MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — According to Amtrak, Nov. 22 is the second busiest day of the busiest season for holiday travel.
They said they were ready to take on the crowd.
“Wednesday used to be the busiest day, but more people are taking the week off, and more universities are offering the week off,” said Mark Magliari, Amtrak’s senior communications manager. .
The Hiawatha Line was created to be Milwaukee Amtrak’s most popular line.
“This is amazing,” said excited train passenger Jake Hurst, 11.
Hurst is traveling to Chicago with her mother for Thanksgiving and said she loves traveling by train.
“I really like the feel of the train. You can go through traffic and do everything,” Hurst said.
The boy wasn’t the only one who chose Amtrak as his mode of transportation.
Appleton resident John Axlewith said his vacation trip cost him dollars and cents.
“I’d rather take the train because it’s cheaper and more affordable, and it’s something new and an experience,” Axlwitz says.
Still, some people prefer the open road.
AAA predicted that more than 55 million Americans will drive their cars this Thanksgiving.
“Once you get into the city, you need a car to get around, so the train is convenient, but you still have to get around,” said Marcia Pearson, a woman who travels by car.
Mitchell International Airport officials had expected more than 20,000 travelers a day.
Kathleen Hurley, a woman who traveled by plane, said, “I didn’t have much time, so I wanted to see my family in Madison. I love the Milwaukee airport because it’s so accessible.”
Experts say to keep spirits up, leave early and be prepared for traffic and delays.
Amtrak predicts the next busiest day will be Sunday.
While at the airport, all matches appeared to be proceeding as planned.