American Rail Excursions, Inc.
Presents

“The National Limited”
A Private Railcar Trip Traveling from St. Louis, MO. & Chicago, IL to Washington, D.C., Via "The Cardinal Route" Through the New River Gorge

8 Days & 7 Nights
June 24, 2008- July 1, 2008

Trip# AR-08-F-2

The "National Limited", 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.

Travel with us...experience a most memorable overnight rail journey aboard our art-deco train, featuring classic, comfortable Pullman accommodations, fine dinning, complimentary premium beverages, beautiful scenery and first class service reminiscent to that of the Golden Age of rail travel!

Enjoy the breath taking 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's Capitol.  And what better time to visit Washington DC? 

It's a vibrant city filled with diverse neighborhoods, fabulous museums, world-class cultural events and (of course) political intrigue.  Its role as the nations' 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 tourists from all over the world have converged on this marvelous city of massive buildings and broad avenues.  Mingle and enjoy!

All Aboard!

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
- Our trip begins from the "Windy City" Chicago
- Ride eastward on Amtrak's Cardinal route through the New River Gorge,
  "Grand Canyon of the East"
- Travel, dine and sleep in historic, privately-owned railcars
- Visit Washington DC
- While our railcars are parked in Washington DC Union Station, one of
  Amtrak's premier stations, enjoy dozens of restaurants and shops, movie
  theaters and direct access to the heart of DC
- Explore our Nation's Capital, just footsteps from our railcars
- Ride westward on Amtrak's Capitol Limited route, the original B & O line
  through the beautiful Potomac River Valley, historic Harper's Ferry, the Allegheny Mountains, and the cornfields of Ohio and Indiana

 

     

Day 1- Tuesday June 24 , 2008:

4:30pm or Later :     American Rail Excursions Inc. first class onboard staff welcomes all passengers joining our rail tour in St. Louis. Our private railcars will be located adjacent to Amtrak's St. Louis Station 551 S. 16th St. St. Louis, MO 63105. Once we have placed your luggage aboard, and you have been familiarized with the amenities of your accommodations, we invite you to visit near by historic St. Louis Union Station.

Every vacation starts at the station that was once the worlds largest and busiest railroad terminal. Today you can learn more about this 100 year old National Historic Landmark, through an award winning collection of letters, memorabilia, exhibits and a self-guided tour.

Evening: This evening, why not take the opportunity to enjoy dinner on your own at any of the fine restaurants that are close by St. Louis Union Station. Restaurants like Lombardo's, Landry's, Hard Rock Cafe, Houlihan's or Hooter's are just a few footsteps from our railcars...enjoy!

Late Evening: When you return to our awaiting railcars, your room will be readied for sweet slumber. Before retiring for the evening, you might want to enjoy a night cap in the lounge and visit with other passengers. Enjoy!

Night: Occupy railcars overnight in St. Louis and en-route.

Day 2- Wednesday, June 25, 2008:

4:30am: Depart: St. Louis, MO. Amtrak #300 The State House. Although you should be sound asleep in the warm comfort of your bed, our National Limited will depart for our northbound run to Chicago, IL in the wee hours of the morning.

7:00-9:00am:Breakfast served onboard en-route. As our Chicago bound passengers awaken this morning, our onboard chef has created a delicious breakfast with an array of items for all to enjoy. Bon Appetite!

10:00am: Arrive: Chicago Union Station. As our train arrives in Chicago, IL this morning, we suggest passengers take this opportunity to alight from our railcars and explore the "City that Works", Chicago on your own. Close by are Sears Tower, State Street or the Magnificent Mile and Water Tower Place if you like to shop. Other favorites Navy Pier, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium or the Museum of Natural History are also within easy reach. While you are out touring Chicago today, lunch and dinner will be on your own.

Note*: Usually within an hour or so of our arrival in Chicago, our railcars will be moved to Amtrak's 14th & Lumber St. coach yard for servicing. Our railcars will not be accessible until late afternoon. Please plan accordingly.

4:00pm (approx.): Re-board our National Limited railcars, parked in Amtrak's 14th & Lumber St. coach yard.

