any experience with Amtrak?

[disneydebi]

After our recent trip to Disney, my DH swears he's never getting on a plane again (bad flight home - very scarey). He says for our next trip, we should try the train. He remembers taking it as a teen when his family went to WDW. Given a choice between the Train and 2 days in the car with the kids (would be coming from Massachusetts), I'd likely opt for the train, but I'm wondering if any of you have experience with it. From our state, we would have to change trains either in NY or DC. As much as I don't like to fly, I hate the idea of trying to keep 2 small kids busy and contained for a 24 hour trip on the train. I don't think we could afford a sleeper either, as I believe that is very expensive. I'd rather just get there quicker. Anyone have any first hand info or advice?

Thanks.

 

[DC7800]

disneydebi,
I have been all the way from Orlando to Boston and back by Amtrak, and it's a wonderful way to travel.

Depending on when your next trip is, you may not have to change trains. Amtrak plans to extend one train, the Silver Meteor, north to Boston by next year. Before then, you'll probably change in New York.

It should be easier to keep children occupied on the train than in a car. They can bring favorite toys, handheld video games, radio/CD, etc. On the train, everyone can get up and stroll around when you feel like it, get a snack from the lounge car, or meet other adults (and other children, too).

A sleeper is more expensive, but keep in mind that first-class sleeper accomodations include the price of meals (Coach doesn't), reducing the difference substantially. Also, if you wanted to drive about the first 450 miles to Lorton, Virginia you could take the auto-train to Disney - along with your own car. You have to reach Lorton by about 3:00 p.m., but this would then take the place of your motel-night stay, and you wake the next morning in Sanford, Florida (just north of Orlando).

Best of luck planning your trip.

 

[gofenmom]

I've never done the reg. Amtrak train to Fl but friends have (she doesn't fly) and enjoyed themselves. My family always does the AutoTrain. The AutoTrain departs from Lorton,VA just south of DC off of 95. Many people drive from the New England states and then take the AutoTrain to Sanford just north of Orlando off of I-4. This way you have your own car. Amtrak is now running a special 30% off rail fare and if you belong to AAA an additional 10% the car/van. Vans/SUV's are more expensive than cars. Children's fares have been 29 each way in the past. It is good to call several times to check fares. Some agents have the time or work harder to get you the cheapest fares. You can hold reservations from 3 days (on the 30% reduced fares) to 7days. I've made several reservations to check fares then cancel the ones I don't want.
We have done the AutoTrain a couple of times a year since 95 and enjoy the trip everytime.. At first we did coach and made out fine. Now we spend the extra money and get a sleeper. The deluxe sleeps 3 adults with a bathroom/shower in the room. Standard sleeps two and a family (I've had 2 adults and 3 older children in one.) Your dinner, breakfast, and a movie are covered in your ticket. You leave Lorton at 4 pm, but you have to check in by 2. The train arrives in Sanford, FL around 9 am the next morning.
I have other posts about the AutoTrain on this board I'll try to bump them up. If you have any questions feel free to email or pm us.
Georgiana