!</p>
<p>The following is a sample of cuisine, freshly prepared aboard our rail cars.</p>
<p><strong>Our sample menus include:</strong></p>
<p> <em><strong>Sample Breakfast Menu</strong></em></p>
<p> <strong>•</strong> Denver Scrambled with Cheese<br /> <strong>•</strong> Old Fashioned Railroad French Toast<br /> <strong>•</strong> Potatoes O&#8217;Brian<br /> <strong>•</strong> Tender Sausage links<br /> <strong>•</strong> Crisp Bacon<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Fresh Fruit<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Cold Cereal<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Breakfast Pastries<br /> <strong>•</strong> Bagels with Cream Cheese<br /> <strong>•</strong> English Muffins<br /> <strong>•</strong> Toast &amp; Jelly<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Chilled Juice,<br /> <strong>•</strong> Freshly Brewed Coffee, (Regular or decaffeinated)<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Teas<br /> <strong>•</strong> Milk, Hot Chocolate<br /> <strong>•</strong> Complimentary Eye-opener from our bar</p>
<p> <em><strong>Sample Lunch Menu</strong></em></p>
<p> <strong>•</strong> Tossed Caesar salad Served with homemade Croutons and freshly grated Parmesan Cheese<br /> <strong>•</strong> Baked spaghetti or lasagna<br /> <strong>•</strong> Garlic bread sticks<br /> <strong>•</strong> Spumoni ice cream<br /> <strong>•</strong> Freshly Brewed Coffee (Regular or Decaffeinated)<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Teas<br /> <strong>•</strong> Soft Drinks<br /> <strong>•</strong> Milk<br /> <strong>•</strong> Domestic and Imported Beers, or Wine<br /> <strong>•</strong> Your Favorite Mixed Drink from the Bar</p>
<p> <em><strong>Sample Dinner Menu</strong></em></p>
<p> <strong>•</strong> Soup Du Jour<br /> <strong>•</strong> Mesclun salad, served with honey roasted walnuts, bosch pears, gorgonzola crumbles and topped with a <br />    Raspberry Vinaigrette dressing<br /> <strong>•</strong> Roast Prime Rib of Beef<br />      or<br /> <strong>•</strong> Chicken Marseilles sautéed in a Marseille wine sauce<br /> <strong>•</strong> Idaho Oven-Baked Potato with butter and sour cream<br />      or<br /> <strong>•</strong> Rice Pilaf <br /> <strong>•</strong> Medley of Seasonal Vegetables<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Dinner Rolls and Butter<br /> <strong>•</strong> Chocolate Torte Cake<br /> <strong>•</strong> Fresh Brewed Coffee, Regular and Decaffeinated<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Teas<br /> <strong>•</strong> Soft Drinks<br /> <strong>•</strong> Milk<br /> <strong>•</strong> Domestic and Imported Beers, or Wine<br /> <strong>•</strong> Your Favorite Mixed Drink from the Bar</p>
<p>Our on-board chef prepares all meals fresh.</p>
<p><strong><em>Premium Beverage Service Includes:</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em></em>•</strong> Miller Lite and Heineken beers<br /><strong>•</strong> Chardonnay, Merlot, and White Zinfandel wines<br /><strong>•</strong> Mixed drinks derived from scotch, bourbon, gin, vodka, rum and mixers. (No blender or frozen drinks)<br /><strong>•</strong> Soft Drinks including Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Ginger Ale<br /><strong>•</strong> Bottled still waters<br /><strong>•</strong> Fresh Brewed Coffee (Regular or Decaffeinated)</p>
<p><strong><em>Dry Snacks include:</em></strong></p>
<div><strong>• </strong>Planter&#8217;s dry roasted peanuts<br /><strong>• </strong>Goldfish<br /><strong>• </strong>Chex mix<br /><strong>•</strong> Gardetto&#8217;s Mix</div>
<div> _____________________________________________________________</div>
<p><strong>Why you should participate in this Unique Excursion</strong></p>
<p>This is the comfortable, hassle-free way to see Montana &amp; Glacier National Park in all its splendor. We will be attached to Amtrak trains, but only our passengers will have use of our private cars. Your room on the train is your hotel. No checking into and out of hotels. No unexpected hotel charges. No baggage hassles. Just excellent service by a friendly crew. We make it simple and pleasant for you. </p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">May we make your reservation today?</span></p>
<p>a 50% deposit per person is due at time of booking.<br />Full open balance due by 5/15/13<br />Call for availability after 5/15/13<br />No refund unless trip is canceled.<br />Tickets are transferable to another person with prior approval.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Please reserve your space by 5/15/13</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">&#8220;<em>The Montana &amp; Glacier National Park Special</em>&#8220;</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">June (16)17 &#8211; June 23(24), 2013</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Trip #AR-13-F-1</span></strong></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Reservation-form-Montana-Glacier-National-Park-Special-20130219.pdf" target="_blank">Click here for printable reservation form</a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-large;">Thank You!</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: large;">American Rail Excursions, Inc.</span></em><br /><span style="font-size: small;">P.O. Box 2345</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Dearborn, MI 48123-2345</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Frank Corley, reservations<br />Phone 313-300-8411 <br /></span>Email: franktrainman23600@hotmail.com<br />or<br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Roger J. Verbeeren Jr., home office <br />Phone 618-451-0100</span><br />Email: roger@americanrail.com<br /> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><strong>Important Information &#8211; Please Read</strong></em></span></p>
<p>American Rail Excursions, Inc. welcomes everyone who wishes to travel with us on our public trips. However, because this is vintage railway equipment produced in the 1940&#8242;s and 1950&#8242;s, there are no special facilities available for those passengers that might have a disability.  We welcome those passengers that are disabled, but please consider the suitability of these trips carefully. We encourage you to call us at 618-451-0100 or e-mail us at roger@americanrail.com for additional information for your specific situation.</p>
<p><em><strong>Responsibility</strong></em></p>
<p>Enrollment in and payment for a tour shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the passenger of the terms and conditions set forth herein.  In the responsibility of their own negligence, neither American Rail Excursions, Inc., Crown Rail Inc., Mid America Rail Car Leasing LLC, Pacific Union Sleeping Car Co. L.L.C., Southern Hospitality Dome Car Co. LLC, The Silver Sleeping Car Company, NYC Investments, LLC, Powhatan Rail Services, Inc. dba American Rail Excursions or IFE Leasing, Inc. nor their agents shall be responsible for cancellations, delays, diversions, or substitution of  equipment or any act of omission whatever by Amtrak, transportation companies, of any other persons providing any of these services necessitated by same.  Nor shall they be liable for any loss or damage to baggage or property, or for injury, illness, or death, or for any damages or claims whatsoever arising from the loss or the negligence of any person not their direct employee or under their exclusive control. Transportation companies, Amtrak, etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board train or conveyances.  The passenger contracts in use by Amtrak or transportation companies and passengers or purchasers of this tour, assumes no responsibility in this connection.  Payments are not refundable unless the trip is canceled.  We reserve the right to cancel a trip prior to departure, in which case your entire payment to us will be refunded without further obligation on our part.  Smoking is not permitted on these cars (except in vestibules between cars and on the ground at the longer station stops).  As is the case of all travel, regardless of destination, we cannot guarantee clear weather at all times. Clouds, rain or other weather conditions beyond our control may obscure scenic highlights.  We have no control over the various transportation companies providing services for the excursions, and thus it must be understood that changes in the equipment, dates, routes, or other accommodations, though unlikely, can occur.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">Travel insurance is recommended for any extended trip to protect your interest.</span></p>
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		<title>Crescent City Limited &#8211; 2013</title>
		<link>http://americantraintrips.com/crescent-city-limited-2/</link>
		<comments>http://americantraintrips.com/crescent-city-limited-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 04 Feb 2013 13:16:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Steve</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Rail Tours]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[What's New]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americantraintrips.com/?p=1338</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p><FONT COLOR="ff0000"><strong>SOLD OUT - Thank You!</strong></font><br />New Orleans is America’s unique place…with it’s cool jazz, hot n’ spicy Cajun food and lively Zydeco entertainment that continues until the wee hours of the morning.</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><FONT COLOR="ff0000" size="+4"><br />
<marquee behavior="scroll" direction="left" height="54">SOLD OUT &#8211; Thank You!</marquee><br />
</FONT></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em><span style="color: #000000;">&#8220;The Crescent City Limited&#8221;<br />To: New Orleans &amp; Jazz Fest 2013 </span></em></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em><span style="color: #000000;">St. Louis-Chicago-New Orleans-Chicago-St. Louis</span></em></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #000000; font-size: small;"><em><strong>A Fun Filled Private Car trip</strong></em></span><br /><span style="color: #000000; font-size: small;"><em><strong>Departing from either St. Louis or Chicago to New Orleans and Return</strong></em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #000000;">Up to 9 days and 8 nights based on your itinerary</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium; color: #000000;">April (28)29 &#8211; May 5(6), 2013</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/composite_01.jpg" alt="" width="474" height="388" /></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #000000; font-size: medium;">Trip# AR-13-D-2</span></h3>
<p>New Orleans is described by one word &#8220;Unique&#8221;!  New Orleans is America&#8217;s unique place&#8230;with it&#8217;s cool jazz, hot n&#8217; spicy Cajun food and lively Zydeco entertainment that continues until the wee hours of the morning, New Orleans is still truly one of this country&#8217;s most exciting and entertaining cities to visit.</p>
<p>Our New Orleans bound travelers are going to do as the native New Orleanieans do; indulge, savor and celebrate!</p>
<p>Indulge your senses&#8230; savor New Orleans&#8217; rich heritage&#8230; and celebrate&#8230; even after 200 years of great achievements and steep challenges, the &#8216;Big Easy&#8217;, New Orleans has many perennial attractions.  The French Quarter  Bourbon Street, spontaneous jazz concerts on the street corner, the architecture, sidewalk cafes and the artists that surround them, horse drawn carriages, the St. Charles Street Car line through the Garden District and of course&#8230; the might Mississippi River!</p>
<p>Come join us on this nostalgic rail adventure.  We&#8217;ll travel from the &#8220;Gateway of the West&#8221;, St. Louis, MO or the &#8220;Windy City&#8221;, Chicago, IL aboard our nostalgic stream-liner, down the main street of mid-America by private rail-car on the train they call <em>The City of New Orleans</em>.</p>
<p>Enjoy our vintage train, your own private sleeping compartments, first class on-board services and all inclusive on-board meal, premium beverage and snack service as per your itinerary.</p>
<p>Your explorations of the many sensory extravagances that continue to endure in the unique city of New Orleans begin upon boarding our <em>Crescent City Limited</em> in either St. Louis or Chicago.  Enjoy the journey!<br /> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Here are the Highlights</em></strong></span></p>
<p>Y&#8217;all take some time and enjoy some good ole southern hospitality!  Our first class on-board staff will pamper all the while you are traveling aboard our stream-liner as it transports us down the &#8220;Main Street of mid-America&#8221; aboard the train they call <em>The City of New Orleans</em>.  Dine on-board our train with freshly prepared, delicious meals.  Enjoy complimentary premium beverages and snacks delivered right to your seat by attentive first class on-board service attendants.</p>
<p>Enjoy the unparalleled views, comradery, fun and fellowship as the rhythm of the rails sing their song all the while our train conveys us to our destination, The Crescent City, New Orleans!</p>
<p>While in New Orleans you can explore the storied streets of the &#8220;Big Easy&#8221; from the dynamic Mississippi River to the serene courtyards. Discover everything from the colonial history to the Creole culture, from piracy to architectural masterpieces, The French Quarter, St. Louis Cathedral  Jackson Square, Pirates Alley, The Garden District and of course&#8230; Bourbon Street.</p>
<p>We&#8217;ll whet your appetite for exploration with an included two hour guided tour of New Orleans and a two hour river boat tour on the Mississippi River aboard the paddle-wheeler <em>Natchez</em>.  Included with your riverboat cruise is a delicious luncheon.  An included streetcar pass will make getting around simple, with the newly opened terminus at New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.  And of course&#8230; all that Jazz.  We have included admission to &#8220;Jazz Fest 2013!  </p>
<p>Come join us for this spectacular rail tour to the &#8220;Big Easy&#8221;, New Orleans, and enjoy &#8220;Jazz Fest 2013&#8243;.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-large; color: #000000;">Welcome Aboard!</span></strong></p>
<h2><strong>Sunday April 28, 2013 <br />   (Day 1, St. Louis boarding passengers only)</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Morning &amp; Early afternoon:</strong> If you have arrived in St. Louis early and would like some close-by sightseeing may we suggest you stroll near-by historic <em>St. Louis Union Station</em>.  Every vacation starts at the Station and St. Louis is no exception.  <em>St. Louis Union Station</em> was, at one time, the largest and busiest railroad terminal.  There is a self-guided tour covering this National Historic Landmark&#8217;s 100 years of history through an award-winning collection of letters, memorabilia and exhibits.</p>
