Ring in the New Year like Never Before!!
 
An All Inclusive Private Railcar Trip From St. Louis, MO or Chicago, IL. To The Big Easy, New Orleans, LA.

December 28th, 2008 - January 4th, 2009

Trip # AR-08-L-2

American Rail Excursions is offering this rare opportunity to enjoy a very exclusive & unique way to ring in the New Year and to visit one of our nation's center of entertainment and fun. You can experience the kind of deluxe travel enjoyed by movie stars, politicians and big businessmen of years gone by. Our New Orleans New Year Sunshine Special Tour will originate from St. Louis's Amtrak Station and Chicago's Union Station, with private rail car travel in comfort and style right into the heart of the "Crescent City", New Orleans, LA.

The package includes all transportation, lodging aboard our private rail cars.  En route,  lounge, beverage and snack service on our rail cars. First-class en-route meal service as per itinerary, prepared fresh by our on-board chef and served by our attentive wait staff. Additionally an included 2-hour tour of New Orleans plus a 2-hour Mississippi Riverboat cruise.

Here Are The Highlights:

Y’all take some time and enjoy good old southern hospitality as our nostalgic private rail car transports you down the main street of mid-American aboard the train they call "The City Of New Orleans".

New Orleans is alive with cool jazz, hot ‘n spicy Cajun food, and lively Zydeco entertainment until the wee hours, New Orleans is still one of America’s most exciting cities.

If you are New Orleans bound, you’ll want to take advantage of the many unique parties, and special events taking place in The Big Easy for this New Years celebration... But New Orleans offers more than just partying.

New Orleans has plenty of other attractions… The French Quarter, Bourbon Street, spontaneous jazz concerts on the street corners, the architecture, sidewalk artists, horse-drawn carriages, and the Mighty Mississippi to name just a few!

Travel by private railcar… No other mode of transportation between St. Louis, Chicago and New Orleans can treat you to such a good time.

Welcome Aboard!!!

Itinerary:

Sunday, December 28, 2008 (Day 1) 

2:00-4:00pm: St. Louis, MO.  For those St. Louis boarding passengers wishing to pre- board our private rail car for this trip, our private railcars will be located about 300 yards west of Amtrak's St. Louis Facility, located at 550 E. 16th St., St. Louis, MO., 63103. You may pre-board your luggage to your accommodations at this time. May we suggest you enjoy dinner on your own at one of the many fine restaurants located at close by St. Louis Union Station. After dinner, return to our private railcar, your transportation and hotel on the rails for this evening's trip to Chicago, IL.

4:30pm: Passengers who did not pre-board our rail cars, may board as soon as Amtrak train #306 pulls down to the station platform, our first class on-board staff will greet you and assist our St. Louis boarding passengers. Your luggage will be brought right to your accommodations. As soon as you are settled and you have received the on-board and safety information, complimentary premium beverage and snack service will begin.

5:00pm: Depart; St. Louis, MO. Amtrak #306 "Lincoln Service. As our train slowly tip toes away from the station, we gradually climb up and over the mighty Mississippi River. With the Gateway Arch silhouetted by the bright lights of downtown St. Louis, we'll race northward towards Chicago.

Early Evening: While enjoying the first leg of our trip to Chicago, our first class on-board staff has a tantalizing array of hor d'oeuvres and tasty sweets to quell your appetite and complimentary premium beverage service to quench your thirst. Enjoy!

We'll whistle through small town mid-America this evening. Peering through your window it seems that.. in some towns, time has stood still! With a bright glow of light reflecting off the night sky and the tops of sky scrapers now visible on the horizon, it won't be long before we reach our interim destination, Chicago, IL.

Late Evening: When you decide it's "time", our on-board staff will transform your accommodations from it's comfortable daytime configuration, to it's night time mode for sweet slumber tonight.

