Extra service in Downstate Illinois; Reservations required for Hiawathas
CHICAGO –Amtrak is prepared to accommodate the surge of Thanksgiving travelers with additional capacity on Amtrak MidwestSM network [1] routes for the holiday in Illinois, Michigan, Missouri and Wisconsin, plus extra trains to Downstate Illinois stations in Normal and Quincy [2]. While we will operate every available passenger railcar, our trains sell out quickly and customers are encouraged to plan ahead and book tickets [3] early.
The Chicago-Milwaukee corridor is the Midwest’s busiest and space is limited on Amtrak Hiawatha Service [4], so a reservation will be required to travel from Nov. 26 – Dec. 2. This route is sponsored by the state transportation departments in Wisconsin [5] and Illinois [6]. Our Amtrak Midwest Services in Michigan [7] and Missouri [8] are also sponsored by those states’ DOTs.
At Chicago Union Station, Sleeping Car and Business Class customers, as well as top-tier Amtrak Guest Rewards [9] members, can experience the Metropolitan Lounge [10] and pre-board their trains. Coach customers can purchase day passes to the lounge.
Customers with questions can connect directly with Amtrak customer service representatives via social media. Other tips:
- Follow @Amtrak [11] on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to connect with customer service and receive the latest news including sales and updates on new offerings
- On Twitter, follow @AmtrakAlerts [12] for real-time service information on Amtrak Midwest and other trains
- We encourage customers to share their Amtrak experience on all social media by tagging @Amtrak [13] and using the hashtag #Amtrak in their posts
- Download the Amtrak app [14] for easy booking and travel updates
Last year, Amtrak had its largest passenger count ever during the Thanksgiving week with more than 846,000 riders on its trains across the country; more than 160,000 customers on the Sunday following Thanksgiving.