Note: Most cab drivers DO NOT recognize Amtrak's 14th & Lumber St. address. Instead, tell them "Canal Street & Roosevelt Road, the intersection just East of the yard. Once your are at that intersection facing East, have the driver continue East on Roosevelt Road( the bridge that spans over Metra's & Amtrak's yard) until you reach the large Amtrak sign on the South side of the bridge, next to the bridge tenders house. Turn right and go down that ramp that parallels the Chicago River. Our train should be visible to you, if not call us at 312-470-0992 for the exact location of our railcar.

Evening: When you return to our railcars this evening, our onboard staff will have an assortment of complimentary premium beverages and snacks for your enjoyment.

Late Evening: Rooms have been once again readied for safe comfortable sleep. You may retire at any time.

Night: Occupy railcars overnight in Chicago, IL.

Day 3 - Thursday June 26, 2008:

7:30-9:30am:Breakfast served onboard

Morning:  Today you will once again enjoy the "Windy City" Chicago on your own.

Afternoon: Our onboard staff will be busy this afternoon getting ready for our departure and our Chicago boarding passengers. Lunch will be on your own today as you tour Chicago.

2:00pm (approx.): Note*: Our National Limited private railcars may not be accessible for several hours as pre-departure servicing and switching is done to make up the train. Please plan accordingly.

4:45pm (approx.): As soon as our train is positioned in Chicago Union Station, 225 S. Canal St. Chicago, IL 60606, American Rail Excursions Inc. first class onboard service manager will meet all our passengers. St. Louis re-baording or Chicago boarding, with their luggage will gather in Chicago Union Station under the escalator adjacent to the Amtrak ticket counter, by the fountain.

Complimentary baggage handling is provided by American Rail Excursions Inc. in Chicago. Please do NOT check any bags with Amtrak! 

As soon as our pre-boarding  check-in is completed, our onboard service manager will escort the group to our awaiting train.

5:00pm (approx.): Board our National Limited. Our onboard staff welcomes all our Washington DC bound travelers. For Chicago boarding passengers, 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 and enjoy complimentary premium beverages and snacks with fellow passengers.

5:45pm: Depart Chicago, IL Amtrak #50 the "Cardinal". As our conductor calls "All Aboard" our train gradually glides out of the configures of Chicago Union Station.

Evening: 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 snack and beverage service continues.

6:00pm (approx.): First seating for dinner.

8:00pm (approx.): Second seating for dinner (if necessary)

Late Evening :    While all are enjoying conversation, camaraderie and the sights, your 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.

Night: Enjoy the night in your comfortable room. Sweet Rail Dreams!

 

Day 4 - Friday, June 27, 2008:

7:30-9:30 AM     Breakfast Buffet: Served en route.

Morning: 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 onboard 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.  

 

Noon-1:30pm:  Luncheon: Served en route.  You'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't interrupt, you'll continue to see all the sites as can only be seen by train or white water raft!  Relax, enjoy a enticing luncheon prepared by our onboard chef, just for you!

Afternoon: Complementary premium beverages and snacks service continues.  The New River Gorge, The Allegheny Mountains, famed Green Briar Resort, and Shenandoah Valley are just some of the scenic vistas you'll be able to see.  As our National Limited comes to a halt in one of many remote small towns, you'll feel you have turned back time.  Our arriving train is heralded by the trumpeting horns of our diesels, and it seems the town has turned out to welcome our arrival!

                               
Late Afternoon:  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.


5:00pm: (approx.): First seating for Dinner.  The sun is setting over the mountains, and the silhouettes of the Shenandoah Mountains are fading 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.

5:55pm: Arrive Washington DC *NOTE: (due to historical freight railroad interference, a later time arrival is more likely.)  Predicated on a timely arrival passengers may detrain for some  evening exploration of Washington DC on their own.  Our railcars will be dropped from our arriving Amtrak #50 The Cardinal our "National Limited", and then placed on our special track where we will remain parked until just prior to our departure from Washington DC     

7:00pm: (approx.) Second seating for Dinner (if necessary).  

Late Evening      Complimentary premium beverage and snacks service continues after our arrival into Washington DC  And when you feel "it's time", retire to your room once again, where our first class onboard staff has it transformed from a comfortable day room, to its restful nighttime configuration.  Goodnight!

