My wife and I made the trip in Jan 2023. You accurately documented the entire experience. To avoid 800+ miles on I-95, Autotrain is well worth the cost.
I love taking amtrak with my son. We have down a million times but recently started taking the train from DC to Tampa. THE SILVER STAR is such a great experience and adventure. We stock up on snacks being comfy bedding and have now done both coach and sleeper. I love amtrak! Amazing memories!
I rode the Auto Train in 1976 coming back from Disney. We drove down from Northern Virginia and I guess my dad didn't want to drive all the way back. There were too many of us in one car. So, we got a double room and a triple room and I was on the top bunk. It was glorious! Best sleep I've ever gotten in my life and I was just a kid!
We’ve taken the Auto-Train many times and would do it again. I love that someone (over the intercom) describes locations of interest along the route. It’s not Japanese train elegance with meticulous attention to details and art but it’s a really pleasant, relaxing trip and you have the advantage of not having to drive that distance and having your car once you arrive.
I just did the auto train for the first time and it was 10+ hours delayed, not including the extra hours checked in at the terminal and waiting for vehicle loading/unloading. You'd have to be a moron to take this trip more than once. I did it because it was advertised a certain way and I didnt want to add the mileage to my vehicle. But as someone who is not American, it was disgusting and I think Americans just have a lower standard than most. If you're used to impolite people coughing, nudging and being generally loud and disgusting, you're gonna ADORE this trip. You'll absolutely looooove overhearing extremely loud conversations by MAGA veterans boasting about how they wanted to shoot up the Pakistani embassy after 9/11. If you're from a civilized nation where people have some sort of manners, you'll be stuck on a journey with a group of loud and disgusting morons. And no, I wasn't in coach. I had a bedroom and it too was terribly uncomfortable. Not to mention, there was a woman picking lice out of her child's hair in the bar cart. As soon as my journey ended, I got a full refund because of the recorded evidence I provided. HORRIBLE.
I took this ride in July 2021. I was driving from NY to Miami Florida. Decided to try the Auto Train. Drove from NY to Lorton VA. Stayed overnight in a hotel 2 minutes from the train station. There were a plethora of stores and restaurants within minutes from my hotel. Had a great meal and a great night's sleep. After a complimentary breakfast, went to the shopping center and got some snacks and a takeout lunch as well as a bottle of Irish whiskey for the trip. I was 3rd in line at 11:30. Glad I had lunch with me. It was hours before we left at 4:00 pm. Food is expensive at the train station. I booked a bedroom. It was small at first, but I got used to it pretty quick. I brought my DVD player as there is no entertainment on the train. I had a very good dinner. I met some interesting people. My bed was ready for me when I got back. The staff were fantastic. I did tip everyone. Thankful for the whiskey, I got a few hours' sleep. lol. It was rocking a lot. After a quick shower, a nice breakfast, I was on my way.
@@DrMarianus No need to hide liquor. You are free to bring any food and drinks. There is no smoking of any kind on the train and no "fresh air" breaks.
@@mjam631 Last time we took the Auto train just before the pandemic, there was one short fresh air break along the route, I think in Florence, so several people hopped off and had a smoke. Most people were sleeping. We stayed in a roomette which is cheaper but compact and reasonably comfy. They'd discontinued the free wine "tasting" for "first class" by then, but knew about it and had brought our own wine to enjoy in our room before dinner. Do the lounges on the Auto train have a bar?
@@hatchling88 Thanks for replying. There is a food and beverage car that anyone can buy prepared food, vine, beer and liquor. It is very expensive, and the food is similar to 7-11 microwave products. Maybe it was because I was travelling through the pandemic, but I was not permitted to leave the train at the employees exchange stop.
I took Amtrak from Seattle to Santa Fe. I really enjoyed myself. The scenery was beautiful. The food was good and I met delightful people from New Zealand. So much fun!
I’ve traveled cross country on Amtrak couple times Is was awesome and met very nice people. I’ve traveled with grandchildren and they loved it and still talk of the train rides. I’ll never fly again, may take longer but so much more pleasure 🇺🇸👍❤️
This is the first Amtrak video out of dozens that I have seen that show and describe each of the trains outside and inside. Great job. For like $1,500 that is a nice ride and bringing your car along.
We took this auto train many times an loved it every time . I' m handicapped now and will miss this great experience but have great memories to hold on too.
I've really been wanting to take a train trip. I appreciate you showing the inns and outs of it. Im quite claustrophobic, so it gave me a true look. Thank you.
It was a fantastic experience. I had accessible seating and it was top notch. Plenty of room for my legs and bags and the staff was so attentive to my needs. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
I took the auto train and stayed in coach. I brought my own food and plenty of drinks. I brought a pillow and I reclined both of my seats fully and was able to sleep peacefully. My entire trip cost me $600.
@@iluvcruisingYou can only travel on the auto train with your vehicle. However, he’s lying about the seats fully reclining. They do recline, but not fully.
@@AFMIL2862 I believe what she meant by “reclined my seat fully” is that she reclined it as far as it would go (thus, fully). I can’t imagine what it would be like for the person behind you, if the seats fully reclined. 😂😂
Amtrak is the best way to travel, especially if you don't drive anymore. We LOVE it! The flat iron steak is "to die for", and the lemon cake is great! Thanks for sharing.😊
If you're considering the Auto train please give it a try. I napped and ate and arrived feeling fine instead of exhausted and red eyed. Good food, great attendants, comfortable bed and a huge, sparkling clean shower in the morning. Can't wait to go again!
