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Post by jenjie on Jul 9, 2019 15:04:56 GMT
Have you taken the auto train? Any tips or tricks or things to be aware of?
Dd is going to school in FL in Sept. Word of Life Bible Institute FL campus. she needs to be there Friday August 30. we are taking the auto train Thurs. we will drive 3 hours to the DC area, take the train overnight, and arrive in Orlando area Friday morning. It’s a 2 hour drive from there to her school.
They serve dinner and continental breakfast in the dining car. Show a movie in the lounge car. We can bring our own drinks and snacks on board.
We got tickets for Coach, the sleepers don’t look particularly comfy anyway.
We paid the $60 to have our car be one of the first 15 off. This will potentially save us 2.5 hours of wait time.
I could fly home out of Tampa (30 mins away), but have friends in Orlando. I’m going to rent a car to drive back to Orlando. I’ll spend the weekend with them before flying home in time to get Logan to school on his first day.
I’m excited for dd and looking forward to our adventure.
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peabrain
Pearl Clutcher
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Post by peabrain on Jul 9, 2019 15:35:34 GMT
Ha Jenjie. I'm doing the auto train mid august. I've read some blogs about it that you don't sleep too well on the train due to some swaying. There's also a stop midway to change out some crew. I think it's in Florence, SC. My dh wanted the top so he could "see the world!" but the dude on the phone said after dark you don't see a damn thing. We also have my mother and he said she may have issues with the stairs. He said the bottom is a little bit bigger and the bathrooms are down there. So we went with down.
I've read that the food is OK, but expensive. I've seen the menu and I think I may pass on a steak on a train. I think there's a more relaxed dinner option where there's like crappy food my teen would be happy to eat. I'll just bring a cooler of stuff and we'll eat before hand.
I'm going to bring my earplugs and advil PM.
I just see it as a new adventure for us. Something we haven't done before. We'll see how it goes. I hope it works for you. If you google auto train some good blogs websites come up.
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Post by elaine on Jul 9, 2019 15:48:12 GMT
We are taking the auto train down in November - we’ve always wanted to do it!
Our meals are included, even though we aren’t getting a sleeping car either. So, I’m not sure about the difference between some tickets and others. We went with Coach. We are also paying the $60 have priority off loading. We are getting in in Florida the morning of a Disney Cruise, so we want plenty of time to get to Port Canaveral. The way back was significantly more expensive (like $1K more), because that is Thanksgiving Weekend, so we are driving back up from Disney World.
We’ve always wanted to do the train - we live 30 minutes from the station and go down to Orlando almost yearly - but this is the first time we decided to splurge.
I hope that you have a great time - you must update us!
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Post by christine58 on Jul 9, 2019 18:02:31 GMT
Ha Jenjie. I'm doing the auto train mid august. I've read some blogs about it that you don't sleep too well on the train due to some swaying. There's also a stop midway to change out some crew. I think it's in Florence, SC. My dh wanted the top so he could "see the world!" but the dude on the phone said after dark you don't see a damn thing. We also have my mother and he said she may have issues with the stairs. He said the bottom is a little bit bigger and the bathrooms are down there. So we went with down. My parents have done this trip round trip twice...never has there been a stop on the way. They always get the big room and sleep ok in it. I've read that the food is OK, but expensive. I've seen the menu and I think I may pass on a steak on a train. I think there's a more relaxed dinner option where there's like crappy food my teen would be happy to eat. I'll just bring a cooler of stuff and we'll eat before hand. I'm going to bring my earplugs and advil PM. I just see it as a new adventure for us. Something we haven't done before. We'll see how it goes. I hope it works for you. If you google auto train some good blogs websites come up. My parents love going to Florida this way and we always feel so much better knowing they are not driving all that way. They get the sleeper and it is pricy but it works for them. They have never complained about the food etc. |
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Deleted
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Aug 18, 2025 19:59:54 GMT
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Post by Deleted on Jul 9, 2019 18:10:19 GMT
We always used to take the auto train when the kids were younger...much more affordable than plane tickets for 6 and a car rental. Although the food is not gourmet, it is good. If you can sleep on a plane, you can sleep on the train. We never got a sleeping compartment either, very small for a lot of $$$
Enjoy.
