Skytop and Super Dome Chicago Trip

Outstanding!  What are the three cars special to this trip?   Sounds like a blast !

Tom, since you are coming back to the Twin Cities, and missed out visiting the last time, you're welcome to come over to see the layout if you have time on either end of the ride.

I would also suggest that you try to get over to the Twin Cities Model Railroad Museum. There has been a lot of talk that time is running out for them in their current space.

Drop me an email.

Sorry, I got a little excited there and didn't finish reading your full post.

I haven't been rail fanning much lately as I have been in my basement working on the layout. I do have sources that keep their ears to the rails. There hasn't been much news lately. Oil prices have dropped, and traffic through the Twin Cities seems to be under better control.

With regard to your trip over the CP, once the Builder gets to St Paul it is usually pretty smooth sailing to Chicago. The question is how late will it be getting in on the BNSF. Since the Builder originates in Chicago, your return trip should be on time barring the unforeseen.

Yes, I believe freight traffic is less on the weekends, but the "holiday" may not have much influence on Monday. Is it even a holiday in Canada?

Hi Tom - Can not help with the operations.

     It sounds like a great RR Trip.

Gary

Cheers from The

I cross the Metra Milwaukee District North Route on my way to/from work at one of Touhy/Oakton/Lincoln/Dempster streets, and I have not seen a freight train on that route for at least 10 years. It is mostly Metra commuter trains. I have seen the Empire Builder on it.

There's a junction further north, I think freight trains separate from Metra at that point, near what used to be the Glenview naval air station.

Should I consult an Amtrak schedule in trying to guess what time?

Unfortunately Labor Day priority #1 is mom's birthday.

Tom, are you doing the full tilt deal and camping here?

One of these years, I'm making this trip.

Yes, we took them up on the full package.  I also bought tickets to go to a Cubs game at Wrigley Field while we are there.  The Jazz Fest is going on also, in Millennium Park.  It is my understanding (and hope) that the Palmer House is the hotel.