After chatting with a customer for a bit I found out its possible to go by train from Cincinnati to Chicago spend the morning and afternoon there and then return all within in 30 hours. I could literately do this if I have the right day off. The cost isn't really all that bad considering not needing a hotel room or having to deal with the gas. I talked to my parents and some friends of mine and we are all considering doing it. I'd do it next weekend but the logistics of getting a ride home from Cinci at 3 am might be a little tough.

On a side note if I wanted to take a week I could travel from Cinci, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Washington, Charlotesville and back for about $250 + two nights stay in hotels. I think I can cut things down a smidge if i keep playing with the system.

Edit: So between now and April 2014 there is only one opening for a their bedroom with private bathroom/shower. I realize this is the line from New York to Chicago but its that popular.

Edit 2: We don't have a set date for this but I wanna do now.. now... Now... NOW.

Also I worked out the loop I'd leave at 1:20 ish am in Cinci on a Monday get to Chicago at 10 am then leave at 6:pm for Washington arrive just after noon on Tuesday spend the night and leave on the Wednesday 11:00 am train and be back in Cinci at about 1:20 ish am.