Have you ever wished for a travel experience that combines the nostalgia of train rides with the convenience of having your own car? 🚂✨ Well, I recently embarked on an exciting journey aboard Amtrak’s AutoTrain, and let me tell you—it was a game changer! From Virginia to Florida, this trip was all about relaxation, scenic views, and making memories with my granddaughters. Ready to dive into the details? Let’s go!
What is the Amtrak AutoTrain?
Okay, but can we talk about how unique the Amtrak AutoTrain is? It’s the only train service in the U.S. that lets you bring your vehicle along for the ride. Can you imagine hopping on a train that’s nearly a mile long, knowing your car is right there with you? This isn’t just a train ride; it’s an experience that combines comfort with the freedom of having your own wheels waiting at your destination. 🚗💨
I was shocked to discover how many people don’t even know this service exists! This past June, I finally had a chance to try it out. My granddaughters and I set off from Grand Rapids, making a pit stop in Pennsylvania to pick up two more granddaughters before heading to Lorton, Virginia, the departure point for the AutoTrain.
Now, here’s a tip: the train departs at 4 PM, but if you’re bringing a car, you need to arrive by 2:30 PM. We hit a little traffic around Washington D.C., but thankfully, we made it with time to spare. Once we arrived, we handed over our car to the attendants and headed inside the station while we waited for boarding. The stations at Lorton and Sanford, Florida, where the train arrives, are pretty similar, but Sanford has more amenities—like a food truck park! Who else loves food trucks? 🍔🌮
The Journey: Comfort and Fun
The train ride itself was quite the adventure! On the way down, we lucked out—there were fewer passengers, so each of us had a whole row to ourselves. It was perfect for stretching out and catching some Zs. But the return trip? Total plot twist! It was packed with travelers, with 44 train cars in total. Sleeping in a reclining seat was a bit of a challenge, but we managed to make it work.
If I had traveled solo, I would have totally splurged on a roomette, which is a cozy little private room with foldable bunk beds. They’re not huge, but the privacy is worth it, especially for a longer journey. Did I mention meals are included? 🍽️ However, since I had my granddaughters with me, we opted for coach seating to save some cash. Next time, though? I might just treat myself to that roomette!
One of the best parts of this experience was the relaxed vibe on the train. We could get up, walk around, play cards in the lounge, and even visit the café car. It felt so much less stressful than driving, and everyone was enjoying the ride. Plus, with my car waiting at the other end, we had the flexibility to explore without the hassle of renting a vehicle.
Final Thoughts: Would I do it again?
Absolutely! The AutoTrain is not just about getting from Point A to Point B; it’s about the journey itself. I loved being able to enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving. My granddaughters had a blast too—who doesn’t love a little adventure? 🌟
And here’s a little secret: I paid a bit extra to have our car unloaded first when we got to Florida. This way, we could maximize our sightseeing time right away! It’s all about those little hacks, right? Of course, on the way back, we just chilled and waited for our car, which took about 45 minutes.
If I plan another trip to Florida with my grandkids, you can bet I’ll be choosing the Amtrak AutoTrain again. Have you heard about it? Would you give it a go? Let’s chat about it! 👇