The Great Amtrak Counting Caper: St. Louis to Chicago, Stops and All (Except Maybe for That Squirrel)
Ah, the age-old question that plagues train travelers and befuddles bored children on long journeys: just how many dang stops are there between St. Louis and Chicago on Amtrak? Buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to embark on a thrilling investigation that's more exciting than counting sheep (although, sheep on a train? Now that's a story for another day).
Spoiler Alert (Kind Of): It's Not a Race, But There Are Numbers Involved
First things first, let's dispel the myth that this is a competition. There's no gold medal for the person who yells "Bingo!" first when you finally roll into Chicago. However, knowledge is power, and knowing how many stops there are can help you plan your onboard entertainment. Snack strategy is crucial, people! Are you a "one big meal" or a "grazing throughout the trip" kind of traveler? This vital information will determine the number of bags of trail mix required.
Deep Dives and Detours: Unveiling the Stop Situation
Now, onto the nitty-gritty. The number of stops between St. Louis and Chicago can vary slightly depending on the specific train you take. But fear not, intrepid explorer! The general consensus is that there are around 11 stops on this scenic route.
Here's the thing, though: Amtrak trains are like butterflies – beautiful and unpredictable. There's always a chance you might encounter a delightful detour or a brief, unscheduled stop to pick up...well, that's the beauty of the journey, isn't it? Maybe it'll be a VIP raccoon family (hey, it's Illinois!), or perhaps a particularly enterprising squirrel with a hankering for a free train ride (stranger things have happened).
So, while 11 is a good ballpark number, embrace the spirit of adventure! Who knows, you might even get a bonus stop (just don't get out at the squirrel stop, unless you're fluent in Squirrelese).
Pro Tip: Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination
Remember, the true joy of train travel lies in the experience itself. Use those stops as an opportunity to stretch your legs, grab a coffee (or a beer, no judgment!), and maybe even strike up a conversation with a fellow traveler. You never know who you might meet – a world-renowned banjo player, a knitting champion, or just someone with some fantastic stories to share.
So, the next time you find yourself on an Amtrak between St. Louis and Chicago, forget counting stops and focus on creating memories. After all, isn't that what travel is all about?
