We used to travel to Florida from NJ by train. We had the little bedroomettes or whatever they were called - 2 person, and then we also traveled in the 4 person bigger bedrooms/seats. It was fun way back when.
I believe there are empty dining cars you can take breaks in, use the tables, play a game or so whenever it wasn't meal servicing. Yahtzee, cards, travel quirkle, etc. My friend and I would sit, play games, bring snacks, and chill. Check if you will be able to charge while traveling, watch a movie, see if they have a microwave for all to use, pop popcorn. Or check with train about wifi availability. With listening, or headpohones, try a headphone splitter - so you can both watch same, but have individual headphones.
We would get up and walk around a bunch- usually 1 or 2 time walking the distance of the train from beginning to end too.... just to see new faces, count cars, and move around. People are friendly (or were) and we would make friends easily.
If not eating in the dining car, then pack sandwiches, snacks (mandarins, fruit cups, pretzels, cheese sticks, nuts, granola bars, yogurt, etc.) Take more than you think, lol! I think you could probably ask for ice if you needed. Check if the train has a water cooler to fill up at and just bring a refillable insulated cup. Mio water flavoring to squeeze into water to change up flavors. Wet wipes.
Make sure you try to sleep, if you don't, the trip becomes even longer. Maybe ear buds or eye mask to help that. Light blanket for comfort. Blow up pillow? We had the little bedrooms so all of that was provided. It was go to bed early, rise early though....
I hope you have a blast. I have only good memories of our train trips!
