Amtrak

[darkkskyzz]

I am trying to cut costs...shocker! Myself, DH, and DD12 were thinking of going to WDW 12/26.
Airfare is thru the roof...$900 pp are you kidding me!

I looked into Amtrak (Boston to Orlando) and that I can handle.

Has anyone ever done this trip?

AND...how would I get from the train station to my hotel? (POP)

I assume ME doesn't go to the train station...

Any hints?

 

[chrismass]

I'm also doing Amtrak for the first time (NYC), ME doesn't pick up at the station, but I'm renting a car. I'd imagine you could do the usual routes for hotel transportation - cab, MEARS, private car, it shouldn't be too much more than paying from the airport, they're in the same vicinity. Good luck!

 

[beccasmom]

Amtrak is a good alternative if you have the time. The seats are certainly more comfortable, they recline and there is a good deal of leg room, unlike most airline coach seats! If you disembark at the Orlando station, you can use Mears or a taxi to get to your resort. I think you may even be able to make a reservation to do that; not completely sure though.

Take some items to keep yourself occupied - books, music, games, etc. - as the view outside the window is not very engrossing (remember, Amtrak runs along freight lines). There are a good many stops. I think it is a good idea to pack some snacks and beverages even if you will be using the dining car - something "non-melty" and a few bottles of water. Also, you may want to take a small pillow/blanket to make your journey more comfortable and to make it possible to sleep a bit easier. Dress comfortably or you can change in the lavatory - there's enough room to do that. Remember to keep one bag handy that contains all you will need on your journey - change of clothes, toiletry items, snacks, miscellaneous items.

 

[NJBILL]

Amtrak is a good alternative if you have the time. The seats are certainly more comfortable, they recline and there is a good deal of leg room, unlike most airline coach seats! If you disembark at the Orlando station, you can use Mears or a taxi to get to your resort. I think you may even be able to make a reservation to do that; not completely sure though.

Take some items to keep yourself occupied - books, music, games, etc. - as the view outside the window is not very engrossing (remember, Amtrak runs along freight lines). There are a good many stops. I think it is a good idea to pack some snacks and beverages even if you will be using the dining car - something "non-melty" and a few bottles of water. Also, you may want to take a small pillow/blanket to make your journey more comfortable and to make it possible to sleep a bit easier. Dress comfortably or you can change in the lavatory - there's enough room to do that. Remember to keep one bag handy that contains all you will need on your journey - change of clothes, toiletry items, snacks, miscellaneous items.

We have also done this several times with kids. The advice given above is right on target..The train trip is "part of the vacation"..not a way to "get to" vacation..You may also want to check on the Amtrak Auto-Train..While higher than "coach", you get a dinner and a small breakfast included in the price and you have your car.
Also remember that train tickets are priced in "buckets", with cheaper tickets going first, and get more expensive as the train fills up..so book early.

 

[Missytara]

My parents did the car train a couple of years ago, and they found it to be almost as expensive as flying, but they did have their car. They stay in Venice, FL every year for about two weeks. They said they didn't get much sleep, since the whistle blew at every crossing and some kids were a bit restless. They went to the upper level on the way back and found it a bit more relaxing.

 

[STOCKYJIM]

I am going from NYC to Orlando by amtrak in September - When we factored in the cost of a hotel room for one night, and the cost and hassle of flights, we decided that it was actually cheaper to go firstclass with amtrak and book a "sleeper" . This might not work out cheaper for you as there are only 2 of us, but the price is only 1 cost per room and includes meals and some soft drinks. There was no contest for us!!!

I hope your trip goes well.

James

 

[padisneylover]

This will be my 5th year taking Amtrak to Orlando. I get on in Philadelphia so it is the same train you would be using. Each trip has been very pleasant but I also get a sleeper. Yes it cost a little more but your meals are included but tips of course. Any beverages you want and a nice place to stretch out at night as well as your own bathroom.
Once I reach Orlando I take a town car to the resort and my own recommendation would be not to take Mears as I got stuck on our first trip for 3 hours waiting for them to come for us. Haven't used them since and wouldn't recommend them. There is always taxis hanging around when the train comes into Orlando anxious to take you. I just prefer the town car that way I know who is driving me and the type of service I will receive and as well they will be there waiting for me.

 

[pepe of ohio]

I don't know if the search is working but I've posted many a time on using Amtrak, getting off at Kissimmee instead of Orlando, car service than I care to repeat. If the search does not work, PM me and I'll happily give you the low down on regular train service, we've used Amtrak over 18 times from northeast Ohio to Kissimmee and enjoy every minute of it. I'm not a flyer and got too old to do the 1200 mile drive, Amtrak is great to stretch out and relax the whole way and rest old tired bones.

 

[beccasmom]

Here is some more info on disembarking at Kissimmee vs Orlando stations --

http://www.mousesavers.com/train.html

 

[car55]

I've done Amtrak from Connecticut to Orlando three times now. All these trips were fun. I get a sleeper from New York. It is comfortable and private. Meals are included. I've never done this trip in coach but met many people who have. Most liked it. A few others didn't. I make the train travel part of the vacation and have met many nice people on my trips. When you book a sleeper out of NY you can relax while waiting for your train in Club Acela for first class passengers. I just booked my fourth trip. you can save money by booking early and Amtrak has a good cancelation policy. Have fun

 

[clanmcculloch]

Have you checked flights with Southwest Airline? Manchester, NH is cheaper than Boston on your outbound date. You don't say your return date so I couldn't look that up for you.