<p>Today the hustle and bustle around the Station is the special charm that this unique shopping and dining destination offers.  Take some time out and try  anyone of the many exciting restaurants located in and around the Station.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" title="St. Louis Amtrak Station" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/St.-Louis-Amtrak-Station-02.jpg" alt="St. Louis Amtrak Station" width="360" height="181" /></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>2:30 PM(approx):</strong></span> Passengers wising to join our <em>Crescent City Limited</em> rail tour in St. Louis should plan to meet our on-board service manager at Amtrak&#8217;s Gateway Transportation Center, 430 S.15th St., St. Louis 63103.  Prearranged cell phone contact numbers will allow our on-board staff to guide you to our private rail-cars and will transfer your luggage directly to your accommodations.  After our on-board staff has reviewed the amenities of your accommodations and you have read the on-board information packet, feel free to step down to our lounge and enjoy a complementary premium beverage and snack while getting acquainted with other passengers.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">3:00 PM: </span>Depart St. Louis on Amtrak #304, <em>Lincoln Service</em>, to Chicago, IL.</strong>  <img class="alignright" title="All-Aboard" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/allaboard.jpg" alt="All-Aboard" width="125" height="179" /><br />After the conductor calls &#8220;All Aboard&#8221; our <em>Crescent City Limited</em> eases out of the station and we begin by crossing the Mississippi River.  Peering through the windows of train, the gateway Arch gradually disappears behind us as we pick up speed for the journey to Chicago.  The rolling hills, forest and occasional small town create the ever-changing scenery along with the train&#8217;s gentle sway, the rhythm of the rails sing their song.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">4:56: Depart: Springfield, IL.</span></strong>  You may join the trip here.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">5:56: Depart: Bloomington, IL.</span></strong>  You may join the trip here.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>6:00 PM:(approx) </strong></span>Dinner will be served on-board while en-route to Chicago.  <br />As our train races northward on our trek to Chicago and beyond, our on-board chef has freshly prepared a delicious dinner for your enjoyment!  During dinner we will pause briefly in Springfield,  the capital city of Illinois.  The beautiful dome will be visible to all as we pass.</p>
<p><strong><img class="alignleft" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px 5px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/vestibule-01.jpg" alt="vestibule sunset" width="100" height="150" />Evening:</strong> With the sun setting on the Illinois prairie, the last glimmer of light silhouettes the trees and farms that dot the horizon.  Enjoy a complimentary after dinner drink in the lounge while enjoying the sights from the comfort of your own chair. </p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>8:40 PM: Arrive: Chicago Union Station.  </strong></span>As our train thunders in to Chicago&#8217;s Union Station we will pause here for a while.  First to discharge passengers and then to be switched to the passenger coach yard so that our cars may be serviced in preparation for the journey to our namesake &#8220;The Crescent City&#8221;.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Late Evening: </strong></span>Our first-class on-board staff has transformed your accommodations from it&#8217;s daytime configuration to one set for sweet slumber tonight.  When you decide&#8230; retire to overnight comfort of your own private room.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service will be available until 11:00 PM local time. </p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Night: </strong></span>Occupy rail-cars overnight parked in Chicago.</p>
<h2><strong>Monday April 29, 2013 (Day 2, St. Louis passengers)<br />   (Day 1, Chicago passengers)</strong></h2>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">7:30 &#8211; 9:30 AM:</span></strong> Breakfast will be served on-board while parked in Chicago.<img class="alignright" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Chicago-Union-Station.jpg" alt="Chicago-Union-Station" width="200" height="150" /></p>
<p>A &#8220;Good Morning&#8221; to all the travelers who arrived with us from St. Louis last night.   As you rise this morning, the enticing aroma of a freshly prepared breakfast greets you.   A cup of coffee and a refreshing hot shower is all it takes to &#8220;get up and at &#8216;em!&#8221;</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">Morning and Afternoon</span>:</strong> After enjoying breakfast, may we suggest you take this opportunity to step off the rail-cars and begin your free day in Chicago!  Today is yours to enjoy the &#8220;Windy City&#8221; on your own.  Why not try the nearby Willis Tower (formerly Sears tower) where a trip to the &#8220;Sky Deck &#8221; will give you a birds-eye view of Chicago.  If you like to shop try the famous State Street &#8220;that Great Street&#8221; with many famous stores such as Macy&#8217;s.  If that&#8217;s not enough, a walk along the <em>Magnificent Mile</em>, a visit to <em>Water Tower Place</em> or <em>Navy Pier </em>will provide the proverbial &#8220;shop &#8217;til you drop&#8221; experience.  </p>
<p>The day is yours to enjoy the many offerings that Chicago has to provide.  Lunch and dinner are on your own while you tour the city.  Our departure time is scheduled for 8:00 PM tonight.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #000000;"><strong style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">*NOTE &#8211; due to re-positioning movements, our private rail-cars may not be <br /></span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: small;">readily accessible during the course of the day.  Please plan accordingly.</span></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Pet_5.jpg" alt="Chicago coarch yard" width="215" height="143" /></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>* Note to all embarking passengers -</strong> Our guests should enjoy dinner on your own at any one of Chicago&#8217;s finest eateries such as The Berghoff, Ruth Christ&#8217;s, The Weber Grill, Greek Town (South Halsted St.) or any other fine downtown restaurants before boarding.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Chicago Passengers &#8211; Welcome Aboard</em></strong></span></p>
<p><strong>7:00 PM:<strong> </strong></strong>All St. Louis re-boarding passengers and Chicago boarding passenger will meet the American Rail Excursions Inc. on-board service manager at the fountain under the escalators adjacent to the Amtrak Ticket counter for special check -in.  For our Chicago boarding passengers, DO NOT check any luggage with Amtrak.  Complimentary baggage handling is provided by our on-board service attendants who will transfer your luggage directly to your accommodations. </p>
<p><strong>7:15 PM: <strong></strong></strong>As soon as all passengers are checked in, we will pre-board our private rail-cars located at the rear of this evening&#8217;s Chicago departing Amtrak #59, the <em>City of New Orleans</em>, our <em>Crescent City Limited</em>.  After receiving instructions on the amenities of your on-board accommodations, let the party begin!  You may take this opportunity to head to our lounge and get acquainted with other travelers over complimentary cocktails and hor d&#8217;oeuvres. </p>
<p><strong>8:00 PM: Depart Chicago: Amtrak #59,</strong> The <em>City of New Orleans</em> (Our <em>Crescent City Limited</em>)<br />The conductor yells &#8220;All &#8216;board&#8221; as our group of rail adventurers <img class="size-medium wp-image-392 alignright" title="RSlounge_02" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/RSlounge_02-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" />settle in.  The gentle sway of our private rail-cars indicate that we are on the move.  If you haven&#8217;t already, now is the perfect time to join us in the lounge while we watch Chicago&#8217;s bright lights and moonlit skyline vanish in the distance.  A special complimentary Bon Voyage Party complete with a Champagne toast, hor d&#8217;oeuvres and your favorite beverage, will complement the festive atmosphere.  </p>
<p>As the big city lights fade away, we&#8217;ll make a quick stop in a quaint Chicago suburb of Homewood.  As the diesels roar and the whistle blows the Illinois Central&#8217;s <em>Main Street of Mid-America</em> rail-line will carry us through many a small town in our southbound quest to reach that Crescent City, New Orleans.</p>
<p><strong>Late Evening:</strong> As you enjoying lively conversation, camaraderie and maybe a little reveling, our first-class service staff will have your room ready for you when you are ready for some sweet slumber.  In the solitude and darkness of your room, you tune into the rhythmic beat of the rails.  As you gaze out your window, the darkened sky illuminated by hundreds of starts and the occasional light from a passing farm reminds you that you are still in Illinois.  The gentle sway and music of the rails are too much&#8230; you fall asleep in safety and comfort of your own private room.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while en-route to our destination, New Orleans.</p>
<h2><strong>Tuesday, April 30, 2013 (Day 3 St Louis/2 Chicago):</strong></h2>
<p><strong>7:30-9:30 AM:</strong> Breakfast served on-board en-route to our destination, New Orleans.<br />The excitement of our trip has made you stir early this morning.  As you raise the shade and peer out the window this new day, you rub your eyes in disbelief!  A PYRAMID?!?  What the&#8230; Now, if you saw Elvis, then there may be cause for concern!  Yes&#8230; it is Memphis.  If you look hard, you can catch a glimpse of Beale Street, home of the Blues.  Memphis is also home of Sun Records and of course, Elvis&#8217; Graceland estate.  Our train will pause here at the beautiful new station for about 25 minutes.  With the aroma of freshly brewed coffee teasing you, it is time to satisfy that appetite.  Our on-board chef has prepared a delicious breakfast for your enjoyment this morning.</p>
<p><img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/RS1-01.jpg" alt="RS" width="242" height="162" /></p>
<p><strong>Morning: </strong>As we continue our southward trek, our train will almost turn-back-time.  We&#8217;ll travel through small towns rich in history and virtually untouched, hearkening back to the days when cotton was king.  Some stately colonial mansions can be seen through the trees.  Lumber is the other prevalent commodity harvested along this route.</p>
<p><strong>12:00 Noon: Lunch served on-board en-route:</strong> You&#8217;ve been so busy peering out the window that lunchtime has almost slipped by.  Not to worry though, our attentive first-class on-board service attendant reminds you that it is noon and that lunch will be served shortly.  As you enjoy a tasty lunch and peek through your window to the world, the first vestiges of French influence can be detected in the curlicue and trellis-work adorning the homes.</p>
<p><strong>Afternoon: </strong>The catfish ponds and pecan groves of the Mississippi Delta country slowly transform into the bayou  country.  Lake Pontchartrain is now visible&#8230; New Orleans is just ahead.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service continues.  </p>
<p><strong>3:32 PM Arrive: New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal</strong> <img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/NO_SuperDome-2.jpg" alt="Super dome" width="331" height="136" />As our <em>Crescent City Limited</em> glides into the station, you&#8217;ll notice a huge landmark, the Louisiana Superdome, just adjacent to our final stop.  Our private rail-cars will remain parked here for the next four nights.  Our passengers will be able to stay aboard, using our cars as your hotel on the rails.  Breakfast will be served daily.  Lunch and dinner will be on your own while visiting New Orleans except as part of the Natchez Riverboat cruise.  Our lounge will be open in the late afternoon and evening for your enjoyment.</p>
<p><strong>Late Afternoon and Evening:</strong> We suggest for the remainder of the afternoon and evening you experience the culture and cuisine New Orleans has to offer.  May we suggest you dine on your own tonight at any one of the finer establishments. New Orleans has many of the greatest restaurants in the country.  With dining seen as a passion by locals, the dishes prepared by world renown and award winning chefs will make your visit to New Orleans an unforgettable event.  Restaurants such as the legendary Brennen&#8217;s, Broussards, Arnaud&#8217;s or Antonioes&#8217;s are all located in the French Quarter.  These are just a few that have been around since the late 1800&#8242;s.  Bon appétit!</p>
<p><strong>Late Evening:</strong> After an enjoyable dinner, let&#8217;s not forget Bourbon Street for some late night entertainment.  From Jazz to contemporary rock, Bourbon Street has something for everyone!  Don&#8217;t worry&#8230; we&#8217;ll leave the vestibule light on for you tonight.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.</p>
<h2><strong>Wednesday, May 1, 2013 (Day 4/3):</strong></h2>
<p><strong>7:30-9:30 AM</strong><span> Breakfast served on-board while parked in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">Our on-board chef has prepared a hearty breakfast that will energize you for today&#8217;s fun-filled adventure.  For those who prefer touring the city on your own, may we suggest your morning in New Orleans begins with a languorous stretch and a steaming cup of café</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> au lait.  Ease into the day with an elegant breakfast of Eggs Hussarde and Bananas Foster&#8230; or sample hot beignets at Jackson Square.  Meander through the French market or stroll down Royal Street.  You&#8217;re sure to see everything from fine antiques and rare books to precious gems, prints and posters.  Peek past narrow passageways into Italianate courtyards with sprawling Victorian mansions and plantation homes.</span></p>
<p><span><strong>Morning:</strong> Depart for an included escorted two hour motor coach tour plus a two hour riverboat cruise.  We&#8217;ll travel through three centuries of history, legends and romance as you encounter &#8220;The City That Care Forgot!&#8221;  <img class="alignleft" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/NO_audubon_zoo.jpg" alt="Zoo" width="256" height="176" />Absorb the sights and sounds of the world famous French Quarter and historic Jackson Square., home of the Cabildo and Presbytere Museums.  Visit one of the historic cemeteries, referred to as &#8220;Cities of the Dead&#8221;, and learn about this unique above ground burial system.  Marvel at stories of voodoo and piracy on Bayou St. John, the water-way used by Jean Lafitte and his band of pirates, as we make our way to the shore of Lake Pontchartrain.  View the longest bridge over water in the world, the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway.  Our tour follows the path of the St Charles Avenue streetcar line, the oldest continuously operating passenger railway system in the world, past the homes of former Kings and Queens  of Mardi Gras, steely mansions and the world famous, exclusive Garden District.  View Tulane and Loyola Universities across from Audubon Park, home to one of the top five zoos in the nation, The Audubon Zoo.</span> </p>
<p><img class="alignright" title="Natchez River boat" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/NO_riverboat.jpg" alt="Natchez" width="240" height="159" /></p>
<p>Upon completion of the city tour we&#8217;ll transfer and board the historic Steamboat Natchez, one of six authentic Steamboats left on the Mississippi River.  Enjoy a Steam Calliope Concert daily.  Tap your feet to live Jazz (seasonal) on every cruise.  This two hour day cruise takes you back to a time when cotton as king and life was as slow and graceful as the current on the Mississippi River.  Enjoy the captain&#8217;s narration of the highlights of one of the world&#8217;s busiest ports.  Tour the Historic Steam Engine Room and learn how steam powers the engine to turn the Paddle-wheel and provide the energy for the delightful tunes from the calliope  Cruise past the Chalmette Battlefield, where Jean Lafitte and his buccaneers joined forces with Andrew Jackson to defeat the British in the Battle of New Orleans.  Enjoy an included lunch on board the Natchez.</p>