10:40pm: Arrive: Chicago Union Station. As our train gently rocks through the maze of switches in the cavernous Chicago Union Station, the wooossshhhh of the air brakes signal our arrival. Those passengers who wish to seek out some of Chicago's night life may alight from our rail car now. For those passengers remaining on-board, complimentary premium beverage and snack service will conclude at midnight.

*Please note: After the arrival of our train Amtrak #306 Lincoln Service in to Chicago, our private railcar will be inaccessible for a few hours until it is moved to the yard for service and overnight parking. Please plan your return to our train with our on board service manager.

Night: Occupy railcars overnight in Chicago.


 

Monday, December 29, 2008 (Day 2) 


7:30-9:30am:
Breakfast served aboard while our railcars are parked in Chicago.


Morning: Today is a free day in Chicago yours to enjoy as you wish on your own. May we suggest the nearby Sear Tower Skydeck for a bird's eye view of Chicago. The Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum of Natural History or the Adler Planetarium, all great indoor activities located just minutes away from our train. For those who are still in the mood to shop, how about Chicago's famous "State Street" that "Great Street" with Macy's (formerly Marshall Field's.) Head on over to Michigan Avenue's "Magnificent Mile" for shops galore. And while you are on the "Magnificent Mile" don't forget Water Tower Place.


Noon: Lunch will be on your own this afternoon while touring Chicago.

                
Afternoon: The key to the "City That Works",... Chicago is yours to enjoy!

Dinner: On your own today while you are out and about Chicago.


7:00pm: Chicago boarding passengers and St. Louis re-boarding passengers meet American Rail Excursions Inc. on-board service manager in the beautiful Chicago Union Station, 225 S. Canal St. Chicago, IL 60606 adjacent to fountain under the escalators by the Amtrak ticket counter for special check-in. For our passengers just joining us in Chicago, DO NOT check any luggage with Amtrak! Our on-board service attendants will transfer your luggage directly to your accommodations.


7:15pm(approx): As soon as all passengers are checked in, we'll pre-board our private rail cars located on the rear of this evening's Chicago departing Amtrak #59 the "City Of New Orleans" our  New Orleans New Year's Sunshine Special.  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'oeuvres.

8:00pm  Depart Chicago: Amtrak #59 The City Of New Orleans (Our New Orleans New Year's Sunshine Special)

The conductor calls, "All aboard!" As our group of rail adventurers settle in. The gentle sway of our private rail cars indicate we’re on the move! A special complimentary Bon Voyage Party complete with a champagne toast, hor d'oeuvres and your favorite beverage,  will provide the atmosphere. If you haven't already, now is the perfect time to join us in our lounge while we watch Chicago's bright lights vanish into moonlit evening from our windows.

As the big city lights fade away, we’ll make a quick stop in a quaint suburb of Chicago called "Homewood". As the diesels roar and the whistle blows, this I.C. (Illinois Central) Main Street of Mid-America rail line will carry us through many a small town in our southbound quest to reach that Crescent City, New Orleans.

Late Evening:  After your exercise in pre-New Year's Eve reveling, our first-class service staff will have your room ready for sweet slumber tonight.  Our on-board service attendant has readied your beds for this evening. 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 is illuminated by hundreds of stars and the occasional light of a farm building reminds you that you are still in Illinois. The gentle sway and music of the rails are too much… you fall asleep in safety and comfort aboard our private rail car tonight. Sleep in safety and the comfort of your private room. 

Night: Occupy railcars overnight en-route.


Tuesday, December 30, 2008 (Day 3):

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7:30am-9:30am: Breakfast served en-route. 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…. Now if you saw Elvis, then I would worry! Yes... it is Memphis, TN. If you look hard, you can catch a glimpse of Beale Street, birthplace of the blues. Memphis is also home to Sun Records and, of course, Elvis’ Graceland estate. Our train will pause here at the beautiful new station for 25 minutes or so. 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.

Morning: As we continue our southward trek, our train will almost turn back time. We’ll travel through small towns rich in history and virtually untouched, harkening 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.