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Post by christine58 on Jul 9, 2019 18:11:46 GMT
We never got a sleeping compartment either, very small for a lot of $$$ It's perfect for my elderly parents. |
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peabrain
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 2,588
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Post by peabrain on Jul 9, 2019 20:03:48 GMT
Ha Jenjie. I'm doing the auto train mid august. I've read some blogs about it that you don't sleep too well on the train due to some swaying. There's also a stop midway to change out some crew. I think it's in Florence, SC. My dh wanted the top so he could "see the world!" but the dude on the phone said after dark you don't see a damn thing. We also have my mother and he said she may have issues with the stairs. He said the bottom is a little bit bigger and the bathrooms are down there. So we went with down. My parents have done this trip round trip twice...never has there been a stop on the way. They always get the big room and sleep ok in it. I've read that the food is OK, but expensive. I've seen the menu and I think I may pass on a steak on a train. I think there's a more relaxed dinner option where there's like crappy food my teen would be happy to eat. I'll just bring a cooler of stuff and we'll eat before hand. I'm going to bring my earplugs and advil PM. I just see it as a new adventure for us. Something we haven't done before. We'll see how it goes. I hope it works for you. If you google auto train some good blogs websites come up. My parents love going to Florida this way and we always feel so much better knowing they are not driving all that way. They get the sleeper and it is pricy but it works for them. They have never complained about the food etc. Obviously I haven't done it myself, but two different sites I've read have said it stops, so maybe just be aware that it may? I don't know. You don't get off. It just refuels and a crew change. Jenjie, I did read on Amtrak that they want you to turn off your car alarm so that your car's battery isn't dead when you get to Orlando. I had to google how to do that, so I can forget that piece of info and be all flustered about that when I get there. Ugg. |
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Post by elaine on Jul 9, 2019 20:50:32 GMT
Ha Jenjie. I'm doing the auto train mid august. I've read some blogs about it that you don't sleep too well on the train due to some swaying. There's also a stop midway to change out some crew. I think it's in Florence, SC. My dh wanted the top so he could "see the world!" but the dude on the phone said after dark you don't see a damn thing. We also have my mother and he said she may have issues with the stairs. He said the bottom is a little bit bigger and the bathrooms are down there. So we went with down. I've read that the food is OK, but expensive. I've seen the menu and I think I may pass on a steak on a train. I think there's a more relaxed dinner option where there's like crappy food my teen would be happy to eat. I'll just bring a cooler of stuff and we'll eat before hand. I'm going to bring my earplugs and advil PM. I just see it as a new adventure for us. Something we haven't done before. We'll see how it goes. I hope it works for you. If you google auto train some good blogs websites come up. Your meals ARE included. I just checked with the Amtrak site: “ All meals for passengers with sleeping accommodations and all Auto Train passengers (no matter which class you're traveling) are included in the price of the train ticket.” according to my son - who has looked up EVERYTHING about the upcoming trip already - we get both dinner and breakfast included in the price of the ticket. |
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Post by elaine on Jul 9, 2019 20:57:26 GMT
jenjie, think about whether you want a quick visit at the train station. Depending on when you are planning to get there, I could drive down for a quick “hello.” It may be too much to add to your trip, however, which I completely understand.
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Post by jenjie on Jul 9, 2019 21:01:06 GMT
Here’s a great detailed review of the auto train experience. There’s also a link that explains what happens when you arrive. yourfirstvisit.net/2015/02/24/review-taking-the-auto-train-to-walt-disney-world/peabrain let us know how your trip goes! I read the same thing about the different floors - swaying vs noise. I chose top floor. I hope it was a good choice. The dining and observation cars are on top, restrooms are bottom. elaine have a great time at Disney! Mostly I’m glad I don’t have to drive for 2 days. I am NOT a road tripper! |
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StephDRebel
Drama Llama
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Location: Ohio
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Post by StephDRebel on Jul 9, 2019 21:01:50 GMT
I did. It was perfect for me, I had 2 two year olds and a newborn. It was difficult to get from one train car to the other with 3 little ones but the experience overall was good.
I slept a little and it was fine. Better than a plane seat. I was super excited to see the stops and they gave me a little map but its night so it was just darkness out the window.