This is my favorite way to travel between Florida (now home) and home town in Maryland. I always take a sleeper it is worth the price for me. Traveling alone I choose the Roomette but when my kids were little I close the family room or apartment. Always a great way to transverse 800 miles instead of traffic between Florida and DC. I have learned to take my pillow and pack plenty of snacks Sometimes CSX delays the train and having a private stash helps. I load up my car and carry on essentials in the event of a delay. As far as locks on doors, it does not seem to be a problem. Mine have always locked while inside and I carry my valuables to the dining car.
My Adult Daughter and Adult Son were asked to bring their Aunts car to Florida from NJ due to a medical emergency in Florida. I was not thrilled at the idea of these two 20 year olds driving to Florida . I quickly called the Auto Train , but because of last minute booking could only get them a Roomette. The drive from NJ to Lawton Va is about 2.5 hours. They both loved it and said the food and train travel experiance was great. I wish i could go but I have a dog and the Auto Train / Amtrak does NOT allow dogs.
@@debbielockhart7762 That’s not a lie. It’s accepted and legal under specific conditions. Some people actually experience anxiety when traveling. Don’t judge. Just be grateful if you don’t and compassionate for those who do.
The wife and I LOVE Amtrak travel, it's relaxing, and the meals and service are AWESOME. We've purchased coach, roomettes, and full sleepers with showers. Its hands down our preferred mode of travel. It is expensive, I can't lie, BUT if you want stress free, relaxing travel its worth it!
*Thanks for taking the time to post this and inform us w pricing and pros and cons…great video! would have loved to have seen some nature scenery along your journey but it was very informative!*
I like that you take your time touring the room with relaxing music . It helps to get the vision of the room and mentally envision the space for travel. Great job!
My wife and I were at the Lorton station on October 23, 2021 and after we arrived in Sanford, shortly after we were at vehicle pick-up, it didn't take even half an hour to deliver the car to us. My wife and i like to travel in auto train is better than driving from East Orange, NJ to North Miami Beach, Fl
I seriously love the snack bar prices on Amtrak, you are definitely getting your moneys worth on local or superliner travel. My favorite is the Cinnamon Roll, Angus Cheeseburger and candy lol. Rail travel turns me into a kid at heart.
@@margaretminor3726 i had the same idea but alot of twists and turns, freighters and single tracks from SD to Seattle. Even the back tracks through Bakersfield and Stockton would be congested. Plus they would need to build a terminal for loading and unloading cars
@margaretminor3726 They really should utilize an auto-train route on the west coast! They're really missing out on what could be good revenue for Amtrak, and a great and handy service to its patrons!
So crazy growing up in lorton right next to the train station and even taking it one time, now seeing other people from out of state come up/down to enjoy it!
Apparently demand on the east coast makes this feasible on a frequent schedule. A shorter version running on a less frequent schedule across the western Empire Builder type routes might work for many.
Taken AT a lot while visiting Florida while living in Pa. Then moved to Florida and son was in college in PA. Probably used AT at least 12 times. Definitely need to get at least the roomette. Has 2 beds and includes meals
I actually think that coach in the Auto Train is pretty good, particularly if you are traveling with at least another person so you can better accommodate to sleep in your 2 seats (unless one of you suffer from back issues and need to lie flat to sleep). The good thing of the AT is that you can bring pillows and comforters from your car to sleep more comfortably plus you can bring coolers and thermos for your meals. And contrary to the other trains, you don't have passengers getting out or coming in the middle of the night, so there are few disruptions. Still ear plugs or noise cancelling headphones and eye masks are a must
Does Amtrak have other auto trains traveling east or west out of Chicago? Took Amtrak with handicap sleeping from Chicago to Wash., D.C. in 2016. Conductors were very helpful as my room was on the lower level and to get to the dining car meant going up the stairs, don’t know how long the walk would be? He took my order and brought breakfast to me. I had windows on both sides of my room which was nice. Had two single beds, upper and lower, I used the lower. That was the only downside as the lower sat above the trucks(wheels) and from Chicago to Cleveland the ride was not smooth. Past Cleveland to DC I hardly felt anything it was that smooth. Had rented a car and “Redcaps “ took me to the parking garage at Union Station. Got my car drove out the back to H Street, got on US 50 and headed for Ocean City, Md. Except for the first half of rough sleeping the trip was good. Want to take it to Rochester, NY, will reserve a sleeping room and go up the stairs next time and if Amtrak has an auto train , we’ll take that as well. Daughters want to take a rail trip out west to the National Parks we’d reserve a suite for that trip and do the auto train if they have one? I’ll have to check into that. I’ve been told by several people that the routes heading west are much smoother than those going east. Thank for your detailed video, it answered a lot of questions. For anyone who just likes to watch train travel, Rail CowGirl has several videos of traveling across Norway , on UA-cam. She’s the engineer. Her videos lasts from about an hour+ to several hours, I play them when I’m on my exercise equipment, beats looking at numbers.
I've never been on the auto train but have traveled many times on Amtrak, each time having a sleeper. The longest trip in which I had a bedroom was cross country from North Carolina with my destination being Sacramento. This trip was quite entertaining as well as educational for my children at the time especially having a park ranger board the train in Denver and explain various sights that we would see along the way. Thank you for sharing this video, I look forward to my next adventure on Amtrak!