12:00noon - 1:30pm: Lunch served en-route. You’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 lunch is served. 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 trelliswork adorning the homes. 

Afternoon: The catfish ponds and pecan groves of the Mississippi Delta country slowly transform into the bayou country. Lake Pontchartrain is now visible… New Orleans is just ahead. Complimentary premium beverage and snack service continues.

3:40pm           Arrive:   New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

As our New Orleans New Year Sunshine Special glides into the station, you’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 three 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 until after our departure on Friday January 2, 2009. Our lounge will be open in the late afternoon and evening for your enjoyment. 

Late Afternoon and Evening: 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 many of the finer establishments, New Orleans has some of the greatest restaurants in the country. With dining seen as passion by locals your dining experience, with the dishes prepared by world renown and award winning chefs, will make your visit to New Orleans an unforgettable event. Restaurants like Brennen's, A legend or Broussards, Arnaud's or Antoines's all located in the French Quarter are just a few that have been around since the late 1800s. Bon Appetite!

Late Evening: After an enjoyable dinner, let's not forget Bourbon Street for some late night entertainment. From jazz to contemporary rock Bourbon Street has something for everyone! Don't worry...we'll leave the vestibule light on for you tonight.

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Night: Occupy railcars overnight parked in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.

*Note- Upon our arrival in New Orleans and due to repositioning movements for service, our private rail cars may not be readily accessible or repositioned back in the station until approximately 9:00pm.  Our on-board service manager will advise you.


Wednesday, December 31st, 2008 (Day 4)

7:30am-9:30am: Breakfast served aboard rail cars. Our on-board chef has prepared a hearty breakfast that will energize you for today'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 steaming cup of café au lait. Ease into the day with an elegant breakfast of Eggs Hussarde and Bananas Foster… or sample hot beignets and Café au lait at Café Du Monde and watch the artists begin to gather at Jackson Square. Meander through the French Market or stroll down Royal Street. You’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 sculpted fountains, or view the unique architectural designs of some sprawling Victorian mansions and plantation homes.

10:30am(Approx): Depart for an included escorted two hour motor coach tour plus a two hour riverboat cruise. We'll travel through three centuries of history, legends and romance as you encounter "The City That Care Forgot!". 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 our historic cemeteries, referred to as "Cities of the Dead", 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, 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.

Upon completion of the city tour we'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 was king and life was as slow and graceful as the current on the Mississippi River. Enjoy the Captain's narration of the highlights of one of the world's busiest ports. Tour the Historic Stem Engine Room and learn how steam powers the engine to turn the Paddlewheel and provide the energy for the delightful tunes of 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 Creole lunch.

Late Afternoon: Upon completion of 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 out private railcar our first class on-board staff has an array of complimentary premium beverages and snacks for your enjoyment.

Evening: Tonight once again, all of New Orleans is at your doorstep. Enjoy New Orleans own unique cuisine, such as crawfish entoufee, gumbo and Shrimp Creole with cool blues and hot jazz!

Late Evening: Tonight is New Year's Eve!! And in New Orleans enjoy the Party Party Party!!!

Night: Occupy railcars overnight parked in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.

 


Thursday, January 1, 2009 (Day 5)

7:30am-9:30am:  Breakfast served aboard our rail cars.

Morning: For our rebel rousers..go ahead..sleep in! We'll have plenty of freshly brewed coffee for you when you rise. Today is yours to enjoy on your own. Try a relaxing self guided tour on the New Orleans famed St. Charles Street car line, traveling through the picturesque New Orleans garden district with it's many stately mansions, bed & breakfasts and restaurants.

Afternoon: Lunch on your own while touring. Why not try the Commanders Palace for lunch? It is just off the St. Charles Street car line.

Late Afternoon: By now you know thr routine...Complimentary premium beverage and snack service continues in the lounge.

Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner tonight in New Olreans on your own. Due to the holiday we strongly suggest you pre-reserve space at your resturaunt of choice, as not to be disapointed.

