Amtrak news release:
Extra Amtrak Midwest Trains Scheduled for Thanksgiving Travel
October 16, 2017
Reservations required for Hiawathas; Additional capacity planned
CHICAGO – In anticipation of the busiest travel week of the year, Amtrak is prepared to accommodate the surge of holiday travelers with extra trains in Downstate Illinois and Michigan and additional capacity on other Amtrak MidwestSM routes. Amtrak will also operate every available passenger railcar. Tickets sell out quickly, so customers are encouraged to plan ahead and book tickets early.
As space is limited on Amtrak Hiawatha Service during the holidays, a reservation will be required to travel from Nov. 21 – Nov. 27. This corridor, the busiest in the region, is sponsored by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Illinois Department of Transportation.
Last year, Amtrak carried 760,755 customers throughout its national network during the Thanksgiving travel period. Similar customer counts are anticipated this year.
Tips to ensure a smooth trip:
- Purchasing Tickets: Travelers can purchase tickets using the refreshed Amtrak.com site, at Quik-TrakSM ticket kiosks, ticket windows at staffed stations (where available), Amtrak mobile apps, or 800-USA-RAIL.
- Avoid the Rush, Arrive Early: The busiest travel days are the Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday of Thanksgiving week. Morning trains typically have more availability. Customers are encouraged to arrive 45 minutes before departure, especially if picking up tickets.
- Enhanced Experience: Trains feature free Wi-Fi, the freedom to always use electronic devices (no “airplane mode”), large spacious seats, ample leg room and no middle seat.
- 2+2 = Free: Amtrak has the friendliest baggage policy in the travel industry. Customers can bring two bags and two carry-ons, up to 150 pounds collectively, for free!
- Travel with Your Furry Friend: For only $25, cats and small dogs (20 pounds or less) are welcome for trips up to seven hours on most routes.
- Check Train Schedules: Check holiday train schedules and status before arriving at the station on Amtrak.com, Track Your Train (on Amtrak.com), or Amtrak mobile apps.
- Carry Photo ID: Passengers are required to show valid photo identification when purchasing tickets and carry valid photo ID at all times aboard trains.
- Safety First: If you see something, say something. Report any suspicious activity or unattended items to an Amtrak employee or member of the Amtrak Police Department at (800) 331-0008, by calling 911, or by sending a text to APD11 from a smartphone, or to 27311 from a standard cell phone.