<p><strong>Afternoon:</strong> Upon completion of the riverboat cruise, you may elect to return to the train with the motor coach or continue to enjoy the riverfront on your own.  Returning to our private rail-cars our first-class on-board staff has an array of complimentary premium beverages and snacks for your enjoyment.</p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong>  All of New Orleans is still at your doorstep.  Enjoy New Orleans own unique cuisine, such as crawfish Étouffée, gumbo or Shrimp Creole along with some cool blues or hot jazz.  </p>
<p><strong>Late Evening:</strong> Tonight, once again, is yours to enjoy in your own, and while in New Orleans party, party, party!</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.</p>
<h2><strong>Thursday, May 2, 2013 (Day 5/4):</strong></h2>
<p><strong>7:30-9:30 AM</strong> Breakfast served on-board while parked in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.</p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> For the rabble-rousers&#8230; go ahead and sleep in!  We&#8217;ll have plenty of freshly brewed coffee <img class="alignleft" style="margin: 4px;" title="Street car" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/NO_streetcar_3.jpg" alt="Street car" width="138" height="91" />for you when you arise.  Today is yours to enjoy on your own, at least until this evening when we have a special treaty for you.  You may want to try a self-guided tour on the New Orleans streetcar line, after all it does stop right outside the Station.  You could travel on top of the levee along the Mississippi River past the French Quarter or enjoy a picturesque streetcar ride on the St. Charles line.  You may even want to get off for a closer look as you stroll past many of the stately mansions, bed and breakfasts, and delightful restaurants.</p>
<p><strong>Afternoon:</strong> Lunch is on your own.  Since you may be in the Garden District, you might what to<img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/NO_commanders_palace.gif" alt="Commanders Palace" width="125" height="167" /> try the Commanders Palace or one of the other fine restaurants in this area.  After lunch, a quiet stroll in the Garden District past stately mansions or through Audubon Park may be just the thing.  Otherwise, the St Charles streetcar line is close at hand.</p>
<p><strong>Late Afternoon:</strong> For the weary tourist, we once again have available complimentary premium beverage and snack service in our lounge.  Service continues throughout the afternoon and evening until 11PM local time.</p>
<p><strong>Early Evening:</strong> Enjoy a quiet dinner tonight in New Orleans on your own.  We strongly suggest that you make reservations so as to not be disappointed; after all, it is Friday evening.</p>
<p><img class="alignleft" style="margin: 3px;" title="Bourbon Street" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/NO_Bourbon_sign.jpg" alt="Bourbon Street" width="150" height="113" /></p>
<p><strong>7:00 PM &#8211; 9:30 PM: Escorted &#8221;Big Easy Jazz Tour&#8221; (Included)</strong> <br />We will be taking an escorted stroll down historic and, yes, scandalous <strong>Bourbon Street</strong>. Your destination? A club dedicated to the preservation of jazz where you&#8217;ll enjoy a <strong>complimentary cocktail</strong> to start your night. Your guide will share stories of how Bourbon Street evolved into an international destination for party-goers as well as how this city became the birthplace of Jazz, the truly American music genre. </p>
<p><img class="alignright" style="margin: 5px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/New_Orleans_Jazz.jpg" alt="" width="133" height="98" />After enjoying a set of foot-stomping music, you&#8217;ll be enthralled with short stories of jazz and the characters of this famous neighborhood. Bourbon Street will share another jazz set by a local traditional Jazz (&#8220;trad Jazz&#8221;) band viewed from VIP seating in the lush patio of<strong> Musical Legends Park</strong>. Take photographs alongside the bronze statues of some of the celebrities that have made New Orleans a music and entertainment Mecca. The tour concludes with your choice of either a <strong>cocktail </strong>or <strong>Café au lait</strong><strong> </strong>and<strong> beignets</strong>. Then we&#8217;ll let you decide when to call it a night!</p>
<p><strong>Late Evening:</strong> Once again, the smiling faces of your American Rail Excursions, Inc staff will deliver <img class="alignleft" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/RSloungeladies.jpg" alt="" width="130" height="92" />your favorite beverages right to your seat.  And, when the fat lady sings&#8230; your room will have already been prepared for a night of sweet slumber.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.<span style="text-align: center;"> </span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong><br />Friday, May 3, 2013 (Day 6/5):</strong></h2>
<p><strong>7:30-9:30 AM</strong> Breakfast served on-board while parked in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.<img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" title="Jazz fest 2013" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/JazzFest-2013.jpg" alt="Jazz fest 2013" width="75" height="146" /></p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> Once again the Southern Charm of the Crescent City beckons to be explored.  Why not hop on the Streetca<span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">r and head over to Magazine Street with its quaint shops and restaurants.  It is up to you!  </span></p>
<p><strong>Afternoon:</strong> Lunch is on your own.  One of the highlights of this tour is &#8220;The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival&#8221;.  This year&#8217;s Jazz Fest showcases a cultural feast of unforgettable music on multiple stages, delicious Louisiana Cuisine and craft artisans from the region.  Conveniently located at the Fair Grounds Race Course, 1751 Gentilly Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70119.  Jazz Fest is open from 11 AM - 7 PM and complimentary admission is included with our <em>Crescent City Limited</em> tour. </p>
<p><strong>Late Afternoon: </strong>After yet another great day in New Orleans stop by our lounge for a &#8220;tall cool one&#8221;!   Complimentary premium beverage and snack service is in full swing.  Catch up on the days past events before heading out on the town one last night.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong> Evening:</strong> Whether it&#8217;s Mulate&#8217;s Cajun Restaurant with it&#8217;s  casual N&#8217;awlins Cajun food and music to Brennan&#8217;s, a New Orleans legend in dinner experience, the choices abound!  Enjoy dinner on your own this evening.<img class="aligncenter" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/NO_Restaurants.jpg" alt="New Orleans Restaurants" width="405" height="203" /></p>
<p><strong>Late Evening: </strong>Enjoy the comfort of your own private lounge setting on the train.  Complimentary premium beverages and snacks service continues until 11 PM local time.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.</p>
<h2><strong>Saturday, May 4, 2013 (Day 7/6):</strong></h2>
<div><strong>7:30 AM &#8211; 8:30 AM:</strong> Breakfast served on-board while parked in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><strong>Morning:</strong> This will be your last day to enjoy New Orleans.  May we suggest you travel on your own to the river-walk along the Mighty Mississippi?  The river-walk has many fine shops, restaurants and is home to the New Orleans International Cruise Ship Terminal.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Relax, have lunch, and watch the non-stop action on the river on your own.</div>
<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/ChefService.gif"><img class=" wp-image-402 alignright" title="ChefService" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/ChefService-260x300.gif" alt="" width="208" height="240" /></a></p>
<p><strong>1:00 PM:</strong> Our private rail-cars now located on the rear of today&#8217;s departing Amtrak #58, <em>The City of New Orleans</em>, our <em>Crescent City Limited</em>.</p>
<p>It is time to re-board our private rail-cars and bid farewell to this fun and famous city.  The wonderful old sights and cool jazz have been embedded in our memories.</p>
<p><strong>1:45 PM Depart New Orleans behind Amtrak #58, <em>The City of New Orleans<br /></em></strong><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">After our departure, you might want to relax, socialize and sight-see from our lounge.  Our staff will deliver your favorite snack right to your seat or room.  Maybe you&#8217;ll retire to the quiet comfort of your room for a short snooze before dinner&#8230; it&#8217;s OK!  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service begins.</span></p>
<p><strong>5:00 PM: Dinner served on-board en-route<br /></strong><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">Our on-board chef will prepare a fabulous dinner this evening.  While enjoying dinner on our northbound trek to the Windy City, the sun sinks ever so slowly in the west creating a memorable visual post card through the window.  Later we will have a rousing evening as we exchange stories about Bourbon Street and the likes.  Complimentary premium beverages and snacks will be served.  Our first-class services attendant will turn down your bed&#8230; morning will arrive much too early!</span></p>
<p><strong style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">Evening: </strong><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">Premium beverage and snack services will continue for those who wish to keep the party going.  For those who have had enough, your beds have already been turned down and you may retire to the quiet solitude of your hotel room of the rails.</span></p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.</p>
<h2><strong>Sunday, May 5, 2013 (Day 8/7):</strong></h2>
<div><strong>6:30 AM &#8211; 8:30 AM:</strong> Breakfast served on-board en-route to our destination, Chicago.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>This morning, as you awaken, gently raise the shade and gaze out your window, the rolling Illinois farm fields are racing by.  Before we arrive in Chicago, our on-board chef will have prepared a delicious breakfast to curb your appetite prior to arriving in Chicago.  With the approaching skyline of downtown in view now, this memorable private rail-car trip will soon be brought to a close.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><strong>9:00 AM: Arrive: Chicago Union Station.  </strong></div>
<p style="text-align: left;">As our <em>Crescent City Limited</em> rumbles in to the cavernous Chicago Union Station high-pitched squeal of the brakes are the finale to our rhythmic rail song.  For our Chicago bound passengers, this is the end of the line for now.  We hope to see you again&#8230; riding the silver rails.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Chicago arriving passenger will de-train, new found friends bid each other a find farewell and our first-class on-board service staff say good-bye until next time.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">As our staff assists all with their luggage and the good-byes are given by new found friends, we at American Rail Excursions, Inc. thank you for traveling with us.<span style="text-align: center;"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Morning:</strong> Passengers continuing on to St. Louis with us are encouraged to step off our <em>Crescent City Limited</em> while our train is in the station.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Note: Within an hour or so of our arrival our train will be moved to<br /></strong><strong>Amtrak’s coach yard.  It may be inaccessible for several <br />hours while the equipment is being serviced.  Please plan accordingly.</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" title="Coach yard" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Pet_5.jpg" alt="Coach yard" width="300" height="199" /> </p>
<p><strong>Afternoon and Early Evening</strong>: Enjoy springtime fun at Navy Pier. There is no better way to enjoy a bright sunny afternoon in Chicago than the Pier. While touring, enjoy lunch and dinner on your own.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Navy Pier" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Chicago-Navy-Pier.jpg" alt="Navy Pier" width="220" height="172" /></p>
<p><strong style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Early Evening:</strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> After a fun filled day in Chicago return to the friendly confines of our <em>Crescent City Limited</em> private rail-cars. We will now have been relocated to Amtrak&#8217;s coach yard. </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class=" aligncenter" title="Chicago Skyline" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/chicagowide.jpg" alt="Chicago Skyline" width="520" height="132" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Evening:</strong> Once back on-board, our first-class service staff probably knows just what will &#8220;hit the spot&#8221; for you. Enjoy that complementary nightcap in the lounge as Chicago big city lights illuminate the night.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service continues until 11 PM.</span></p>
<p>Your accommodations have once again been magically transformed by our staff in anticipation of your need for rest!  Enjoy this last night aboard our rail-cars while in Chicago.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked Chicago.</p>
<h2><strong>Monday, May 6, 2013 (Day 9):</strong></h2>
<p><strong>7:00 AM: Depart: Chicago Union Station, Amtrak #301 to St. Louis.<br /></strong>As our train bursts out of Chicago&#8217;s Union Station into the bright sunny day out train heads out on our sprint to St. Louis!</p>
<p><strong>7:30 &#8211; 9:30 AM:</strong> Breakfast served on-board en route.  <br />The tantalizing aroma of fresh hot coffee, coupled with our on-board chef&#8217;s special creation this morning beckons all to breakfast.</p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> Behind us we leave the bustling city and sprawling suburbs of Chicago we will enjoy the newest &#8220;high speed&#8221; line in Illinois as we travel at speeds up to 110 MPH.  This unprecedented view can only be seen from the windows of our train.</p>
<p><strong>12:20 PM: Arrive: St. Louis </strong>With the Gateway Arch now visible we&#8217;ll soon arrive at our final destination, St. Louis, MO.  On arrival our first class on-board staff bids a farewell and thanks!</p>
