Thumbs Up for the Auto Train

[Kim&Chris]

With all that's going on, I figured I'd post about an alternative way to get to WDW if you live along the east coast.

We did the Auto Train a few weeks ago and were very pleased. We went 'coach' which means no sleeper car - - you have to sleep in your seat. Surprisingly it was not bad at all. The seats recline into a comfy position, and, along with the pillows from home, we got a decent nights sleep.

They also serve a great dinner (chicken or fish/pasta, veggies, rice, rolls & butter, wine).

By taking the Auto Train, we had the convenience of having our own car...... and saved alot of money because we didn't need to rent one (probably saved about $200).

I'd be happy to answer questions.........

 

[DisneyHumbug]

How much does it cost? Do you pay per person? does it matter what the size of your car is?
TIA

 

[andychris14]

I would also like to know about this. I believe you have to drive to virginia. I am in Queens, NY so that probably is a 5 hour ride. I did price this and it was a little high. Is it worth it to take the auto train or the regular amtrack from penn station/grand central station( I forget where it leaves from) and then rent a car down in florida?
Do you have any children? If so how were they? I have 2 children and at the time that we will go they will be 5 and 7. Any extra info will really be appreciated. Thanks!!!

 

[DC7800]

Glad to hear you were pleased with Auto-Train. We were onboard back in July, in sleeper, and it was wonderful. The Dining Car must be one of the best on any Amtrak route.

andychris14,
Amtrak leaves from Penn Station in New York with three trains daily to Florida (Auto-Train is the 4th).

 

[poohraedopey]

would also love more info? We priced amtrak a while back and it was more expensive than airfare.

 

[Kim&Chris]

Regarding the price: The cost for two airline tix from Philly Int'l to Orlando was $350. A rental car from National was another $200.

The TOTAL cost for the Auto Train was $551, which was $1 (yes, $1) more than the cost of air/rental car.

The Auto Train's route begins in Lorton, VA at about 4:00 pm (you can begin boarding the train at about 2:30). The route ends in Sanford, FL at around 8:30 am. Once you leave the train, get your car, and drive into the Disney area, it's around 11:00 am or so.

Would I do it again? YES. Especially since any small amount of trust that I may have had in air travel has just been flushed down the toilet!!!

 

[DisneyHumbug]

So are you saying it was $551 for a car and 2 passengers??? That's not bad at all. I thought it was much more.

 

[andychris14]

disneyhumbug, I just priced the autotrain for august 2002, heres what I found out since we are both in the same area:
You have to drive to Virginia(about 5 1/2 hours) the cost of the train with the car, 2 adult and 2 kids,all your meals and a movie is $726.60.
If you want to take the train without the car which leaves from penn station the cost was $516. no meals included.
Hope this helps. I do not think the price is too bad. When you think of the cost of airfare and a rental car.

 

[Kim&Chris]

Yup, that's all it was! Of course, we booked several months prior to the trip. As with airlines, the closer you book, the more expensive it becomes. Also....Amtrak posts 'deals' on their website, so do your research before booking!

 

[DisneyHumbug]

Thanks for all the info! I may look into the auto train if my DD doesn't get over her fear of flying.