Auto Train to Florida

[b243923]

Anybody has experience in taking the Auto Train to Florida.

We are currently booked on the train to leave Lorton Virgina on Thursday Feb 18th. It will be our first time and do not know what to expect.

With the bad weather recently, the train has been cancelled everyday since Friday including today. They say trees and wires are downed so the train cannot run, hopefully in a week it will all be cleared.

Thanks

Ben

[tonyg]

Relations used it for their annual migrations several years ago and seemed to love it even though it only covered half of their total trip.

[Nancy]

We did it a couple of years ago. If you have any specific questions, I'll try to answer. We loved it. We travel from VA to FL and back several times a year and live near the Lorton Station. Cost has been the factor that we haven't used it more often.

Nancy

[b243923]

We chose to take the auto train based on the cost. We figure with gas and 2hotel stays each way it would exceed the cost we paid. We paid 662.00 for the 2 of us. The price has gone up over a $100.00 since we booked 2 weeks ago.

Nancy has the weather gotten any better in Lorton. Have you heard of they are making progress in fixing the downed wires and trees which have stopped the train from running since last Friday.

Thanks

Ben

[longtimer]

We took the auto train last July, round trip. DH is a real train buff, so this was the highlight of his trip. For 4 people, it was about the same cost as driving and an overnight stay each way. But I saved alot on the wear and tear on my van. The train personnel on the way down were exceptional. So was the food. You have to select a dinner time slot when you check-in. If you have kids and want to catch the movie (shown in the lounge car), take the first seating. Otherwise I recommend the second seating. The food was good (you get your choice of three to four entrees, dessert and free carafe of wine). There are plenty of free snacks before you embark (if the train is crowded, and you want to snack, grab some right away - it may go fast). Coffee, tea is free during the trip. The bar is open for drinks and soda at an extra cost. (if you prefer soda during dinner you have to purchase it at the bar - they don't serve soda during dinner - better to bring a few bottles with you - water too! It gets dry at night). There is a free continental breakfast the following morning. It's first come, first served. So if you don't get there right when the announcement is made, you will probably have to wait until a table is free. The worst part of the trip was the sleeping arrangements. The seats recline, but they are still uncomfortable. Take along small pillows and light blankets. The ones they give you are inadequate. If the car you are seated in has some empty seats, grap a free seat when the train leaves. That way you can stretch out and get a better night's sleep. If you have any other questions, feel free to PM me.

[Riperoo]

We took it several years ago and loved it, it was an adventure, and the train ride is much more relaxing the driving on 95. Go for it, you will enjoy it.

[Nancy]

Can't comment on Lorton conditions as I'm in Florida. DC area is expecting lots more snow today, but so far nothing yet.

Nancy

[Drunk Cyclist]

I had no idea there was such a thing. Neat.

We've been wanting to do a train trip and I do hate I 95. Very Stressful driving.

[libraria]

Here's a site for seasoned Amtrak travelers, if you have any further questions. Click on Amtrak Rail Discussions

Amtrak Unlimited Discussion Forum (Powered by Invision Power Board)

[jericap]

Our family took it when we were kids...I still remember everything about it and it had to be about 35- 40 years ago. Great experience!