<p> <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/rails.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-401" title="rails" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/rails-300x176.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="176" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">_____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">What&#8217;s Included:</span><br /></strong><strong> •</strong> Attentive first-class service provided by our American rail Excursion, Inc. staff.<br /><strong> •</strong> Round-trip rail and accommodations charges aboard our private rail-cars for this trip based upon <br />    your reservations.<br /><strong> •</strong> Double Bedroom, Single or double occupancy or Roomette, single occupancy aboard our private <br />    rail-cars (per your reservation).<br /><strong> •</strong> Complimentary baggage transfer at St Louis Gateway Transportation Center or Chicago Union Station<br />    to our private rail-cars.<br /><strong> •</strong> Up to eight days and seven nights lodging and transportation accommodations aboard our private rail-cars<br />    based on your itinerary.<br /><strong> •</strong> Up to eight breakfasts, one lunch and two dinners all served on-board while en-route or while parked, <br />    based upon your itinerary.<br /><strong> •</strong> All meals prepared fresh by our on-board chef<br /><strong> •</strong> Complimentary premium beverage and snack service throughout our entire trip.<br /><strong> •</strong> Complimentary included guided tour of New Orleans (2 hr. Deluxe Motor Coach plus 2 hr. Riverboat <br />    cruise with a luncheon aboard the <em>Natchez</em>.<br /><strong> •</strong> Complimentary included streetcar pass.<br /><strong> •</strong> Complimentary included admission to Jazz Fest 2013.<br /><strong> •</strong> Complimentary included escorted evening  Big easy Jazz tour strolling through the Bourbon Street <br />    neighborhood with special VIP seating at some of the birthplaces of jazz.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">____________________________________________________________</span></p>
<p><strong style="font-size: medium; line-height: 19px;">About Your Accommodations:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Double Bedrooms:</strong></p>
<p>Double bedrooms have space for two passengers. Each double bedroom features either one large couch or a small couch and lounge chair for comfortable private day travel. Every double bedroom has a large window. By night, each double room has two beds (1-upper and 1-lower). Every room is furnished with adjustable climate control, fan, reading lights, fold-down table, garment closet and full-length door mirror. The annex (your private bathroom) has a fold-down sink; large lighted wall mirror, toilet and a 110-volt convenience outlet. Your linens, towels and soap are also provided. Best of all, your attendant will turn down your bed, arrange for a wake-up call and bring your morning tea, coffee, or juice right to your room. All sleeping cars are equipped with a shower.</p>
<p><strong>Costs:</strong> Double Bedroom, Double Occupancy:</p>
<p>2 people, 1 room, one upper and one lower bed at night</p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding: $2,499.00 per person double occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $2,399.00 per person double occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p>Double Bedroom, Single Occupancy:</p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding: $4,099.00 per person single occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $3,999.00 per person single occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p>____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong>Roomettes:</strong></p>
<p>Roomettes have space for one traveler. Roomettes feature a small couch, in-wall fold-down sink, <img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/singlenight.gif" alt="Roomette" width="100" height="137" />garment closet, large overhead luggage rack and a huge lighted wall mirror with an electrical outlet. By night, each room has one lower bed. For your added travel comfort, each room has an adjustable climate control, fan and reading/night lights. Roomettes 1-6 additionally have an in-room toilet. A general toilet is located down the hall for your use in Pacific Union. Your linens, towels, bath towels, soap and shampoo are also provided. A shower and changing room is located at the end of the car.</p>
<p><strong>Costs:</strong> Roomette, Single Occupancy:</p>
<p>1 person, 1 roomette,  one lower bed at night</p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $2,599.00 per person single occupancy<strong> in a Roomette</strong>.</strong></p>
<div>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding:  $2,699.00 per person single occupancy<strong> in a Roomette</strong>.</strong></p>
</div>
<p><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"> ____________________________________________________________</span></p>
<div>
<p><strong>En-suited Two Double Bedrooms (Suite)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Two Double bedrooms:</strong> bedrooms have space for two passengers. Each double bedroom features either one large couch or a small couch and lounge chair for comfortable private day travel. Every double bedroom has a large window. By night, each double room has one bed (1-lower). Every room is furnished with adjustable climate control, fan, reading lights, fold-down table, garment closet and full-length door mirror. The annex (your private bathroom) has a fold-down sink; large lighted wall mirror, toilet and a 110-volt convenience outlet. Your linens, towels and soap are also provided. Best of all, your attendant will turn down your bed, arrange for a wake-up call and bring your morning tea, coffee, or juice right to your room.</p>
<p><strong>Costs:</strong> En-suited two Double Bedrooms, Double Occupancy:</p>
<p>2 people, 2 rooms en-suited, one lower bed at night in each bedroom</p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $3,999.00 per person double occupancy, <strong>en-suited</strong> bedroom.</strong><strong>   </strong></p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding:  $4,099.00 per person double occupancy, <strong>en-suited</strong> bedroom.</strong></p>
<p>  _____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong>Master Suite, <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/southern-hospitality/" target="_blank">Southern Hospitality Dome Car</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Master Suite:</strong> Southern Hospitality Master Suite ranks among the best in opulent <img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/SH_Dome_013.jpg" alt="Dome" width="112" height="149" />rail travel accommodations.  The Master suite&#8217;s huge floor plan covers  more space than three conventional double bedrooms on a rail-car.  The queen sized bed with double thick pillow top mattress and multiple over-sized pillows provide the &#8220;most&#8221; in comfort!  The Honduras Mahogany walls, trayed ceiling and soft lighting provide a most inviting feel.  The granite top vanity sink, large and small mirrors and arched armoire with drawers provide ample garment storage.  The marble tiled bathroom features a toilet and full size glass door enclosed marble shower with full sized rain fall shower and hand held shower.  A marble shower bench provides a safe and comfortable alternative for those that might need more stability while our train is in motion.  And when you just want the solitude of your own space, just curl up with a good book and relax in privacy and comfort in your own easy chair and ottoman.</p>
<p><strong>Cost: </strong>Master Suite</p>
<p>2 people, 1 room, one queen bed</p>
<p><strong>   Southern Hospitality Master Suite one or two persons: $11,999.</strong></p>
</div>
<p>  _____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong>Food and Beverage Service</strong>:</span></p>
<p>American Rail Excursions Inc. nostalgic rail tour includes (as per your itinerary) nostalgic rail dinning featuring traditional American cuisine, freshly prepared by our on-board chef. The combination of fine food, crisp white linens, first-class on-board service and awe inspiring scenery set the stage for a most memorable trip. Menus are ever-changing, reflecting the influences of the towns and cities we visit. Bon appétit!</p>
<p>The following is a sample of cuisine, freshly prepared aboard our rail cars.</p>
<p><strong>Our sample menus include:</strong></p>
<p> <em><strong>Sample Breakfast Menu</strong></em></p>
<p> <strong>•</strong> Denver Scrambled with Cheese<br /> <strong>•</strong> Old Fashioned Railroad French Toast<br /> <strong>•</strong> Potatoes O&#8217;Brian<br /> <strong>•</strong> Tender Sausage links<br /> <strong>•</strong> Crisp Bacon<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Fresh Fruit<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Cold Cereal<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Breakfast Pastries<br /> <strong>•</strong> Bagels with Cream Cheese<br /> <strong>•</strong> English Muffins<br /> <strong>•</strong> Toast &amp; Jelly<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Chilled Juice,<br /> <strong>•</strong> Freshly Brewed Coffee, (Regular or decaffeinated)<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Teas<br /> <strong>•</strong> Milk, Hot Chocolate<br /> <strong>•</strong> Complimentary Eye-opener from our bar</p>
<p> <em><strong>Sample Lunch Menu</strong></em></p>
<p> <strong>•</strong> Tossed Caesar salad Served with homemade Croutons and freshly grated Parmesan Cheese<br /> <strong>•</strong> Baked spaghetti or lasagna<br /> <strong>•</strong> Garlic bread sticks<br /> <strong>•</strong> Spumoni ice cream<br /> <strong>•</strong> Freshly Brewed Coffee (Regular or Decaffeinated)<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Teas<br /> <strong>•</strong> Soft Drinks<br /> <strong>•</strong> Milk<br /> <strong>•</strong> Domestic and Imported Beers, or Wine<br /> <strong>•</strong> Your Favorite Mixed Drink from the Bar</p>
<p> <em><strong>Sample Dinner Menu</strong></em></p>
<p> <strong>•</strong> Soup Du Jour<br /> <strong>•</strong> Mesclun salad, served with honey roasted walnuts, bosch pears, gorgonzola crumbles and topped with a <br />    Raspberry Vinaigrette dressing<br /> <strong>•</strong> Roast Prime Rib of Beef<br />      or<br /> <strong>•</strong> Chicken Marseilles sautéed in a Marseille wine sauce<br /> <strong>•</strong> Idaho Oven-Baked Potato with butter and sour cream<br />      or<br /> <strong>•</strong> Rice Pilaf <br /> <strong>•</strong> Medley of Seasonal Vegetables<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Dinner Rolls and Butter<br /> <strong>•</strong> Chocolate Torte Cake<br /> <strong>•</strong> Fresh Brewed Coffee, Regular and Decaffeinated<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Teas<br /> <strong>•</strong> Soft Drinks<br /> <strong>•</strong> Milk<br /> <strong>•</strong> Domestic and Imported Beers, or Wine<br /> <strong>•</strong> Your Favorite Mixed Drink from the Bar</p>
<p>Our on-board chef prepares all meals fresh.</p>
<p><strong><em>Premium Beverage Service Includes:</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em></em>•</strong> Miller Lite and Heineken beers<br /><strong>•</strong> Chardonnay, Merlot, and White Zinfandel wines<br /><strong>•</strong> Mixed drinks derived from scotch, bourbon, gin, vodka, rum and mixers. (No blender or frozen drinks)<br /><strong>•</strong> Soft Drinks including Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Ginger Ale<br /><strong>•</strong> Bottled still waters<br /><strong>•</strong> Fresh Brewed Coffee (Regular or Decaffeinated)</p>
<p><strong><em>Dry Snacks include:</em></strong></p>
<div><strong>• </strong>Planter&#8217;s dry roasted peanuts<br /><strong>• </strong>Goldfish<br /><strong>• </strong>Chex mix<br /><strong>•</strong> Gardetto&#8217;s Mix</div>
<div> _____________________________________________________________</div>
<p><strong>Why you should participate in this Unique Excursion</strong></p>
<p>This is the comfortable, hassle-free way to see New Orleans in all its splendor. We will be attached to Amtrak trains, but only our passengers will have use of our private cars. Your room on the train is your hotel. No checking into and out of hotels. No unexpected hotel charges. No baggage hassles. Just excellent service by a friendly crew. We make it simple and pleasant for you. </p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">May we make your reservation today?</span></p>
<p>a 50% deposit per person is due at time of booking.<br />Full open balance due by 4/1/13<br />No refund unless trip is canceled.<br />Tickets are transferable to another person with prior approval.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Please reserve your space by 3/31/13</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">&#8220;<em>The Crescent City Limited</em>&#8220;</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">April (28)29 &#8211; May 5(6) 2013</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Trip #AR-13-D-2</span></strong></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Reservation-form-Cherry-Blossom-Special-20130219.pdf" target="_blank">Click here for printable reservation form</a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-large;">Thank You!</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: large;">American Rail Excursions, Inc.</span></em><br /><span style="font-size: small;">P.O. Box 2345</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Dearborn, MI 48123-2345</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Frank Corley, reservations<br />Phone 313-300-8411 <br /></span>Email: franktrainman23600@hotmail.com<br />or<br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Roger J. Verbeeren Jr., home office <br />Phone 618-451-0100</span><br />Email: roger@americanrail.com<br /> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><strong>Important Information &#8211; Please Read</strong></em></span></p>
<p>American Rail Excursions, Inc. welcomes everyone who wishes to travel with us on our public trips. However, because this is vintage railway equipment produced in the 1940&#8242;s and 1950&#8242;s, there are no special facilities available for those passengers that might have a disability.  We welcome those passengers that are disabled, but please consider the suitability of these trips carefully. We encourage you to call us at 618-451-0100 or e-mail us at roger@americanrail.com for additional information for your specific situation.</p>
<p><em><strong>Responsibility</strong></em></p>
<p>Enrollment in and payment for a tour shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the passenger of the terms and conditions set forth herein.  In the responsibility of their own negligence, neither American Rail Excursions, Inc., Crown Rail Inc., Mid America Rail Car Leasing LLC, Pacific Union Sleeping Car Co. L.L.C., Southern Hospitality Dome Car Co. LLC, The Silver Sleeping Car Company, NYC Investments, LLC, Powhatan Rail Services, Inc. dba American Rail Excursions or IFE Leasing, Inc. nor their agents shall be responsible for cancellations, delays, diversions, or substitution of  equipment or any act of omission whatever by Amtrak, transportation companies, of any other persons providing any of these services necessitated by same.  Nor shall they be liable for any loss or damage to baggage or property, or for injury, illness, or death, or for any damages or claims whatsoever arising from the loss or the negligence of any person not their direct employee or under their exclusive control. Transportation companies, Amtrak, etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board train or conveyances.  The passenger contracts in use by Amtrak or transportation companies and passengers or purchasers of this tour, assumes no responsibility in this connection.  Payments are not refundable unless the trip is canceled.  We reserve the right to cancel a trip prior to departure, in which case your entire payment to us will be refunded without further obligation on our part.  Smoking is not permitted on these cars (except in vestibules between cars and on the ground at the longer station stops).  As is the case of all travel, regardless of destination, we cannot guarantee clear weather at all times. Clouds, rain or other weather conditions beyond our control may obscure scenic highlights.  We have no control over the various transportation companies providing services for the excursions, and thus it must be understood that changes in the equipment, dates, routes, or other accommodations, though unlikely, can occur.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Travel insurance is recommended for any extended trip to protect your interest.</p>
