Auto Train and Columbus, Ohio

[planningcrazymom]

We are going to disney in 2009 and was wondering if there is a way for us to take the auto train from somewhere around Columbus, Ohio?

 

[DC7800]

Ohio has conventional Amtrak train service (Chicago to Washington or New York routes) which you can use to reach Florida, changing trains in Washington. Most convenient stations to you are probably Cincinnati or South Portsmouth, or else Cleveland to the north (or just drive east to Pittsburgh). Unfortunately, these routes do not serve Columbus directly.

You can only catch Auto-Train in Lorton, Virginia or Sanford, Florida - between these two destinations is the only route where such a train exists (there have been proposals for other routes - don't hold your breath).

 

[planningcrazymom]

Thank you for the information. I guess we will have to choose between flying and driving. It sure would be nice to have the auto train option though. One more choice is always good.

 

[denisegold]

The Auto Train really is cool. We live in Mass, and had to bring a car down to my mother in law, who lives in Clearwater, so the Auto Train was perfect. We drove to Lorton (about 7 hours), got on the train at 3pm, and the next morning, we were in Sanford. (Clearwater is about 90 minutes from Sanford). We had a very nice dinner on the train, and sleeper cars. It's too bad that after all these years, they haven't added a couple more Auto Train stops. I highly recommend it to anyone who is thinking about it, and what a trip for kids!!

PS- it looks like about a 7 hour drive for you from Columbus to Lorton! Why not do what we did - drive to Lorton, and wake up in Sanford! You'll have your own car in Florida- no rental car fees.

 

[planningcrazymom]

That is a thought. If we decide to drive we would stop for the night somewhere anyway. So we could drive about 1/2 way and take a train the other half. Thanks for the idea. I will have to talk it over with my daughter since she will be doing most of the driving.