I'll make a few comments regarding both trains. In some ways, this pair of trains can be complete opposites of one another. The Builder had all double deck cars, while # 49 has only single level cars. The Builder is one of the most punctual trains (usually) in the Network, while #49 tends to be hit-or-miss. This is due in part to the landlord frieght RRs over which Amtrak's trains travel. The landlords over the Builder's route, Canadian Pacific RR and, west of Saint Paul, Burlington Northern, have had decent relationships with Amtrak. Norfolk Southern, OTOH, is indifferent to Amtrak's presence on their track. Simply put, if Amtrak wanted to Norfolk Southern to make the passenger trains a priority, then Amtrak should offer higher financial compensation in return for access to NS's track. In other words, NS's attitude is that if Amtrak wants to be a higher priority, then Amtrak should offer higher rent payments or some other form of incentive in order to make the effort at punctuality worth the landlord's energy and time. Of course, Amtrak has nevr really had the funding available to do this, so we are in the current situation. NS is a profit driven company. If you want their attention, you have to name the right amount of money.
Also, many of the freight RRs have to pay for all of their own track maintenace and track capacity expansion. This is different than the highways or airports, which are supported via taxpayer funds. What this means is that Amtrak's timeliness and punctuality can depend upon the individual route, the landlord, and the landlord's maintenance budget. Just like highways can have reduced-speed zones for maintenance, so can RRs. It is important to enter this experience with a positive mental attitude, where you are going to make the best of the situation no matter what happens. I've taken this particular route on numerous occasions when I've travelled from Saint Cloud to D.C., and some of the ways that the landlord RRs treat Amtrak are as different as night and day. BN and CP RR's will get Amtrak over the rails in a reasonable fashion, while NS seems to be indifferent. I'm a bit more partial to taking # 29 & 30 vs #49.
I digress, however.
One sight that should be seen, provided that you have the time, is the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. The Field Museum is another must-see. The Field Museum is within walking distance, while the Science and Industry Museum will require a taxi ride. You'll certqainly have the opportunity to see the US at "see" level. Once you arrive in la Crosse, WI, you'll take the route adjacent to the Mississippi River. some board members find this to be picturesque. The train arrives in Saint Cloud after midnight, and the local Yellow Cab Co. can be reached at 800.450.8294. It really is a nice trip, and much more relaxing than either driving or flying.