Late Evening: Once again smiling faces of American Rail Excursions, Inc first class on board staff delivers your favorite beverage right to your seat. And when the fat lady sings.. your rooms are once again readied for sweet slumber.

Night: Occupy railcars overnight parked in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.

Friday, January 2, 2009 (Day 6)

7:30am-9:30am:  Breakfast served aboard our rail cars.

Morning:

This will be your last day to enjoy New Orleans. May we suggest you travel on your own to the Riverwalk along the Mighty Mississippi. Riverwalk has many shops, restaurants and is home to the New Orleans International Cruise Ship Terminal.

Relax, have lunch and watch the non-stop action on the river or just sleep in after a night of non-stop partying.


Afternoon:

1:00pm: Re-board our private railcars now located on the rear of today's departing Amtrak #58 The City of New Orleans

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 imbedded in our memories.

1:45pm  Depart New Orleans   Amtrak #58 The City Of New Orleans 

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’ll retire to the quiet comfort of your room for a little snooze before dinner... it’s ok! Complimentary premium beverage and snack service begins.

5:00pm  First seating for dinner served en-route

Our on-board chef will prepare a fabulous dinner for this evening. While enjoying dinner on our northbound quest for the windy city, the sun sinks ever so slowly in the west creating a memorable visual post card through the window. Later we’ll have a rousting evening as we exchange stories about Bourbon Street and the likes. Complimentary premium beverage and snacks will be served. Our first-class service attendant will turn down your bed… morning will arrive too early!

7:00pm  Second seating for dinner served en-route (if necessary)

Evening: Premium beverage and snack service 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 on the rails.

Night: Occupy rail cars overnight en route.


Saturday, January 3, 2009 (Day 7)

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6:30am-8:30am  Breakfast served aboard our rail cars.

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 light continental 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.

9:00am  Arrive: Chicago Union Station

As our New Orleans New Year's Sunshine Special rumbles into cavernous Chicago Union Station, the 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.

As our passengers detrain, newfound friends bid each other fond farewell and our first-class on-board service staff say good-bye.  At this time passengers continuing on to St. Louis are encouraged to step off our railcars in the station for a day of sightseeing and exploring on your own.

*Note: Usually within an hour or so of our arrival into Chicago, our railcars will be moved from the station to the rail yard for post trip inspection and service. This procedure takes several hours and render the railcars inaccessible for passenger to de-train or re-board. Please plan accordingly.

Afternoon: Lunch will be on your own today while touring Chicago.

Late Afternoon: After a rigorous day in the Windy City you might regenerate with a shower and a quick change before your assault on Chicago's fine eateries for dinner. Our on-board service manager will guide you right to our railcars parking spot. Enjoy a complimentary beverage and snack before heading out.

Evening: Dinner will be on your own tonight at any of Chicago's finer eateries. Premium beverage and snack service continues throughout the evening for guests who remain aboard. For those of you who have been out and about, when you return your rooms will be once again readied for a well deserved night of rest. Good night.

Night: Occupy railcars overnight in Chicago.

 *Note: Sometime during the early evening our railcars will be added to tomorrow's departing equipment and positioned back into Chicago Union Station. Our on-board service manger will keep you advised.


Sunday, January 4, 2009 (Day 8):

7:00am-9:00am: Breakfast served en-route. This morning you will probably be awaked by Chicago's Metra Commuter trains arriving in Chicago Union Station. As you peer out your window... throngs of people pass by headed to work. Not you! You'll have at least one more day of relaxing rail travel before returning to the grind.
 
7:00am: Depart Chicago Amtrak #301 Lincoln Service. 
As the skyline of Chicago fades to just a memory we'll race through the rural farm towns of Illinois on our quest for St. Louis.

Afternoon:
Before you know it our St. Louis bound passengers catch a glimpse of the Gateway Arch.. we'll soon be there. As our train tiptoes over the MacArthur bridge crossing the Mississippi, the St. Louis skyline welcomes us.

