Okay question...since I don't travel by train and will be for the first time this summer, what is this lounge you speak of in chicago. On my return trip from NJ I will have a 8-9 hour layover in chicago waiting to catch the Cardinal back to indianapolis. I figured my only option was the lockers they offered at the station for luggage storage, is there another option?
Assuming that you're traveling in a sleeping car either into Chicago or are in a sleeper on the departing Cardinal, then as a sleeping class passenger you are entitled to utilize Amtrak's first class lounge in Chicago. These lounges are a nice quiet refuge in the often-bustling train station. They have nice plush chairs, conference rooms, computer terminals, newspapers, TV's, luggage storage, free soft drinks, juices, coffee, tea, and clean safe bathrooms. They also allow you to board your train before the rest of the masses.
In Chicago the lounge is called the "Metropolitan Lounge". It is located on the lower level of Union Station, which is also the track level. If you are standing in front of the Amtrak ticket windows, then the Amtrak waiting area is to your left. When you enter the main Amtrak waiting area through a sliding glass door, just walk forward and slightly to the left. There should be another sliding glass door along with a sign, unless they've changed the entrance in the last few months. Again, just show your tickets and relax.
They'll also give you a card that contains the time that you need to return to the lounge by, in order to board the train and not miss it. If you do leave the lounge, take this card with you as it is also your pass for reentering the lounge. Just wave it at the attendants as you walk in and one will usually look up and acknowledge you and the card. Note the Chicago lounge can be very busy and it sometimes can be hard to get a seat, but you still get the free stuff and priority boarding.
Note: They may make you leave your carry-on bags in the luggage room inside the lounge, if the lounge is very crowded. There is a redcap manning this room who will give you a claim check for your bags, such that you can claim them shortly before you board the train. One nice advantage of this is the fact that you can park your carryon bags here, while you wander around Chicago and do lunch, assuming that your trains arrive on time.
Also never leave any valuables in your luggage or your bedroom when you are not there. Take all wallets and purses with you, when you are moving about the train. There are usually no problems, but don't tempt the fates. Also don't leave any important medicines in your luggage while in Chicago, keep it with you.
