It sounds like you had quite an adventure during your trip from Seattle to St. Paul! The unexpected shift from flying with Delta to taking a cross-country train journey adds an exciting twist. Here’s a summary of the key points you shared:
Travel Adventures Overview
- Initial Plans:
- You were supposed to fly from Seattle to MSP on July 19, 2024, but a significant CrowdStrike outage led to flight cancellations.
- After monitoring flight delays, you canceled your tickets and booked an Amtrak train instead.
Experience in Seattle
- Extra Day:
- The situation allowed for an extended stay in Seattle, where you explored various modes of transportation, exciting for your transportation-loving children.
- Explored the City:
- Visited the Museum of Flight and took public transportation like light rail and the monorail.
Amtrak Journey
- Preparation:
- Arrived at the Amtrak station after a day of exploring.
- Faced delays at the station but used the wait to shop for books and snacks.
- Dining Car Experience:
- Enjoyed meals in the dining car that the kids loved, including the steak with wine sauce and desserts.
- Roomette Adventures:
- The sleeping arrangements in roomettes were an adventure for the kids, although it was a squeeze for adults.
- Activities on Board:
- Engaged in games, reading, and enjoying the views from the observation windows.
Conclusion
- Reflections on Train Travel:
- While the train journey was enjoyable, you expressed concerns about the costs and practicality of train travel with young children for future trips.
- Future Plans:
- You’re considering another train trip to southern Illinois, factoring in the logistics of travel time and accommodations.
Final Thoughts
It’s wonderful how you turned an unexpected situation into a memorable family adventure! The enthusiasm of your children and the unique experiences you had illustrate the fun of spontaneous travel. Your insights on the practicalities and challenges of train travel with kids provide valuable food for thought for anyone considering a similar journey.
