We are wanting to have a one-way train experience with friends who have not trained before. Which has the best scenery - from Seattle to Emeryville or the other way around? I've heard that this is the "wine train" with PNW wines served at Happy Hour.
Also - can you recommend a place to stay around Emeryville Station or Jack London Station?
Thanks!

From Seattle down the views are better.

Yes, wine and cheese served in the afternoon.

I recommend you make it a vacation in San Francisco - an Amtrak bus will be waiting for you at Emeryville to take you in the city.