Night:  Occupy railcars overnight while parked in Washington DC

 

Day 5 - Saturday June 28, 2008:

7:30-9:30 AM     Breakfast : Served onboard while parked in Washington DC                   
After enjoying breakfast onboard, may we suggest you take this opportunity to alight from our railcars and explore Nation's Capitol on your own.  A favorite is the step-on, step-off trolley tour, with it's desk located just inside the main entrance to the station. With nearly two 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.

Late Afternoon   As our passengers return to our railcars 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's quest.

:

Evening:   With so many close by choices for dinner, you are certain to find that special place for dinner on your own this evening. Bon Appetite!

Late Evening: After a busy day in Washington DC, we welcome you back to our stainless steel hotel on the rails. To cap off a perfect day may we suggest you enjoy a night cap in the lounge. Complimentary..of course. For those folks who will be out late this evening, we'll keep the vestibule light on for you.

Night:   Occupy railcars overnight parked in Washington DC

Day 6 - Sunday June 29, 2008:

7:30-9:30am: Enjoy a hearty breakfast aboard our rail cars before heading out to one last day of seeing the sights of Washington DC.

Morning: Some things to consider visiting are the Smithsonian Institute, the Capitol building, the National Zoo, and the Pentagon. Many of these places are within either walking distance or a short trip on the Washington subway system. There is also plenty to do within the station itself, from fine dining, to shopping, and even several movie theaters!  Lunch, and tours are on your own today.

   

3:30pm: Re-board our private railcars, which have now been made part of today's departing Amtrak train #29 The Capitol Limited. Please check the Amtrak TV monitors in the station for the correct track location. Our National Limited railcars will be on the rear of the Capitol Limited today.

4:05pm: As the final "All Aboard!" 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 with it's beautiful low mountains and lush green forests. At historic Harper's Ferry we will cross the Potomac River and head up to Cumberland MD.

5:30pm: First seating for dinner this evening. With the sun setting over the Allegheny Mountains, and the long shadows of the forest darkening the valley, nothing could be finer than a great dinner aboard our railcars with new found friends!

7:30pm:  Second seating for dinner (if necessary).

Late Evening: After dinner enjoy that favorite drink....our first class onboard service staff knows just what you like! This is the perfect opportunity to sit and chat with friends, discuss all the fun things you have done and of course... the great sights you all have seen so far. Enjoy!

Night:    Sleep in safety and comfort aboard our railcars tonight en-route.

 

Day 7 - Monday June 30, 2008:

7:00-9:00am: Breakfast served en route. Chicago passengers, If you have risen early, you will have one last chance to view the beautiful natural scenery passing by our National Limited'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.

8:40am:  Arrive: Chicago Union Station.
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. For those passengers continuing on to St. Louis, MO with us, we once again suggest that you step off our railcars here in the station.

Note*: Usually within an hour or so of our arrival in Chicago, our railcars will be moved to Amtrak's 14th & Lumber St. coach yard for servicing. Our railcars will not be accessible for several hours. Please plan accordingly. Lunch will be on your own while visiting the Chicago sights.

4:00pm (approx.): Re-board our National Limited railcars, parked in Amtrak's 14th & Lumber St. coach yard. If you wish to rejoin us at this time you may do so. Complimentary premium beverage and snacks are available.

Day 8 - Tuesday July 1, 2008:

7:00am: Depart: Chicago, IL Amtrak #301 As the images of Chicago fades quickly, we'll race across the Illinois prairie once again on our quest for St. Louis, MO.

7:00-9:30am: Breakfast served en route.

 

12:20pm: Arrive: St. Louis, MO. As we cross the mighty Mississippi River into downtown St. Louis, one only has to reflect on this great railway journey we have just completed. Gliding to a halt, it's the end of the line for this trip. We bid all a fond farewell and hope to see you soon on the fast high iron. Goodbye and thanks for traveling with us.

About Your Accommodations:     

Double Bedrooms: 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 hot shower. Your shower is located just down the hall in each car.

Costs: Double Bedroom, Double Occupancy:

2 people, 1 room, one upper and one lower bed at night

St. Louis boarding: $1,899.00 per person double occupancy, double bedroom.

