Back in the mid 90's, 2 co-workers were into trains, and I asked them if I could tag along with them, whenever they were going. Soon, I was the PR person to get us into the yards, towers, maintenance/repair facilities...etc. Without details for Wisconsin and northern IL, seeing facilities, and or just picking a spot with activity, I accumulated 6 hours of Beta tape, which eventually I transferred to DVD. The other 2 companions have VHS copies. 911, shut down our ventures. Those were the good days.
Burlington Northern at the time, Chicago, we got inside the main control room, from an unlocked entrance door. That was really scarry and security was called right away.........That control room was HUGE with all kinds of large monitors. We won't forget that excursion, but there were other vantage points outside of main Chicago.
I did purchase some HO engines and cars for a 4 X 8 layout. I mainly structured a yard using Peco switches. Anyway, my train stuff was packed, before we moved and retired in 2005. I should get it out and see if the 4 engines still work and sell my stuff to any local enthusiasts. Engines and Peco switches are in original boxes.
Ya, train watching was pretty fun with my 2 co-workers, who knew trains from one end to the other. They were much younger than me at the time, but lots of fun.