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		<title>2012 AAPRCO Tour</title>
		<link>http://americantraintrips.com/aaprco/</link>
		<comments>http://americantraintrips.com/aaprco/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 03 Nov 2012 22:40:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Steve</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Corporate Events / Charters]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scheduled Tours]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americantraintrips.com/?p=1230</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I just wanted to write you a quick note about how much I enjoyed your AAPRCO convention trip!  The cars performed flawlessly, Carole&#8217;s culinary skills were fantastic, and each of the Melissa&#8217;s provided attentive service the whole trip &#8211; a great experience!!!  I would recommend trips with you to anyone who asks.  We are looking [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I just wanted to write you a quick note about how much I enjoyed your AAPRCO convention trip!  The cars performed flawlessly, Carole&#8217;s culinary skills were fantastic, and each of the Melissa&#8217;s provided attentive service the whole trip &#8211; a great experience!!!  I would recommend trips with you to anyone who asks.  We are looking forward to taking another trip with you and your crew!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>RM</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/ROYAL-STREET-10-03-12.jpg" alt="" width="630" height="312" /></p>
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		<title>Silver Bullet Express</title>
		<link>http://americantraintrips.com/silver-bullet-express-2/</link>
		<comments>http://americantraintrips.com/silver-bullet-express-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 25 Mar 2012 04:09:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roger</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Corporate Events / Charters]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scheduled Tours]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americantraintrips.com/?p=661</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Coors Light Silver Bullet Train has been one of the most popular advertising programs over the last several years.  The iconic Coors Light train came to life as the Silver Bullet Express.  It was Miller-Coors way of saying Thank You to their loyal customers.  Two special trains were assembled, one from Boston and the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright" src="../../wp-content/uploads/2012/03/SBE_081.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="169" /></p>
<p>The Coors Light Silver Bullet Train has been one of the most popular advertising programs over the last several years.  The iconic Coors Light train came to life as the Silver Bullet Express.  It was Miller-Coors way of saying <strong><em>Thank You</em></strong> to their loyal customers. </p>
<p>Two special trains were assembled, one from Boston and the other from Washington DC.   Both Silver Bullet Express trains featured special Coors Light décor inside and out, Coors Light bars, video game stations and a local DJ. </p>
<p>Customer interiors and exteriors were created for all cars used.  Both  trains included a baggage car, a coach and a round end observation car.  The Boston train included <a title="Golden Sand, 46 seat long distance coach/bar car" href="http://americantraintrips.com/golden-sand/">Golden Sand</a>, <a title="Mohave, full lounge party car" href="http://americantraintrips.com/mohave//">Mohave</a> and <a title="Babbling Brook, round end sleeper/lounge" href="http://americantraintrips.com/babbling-brook/">Babbling Brook</a>.  The train from Washington DC included  <a title="Golden Shore, first class 46 seat long distance" href="http://americantraintrips.com/golden-shore/">Golden Shore</a>, <a title="Taos, baggage/party/bar car" href="http://americantraintrips.com/taos-baggage-car/">Taos </a>and <a title="Royal Street, round end sleeper/lounge" href="http://americantraintrips.com/royal-street/">Royal Street</a>.</p>

<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/silver-bullet-express-2/coors-light-silver-bullet-express-023/' title='Coors Light Silver Bullet Express 023'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Coors-Light-Silver-Bullet-Express-023-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Taos" title="Coors Light Silver Bullet Express 023" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/silver-bullet-express-2/sbe_19-2/' title='SBE_19'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/SBE_191-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="SBE_19" title="SBE_19" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/silver-bullet-express-2/sbe_18-2/' title='SBE_18'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/SBE_181-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="SBE_18" title="SBE_18" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/silver-bullet-express-2/sbe_17-2/' title='SBE_17'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/SBE_171-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="SBE_17" title="SBE_17" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/silver-bullet-express-2/sbe_16/' title='SBE_16'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/SBE_16-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="SBE_16" title="SBE_16" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/silver-bullet-express-2/sbe_15-2/' title='SBE_15'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/SBE_151-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="SBE_15" title="SBE_15" /></a>
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		<title>Southern Hospitality</title>
		<link>http://americantraintrips.com/southern-hospitality/</link>
		<comments>http://americantraintrips.com/southern-hospitality/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 24 Mar 2012 02:09:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Roger</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dome Cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured Railcars]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[<p>  Southern Hospitality is one of the finest dome cars currently available.</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/SouthernHospitality.jpg"><br /> <img class="alignleft" title="" src="../../wp-content/uploads/2012/03/SouthernHospitality.jpg" alt="" width="320" height="240" /></a></p>
<p> <strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Southern Hospitality</span></em></strong><strong> </strong><strong><em>(800800)</em></strong><strong> </strong>is a 1955 American Car Foundry built Dome/Bar/Lounge car originally built for the Union Pacific Railroad as a dome/coach for use on their City of Portland train.</p>
<p>After six years of restoration, modification, and reconstruction, Southern Hospitality, appropriately named, currently painted in New Orleans Public Belt Railroad colors, returns to the high iron.</p>
<p>Today, Southern Hospitality invokes a completely new meaning to the words!  With it’s richly appointed customized mahogany interior, lush carpet and a host of amenities including a bar and of course…the dome.</p>
<p>Seating arrangements are, 24 in the dome, which includes four swivel parlor chairs and table seating for up to 20. Under the dome, a buffet/bar with seating for 10 creates an intimate atmosphere. The 14-seat upper lounge area completes the car capacity seating at 48. Additionally a master suite, with all the glamour of a 5 star hotel rounds out the extraordinary example of Southern Hospitality.</p>

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		<title>CHERRY BLOSSOM SPECIAL &#8211; 2013</title>
		<link>http://americantraintrips.com/cherry-blossom-special_2013/</link>
		<comments>http://americantraintrips.com/cherry-blossom-special_2013/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Feb 2012 06:51:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Doug</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Rail Tours]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[What's New]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[<p><FONT COLOR="ff0000"><strong>SOLD OUT - Thank You!</strong></font><br />
Visit Washington DC in springtime and The Cherry Blossom trees in bloom and their annual event, commemorating the famous tree's gift from Japan in 1912, when the original trees were planted by First Lady, Mrs. William Howard Taft.</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><FONT COLOR="ff0000" size="+4"><br />
<marquee behavior="scroll" direction="left" height="54">SOLD OUT &#8211; Thank You!</marquee><br />
</FONT></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DCcherryLogo.gif"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-375" title="DCcherryLogo" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DCcherryLogo-300x137.gif" alt="" width="300" height="137" /></a></span></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Trip# AR-13-D-1</span></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: medium;">St. Louis-Chicago-Washington DC-Chicago-St. Louis</span></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">April (8)9 &#8211; 14(15), 2013</span></h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Return to those days when rail travel was paramount. Travel with us in comfort and style as our historic privately owned railcars transport you on a wonderful journey from St. Louis or Chicago to Washington D.C. and back. You&#8217;ll enjoy the breath taking springtime views of the Ohio River Valley, Appalachian Mountains, and New River Gorge as they glide by the windows of our nostalgic streamliner. Food, beverage, and first class service, round out this exciting tour that will ultimately deliver us to our Nation&#8217;s Capitol. And what better time to visit Washington DC? Springtime and The Cherry Blossom trees in bloom and their annual event, commemorating the famous tree&#8217;s gift from Japan in 1912, when the original trees were planted by First Lady, Mrs. William Howard Taft.</p>
<p> <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Wash__DC_copy.gif"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-388" title="Wash__DC_copy" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Wash__DC_copy-300x214.gif" alt="" width="300" height="214" /></a></p>
<p>Washington DC also has much too see. It&#8217;s a vibrant city filled with diverse neighborhoods, fabulous museums, world-class cultural events and (of course) political intrigue. Its role as the nations&#8217; capital has given it an international character. Chosen in 1790 for its location midway between the northern and southern states, at the confluence of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers, Washington became the seat of our national government in 1800. For over 200 years, politicians, lobbyists and busloads of tourists from all over the world have converged on this marvelous city of massive buildings and broad avenues. Mingle and enjoy!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><em>All Aboard!</em></strong></p>
<p><strong>TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:</strong></p>
<p>• Attentive first-class service provided by our professional  experienced on-board staff.</p>
<p>• Our trip begins from two convenient locations, St. Louis, MO and Chicago, IL.</p>
<p>• Ride eastward on Amtrak&#8217;s Cardinal route through the scenic farmlands of Indiana &amp; Ohio, &#8220;Wild and Wonderful&#8221; West Virginia, Shenandoah Valley and  the New River Gorge, &#8221;the Grand Canyon of the East&#8221;.  Past the Greenbriar Resort, Allegheny &amp; Blue Ridge Mts. and into our nations&#8217; capital Washington D.C.</p>
<p>• Travel, dine and sleep in historic, privately-owned rail-cars</p>
<p>• Explore our Nation&#8217;s Capital, just footsteps from our rail-cars</p>
<p>• Visit Washington DC at the peak of the Cherry Blossom trees blooming and the festivities honoring these national treasures.</p>
<p>• While our rail-cars are parked in Washington DC Union Station, one of Amtrak&#8217;s premier stations, enjoy dozens of restaurants and shops, movie theaters and direct access to the heart of DC</p>
<p>• Ride westward on Amtrak&#8217;s Capitol Limited route, the original B &amp; O line through the beautiful Potomac River Valley, historic Harper&#8217;s Ferry, Cumberland Narrows, the Allegheny Mountains and the cornfields of Ohio and Indiana</p>
<h1 style="text-align: center;"><em><strong style="font-size: large;">Itinerary:</strong></em></h1>
<h2><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Day 1- Monday April 8, 2013:</strong></span></h2>
<p>St. Louis boarding passengers</p>
<p><strong>2:30 PM(approx):</strong> St. Louis boarding passengers, and their luggage, will meet and pre-board our private rail-cars as soon as Amtrak #304, Lincoln Service train, arrives at the St. Louis Gateway Multimodal Transportation Center, 430 S.15th St., St. Louis 63103.</p>
<p><strong>3:00 PM: Depart: St. Louis</strong> on Amtrak #304 Lincoln Service to Chicago, IL.  Enjoy complimentary premium beverage and snack service upon boarding.  </p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">4:56: Depart: Springfield, IL.</span></strong>  You may join the trip here.</p>
<p><strong><span style="color: #000000;">5:56: Depart: Bloomington, IL.</span></strong>  You may join the trip here.</p>
<p><strong>6:00 PM:(approx) </strong>Dinner will be served on-board while en-route.  </p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong> Complimentary beverage and snack service will be available until 11:00 PM local time.</p>
<p><strong>8:40 PM: Arrive: Chicago Union Station. </strong>Shortly after arriving at Chicago Union Station our rail-cars will be relocated to Amtrak&#8217;s coach yard.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in Chicago.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Day 2- Tuesday April 9, 2013:</strong></span></h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p> <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/CHI_union01.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-389" title="CHI_union01" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/CHI_union01-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>7:00 &#8211; 9:00 AM: </strong>Breakfast will be served on-board while parked at Amtrak&#8217;s coach yard.</p>
<p><strong>Morning and Afternoon:</strong> May we suggest you take this opportunity to alight from our rail-cars and tour the &#8220;Windy City&#8221; on your own.  Visit the Willis Tower (formerly Sears tower) for a great view of the city, visit State Street &#8220;that Great Street&#8221; with many famous stores such as Macy&#8217;s.  Walk along the Magnificent Mile, visit the  Water Tower Place or Navy Pier.  The days is yours to enjoy the many offerings that Chicago can provide.  Lunch is on your own while you tour the city.</p>
<p><strong>4:45 PM:<strong>(approx) </strong></strong>An American Rail Excursions Inc. on-board service manager will meet all our Chicago boarding passengers, with their luggage in Chicago Union Station. We will gather under the escalator adjacent to the Amtrak Ticket counter, by the fountain.</p>