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Post by jenjie on Jul 9, 2019 21:04:36 GMT
We always used to take the auto train when the kids were younger...much more affordable than plane tickets for 6 and a car rental. Although the food is not gourmet, it is good. If you can sleep on a plane, you can sleep on the train. We never got a sleeping compartment either, very small for a lot of $$$ Enjoy. I have a friend with a family of 7. She spends like $1400. They are not on a deadline though. With a lot of wiggle room, she calls and they help her find the cheapest tickets. Loves the experience. She said last time they paid for 7 seats and were given 12. Basically each of the kids who were old enough were given a double seat. So nice! |
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Post by jenjie on Jul 9, 2019 21:07:21 GMT
jenjie, think about whether you want a quick visit at the train station. Depending on when you are planning to get there, I could drive down for a quick “hello.” It may be too much to add to your trip, however, which I completely understand. I would love to see you!!!! Let me let you know. We are coming home early from vacation the day before - leaving the boys. not sure yet what time we will be leaving in the morning. I have some wiggle room for checkin so that may be doable! |
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Post by jenjie on Jul 9, 2019 21:08:00 GMT
jenjie My parents love going to Florida this way and we always feel so much better knowing they are not driving all that way. They get the sleeper and it is pricy but it works for them. They have never complained about the food etc. Obviously I haven't done it myself, but two different sites I've read have said it stops, so maybe just be aware that it may? I don't know. You don't get off. It just refuels and a crew change. Jenjie, I did read on Amtrak that they want you to turn off your car alarm so that your car's battery isn't dead when you get to Orlando. I had to google how to do that, so I can forget that piece of info and be all flustered about that when I get there. Ugg. Good advice! Can you imagine! |
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twinsmomfla99
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Posts: 4,248
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Post by twinsmomfla99 on Jul 9, 2019 21:08:57 GMT
In May 2000, I took the auto train from FL to VA with 9 month old twins and 6 year old DD. It was awesome!
I got a sleeper car so the twins could spread out. DD6 took the top bunk that had a net to make sure she didn’t fall out. I slept below with the twins against the wall and me on the edge to keep them corralled
Meals were included but the dining car required me to climb steps. The agent who booked our trip arranged for them to deliver meals to our car at no extra charge.
We were supposed to leave in the afternoon and arrive the next morning. Unfortunately, there was an accident between FL and VA that delayed departure until late that night, and we did not get to VA until the afternoon. However, there was plenty of room in the sleeper car for the twins to move around. I brought blankets to cover the floor (otherwise yuk!) at the agent’s suggestion, and the we’re able to keep themselves occupied.
We had sold our house in FL and closed on a house in VA. I had stayed behind to get DD6 through K and to pack up the house. DH was supposed to meet the movers then come pick us up. The movers didn’t make it until a week later (that’s a whole ‘nother story!!!!), and between that and the train delay, it was all a little stressful. However, everything that was in Amtrak’s control was top notch!
ETA: When I said DH came to pick us up, I should have clarified that he had a coworker drop him off at the train station, then he drove us to the new house, I was in no shape to brave DC traffic and try to find our house (which we bought without me seeing it 😮) with no GPS. The train was fun, but I was exhausted by then.
