Book your ticket on Amtrak's Web site (see Resources) or by calling (800) USA-RAIL.
Book your tickets online for the best fare prices. Remember to check out the weekly specials and seasonal discounts.
Upgrade your seating to a sleeper car for privacy. The trip from Chicago to Kansas City aboard the Ann Rutledge is about 12 hours and a nap will most likely be quite enjoyable during your journey.
Buy your ticket before you board the train at Chicago. All seats are reserved and cannot be purchased at the station or on board the train.
Take a smoke break before you board the train in Chicago. Smoking is not permitted on the train. You may smoke at the station platform when announced by the train crew during longer stops on your journey from Chicago to Kansas City.
Rent a digEplayer to listen to music or watch movies during your train travel from Chicago to Kansas City. The portable entertainment devices are about $15 to rent and are conveniently returned via included postage paid envelopes.
Make dining reservations for dinner. Amtrak crew members will ask you if you would like to make dinner and table reservations once you have boarded the train in Chicago. Keep in mind that dinner is served from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and reservations are available in 15 minute increments.
Check out the sightseer car for the best views on the Ann Rutledge. The trip will take up most of the day and to best experience train travel, a great view on the sightseer car will be the highlight of your trip.
