Hi, I got this issue. I expect to be in Windy city soon. It always great to be there… but this time, I will be with two people not railfans at all. It will be their first time in town and they just want to visit the attractions and the architecture landmarks. They have absolutely no interest in trains. If I was by myself, I would go to big action locations like Rochelle or Joliet, but I won’t pass the test this time. Except the downtown stations, have you an idea of where to go for watching / taking pictures of trains in the city without they realize the trick and have everybody happy?
Thanks in advance, Jeff
www.barraclou.com/rail
www.movingwheels.com
First thing that comes to mind is the observation deck of the Sears Tower- a classic tourist attraction from where you can observe lots of railroad action (albeit not very close-up).
If you Take a Metra Train on the BNSF line http://metrarail.com/Sched/bn/bn.shtml , you’ll run in to the Downers Grove Stations, or Napperville is a good spot to. Email me i might be able to meet you if its not to early or on a school day! [:D][:D]
Museum of Science and Industry [:D]
Roosevelt Rd across the Amtrak railyards. You’ll get everything out of Union Station: both eastern and western-line Amtraks and Metra is phasing in new engines. But it’s also a good skyline!
Also, if you go to Museum of Science and Industry or most other things in Hyde Park, you can take the Metra (formerly IC) Electric and not get hassled with parking. They, too, are bringing in some new equipment.
Thanks for your help. I got some unexpected opportunities in town, but the museum idea was very nice. I will post my pictures on my website soon.
Hi Jeff
I live in the South Suburbs. Take Metra Electric to Flossmoor. The Flossmoor Station is a neat brew pub / restaurant at the Flossmoor Station. Was there last night for dinner between 5:30 and 7:00 and saw loads of Metra, 2 northbound “box car” trains, and the southbound piggyback train. If the weather is nice, sit outside for train viewing.
Doug