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Post by jenjie on Jul 9, 2019 21:10:52 GMT
In May 2000, I took the auto train from FL to VA with 9 month old twins and 6 year old DD. It was awesome! I got a sleeper car so the twins could spread out. DD6 took the top bunk that had a net to make sure she didn’t fall out. I slept below with the twins against the wall and me on the edge to keep them corralled Meals were included but the dining car required me to climb steps. The agent who booked our trip arranged for them to deliver meals to our car at no extra charge. We were supposed to leave in the afternoon and arrive the next morning. Unfortunately, there was an accident between FL and VA that delayed departure until late that night, and we did not get to VA until the afternoon. However, there was plenty of room in the sleeper car for the twins to move around. I brought blankets to cover the floor (otherwise yuk!) at the agent’s suggestion, and the we’re able to keep themselves occupied. We had sold our house in FL and closed on a house in VA. I had stayed behind to get DD6 through K and to pack up the house. DH was supposed to meet the movers then come pick us up. The movers didn’t make it until a week later (that’s a whole ‘nother story!!!!), and between that and the train delay, it was all a little stressful. However, everything that was in Amtrak’s control was top notch! Very encouraging! Sounds like a very stressful time for you but I’m glad the trip was a good experience, outside the delay. |
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Post by beepdave on Jul 9, 2019 21:39:02 GMT
We are taking the auto train down in November - we’ve always wanted to do it! Our meals are included, even though we aren’t getting a sleeping car either. So, I’m not sure about the difference between some tickets and others. We went with Coach. We are also paying the $60 have priority off loading. We are getting in in Florida the morning of a Disney Cruise, so we want plenty of time to get to Port Canaveral. The way back was significantly more expensive (like $1K more), because that is Thanksgiving Weekend, so we are driving back up from Disney World. We’ve always wanted to do the train - we live 30 minutes from the station and go down to Orlando almost yearly - but this is the first time we decided to splurge. I hope that you have a great time - you must update us! I'm hoping you chose travel insurance for your trip!! The one time we took a train, we had issues and were delayed hours waiting for repair. Luckily we didn't have to be to our destination right away, but I'm nervous for you arriving the morning of your cruise departure! |
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Post by chedanemi on Jul 9, 2019 22:35:04 GMT
We just returned from a round trip Wisconsin to Tacoma. Not the autotrain obviously, but a long (48 hours) Amtrak trip nonetheless. I would never do it again. After we stopped in Minneapolis, lots of people got off, so we were able to each take up two seats and spread out without hogging seats from anyone else. That let us get a bit more comfortable and sleep a little. I didn't eat in the dining car, but my husband did. Said the food was so/so. I brought plenty of snacks to keep me going for the two days.
The worst part was how disgustingly filthy the bathrooms got in a very short time. The crew said they are cleaned at the end of each trip, and never during the trip. Someone had dumped an entire carton of raman noodles in the sink and hadn't even bothered to attempt to clean them out. Toilets were beyond disgusting.
The seats were SO uncomfortable that both of us complained about our tailbones hurting after just a few hours. I even tried sitting on a sweater and pillow... didn't help much!
To Elaine... I agree with the other poster. I do hope you got travel insurance or that you change your trip to go down a day earlier. We were about three hours late going to Tacoma, but we were more than seven hours late getting home. Freight trains have priority in a lot of the areas, and you get slowed down by them.
It cost more than twice what airline tickets would have cost (although in your case, I understand you need your car there), and of course it took two days rather than a few hours.
Probably not what you wanted to hear about Amtrak, but this was our experience!
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Post by jenjie on Jul 9, 2019 23:47:38 GMT
chedanemi I’m sorry you had such a bad experience!
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Post by elaine on Jul 9, 2019 23:51:33 GMT
We are taking the auto train down in November - we’ve always wanted to do it! Our meals are included, even though we aren’t getting a sleeping car either. So, I’m not sure about the difference between some tickets and others. We went with Coach. We are also paying the $60 have priority off loading. We are getting in in Florida the morning of a Disney Cruise, so we want plenty of time to get to Port Canaveral. The way back was significantly more expensive (like $1K more), because that is Thanksgiving Weekend, so we are driving back up from Disney World. We’ve always wanted to do the train - we live 30 minutes from the station and go down to Orlando almost yearly - but this is the first time we decided to splurge. I hope that you have a great time - you must update us! I'm hoping you chose travel insurance for your trip!! The one time we took a train, we had issues and were delayed hours waiting for repair. Luckily we didn't have to be to our destination right away, but I'm nervous for you arriving the morning of your cruise departure! We do! And, the train is scheduled to get in at 9:00 am and we need to get to the ship by 3:30 pm, so that gives us 6 hours as a cushion. |
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Post by jenjie on Jul 10, 2019 22:20:21 GMT
jenjie, think about whether you want a quick visit at the train station. Depending on when you are planning to get there, I could drive down for a quick “hello.” It may be too much to add to your trip, however, which I completely understand. I think we can make this happen! Check your peamail. 😊 |
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Post by jenjie on Sept 3, 2019 17:36:52 GMT
Update: I loved it! I’ve read reviews where coach was noisy and the bathrooms are gross by the end of the trip. My experience was really good, but the train was mostly empty so I can’t say how it might be if it was full.
We were fortunate to be right by the stairwell so there was nobody in front of us. The seats were comfortable for what they were and there was plenty of legroom. the seats recline and there’s also a part that comes up in front like a recliner. ETA there is a standard electrical outlet for each seat. I brought an extension cord, ummm I forget what it’s called but it has several outlets and a few USB connectors. It worked great. Also there is WiFi on the train, but not the best.