In the early 1980s, I bought a one way Amtrak ticket from Quantico, VA (where I was stationed with the US Navy) to Norfolk, VA (where my spouse was stationed). The train didn't stop at first...and when it finally did, the conductor walked toward me to get me to the right car. I boarded, and was delighted with the experience. My spouse had contacted a friend who was on the train who escorted me til I left the train in Norfolk. Coffee was offered, but nothing else as it wasn't that long a trip. I was impressed with the conductors helping me on and off the train, and grateful for the escort who saw my spouse before I did. If I had to do that trip over again, I'd definitely do it. I just would dress with comfortable clothes and low heeled shoes.
I have taken this train seven times all smooth going except one time. Seven hours late but Amtrak gave us a hotel voucher and $350 travel voucher. Sure beats I-95 and I need my car in Flordia.
Uhh ok....I'm 55 yrs old and I'm obviously behind on things I never knew this existed nor was a thing.. I'm miffed by the concept I will definitely look into this. Ty Soo much for sharing this 11th wonder of the world which I knew nothing about!!!
Better late than never. But we will never catch up to train travel elsewhere in the world. 😮 Thanks, Republicans, conservatives and others for actually hating how we could have stayed a competitive nation regarding trains.
@yvonneplant9434 OK but why bring politics into something that's nothing to do with it my God give it a rest I never said anything for you to even bring that up!!!!
I used it twice bringing cars back from Florida. The first one was a mad max black on black, they had no issues accommodating it. I had it built for me by a place in Florida and felt the drive back to Pittsburgh from NJ would be enough. I had baked in enough time to cover for delays. The second time was picking up a mustang SVO I bought on street side classics in Tampa. In both cases I had already completed the title transfer process and had plates for both cars and paperwork when i arrived in Florida ( I usually flew down ). Neither car had too many issues crossing PA but the Interceptor was one very thirsty beast. I had to stop every 2 to 2.5 hours to refill the black on black (Supercharged 351 Cleveland Ford V8s are not slow drinkers). I have to have cutouts to run my sidepipes btw. The SVO despite being a 1986 was remarkably fuel efficient, needing only 2 stops to get home and having a 1/2 tank when I pulled into my driveway. I try to take these trips in the summer when I have light till 9pm. It gives me a lot of daylight. Might buy another car in the future and bring it home the same way. Makes it easy to get rot free Florida cars up north
Great idea, but unfortunately, it will never happen. Several reasons - each stop would entail off loading and loading new cars and passengers. The time it would take just to do this would be unbearable traveling cross country. Plus the car carriers are two levels and may not be able to negogiate exiting tunnels. Also, each stop would need area for sidings, ramps, etc.
@@biff529 We spoke with an Amtrak employee and he confirmed what you say. While there has been some talk about a possible Auto Train out on the west coast, where there's more space for it, it's unlikely other places. Height clearances are a major restraint. I'm more anxious that the old north Florida route to New Orleans be reinstated so we can travel directly across the southern tier of the USA. The route was discontinued after Hurricane Katrina.
That was an awesome video. On the west coast Amtrak doesn't offer the auto train so it's strange to see such a long Amtrak! I'm looking forward to my overnight SF to Portland trip in two weeks! 🤩 Great video!
Omg thanks for this. I'm so mad i already got my plane tickets lol. Shipping my Rover on enclosed transportation truck was $1900 and took two days. My plane ticket was $300 one way and still waited 2 days for truck transportation to arrive. Wish i had done this like you. I'D DEFINITELY do this thanks to you. Looked so freaking awesome💪
Hola ForeLeaf, buenas noches. Disfrute mucho de este video. Este servicio Ferroviario es alucinante. Realmente se lo confortable y acogedor. Sin ninguna duda que lo utilizaría. Muchas gracias por registrarlo todo y compartirlo con todos nosotros. Muy buen trabajo. Sigan adelante. Gracias.
Auto-train was my best passenger train experience when a young teenager likely 1975. We rode it back from Florida. We stayed in the vista dome of the passenger coach cars. They were newly refitted in Burgundy red and a very modernistic. At night I could watch through the front window of the dome the extremely long train with auto carriers in front stretching way out front of us. Occasionally I could catch the headlights of the locomotive a 1/2 mile or more a head. It is quiet in the dome section of the car free from track noises, being in the mid section of the car it has the best ride isolation. Being in the vista dome gives some privacy because there is no through traffic. This was the private Auto-train company not Amtrak. The dinner was two cars articulated together to form a continues space with one being a vista dome. We ate in the dome. Food was included in the ticket for all passengers. Being we were not going to afford the sleepers we used the train on the way home knowing we'd drive 45 minutes to be at our real home were we'd could sleep in our own beds. It was during the hottest part of hot humid summer. Autotrain was always comfortably cool and even nicely cold sometimes from its excellent A/C. It a shame passenger train sleepers are not much more affordably priced on Amtrak. Spreading out the passenger density amongst more cars does't increase cost that much. Amtrak actually has a big shortage of sleepers and they are frequently sold out month a head of their use allowing Amtrak to charge top prices for them. Many people would travel by train if quality sleepers were available for about 1/2 or better what they cost now.
I did not know AT did this autocar, that is really cool. It's a shame more people don't do this from what other commenters say on here it's worth the price. I would like to try this one day really cool, see you learn something new every day. I subscribed to your channel thank you for sharing 😊.
Thanks for the current report on AT. Amazing how many people are using it these days. Who'da thunk it? Pricey but classy and well-run, it seems. I'm almost 80 and have loved trains since I was 5 growing up in Bound Brook, NJ. Mar. 15, 2024. St. Joseph, MO, USA
Me my niece and her daughter(and their small service dog)took this train going to NYC where she attends NYU...it actually was a relaxing experience and was rested up to drive the rest of the way from Virginia.. so if it's within your budget why not 🤷🏾
The car you labelled as 5347 and the end of the sleeping cars when you walked down to the left of the station is actually the dorm car for the crew. We've taken the AT a dozen times, started in coach, moved to roomettes and now only do bedrooms.
