Things You'll Need:
- Computer with Internet access to book tickets online
-
Step 1
Book tickets through the Amtrak Web site (see Resources below) or over the phone (800) 872-7245). You can also visit the Dallas Union Station ticketing counter prior to travel. The hours of operation are daily, from 9:00 a.m. until 6:30 p.m.
-
Step 2
Select your seating arrangements. The Texas Eagle offers both coach class and first class.
-
Step 3
Get the price you want. The average cost to book a coach ticket on the Texas Eagle is $50; sleeper passengers average $180. If you're eligible for discounts based on age or college enrollment, the price continues to drop.
-
Step 4
Prepare for a 22-hour train ride, not including layovers, that begins at the Dallas Union Station and ends at Chicago's Union Station.
-
Step 5
Entertain yourself. Reserve a portable digEplayer for the duration of your trip through Chicago's Union Station. It loads your favorite movies and music to entertain you aboard the train.
-
Step 1
Satisfy your cravings in the Texas Eagle's dining car. Menus vary and all hot meals are actually prepared on board. Reservations are required for lunch and dinner, but not breakfast.
-
Step 2
Belt out "The Texas Eagle Way" at the top of your lungs. No one will look at you strangely since it's the train's official song.
-
Step 3
Enjoy the view as you travel. The Texas Eagle has a great Sightseer Lounge car where you can watch the passing terrain change from desert to the open plains of the Midwest.
-
Step 4
Pick up your checked baggage. The baggage claim area is open daily, from 8:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m.
-
Step 5
Return the digEplayer. Ask the station staff for directions to the Railway Media Kiosk or mail it in the prepaid envelope.
-
Step 6
Sleep well in the sleeper car. Sweet dreams await you in private beds complete with hotel touches like turn-down service.
-
Step 7
Check your baggage, or carry it on. Each Texas Eagle passenger is allowed three pieces of checked luggage and two carry-on items.