Dinner was included. Pitchers of ice water and iced tea were on the table and you could buy soda or alcoholic beverages. Dessert of cheesecake or ice cream was included.
They seated parties of two with another party of two. Passengers traveling alone were seated together. There was a group across from us who seemed to be having a great time.We were each able to take 2 seats to rest.
Free continental breakfast was a banana and packaged coffee cake. Coffee, tea and hot chocolate were available any time self serve.
We paid extra for priority unloading and our car was the fourth to come. Worth it for our trip.
The train was clean and the employees were friendly and hard working.
I didn’t sleep super well but felt much more rested than I would if we had driven. Also I used a neck pillow. I didn’t think it was great while I was using it, BUT!!! I didn’t end up with a stiff neck. So it was worth it.
I would recommend this mode of travel. 👍
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Post by jenjie on Sept 3, 2019 17:44:55 GMT
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Post by mom on Sept 3, 2019 19:01:02 GMT
Im glad your experience want well! I have only ridden a train across Russia and not in the US so I wasn't sure how it would be on the inside. Thank you for sharing photos!
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Post by jenjie on Sept 3, 2019 19:15:59 GMT
mom beachgurl I added this: ETA there is a standard electrical outlet for each seat. I brought an extension cord, ummm I forget what it’s called but it has several outlets and a few USB connectors. It worked great. Also there is WiFi on he train, but not the best.
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peabrain
Pearl Clutcher
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Post by peabrain on Sept 3, 2019 19:44:09 GMT
jenjieHa! Thanks for asking. I looked for your review earlier but it wasn't up yet. First of all, we had a wonderful time in Florida. Super fun. We took the amtrak auto train down. We sat by a bulkhead so extra footroom for us too. I liked it that people weren't trampling by us. We almost got lost trying to find the dining car. I thought the food was bland, but "ok". I didn't sleep well at all and I took 2 advil pms. I think my dh and dd did worse than me though. For whatever reason, it seemed that our car was the only one that the a/c wasn't working on. It got so hot in there, my dh was dripping with sweat. In the morning, we went up for breakfast and that was fine. They sat a nice older gentleman with us as our 4th and he and my mother immediately started up a conversation. So cute. My dad's been dead 3 years now, so it was cute. I thought overall Amtrak was pretty efficient. HOWEVER, we were supposed to take the train back on Saturday, but I got an email from them that they had cancelled my train! It said train safety so I assumed they were preparing for the hurricane. We decided to cut our trip short and start driving. It all worked out ok in the end and I'm glad we're safe and not hindering people preparing for the hurricane. So a little miffed at Amtrak, but my family really didn't want to ride the train back anyway. They refunded my money. Thanks for asking and you and your daughter are SO cute! I hope she does amazing down in college!!!
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Deleted
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Aug 18, 2025 19:59:54 GMT
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Post by Deleted on Sept 3, 2019 20:00:13 GMT
Oh cool!! It looks clean and nice. GREAT option whenever we're driving back up to NY. Never thought of this!! Thanks for sharing!!! You and DD looked like you had some quality time together--you're both so cute! Thanks for stopping by here and hanging out. My door's still open (despite my schedule!) until you're back home!! Safe travels back home!
ETA: JUST realized why this wasn't an option when we drove down here to move: because we had our 2 cats traveling with us. I guess pets aren't allowed on the auto-train? Oh well. Good to keep this in mind if we drive up north for a trip!!  |
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Post by maryland on Sept 3, 2019 20:06:04 GMT
That looks like fun! Your daughter is adorable! I hope she enjoys college.
We may take the autotrain next April. One daughter is on poms and her high school marching band does a parade in Disney. Our other daughter is on her university's dance team and the compete in Nationals in Daytona. We want to go to both and I don't fly. Thanks for posting pictures! Did you send your car back in the auto train but fly back? I was confused about that. But that may be something my husband would want to do sometime on a solo trip.
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peasquared
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,176
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Post by peasquared on Sept 3, 2019 23:48:33 GMT
You two gals are so darn cute!! Sounds like a fun ride.
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Post by cadoodlebug on Sept 4, 2019 0:07:28 GMT
Great update and love your pictures ~ y'all are so cute!
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