Has anyone done long distance travel on Amtrak?

I'm especially interested in the City of New Orleans between Chicago and NOLA. I have a friend I want to visit in NOLA, but danged, it's between $500-$600 for a Feb trip AFTER Mardi Gras to fly. For the same dates, the City of NOLA is $234 round trip, coach (down on Thursday back on Monday). I've got the extra vacation days to burn.

Thanks!