I have ridden in this type of room and enjoyed it. My Late Wife and I had the Attendent just pull out the bottom bunk which was ok. That way we didn't use the top bunk except for the pillows and extra cover.
Until I watched this video I never knew that such a thing ( Auto Train ) existed in the Amtrak Fleet. Thank you for this great travel tip! Also Like the way you presented it. No talky talky, but really good useful and factual content.
Outstanding video. Explained the whole process. Great advice in the pros and cons. I live outside of the current auto carrier route. I wish Amtrak would consider more of the country for this service. Even a coast to coast with depots where additional cars could be added regionally. Say west coast of san Diego, L.A., San Francisco, Portland Seattle, heading eastward Boise, salt lake city, Flagstaff, phoenix, Tucson. Still heading east Billings, Laramie, denver, Albuquerque. And so on. I would definitely travel this way. Even spring for the deluxe sleeping arrangements.
Worth every penny to take your own car traveling instead of renting one. I took an amtrak from norfolk va, to Detroit MI. It wasn't too bad. 1st time taking amtrak. Maybe next time I'll upgrade to this. Worth it
The roomettes can be a bit tight, but I love train travel, so we adapted and overcame. Wifi is not dependable. If you plan to work on the ride consider mobile data and have your movies downloaded before your trip. All in all we’re looking forward to our next trip. Plane travel is not out for us, but it is in second place now. Our train trip was our first in over twenty years and we had never done a sleeper, so this trip was a learning experience.
Plan on taking it in December from lorton to Sanford with my motorcycle from Sanford going to travel to Miami ft Lauderdale to go on a cruise then come back two one day after the cruise
I’ve done this about a dozen times. Only once in a roomette. The rest in coach, which is much cheaper. The AutoTrain experience has kept going lower. Before COVID, everyone had a sit down dinner. Now only the sleepers get this. Coach has an expanded cafe with microwave type food. Better to bring your own food. Everyone gets the same continental breakfast.
It was a great experience for you man, indeed!! I live in México, maybe in a near future could visit some places connected by trains and enjoy some travels. Thank you for share with us, regards.
I have always wanted to ride a train. I really wish the technology would be similar to that of Japan, but Americans are so gung ho about driving and hate the concept of public transit, so I don’t think we’ll ever get up to that status. It would be lovely to be able to go cross country in 24 to 36 hours.
Would like to see more Amtrak routes allow bringing a car along in this way. I love riding trains but do not like being stranded. Airports always have car rentals right there. Train stations not so much. This would go a long way to compensate.
I took an Amtrak from Pensacola to Newark and it only boarded at 2am on Monday and changed trains in Jacksonville to go north. Back from Newark it changed trains again at Jacksonville after a 6 hour sit in plastic seats and on the floor waiting for the train west to Pensacola. When we had trains. They've been gone many years. I imagine they thought they didn't make enough money, but 2 days a week how much could they make?
I wish the Auto Train started closer to New York in New Jersey. It would be even more successful then! But it's not worth driving all the way to Virginia to use it..
Nice video 👍. I’m planning to take the auto train to Florida next year for Daytona Bike week. I’m a big guy ( 6-5) would you recommend i get a coach seat or a roomette?
The other video I watched on these bedroom suites the people didn't care for that small Bathroom area with the Shower in it. They said the Public Restrooms / Showers Downstairs... were Much Roomier.
My wife and I made the trip in Jan 2023. You accurately documented the entire experience. To avoid 800+ miles on I-95, Autotrain is well worth the cost.
What is the price?
@@Teleios116I believe near the end he said it was $1,235 including price for car.
@@iluvcruisingIt would be less than that for one bedroom, roometts and coach. The connected bedrooms would be the most expensive!
For the price you could stay in a luxury hotel, only drive quiet backroads, and still get to your destination faster and cheaper.
@@promontoriumSome people are not interested in driving hundreds of miles. The U.S is lacking some serious transportation to visit different states.
I love taking amtrak with my son. We have down a million times but recently started taking the train from DC to Tampa. THE SILVER STAR is such a great experience and adventure. We stock up on snacks being comfy bedding and have now done both coach and sleeper. I love amtrak! Amazing memories!
Can u car train from Boston
You have to travel to Lorton Va for the auto train.
@@cynthiabobst8794 thx for the heads-up
I rode the Auto Train in 1976 coming back from Disney. We drove down from Northern Virginia and I guess my dad didn't want to drive all the way back. There were too many of us in one car. So, we got a double room and a triple room and I was on the top bunk. It was glorious! Best sleep I've ever gotten in my life and I was just a kid!
We’ve taken the Auto-Train many times and would do it again. I love that someone (over the intercom) describes locations of interest along the route. It’s not Japanese train elegance with meticulous attention to details and art but it’s a really pleasant, relaxing trip and you have the advantage of not having to drive that distance and having your car once you arrive.