<p>Complimentary baggage handling is provided by American Rail Excursions Inc. in Chicago. Please do NOT check any bags with Amtrak!</p>
<p>As soon as our pre-boarding check-in is completed, our on-board service manager will escort our group to our awaiting train.</p>
<p><strong>5:00 PM:<strong>(approx)</strong></strong> Board our Cherry Blossom Special. Our on-board staff welcomes all our Washington DC bound travelers. Your luggage has already been placed in your room. After a review of your accommodations, amenities, and safety instructions, we invite all to our lounge to get acquainted, enjoy complimentary premium beverages and snacks. An included dinner will be served just after our departure from Chicago.</p>
<p><strong>5:45 PM: Depart: Chicago</strong> Amtrak&#8217;s # 50, the Cardinal (our &#8220;Cherry Blossom Special&#8221;).  As our conductor calls &#8220;All Aboard,&#8221; our train gradually glides out of the confines of Chicago Union Station. The distinct Downtown Chicago skyline gradually disappears behind us. With the city giving way to the suburbs, and the more rural surroundings now in view through the windows. The buzz of exhilaration is in the air as our passengers get acquainted. Complimentary premium beverage and snack service continues. </p>
<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/RSlounge_02.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-392" title="RSlounge_02" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/RSlounge_02-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a></p>
<p>While all passengers have been getting settled and enjoying complimentary premium beverages and snacks in the lounge, our first class on-board chef has been busy preparing a scrumptious dinner for all to enjoy.</p>
<p><strong>6:00 PM (Approx.):</strong> Freshly prepared dinner served on-board en-route.</p>
<p><strong style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">Evening:</strong><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"> Continue to enjoy the complimentary premium beverage and snack service until 11PM local time.</span></p>
<p><strong>Late Evening:</strong> While all are enjoying conversation, camaraderie and the next sights, rooms have been readied in anticipation of weary travelers. The gentle sway and rhythm of the rails are a night time lullaby coaxing you to retire. Enjoy the night. Sweet Rail Dreams!</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight en-route.</p>
<h2><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Day 3- Wednesday, April 10, 2013:</strong></span></h2>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>7:30-9:30 AM:</strong></span> Breakfast served on-board en-route.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Morning:</strong></span> As you rise this morning, the sun is trying to peek around the drawn shade. The tantalizing aroma of freshly brewed coffee awakens your senses. A refreshing shower is all you need to get your motor running. Our on-board chef has prepared a delicious breakfast buffet for your enjoyment this morning. Enjoy! The scenic Ohio River and Kentucky farmlands grace our windows this morning.</p>
<p> <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/NRgorgeWV.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-390" title="NRgorgeWV" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/NRgorgeWV-300x201.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="201" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Noon:</strong></span> Luncheon: Served on-board en-route. You&#8217;ve been so entranced by the beautiful natural scenery, wild springs, white water rivers and waterfalls of West Virginia, that you forgot it is lunch time. Well, we won&#8217;t interrupt, you&#8217;ll continue to see all the sites as can only be seen by train. Relax, enjoy an enticing luncheon prepared by our on-board chef, just for you!</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">Afternoon:</strong></span> Complementary premium beverages and snacks service continues. The New River Gorge, The Allegheny Mountains, famed Greenbriar Resort, and Shenandoah Valley are just some of the scenic vistas you&#8217;ll be able to see. As our Cherry Blossom Special comes to a halt in one of many remote small towns, you&#8217;ll feel you have turned back time. Our arriving train is heralded by the trumpeting horn&#8217;s of our diesels, and it seems the town has turned out to welcome our arrival!</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Late Afternoon:</strong></span> Passing through Charlottesville, VA, we are once again reminded about this rich city (Monticello), home of Thomas Jefferson, is just another significant piece of our eastward rail adventure.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>5:00 PM Approximately:</strong></span> Dinner served on-board en-route. The sun has set over the mountains, and the silhouettes of the Shenandoah Mountains have all but faded into the night. The culinary talents of our onboard chef have once again been called upon to satisfy the appetites of our passengers. Enjoy a glass of wine and friendly conversation over dinner.</p>
<p> <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/dirm2_small.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-393" title="dirm2_small" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/dirm2_small.jpg" alt="" width="157" height="106" /></a></p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>5:55 PM: Arrive Washington DC</strong></span> *NOTE: (due to historical freight railroad interference, a later time arrival is more likely.) Passengers are encouraged to de-train for some evening exploration of Washington DC on their own. Our rail-cars will be dropped from this evening&#8217;s arriving Amtrak #50, <em>The Cardinal,</em> our &#8220;<em>Cherry Blossom Special</em>&#8220;, and then placed on our special track where we will remain parked until just prior to our departure from Washington DC.  Contact our on-board service manager for the exact location.</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Evening:</strong></span> Complimentary premium beverage and snacks service continues after our arrival into Washington DC And when you feel &#8220;it&#8217;s time&#8221;, retire to your room once again, where our first class on-board staff has it transformed from a comfortable day room, to its restful nighttime configuration. Goodnight!</p>
<p><span style="color: #000000;"><strong>Night:</strong></span> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in Washington DC</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p> <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Monument.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-394" title="Monument" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Monument.jpg" alt="" width="171" height="256" /><img class="aligncenter size-thumbnail wp-image-386" title="DCunstn" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DCunstn-150x150.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="150" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Day 4- Thursday, April 11, 2013:</strong></span></h2>
<p><strong>7:30-9:30 AM</strong> Breakfast served on-board while parked in Union Station, Washington D.C.</p>
<p>After enjoying breakfast on-board, may we suggest you take this opportunity to alight from our railcars and explore Nation&#8217;s Capitol at your own pace.  A favorite is the included step-on, step-off trolley tour, with it&#8217;s tour departures located just outside the main entrance to the station.</p>
<p><strong>Afternoon:</strong> With nearly three full days to spend in Washington, you should be able to take in a good number of the sights. Lunch will be on your own today while touring.</p>
<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DCcherry2.gif"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-383" title="DCcherry2" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DCcherry2.gif" alt="" width="120" height="140" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Late Afternoon:</strong> As our passengers return to our rail-cars after a pleasant day exploring Washington DC our staff is ready to quench your thirst with the complimentary beverage of your choice and tantalizing snacks should temporarily quell your appetite. Freshen up; Enjoy a hot invigorating shower to re-energize before this evening&#8217;s quest.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DCcherry.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-382" title="DCcherry" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DCcherry.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="160" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Evening:</strong> Enjoy dinner on your own this evening at one of the fine dining restaurants located right in the station or step away to any of the close by great ethnic restaurants. The choice is yours. Bon appétit!  After your return stop by the lounge to exchange stories with your fellow travelers and quench your thirst with complimentary beverages until 11PM local time for that night cap with fellow travelers.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight parked in Washington DC</p>
<h2><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Day 5 &#8211; Friday, April 12, 2013:</strong></span></h2>
<p><strong>7:30-9:30 AM</strong> Breakfast served on-board while parked in Union Station, Washington D.C.</p>
<p><strong>All Day:</strong> Enjoy the Smithsonian, The Capitol Building, Washington Monument, or the Lincoln Memorial. There is so much to see! The choice is yours. Lunch and dinner will be on your own today as you tour Washington DC.</p>
<p><strong>Late Afternoon:</strong> Complimentary premium beverage and snack service once again continues throughout the afternoon &amp; evening in our lounge until 11PM local time.</p>
<p><strong>Late Evening:</strong> Enjoy a nightcap in the lounge, topping off a busy day in Washington DC Your rooms have once again been readied for sweet slumber tonight.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight parked in Washington DC.</p>
<p> <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/RSloungeladies.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-395" title="RSloungeladies" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/RSloungeladies-300x213.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="213" /></a></p>
<h2><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Day 6 &#8211; Saturday, April 13, 2013:</strong></span></h2>
<p><strong>7:30-9:30 AM</strong> Breakfast served on-board while parked in Union Station, Washington D.C.</p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> Enjoy most of this last day in Washington DC. This afternoon lunch will be on your own!</p>
<p>And of course, the whole purpose of this tour, to witness the spectacle that has thousands of city residents, visitors from across the nation and for that matter around the world&#8230; A Washington DC traditional rite of spring celebrating the blooming Cherry Blossom Trees throughout the city.  And don&#8217;t forget the famous <strong><em>Cherry Blossom Parade</em></strong> down Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th streets, just blocks away from Union Station.</p>
<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DC_cherryblossom3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-377" title="DC_cherryblossom3" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DC_cherryblossom3-219x300.jpg" alt="" width="219" height="300" /></a><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DC_cherryblossom4.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-378" title="DC_cherryblossom4" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DC_cherryblossom4-300x279.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="279" /></a></p>
<p>We invite you to take a self guided stroll around Washington DC and enjoy one of this city&#8217;s fondest gifts&#8230;the Cherry Blossom trees in fall bloom! For those passengers wishing for a more spectacular view of both Washington DC and the Cherry Blossom trees may we suggest you enjoy the views from the DC tidal basin. The images are awe inspiring!</p>
<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DC_cherryblossom5.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-379" title="DC_cherryblossom5" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DC_cherryblossom5-300x260.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="260" /></a><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DC_cherryblossom2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-376" title="DC_cherryblossom2" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DC_cherryblossom2-195x300.jpg" alt="" width="195" height="300" /></a> </p>
<p><strong>3:15 PM:</strong> Re-board our private rail-cars, which have now been made part of today&#8217;s departing Amtrak train #29 The Capitol Limited. Please check the Amtrak TV monitors in the station for the correct track location. Our Cherry Blossom Special rail-cars will be on the rear of the Capitol Limited today.</p>
<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/allaboard.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-396" title="allaboard" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/allaboard-210x300.jpg" alt="" width="210" height="300" /></a></p>
<p><strong>4:05 PM:</strong> As the final &#8220;All Aboard!&#8221; is called, we gently glide out of the station, and in a wink of the eye, Washington DC is just but a fond memory. Complimentary premium beverage and snack service is already underway and shortly dinner will be served. For now, sit back, enjoy the view as we follow the Potomac River Valley to Harper&#8217;s Ferry.</p>
<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/cliftonsforge101.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-397" title="cliftonsforge101" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/cliftonsforge101-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="199" /></a></p>
<p><strong>6:00 PM:</strong> Dinner this evening served on-board en-route. Our on-board chef has worked hard this afternoon preparing for our final dinner together this evening. It&#8217;s promised to be a real &#8220;feast&#8221;!</p>
<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/GrahamTunnelMed.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-400" title="GrahamTunnelMed" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/GrahamTunnelMed-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Evening: </strong>We&#8217;ll continue to work our way westward following the historic Baltimore and Ohio Railroad line paralleling the Potomac River Valley and it&#8217;s many tunnels as we travel through the Allegheny Mountains to Pittsburgh, PA and beyond. Complimentary premium beverage and snack service continues 11PM.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Sleep in safety and comfort aboard our rail-cars tonight en-route to Chicago.</p>
<h2><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Day 7 &#8211; Sunday, April 14, 2013:</strong></span></h2>
<p> <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/ChefService.gif"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-402" title="ChefService" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/ChefService-260x300.gif" alt="" width="260" height="300" /></a></p>
<p><strong>6:30-8:30 AM</strong> Breakfast served on-board en-route.  Chicago passengers, If you have risen early, you will have one last chance to view the beautiful natural scenery passing by our Cherry Blossom Special&#8217;s windows. The countryside is certainly different, as farms and cornfields dot the landscape. Soon the farm fields turn to suburban sprawl and in the distance, the towering skyscrapers of downtown Chicago.</p>