Chicago boarding: $1,699.00 per person double occupancy, double bedroom.

Cost: Double Bedroom, Single Occupancy:

1 person, 1 room, one lower bed at night

St. Louis boarding: $3,599.99 per person single occupancy, double bedroom

Chicago boarding: $3,199.99 per person single occupancy, double bedroom

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The following is a sample of cuisine, freshly prepared aboard our rail cars.

Our sample menus include: 

Sample Breakfast Menu

- Denver Scrambled with Cheese
- Plain Scramble
- Old Fashioned Railroad French Toast
- Potatoes O'Brian
- Tender Sausage links
- Crisp Bacon
- Assorted Fresh Fruit
- Assorted Cold Cereal
- Assorted Breakfast Pastries
- Bagels with Cream Cheese
- English Muffins
- Toast & Jelly
- Assorted Chilled Juice,
- Freshly Brewed Coffee, (Regular or Decaf)
- Assorted Teas
- Milk, Hot Chocolate
- Complimentary Eye-opener from our bar

Sample Lunch Menu

- Tossed Garden Salad Served with Fresh Tomatoes, Onion
and topped with Croutons and your choice of Dressing
- Chicken or Tuna Salad Croissant Garnished with Lettuce
Or
- Grilled Virginia Honey Ham and Sharp Cheddar Cheese served on 9-Grain Bread with a Pickle Spear
- Homemade Potato Salad
- Apple Pie Ala Mode
- Freshly Brewed Coffee (Regular or Decaf)
- Assorted Teas
- Soft Drinks
- Milk
- Domestic and Imported Beers, or Wine
- Your Favorite Mixed Drink from the Bar

 

Sample Dinner Menu

- Soup De Jour
- Mesclun salad, served with honey roasted walnuts, bosch pears, gorgonzola crumbles and topped with a Raspberry Vinaigrette dressing
- Roast Prime Rib of Beef
              OR
- Chicken Marseilles sautéed in a Marseilla wine sauce
- Idaho Oven-Baked Potato with butter and sour cream
- Rice Pilaf
- Medley of Seasonal Vegetables
- Assorted Dinner Rolls and Butter
- Chocolate Torte Cake
- Fresh Brewed Coffee, Regular and Decaffeinated
- Assorted Teas
- Soft Drinks
- Milk
- Domestic and Imported Beers, or Wine
- Your Favorite Mixed Drink from the Bar

Our onboard chef prepares all meals fresh.

Why you should participate in this Unique Excursion - 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'll enjoy up to 1,685 miles of very scenic rail travel including the New River Gorge, the Grand Canyon of the East.

What’s Included:
• Attentive first-class service provided by our American Rail Excursions, Inc. Staff
• Up to Eight days and Seven nights lodging and transportation accommodations aboard our private railcars based on the itinerary.
• All meals prepared by our on board chef
• Up to seven breakfasts served en-route and parked based on the itinerary.
• One lunch served en-route based on the itinerary.
• Two dinners served en-route based on the itinerary.
• Complimentary premium beverage and snack service during the trip.
• Double bedroom (for two people) or Single Bedroom (for one person) accommodations aboard our private railcars. ( as per your reservation)
• Luggage transfer for guests departing Chicago Union Station.
No refunds unless trip is canceled.
Tickets are transferable to another person with prior approval.

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Important Information - Please Read

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's and 1950'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 708-758-6680 or e-mail us at roger@americanrail.com for additional information for your specific situation.

Responsibility
In the responsibility of their own negligence, neither American Rail Excursions, Inc.,  The Silver Sleeping Car Company, Crown Rail Inc., Mid America Rail Car Leasing, Pacific Union Sleeping Car Co. L.L.C.,,  Mid-American Railcar Leasing, LLC or IFE Leasing 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, American Rail Excursions, Inc., The Silver Sleeping Car Company, Crown Rail, Mid America Rail Car Leasing, Pacific Union Sleeping Car Co. L.L.C., or IFE Leasing Company assumes no responsibility in this connection. Enrollment in and payment for a tour shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the passenger of the terms and conditions set forth herein.

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 all the time and 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.

Travel insurance is recommended for  any extended trip to protect your interest.