I just did the auto train for the first time and it was 10+ hours delayed, not including the extra hours checked in at the terminal and waiting for vehicle loading/unloading. You'd have to be a moron to take this trip more than once. I did it because it was advertised a certain way and I didnt want to add the mileage to my vehicle. But as someone who is not American, it was disgusting and I think Americans just have a lower standard than most. If you're used to impolite people coughing, nudging and being generally loud and disgusting, you're gonna ADORE this trip. You'll absolutely looooove overhearing extremely loud conversations by MAGA veterans boasting about how they wanted to shoot up the Pakistani embassy after 9/11. If you're from a civilized nation where people have some sort of manners, you'll be stuck on a journey with a group of loud and disgusting morons. And no, I wasn't in coach. I had a bedroom and it too was terribly uncomfortable. Not to mention, there was a woman picking lice out of her child's hair in the bar cart. As soon as my journey ended, I got a full refund because of the recorded evidence I provided. HORRIBLE.
I took this ride in July 2021. I was driving from NY to Miami Florida. Decided to try the Auto Train. Drove from NY to Lorton VA. Stayed overnight in a hotel 2 minutes from the train station. There were a plethora of stores and restaurants within minutes from my hotel. Had a great meal and a great night's sleep. After a complimentary breakfast, went to the shopping center and got some snacks and a takeout lunch as well as a bottle of Irish whiskey for the trip. I was 3rd in line at 11:30. Glad I had lunch with me. It was hours before we left at 4:00 pm. Food is expensive at the train station. I booked a bedroom. It was small at first, but I got used to it pretty quick. I brought my DVD player as there is no entertainment on the train. I had a very good dinner. I met some interesting people. My bed was ready for me when I got back. The staff were fantastic. I did tip everyone. Thankful for the whiskey, I got a few hours' sleep. lol. It was rocking a lot. After a quick shower, a nice breakfast, I was on my way.
It sounds very unique compared to other travel methods. Is it OK to bring whiskey onboard or do you need to hide it? And what about gummies?
@@DrMarianus No need to hide liquor. You are free to bring any food and drinks. There is no smoking of any kind on the train and no "fresh air" breaks.
@@mjam631 well guess I’ll never travel with Amtrak 😅
@@mjam631 Last time we took the Auto train just before the pandemic, there was one short fresh air break along the route, I think in Florence, so several people hopped off and had a smoke. Most people were sleeping. We stayed in a roomette which is cheaper but compact and reasonably comfy. They'd discontinued the free wine "tasting" for "first class" by then, but knew about it and had brought our own wine to enjoy in our room before dinner. Do the lounges on the Auto train have a bar?
@@hatchling88 Thanks for replying. There is a food and beverage car that anyone can buy prepared food, vine, beer and liquor. It is very expensive, and the food is similar to 7-11 microwave products. Maybe it was because I was travelling through the pandemic, but I was not permitted to leave the train at the employees exchange stop.
Cool ! I had no idea there was an auto train.
I took Amtrak from Seattle to Santa Fe. I really enjoyed myself. The scenery was beautiful. The food was good and I met delightful people from New Zealand. So much fun!
I’ve traveled cross country on Amtrak couple times Is was awesome and met very nice people. I’ve traveled with grandchildren and they loved it and still talk of the train rides. I’ll never fly again, may take longer but so much more pleasure 🇺🇸👍❤️
This is the first Amtrak video out of dozens that I have seen that show and describe each of the trains outside and inside. Great job. For like $1,500 that is a nice ride and bringing your car along.
We took this auto train many times an loved it every time . I' m handicapped now and will miss this great experience but have great memories to hold on too.
They have a handicap room on Amtrak and handicap area in Coach too.
I've really been wanting to take a train trip. I appreciate you showing the inns and outs of it. Im quite claustrophobic, so it gave me a true look. Thank you.
It was a fantastic experience. I had accessible seating and it was top notch. Plenty of room for my legs and bags and the staff was so attentive to my needs. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
I took the auto train and stayed in coach. I brought my own food and plenty of drinks. I brought a pillow and I reclined both of my seats fully and was able to sleep peacefully. My entire trip cost me $600.
Did that include your car?
@@iluvcruisingYou can only travel on the auto train with your vehicle. However, he’s lying about the seats fully reclining. They do recline, but not fully.
@@AFMIL2862 I believe what she meant by “reclined my seat fully” is that she reclined it as far as it would go (thus, fully). I can’t imagine what it would be like for the person behind you, if the seats fully reclined. 😂😂
@@AFMIL2862Why say "lying"? Calm down.
@@debbielockhart7762 I said “lying” because what was said is not true! A little “sensitive” aren’t you! Oh! Calm down!
Amtrak is the best way to travel, especially if you don't drive anymore. We LOVE it! The flat iron steak is "to die for", and the lemon cake is great! Thanks for sharing.😊
If you're considering the Auto train please give it a try. I napped and ate and arrived feeling fine instead of exhausted and red eyed. Good food, great attendants, comfortable bed and a huge, sparkling clean shower in the morning. Can't wait to go again!
I can tell ya that was the first time I've ever seen a deluxe sleeping car! Definitely a unique one! Thanks for the video!
This is my favorite way to travel between Florida (now home) and home town in Maryland. I always take a sleeper it is worth the price for me. Traveling alone I choose the Roomette but when my kids were little I close the family room or apartment. Always a great way to transverse 800 miles instead of traffic between Florida and DC. I have learned to take my pillow and pack plenty of snacks Sometimes CSX delays the train and having a private stash helps. I load up my car and carry on essentials in the event of a delay. As far as locks on doors, it does not seem to be a problem. Mine have always locked while inside and I carry my valuables to the dining car.
How about "traverse"?
My Adult Daughter and Adult Son were asked to bring their Aunts car to Florida from NJ due to a medical emergency in Florida.
I was not thrilled at the idea of these two 20 year olds driving to Florida .
I quickly called the Auto Train , but because of last minute booking could only get them a Roomette.