<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/chicago3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-398" title="chicago3" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/chicago3-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" /></a></p>
<p><strong>8:45 AM: Arrive: Chicago Union Station.  </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">As our train thunders and clanks in to the cavernous Chicago Union Station our rail odyssey is now coming to a close. The woosshhh! of the air brakes signal the end of the line for our Chicago passengers, at least for this trip. As our staff assists all with their luggage and the good-byes are given by new found friends, we at American Rail Excursions, Inc. thank you for traveling with us.<span style="text-align: center;"> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Morning:</strong> Passengers continuing on to St. Louis with us are encouraged to step off our <em>Cherry Blossom Special</em> while our train is in the station and once again enjoy the &#8220;City That Works&#8221; Chicago on your own.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Within an hour or so of our arrival our train will be moved to the Amtrak’s coach yard.<br /><img class="aligncenter" title="Coach yard" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Pet_5.jpg" alt="Coach yard" width="300" height="199" /> </p>
<p><strong>Afternoon and Early Evening</strong>: Enjoy spring fun at Navy Pier. There is no better way to enjoy a bright sunny Sunday afternoon in Chicago than the Pier. While touring enjoy lunch and dinner on your own.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter" title="Navy Pier" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Chicago-Navy-Pier.jpg" alt="Navy Pier" width="220" height="172" /></p>
<p><strong style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Early Evening:</strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> After a fun filled day in Chicago return to the friendly confines of our Cherry Blossom Special private rail-cars. We&#8217;ll now be located at Amtrak&#8217;s coach yard.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class=" aligncenter" title="Chicago Skyline" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/chicagowide.jpg" alt="Chicago Skyline" width="520" height="132" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Evening:</strong> Once back on board, our service staff probably knows just what will &#8220;hit the spot&#8221; for you. Enjoy that complementary nightcap in the lounge as Chicago big city lights illuminate the night.  Complimentary premium beverage and snack service continues 11PM.</span></p>
<p>Your accommodations have once again been magically transformed by our staff in anticipation of your need for rest!  Enjoy this last night aboard our rail-cars while in Chicago.</p>
<p><strong>Night:</strong> Occupy rail-cars overnight while parked in Chicago.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Day 8 &#8211; Monday, April 15, 2013</span></strong>:</p>
<p><strong>7:00 AM:</strong> Our St. Louis passengers will be returning home on today&#8217;s departing Amtrak #301.</p>
<p><strong>7:00 &#8211; 9:00 AM:</strong> Breakfast served on-board en route.  </p>
<p><strong>Morning:</strong> We will enjoy the newest &#8220;high speed&#8221; line in Illinois as we travel at speeds up to 110 MPH.  </p>
<p><strong>12:20 PM: Arrive: St. Louis </strong>With the Gateway Arch now visible we&#8217;ll soon arrive at our final destination, St. Louis, MO.  On arrival our first class on-board staff bids a farewell and thanks!</p>
<p> <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/rails.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-401" title="rails" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/rails-300x176.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="176" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <span style="text-align: center;">_____________________________________________________________</span></p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">What&#8217;s Included:</span><br /> </strong></p>
<p><strong> •</strong> Attentive first-class service provided by our American rail Excursion, Inc. staff.<br /> <strong> • </strong>Round-trip rail and accommodations charges aboard our private rail-cars for this trip based upon <br />    your reservations.<br /> <strong> •</strong> Complimentary baggage transfer at Chicago Union Station to out private rail-cars.<br /> <strong> •</strong> Up to eight days and seven nights lodging and transportation accommodations aboard our private rail cars<br />     based on your itinerary.<br /> <strong> •</strong> Up to seven breakfasts, one lunch and four dinners all served on-board while en-route or while parked,<br />     based upon your itinerary.<br /> <strong> •</strong> All meals prepared fresh by our on-board chef<br /> <strong> •</strong> Complimentary premium beverage and snack service throughout our entire trip.<br /><strong> •</strong> Included two day &#8216;step-on, step-off&#8217; bus pass in Washington D.C.</p>
<p> _____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong>Why you should participate in this Unique Excursion</strong></p>
<p>This is the comfortable, hassle-free way to see Washington DC in all its splendor. We will be attached to Amtrak trains, but only our passengers will have use of our private cars. Your room on the train is your hotel. No checking into and out of hotels. No unexpected hotel charges. No baggage hassles. Just excellent service by a friendly crew. We make it simple and pleasant for you. You&#8217;ll enjoy up to 1,685 miles of very scenic rail travel including the New River Gorge, the Grand Canyon of the East.</p>
<p> _____________________________________________________________</p>
<div><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong>About Your Accommodations:</strong></span></div>
<p><strong>Double Bedrooms:</strong></p>
<p>Double bedrooms have space for two passengers. Each double bedroom features either one large couch or a small couch and lounge chair for comfortable private day travel. Every double bedroom has a large window. By night, each double room has two beds (1-upper and 1-lower). Every room is furnished with adjustable climate control, fan, reading lights, fold-down table, garment closet and full-length door mirror. The annex (your private bathroom) has a fold-down sink; large lighted wall mirror, toilet and a 110-volt convenience outlet. Your linens, towels and soap are also provided. Best of all, your attendant will turn down your bed, arrange for a wake-up call and bring your morning tea, coffee, or juice right to your room. All sleeping cars are equipped with a shower.</p>
<p><strong>Costs:</strong> Double Bedroom, Double Occupancy:</p>
<p>2 people, 1 room, one upper and one lower bed at night</p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding: $2,499.00 per person double occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $2,399.00 per person double occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p>Double Bedroom, Single Occupancy:</p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding: $4,099.00 per person single occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $3,999.00 per person single occupancy, double bedroom.</strong></p>
<p>____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong>Roomettes:</strong></p>
<p>Roomettes have space for one traveler. Roomettes feature a small couch, in-wall fold-down sink, <img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/singlenight.gif" alt="Roomette" width="100" height="137" />garment closet, large overhead luggage rack and a huge lighted wall mirror with an electrical outlet. By night, each room has one lower bed. For your added travel comfort, each room has an adjustable climate control, fan and reading/night lights. Roomettes 1-6 additionally have an in-room toilet. A general toilet is located down the hall for your use in Pacific Union. Your linens, towels, bath towels, soap and shampoo are also provided. A shower and changing room is located at the end of the car.</p>
<p><strong>Costs:</strong> Roomette, Single Occupancy:</p>
<p>1 person, 1 roomette,  one lower bed at night</p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding: $2,699.00 per person single occupancy in a Roomette.</strong></p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $2,599.00 per person single occupancy<strong> in a Roomette</strong>.</strong></p>
<div>
<p> ____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong>En-suited Two Double Bedrooms (Suite)</strong></p>
<p><strong>Two Double bedrooms:</strong> bedrooms have space for two passengers. Each double bedroom features either one large couch or a small couch and lounge chair for comfortable private day travel. Every double bedroom has a large window. By night, each double room has one bed (1-lower). Every room is furnished with adjustable climate control, fan, reading lights, fold-down table, garment closet and full-length door mirror. The annex (your private bathroom) has a fold-down sink; large lighted wall mirror, toilet and a 110-volt convenience outlet. Your linens, towels and soap are also provided. Best of all, your attendant will turn down your bed, arrange for a wake-up call and bring your morning tea, coffee, or juice right to your room.</p>
<p><strong>Costs:</strong> En-suited two Double Bedrooms, Double Occupancy:</p>
<p>2 people, 2 rooms en-suited, one lower bed at night in each bedroom</p>
<p><strong>   St. Louis boarding: $4,099.00 per person double occupancy, en-suited bedroom.</strong></p>
<p><strong>   Chicago boarding:  $3,999.00 per person double occupancy, <strong>en-suited</strong> bedroom.</strong></p>
<p>  _____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong>Master Suite, <a href="http://americantraintrips.com/southern-hospitality/" target="_blank">Southern Hospitality Dome Car</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Master Suite:</strong> Southern Hospitality Master Suite ranks among the best in opulent <img class="alignright" style="margin: 4px;" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/SH_Dome_013.jpg" alt="Dome" width="112" height="149" />rail travel accommodations.  The Master suite&#8217;s huge floor plan covers  more space than three conventional double bedrooms on a rail-car.  The queen sized bed with double thick pillow top mattress and multiple over-sized pillows provide the &#8220;most&#8221; in comfort!  The Honduras Mahogany walls, trayed ceiling and soft lighting provide a most inviting feel.  The granite top vanity sink, large and small mirrors and arched armoire with drawers provide ample garment storage.  The marble tiled bathroom features a toilet and full size glass door enclosed marble shower with full sized rain fall shower and hand held shower.  A marble shower bench provides a safe and comfortable alternative for those that might need more stability while our train is in motion.  And when you just want the solitude of your own space, just curl up with a good book and relax in privacy and comfort in your own easy chair and ottoman.</p>
<p><strong>Cost: </strong>Master Suite</p>
<p>2 people, 1 room, one queen bed</p>
<p><strong>   Southern Hospitality Master Suite one or two persons: $11,999.</strong></p>
</div>
<p>  _____________________________________________________________</p>
<p><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Food and Beverage Service:</span></strong></p>
<p>American Rail Excursions Inc. nostalgic rail tour includes (as per your itinerary) nostalgic rail dinning featuring traditional American cuisine, freshly prepared by our on-board chef. The combination of fine food, crisp white linens, first-class on-board service and awe inspiring scenery set the stage for a most memorable trip. Menus are ever-changing, reflecting the influences of the towns and cities we visit. Bon appétit!</p>
<p>The following is a sample of cuisine, freshly prepared aboard our rail cars.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong>Our sample menus include:</strong></span></p>
<p> <em><strong>Sample Breakfast Menu</strong></em></p>
<p> <strong>•</strong> Denver Scrambled with Cheese<br /> <strong>•</strong> Old Fashioned Railroad French Toast<br /> <strong>•</strong> Potatoes O&#8217;Brian<br /> <strong>•</strong> Tender Sausage links<br /> <strong>•</strong> Crisp Bacon<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Fresh Fruit<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Cold Cereal<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Breakfast Pastries<br /> <strong>•</strong> Bagels with Cream Cheese<br /> <strong>•</strong> English Muffins<br /> <strong>•</strong> Toast &amp; Jelly<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Chilled Juice,<br /> <strong>•</strong> Freshly Brewed Coffee, (Regular or decaffeinated)<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Teas<br /> <strong>•</strong> Milk, Hot Chocolate<br /> <strong>•</strong> Complimentary Eye-opener from our bar</p>
<p> <em><strong>Sample Lunch Menu</strong></em></p>
<p> <strong>•</strong> Tossed Caesar salad Served with homemade Croutons and freshly grated Parmesian Cheese<br /> <strong>•</strong> Baked spaghetti or lasagna<br /> <strong>•</strong> Garlic bread sticks<br /> <strong>•</strong> Spumoni ice cream<br /> <strong>•</strong> Freshly Brewed Coffee (Regular or Decaffeinated)<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Teas<br /> <strong>•</strong> Soft Drinks<br /> <strong>•</strong> Milk<br /> <strong>•</strong> Domestic and Imported Beers, or Wine<br /> <strong>•</strong> Your Favorite Mixed Drink from the Bar</p>
<p> <em><strong>Sample Dinner Menu</strong></em></p>
<p> <strong>•</strong> Soup Du Jour<br /> <strong>•</strong> Mesclun salad, served with honey roasted walnuts, bosch pears, gorgonzola crumbles and topped with a <br />      Raspberry Vinaigrette dressing<br /> <strong>•</strong> Roast Prime Rib of Beef<br />    or<br /> <strong>•</strong> Chicken Marseilles sautéed in a Marseilla wine sauce<br /> <strong>•</strong> Idaho Oven-Baked Potato with butter and sour cream<br />    or<br /> <strong>•</strong> Rice Pilaf <br /> <strong>•</strong> Medley of Seasonal Vegetables<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Dinner Rolls and Butter<br /> <strong>•</strong> Chocolate Torte Cake<br /> <strong>•</strong> Fresh Brewed Coffee, Regular and Decaffeinated<br /> <strong>•</strong> Assorted Teas<br /> <strong>•</strong> Soft Drinks<br /> <strong>•</strong> Milk<br /> <strong>•</strong> Domestic and Imported Beers, or Wine<br /> <strong>•</strong> Your Favorite Mixed Drink from the Bar</p>
<p>Our on-board chef prepares all meals fresh.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em>Premium Beverage Service Includes:</em></strong></span></p>
<p><strong><em></em>•</strong> Miller Lite and Heineken beers<br /><strong>•</strong> Chardonnay, Merlot, and White Zinfandel wines<br /><strong>•</strong> Mixed drinks derived from scotch, bourbon, gin, vodka, rum and mixers. (No blender or frozen drinks)<br /><strong>•</strong> Soft Drinks including Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Ginger Ale<br /><strong>•</strong> Bottled still waters<br /><strong>•</strong> Fresh Brewed Coffee ( Regular or Decaffeinated)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em>Dry Snacks include:</em></strong></span></p>
<div><strong>• </strong>Planter&#8217;s dry roasted peanuts<br /><strong>• </strong>Goldfish<br /><strong>• </strong>Chex mix<br /><strong>•</strong> Gardetto&#8217;s Mix</div>
