One of the items in my book, 101 Things to Do Before You Die, is a cross-country road trip. A great idea in theory, but better for people who actually like to drive long distances. And even if I did find that soul who’s willing to drive most of the time, said person is sure to turn into a bitter bunny when I pull out a book or my laptop.

Flying certainly wouldn’t qualify. So why not the train? I’ve taken the train in other countries, but only CalTrain here in the States. When I mentioned Amtrak to a few people, their eyebrows arched and they were eager to relay foreboding stories of nightmarish delays. But if the train ride was to be a major part of my trip, delays would just mean an extended vacation and more stories. And the train is much more environmentally friendly than flying.

I scheduled two legs. First, the Superliner Roomette on the California Zephyr from Emeryville to Chicago. The CZ goes through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois. This takes about 2.5 days. Then I booked a Viewliner Roomette on the Lakeshore Limited from Chicago to New York. The LL goes through Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York, and takes about 1.5 days.

All aboard! It’s time to hit up a little over 1/5 of the states in 4 days’ time. I’m taking my mom with me.