The drive from NJ to Lawton Va is about 2.5 hours.
They both loved it and said the food and train travel experiance was great.
I wish i could go but I have a dog and the Auto Train / Amtrak does NOT allow dogs.
You can probably take your dog now as an emotional support pet as long as it’s certified. Check it out.
@janncarden2873 So you are encouraging people to lie about that?
@@debbielockhart7762the worst
@@janncarden2873don't encourage that stupidity
@@debbielockhart7762 That’s not a lie. It’s accepted and legal under specific conditions. Some people actually experience anxiety when traveling. Don’t judge. Just be grateful if you don’t and compassionate for those who do.
The wife and I LOVE Amtrak travel, it's relaxing, and the meals and service are AWESOME. We've purchased coach, roomettes, and full sleepers with showers. Its hands down our preferred mode of travel. It is expensive, I can't lie, BUT if you want stress free, relaxing travel its worth it!
*Thanks for taking the time to post this and inform us w pricing and pros and cons…great video! would have loved to have seen some nature scenery along your journey but it was very informative!*
I like that you take your time touring the room with relaxing music . It helps to get the vision of the room and mentally envision the space for travel.
Great job!
Me & my mom took the auto train in '88 from VA to Sanford. We stayed in a sleeper car. Loved it. I've taken AMTRAK lots of times. I love Amtrak.
My mom and I*
My wife and I were at the Lorton station on October 23, 2021 and after we arrived in Sanford, shortly after we were at vehicle pick-up, it didn't take even half an hour to deliver the car to us. My wife and i like to travel in auto train is better than driving from East Orange, NJ to North Miami Beach, Fl
I seriously love the snack bar prices on Amtrak, you are definitely getting your moneys worth on local or superliner travel. My favorite is the Cinnamon Roll, Angus Cheeseburger and candy lol. Rail travel turns me into a kid at heart.
Yes I would like the auto train if it was available on the West Coast
@@margaretminor3726 i had the same idea but alot of twists and turns, freighters and single tracks from SD to Seattle. Even the back tracks through Bakersfield and Stockton would be congested. Plus they would need to build a terminal for loading and unloading cars
@@Wolfgodmak maybe put terminal in Portland?
@margaretminor3726 They really should utilize an auto-train route on the west coast! They're really missing out on what could be good revenue for Amtrak, and a great and handy service to its patrons!
So crazy growing up in lorton right next to the train station and even taking it one time, now seeing other people from out of state come up/down to enjoy it!
I would definitely consider this!❤
Apparently demand on the east coast makes this feasible on a frequent schedule. A shorter version running on a less frequent schedule across the western Empire Builder type routes might work for many.
Taken AT a lot while visiting Florida while living in Pa. Then moved to Florida and son was in college in PA. Probably used AT at least 12 times. Definitely need to get at least the roomette. Has 2 beds and includes meals
State college?
Harrisburg local - doing this in July
I actually think that coach in the Auto Train is pretty good, particularly if you are traveling with at least another person so you can better accommodate to sleep in your 2 seats (unless one of you suffer from back issues and need to lie flat to sleep). The good thing of the AT is that you can bring pillows and comforters from your car to sleep more comfortably plus you can bring coolers and thermos for your meals. And contrary to the other trains, you don't have passengers getting out or coming in the middle of the night, so there are few disruptions. Still ear plugs or noise cancelling headphones and eye masks are a must
@@nataliajimenez1870excellent tips. Thanks for sharing.
Does Amtrak have other auto trains traveling east or west out of Chicago? Took Amtrak with handicap sleeping from Chicago to Wash., D.C. in 2016. Conductors were very helpful as my room was on the lower level and to get to the dining car meant going up the stairs, don’t know how long the walk would be? He took my order and brought breakfast to me. I had windows on both sides of my room which was nice. Had two single beds, upper and lower, I used the lower. That was the only downside as the lower sat above the trucks(wheels) and from Chicago to Cleveland the ride was not smooth. Past Cleveland to DC I hardly felt anything it was that smooth. Had rented a car and “Redcaps “ took me to the parking garage at Union Station. Got my car drove out the back to H Street, got on US 50 and headed for Ocean City, Md. Except for the first half of rough sleeping the trip was good. Want to take it to Rochester, NY, will reserve a sleeping room and go up the stairs next time and if Amtrak has an auto train , we’ll take that as well. Daughters want to take a rail trip out west to the National Parks we’d reserve a suite for that trip and do the auto train if they have one? I’ll have to check into that. I’ve been told by several people that the routes heading west are much smoother than those going east. Thank for your detailed video, it answered a lot of questions. For anyone who just likes to watch train travel, Rail CowGirl has several videos of traveling across Norway , on UA-cam. She’s the engineer. Her videos lasts from about an hour+ to several hours, I play them when I’m on my exercise equipment, beats looking at numbers.
@ AT only travels on east coast. Lorton, VA to Sanford, FL.
Thank you so much for this amazing video! We are doing the auto train this week and this gave great insight
Great video.. Loved it.. If I lived somewhere on the east coast, I would probably use this option in travel. I'm sure my kids would love it, too.
I've never been on the auto train but have traveled many times on Amtrak, each time having a sleeper. The longest trip in which I had a bedroom was cross country from North Carolina with my destination being Sacramento. This trip was quite entertaining as well as educational for my children at the time especially having a park ranger board the train in Denver and explain various sights that we would see along the way. Thank you for sharing this video, I look forward to my next adventure on Amtrak!
There's so much beauty in your video. I am always amazed. Thank you for sharing this with all of us!