                                      
12:20pm: Arrive St. Louis
Just as thousands of people before have done, our New Orleans New Year's Special has arrived at its final destination, St. Louis Amtrak Station. As the on-board staff places your bags on the platform, final farewells and good-byes are exchanged. For now... this great trip ringing in the new year is complete! We hope to see you again... riding the silver rails. Thank you... and goodbye!

 

"May your rails be silver and your rail dreams golden"

 All times shown are subject to Amtrak's operating schedule and may change without notice.


What's Included:

- Attentive first-class service provided by our American Rail Excursions, Inc. staff
- Round-trip rail and accommodations charges aboard our private rail cars for this trip based on your reservations.
- Double Bedroom, Single or double occupancy aboard or private rail cars (as per your reservation).
- Exclusive American Rail Excursion check-in and baggage handling St. Louis, and Chicago Union Stations.
- Complimentary Premium beverage and snack service during our entire trip.
- Complimentary Bon Voyage Party Monday evening December 29th, 2008.
- Full meal service as outlined in this itinerary.
- Included guide tour of New Orleans (2 hr. Deluxe Motor Coach plus 2 hr. Riverboat cruise with a luncheon aboard.)

Accommodations:



Costs: Round Trip, Double Bedroom:
 

Single Occupancy: 1 person, 1 room one lower bed at night.
St. Louis boarding: $3299.00
Chicago boarding: $2999.00

                              or
Double Occupancy: 2 people, 1 room, one upper and one lower bed at night.
St. Louis boarding: $1799.00 per person
Chicago boarding: $1599.00 per person

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Double bedrooms have space for one or two passengers. Each double bedroom features either one large couch or a small couch and lounge chair for comfortable private day travel. By night, each 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. All 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, upon request. All sleeping cars are equipped with a changing area and shower at the end of the hall.

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A 50% deposit per person is due at the time of booking.
Full open balance due by 11/22/08.
No refund unless trip is canceled.
Tickets are transferable to another person with prior approval.

Please reserve your space by 11/22/08.

May we make your reservation today?


The New Orleans New Year's
Sunshine Special

December 28th, 2008 - January 4th, 2009

Trip # AR-08-L-2

(Click here for a printable version of our reservation form.)

Thank you!

American Rail Excursions, Inc.
1701 Sauk Trail
Sauk Village, IL 60411-4955
Phone 708/758-6680
Fax 708/758-2781
Email: roger@americanrail.com
Roger J. Verbeeren Jr.

Responsibility
In the responsibility of their own negligence, neither American Rail Excursions, Inc., Pacific Union Sleeping Car Co. L.L.C., Powhatan Rail Services, Inc., The Silver Sleeping Car Company, Crown Rail Inc. or Mid America Rail Car L.L.C. 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., Powhatan Rail Services, Inc., The Silver Sleeping Car Company, Crown Rail Inc., Nevada Western Rail Tours L.L.C., I.F.E. Leasing Inc.or Mid America Rail Car Leasing 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.

Important Information - Please Read
Payments are not refundable unless we are able to resell your tickets. If we resell your tickets, you will receive a refund less a $50.00/ticket handling fee. 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.
Your escorts are not permitted to handle occupied wheelchairs because of potential injury to themselves or the passengers. If you are mobility impaired, please call and discuss available accommodations before ordering. Smoking is not permitted on these cars (except in vestibules between cars and on the ground at the longer station stops where permitted by law. Because of the sliding plates between between cars, passage between the cars when wearing open toed shoes or backless shoes is not recommended when the train is moving.
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.
Participants in these excursions waive any claim against American Rail Excursions, Inc., Powhatan Rail Services, Inc, The Silver Sleeping Car Company, Crown Rail Inc., Nevada Western Rail Tours L.L.C., I.F.E. Leasing Inc.or Mid America Rail Car Leasing and their officers, members, agents or employees, for any damage to or loss of property, or for death or injury of persons participating in these excursions/events. We strongly suggest travel insurance to protect your investment in any extended trip and tour.

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