<p style="text-align: center;"> _____________________________________________________________</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; color: #000000;">May we make your reservation today?</span></p>
<p>a 50% deposit per person is due at time of booking.<br />Full open balance due by 3/8/13<br />Please contact us about availability after 3/8/13<br />No refund unless trip is canceled.<br />Tickets are transferable to another person with prior approval.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Please reserve your space by 3/8/13</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">&#8220;<em>Cherry Blossom Special</em>&#8220;</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">APRIL (8)9 – 14(15), 2013</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Trip #AR-13-D-1</span></strong></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Reservation-form-Cherry-Blossom-Special-20130219.pdf" target="_blank">Click here for printable reservation form</a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-large;">Thank You!</span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: large;">American Rail Excursions, Inc.</span></em><br /><span style="font-size: small;">P.O. Box 2345</span><br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Dearborn, MI 48123-2345</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Frank Corley, reservations<br />Phone 313-300-8411 <br /></span>Email: franktrainman23600@hotmail.com<br />or<br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Roger J. Verbeeren Jr., home office <br />Phone 618-451-0100</span><br />Email: roger@americanrail.com<br />  </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong>Important Information &#8211; Please Read</strong></em></p>
<p>American Rail Excursions, Inc. welcomes everyone who wishes to travel with us on our public trips. However, because this is vintage railway equipment produced in the 1940&#8242;s and 1950&#8242;s, there are no special facilities available for those passengers that might have a disability.  We welcome those passengers that are disabled, but please consider the suitability of these trips carefully. We encourage you to call us at 618-451-0100 or e-mail us at roger@americanrail.com for additional information for your specific situation.</p>
<p><em><strong>Responsibility</strong></em></p>
<p>Enrollment in and payment for a tour shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the passenger of the terms and conditions set forth herein.  In the responsibility of their own negligence, neither American Rail Excursions, Inc., Crown Rail Inc., Mid America Rail Car Leasing LLC, Pacific Union Sleeping Car Co. L.L.C., Southern Hospitality Dome Car Co. LLC, The Silver Sleeping Car Company, NYC Investments, LLC, Powhatan Rail Services, Inc. dba American Rail Excursions or IFE Leasing, Inc. nor their agents shall be responsible for cancellations, delays, diversions, or substitution of  equipment or any act of omission whatever by Amtrak, transportation companies, of any other persons providing any of these services necessitated by same.  Nor shall they be liable for any loss or damage to baggage or property, or for injury, illness, or death, or for any damages or claims whatsoever arising from the loss or the negligence of any person not their direct employee or under their exclusive control. Transportation companies, Amtrak, etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board train or conveyances.  The passenger contracts in use by Amtrak or transportation companies and passengers or purchasers of this tour, assumes no responsibility in this connection.  Payments are not refundable unless the trip is canceled.  We reserve the right to cancel a trip prior to departure, in which case your entire payment to us will be refunded without further obligation on our part.  Smoking is not permitted on these cars (except in vestibules between cars and on the ground at the longer station stops).  As is the case of all travel, regardless of destination, we cannot guarantee clear weather at all times. Clouds, rain or other weather conditions beyond our control may obscure scenic highlights.  We have no control over the various transportation companies providing services for the excursions, and thus it must be understood that changes in the equipment, dates, routes, or other accommodations, though unlikely, can occur.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Travel insurance is recommended for any extended trip to protect your interest.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>City of Angels</title>
		<link>http://americantraintrips.com/city_of_angels/</link>
		<comments>http://americantraintrips.com/city_of_angels/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:28:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Doug</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured Railcars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sleeper / Lounge]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americantraintrips.com/?p=366</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p> City of Angels - is former New York Central 6 double bedroom/buffet/lounge Laurel Stream built by Budd Co in 1949.</p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CityOfAngels_a.jpg" alt="" width="396" height="319" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CityOfAngels_floorplan.gif" alt="" width="448" height="80" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The former New York Central <strong><em>Laurel Stream</em></strong> is a 6 double bedroom/buffet/lounge built by Budd Co in 1949.</p>
<p>Features &#8211; Flexible and versatile accomodations for large groups on day trips or smaller groups overnight. 6 double bedrooms, shower, kitchen for full or limited meal service, and lounge with seating for 24. Sound system.</p>
<p>Purchased by current owners in 2001 and renamed City of Angels. Full interior and exterior restoration with attention to restoring the car&#8217;s original 1950s interior ambiance.</p>

<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/city_of_angels/cityofangels_a/' title='City of Angels - Exteriour'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CityOfAngels_a-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="City of Angels - Exteriour" title="City of Angels - Exteriour" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/city_of_angels/cityofangels_c/' title='CityOfAngels_c'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CityOfAngels_c-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="CityOfAngels_c" title="CityOfAngels_c" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/city_of_angels/cityofangels_d/' title='CityOfAngels_d'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CityOfAngels_d-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="CityOfAngels_d" title="CityOfAngels_d" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/city_of_angels/cityofangels_e/' title='CityOfAngels_e'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CityOfAngels_e-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Bedroom" title="CityOfAngels_e" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/city_of_angels/cityofangels_f/' title='CityOfAngels_f'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CityOfAngels_f-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="CityOfAngels_f" title="CityOfAngels_f" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/city_of_angels/cityofangels_floorplan/' title='CityOfAngels_floorplan'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CityOfAngels_floorplan-150x150.gif" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="CityOfAngels_floorplan" title="CityOfAngels_floorplan" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/city_of_angels/cityofangels_g/' title='CityOfAngels_g'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CityOfAngels_g-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="CityOfAngels_g" title="CityOfAngels_g" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/city_of_angels/cityofangels_h/' title='CityOfAngels_h'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CityOfAngels_h-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="CityOfAngels_h" title="CityOfAngels_h" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/city_of_angels/cityofangels_lounge/' title='CityOfAngels_lounge'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CityOfAngels_lounge-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="CityOfAngels_lounge" title="CityOfAngels_lounge" /></a>

<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>SWIFT STREAM</title>
		<link>http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/</link>
		<comments>http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 24 Oct 2011 22:22:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Doug</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured Railcars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sleeper / Lounge]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://americantraintrips.com/?p=331</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>The Swift Stream is from the New York Central's Great Steel Fleet and from the post-war streamliner era comes this true classic with modern amenities featuring elegant form and function. </p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Swiftstream_1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-353" title="Swiftstream_1" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Swiftstream_1-300x165.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="165" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swiftstream_floorplan.gif"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-357" title="swiftstream_floorplan" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swiftstream_floorplan-300x53.gif" alt="" width="300" height="53" /></a>American Rail Excursions is proud to present another addition to its fleet of vintage railcars, the Swift Stream! Built in 1949 by the Budd Company for New York Central, Renumbered in 1952 to #10627. Name removed and renumbered #660 in 1967 and used as parlor/buffet/lounge. Became Penn Central #4415 in 1968. Acquired by Amtrak in 1973. Renumbered #3204 and car name restored. Acquired by private owner. Completely upgraded in 1993.</p>
<p>The Swift Stream is from the New York Central&#8217;s Great Steel Fleet and from the post-war streamliner era comes this true classic with modern amenities featuring elegant form and function. Six double bedrooms, shower, kitchen and pantry, Art Deco lounge, and dining area for 16.</p>

<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/800460-galley/' title='800460 Galley'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/800460-Galley-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="800460 Galley" title="800460 Galley" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/800460-hall-side/' title='800460 Hall Side'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/800460-Hall-Side-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="800460 Hall Side" title="800460 Hall Side" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/800460-hallway/' title='800460 Hallway'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/800460-Hallway-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="800460 Hallway" title="800460 Hallway" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/800460-lounge/' title='800460 Lounge'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/800460-Lounge-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="800460 Lounge" title="800460 Lounge" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/800460-pantry/' title='800460 Pantry'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/800460-Pantry-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="800460 Pantry" title="800460 Pantry" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/800460-room-side/' title='800460 room Side'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/800460-room-Side-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="800460 room Side" title="800460 room Side" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-001/' title='swift 001'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-001-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="swift 001" title="swift 001" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-002/' title='swift 002'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-002-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="swift 002" title="swift 002" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-003/' title='swift 003'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-003-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Hallway" title="swift 003" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-004/' title='swift 004'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-004-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="swift 004" title="swift 004" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-005/' title='swift 005'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-005-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="swift 005" title="swift 005" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-006/' title='swift 006'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-006-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="swift 006" title="swift 006" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-007/' title='swift 007'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-007-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="swift 007" title="swift 007" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-008/' title='swift 008'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-008-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="swift 008" title="swift 008" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-009/' title='swift 009'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-009-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="swift 009" title="swift 009" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-010/' title='swift 010'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-010-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="swift 010" title="swift 010" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-011/' title='swift 011'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-011-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Bedroom" title="swift 011" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-012/' title='swift 012'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-012-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="swift 012" title="swift 012" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-013/' title='swift 013'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-013-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="bedroom" title="swift 013" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swift-014/' title='swift 014'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swift-014-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="swift 014" title="swift 014" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swiftstream_1/' title='Swiftstream_1'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Swiftstream_1-150x150.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Swiftstream_1" title="Swiftstream_1" /></a>
<a href='http://americantraintrips.com/swift-stream/swiftstream_floorplan/' title='swiftstream_floorplan'><img width="150" height="150" src="http://americantraintrips.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/swiftstream_floorplan-150x150.gif" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="swiftstream_floorplan" title="swiftstream_floorplan" /></a>

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