In the early 1980s, I bought a one way Amtrak ticket from Quantico, VA (where I was stationed with the US Navy) to Norfolk, VA (where my spouse was stationed). The train didn't stop at first...and when it finally did, the conductor walked toward me to get me to the right car. I boarded, and was delighted with the experience. My spouse had contacted a friend who was on the train who escorted me til I left the train in Norfolk. Coffee was offered, but nothing else as it wasn't that long a trip. I was impressed with the conductors helping me on and off the train, and grateful for the escort who saw my spouse before I did. If I had to do that trip over again, I'd definitely do it. I just would dress with comfortable clothes and low heeled shoes.
I have taken this train seven times all smooth going except one time. Seven hours late but Amtrak gave us a hotel voucher and $350 travel voucher. Sure beats I-95 and I need my car in Flordia.
Uhh ok....I'm 55 yrs old and I'm obviously behind on things I never knew this existed nor was a thing.. I'm miffed by the concept I will definitely look into this. Ty Soo much for sharing this 11th wonder of the world which I knew nothing about!!!
Better late than never. But we will never catch up to train travel elsewhere in the world. 😮
Thanks, Republicans, conservatives and others for actually hating how we could have stayed a competitive nation regarding trains.
@yvonneplant9434 OK but why bring politics into something that's nothing to do with it my God give it a rest I never said anything for you to even bring that up!!!!
I used it twice bringing cars back from Florida. The first one was a mad max black on black, they had no issues accommodating it. I had it built for me by a place in Florida and felt the drive back to Pittsburgh from NJ would be enough. I had baked in enough time to cover for delays. The second time was picking up a mustang SVO I bought on street side classics in Tampa. In both cases I had already completed the title transfer process and had plates for both cars and paperwork when i arrived in Florida ( I usually flew down ). Neither car had too many issues crossing PA but the Interceptor was one very thirsty beast. I had to stop every 2 to 2.5 hours to refill the black on black (Supercharged 351 Cleveland Ford V8s are not slow drinkers). I have to have cutouts to run my sidepipes btw. The SVO despite being a 1986 was remarkably fuel efficient, needing only 2 stops to get home and having a 1/2 tank when I pulled into my driveway. I try to take these trips in the summer when I have light till 9pm. It gives me a lot of daylight. Might buy another car in the future and bring it home the same way. Makes it easy to get rot free Florida cars up north
I would definitely use this mode of transportation especially if I was traveling long distance and didn't want to drive!
I want a new Auto Train updated and that makes a big circle in America. NY to Chicago to Sacramento to LA to Phoenix to Dallas to Charleston SC, to NY
Great idea, but unfortunately, it will never happen. Several reasons - each stop would entail off loading and loading new cars and passengers. The time it would take just to do this would be unbearable traveling cross country. Plus the car carriers are two levels and may not be able to negogiate exiting tunnels. Also, each stop would need area for sidings, ramps, etc.
@@biff529 We spoke with an Amtrak employee and he confirmed what you say. While there has been some talk about a possible Auto Train out on the west coast, where there's more space for it, it's unlikely other places. Height clearances are a major restraint. I'm more anxious that the old north Florida route to New Orleans be reinstated so we can travel directly across the southern tier of the USA. The route was discontinued after Hurricane Katrina.
Not exactly the hurricane destroyed the tracks.
Thank you so much for sharing! I did not know this existed! I will do this as well! It is an adventure. From the Chicagoland
Area!
That was an awesome video. On the west coast Amtrak doesn't offer the auto train so it's strange to see such a long Amtrak! I'm looking forward to my overnight SF to Portland trip in two weeks! 🤩 Great video!
Have a great time! Beautiful ride.
Omg thanks for this. I'm so mad i already got my plane tickets lol. Shipping my Rover on enclosed transportation truck was $1900 and took two days. My plane ticket was $300 one way and still waited 2 days for truck transportation to arrive. Wish i had done this like you. I'D DEFINITELY do this thanks to you. Looked so freaking awesome💪
@@shannonstewart4792 make sure your Rover is not to wide. My sister and I had to switch vehicles because her cadilac escalade was too wide.
Hola ForeLeaf, buenas noches.
Disfrute mucho de este video. Este servicio Ferroviario es alucinante. Realmente se lo confortable y acogedor. Sin ninguna duda que lo utilizaría. Muchas gracias por registrarlo todo y compartirlo con todos nosotros. Muy buen trabajo. Sigan adelante. Gracias.
I went to University in Dayton Beach. I ended up taking the Auto Train a few times. I absolutely loved it. Will be doing it again.
💖✨ Gosh!! I loved this video. No talking was a plus! Thanks 💋
Beats getting into a snow storm ‼️🇨🇦❤️🇺🇸
Omg 😳 I didn't know you could do such a thing!!! I love love love Amtrak!!!
Auto-train was my best passenger train experience when a young teenager likely 1975. We rode it back from Florida. We stayed in the vista dome of the passenger coach cars. They were newly refitted in Burgundy red and a very modernistic. At night I could watch through the front window of the dome the extremely long train with auto carriers in front stretching way out front of us. Occasionally I could catch the headlights of the locomotive a 1/2 mile or more a head.
It is quiet in the dome section of the car free from track noises, being in the mid section of the car it has the best ride isolation. Being in the vista dome gives some privacy because there is no through traffic. This was the private Auto-train company not Amtrak. The dinner was two cars articulated together to form a continues space with one being a vista dome. We ate in the dome. Food was included in the ticket for all passengers. Being we were not going to afford the sleepers we used the train on the way home knowing we'd drive 45 minutes to be at our real home were we'd could sleep in our own beds. It was during the hottest part of hot humid summer. Autotrain was always comfortably cool and even nicely cold sometimes from its excellent A/C.
It a shame passenger train sleepers are not much more affordably priced on Amtrak. Spreading out the passenger density amongst more cars does't increase cost that much. Amtrak actually has a big shortage of sleepers and they are frequently sold out month a head of their use allowing Amtrak to charge top prices for them. Many people would travel by train if quality sleepers were available for about 1/2 or better what they cost now.
Ah! Those were the days my friend!!
I did not know AT did this autocar, that is really cool. It's a shame more people don't do this from what other commenters say on here it's worth the price. I would like to try this one day really cool, see you learn something new every day. I subscribed to your channel thank you for sharing 😊.
Thanks for the current report on AT. Amazing how many people are using it these days. Who'da thunk it? Pricey but classy and well-run, it seems. I'm almost 80 and have loved trains since I was 5 growing up in Bound Brook, NJ. Mar. 15, 2024. St. Joseph, MO, USA
Me my niece and her daughter(and their small service dog)took this train going to NYC where she attends NYU...it actually was a relaxing experience and was rested up to drive the rest of the way from Virginia.. so if it's within your budget why not 🤷🏾
Just did a round trip this past September. Been taking the Auto Train since 1997!
The car you labelled as 5347 and the end of the sleeping cars when you walked down to the left of the station is actually the dorm car for the crew. We've taken the AT a dozen times, started in coach, moved to roomettes and now only do bedrooms.
WOW I'M ONE DAY TO TAKE THE TRAIN THANK YOU FOR SHARING WITH US ROBBIE PHILADELPHIA PA FISHTOWN
Love the partition wall if u want a bigger room no problem we will just slide this 5 feet to the left and Viola $578.99 please oh plus the car
In 1989 I took Amtrak from Ann Arbor to Chicago, then to Flagstaff. What a wonderful experience.
Our new station just opened up 2 months ago here in Newport News Virginia! I haven’t been there yet, but I’m sure I will soon!😊
This would be cool to take from western Oregon to northern California and back. Nice change from driving over 50 years up and down I-5!
I have ridden in this type of room and enjoyed it. My Late Wife and I had the Attendent just pull out the bottom bunk which was ok. That way we didn't use the top bunk except for the pillows and extra cover.
I've always enjoyed traveling by train. I'm hoping to cross Canada on the train before I croak.
Until I watched this video I never knew that such a thing ( Auto Train ) existed in the Amtrak Fleet. Thank you for this great travel tip! Also Like the way you presented it. No talky talky, but really good useful and factual content.
Me either, I have never heard of this until I watched this video.
Oh wow never knew this existed. I want to try it one day. My kids would love it
Outstanding video. Explained the whole process. Great advice in the pros and cons. I live outside of the current auto carrier route. I wish Amtrak would consider more of the country for this service. Even a coast to coast with depots where additional cars could be added regionally. Say west coast of san Diego, L.A., San Francisco, Portland Seattle, heading eastward Boise, salt lake city, Flagstaff, phoenix, Tucson. Still heading east Billings, Laramie, denver, Albuquerque. And so on.
I would definitely travel this way. Even spring for the deluxe sleeping arrangements.
I would like to take the auto train one day. Only if life in florida wasn't so crazy right now. Sad.
I used to live .4 miles from this station in Lorton, Va.. Trust me when it loaded, it made getting home a nightmare... However I am glad it exist
I’m high as the hell right and now that train sequence 1:55 tripppt funny hell😅😂
If I had the opportunity to ride the auto train I’d book a room in the Connecticut section since I’m from there
Very nice video. Thanks for sharing.
Excellent coverage.all the best
Wow, eso sí que es confort y buen servicio de Amtrak. Es encantador
Would you please share the name, source for your music soundtrack….love it
Nice and informative video. Yes, I would consider it. Thanks.
Your video made me feel so much better
Worth every penny to take your own car traveling instead of renting one. I took an amtrak from norfolk va, to Detroit MI. It wasn't too bad. 1st time taking amtrak. Maybe next time I'll upgrade to this. Worth it
An hour after the train pulled in your car was unloaded. Only 1 hour with all those vehicles. That does not sound unreasonable to me.
I love talking the AutoTrain every year.
Well done video. thanks for sharing.
The roomettes can be a bit tight, but I love train travel, so we adapted and overcame. Wifi is not dependable. If you plan to work on the ride consider mobile data and have your movies downloaded before your trip. All in all we’re looking forward to our next trip. Plane travel is not out for us, but it is in second place now. Our train trip was our first in over twenty years and we had never done a sleeper, so this trip was a learning experience.
A sleeper car in any European or Asian train is 100 times better. Amtrak needs to improve its luxury standards.
Great video, thanks for posting
Plan on taking it in December from lorton to Sanford with my motorcycle from Sanford going to travel to Miami ft Lauderdale to go on a cruise then come back two one day after the cruise
I’ve done this about a dozen times. Only once in a roomette. The rest in coach, which is much cheaper. The AutoTrain experience has kept going lower. Before COVID, everyone had a sit down dinner. Now only the sleepers get this. Coach has an expanded cafe with microwave type food. Better to bring your own food. Everyone gets the same continental breakfast.
I should take the Amtrak Auto Train which will add onto my bucket list
I enjoyed that very much Thank you for sharing 👍
It was a great experience for you man, indeed!! I live in México, maybe in a near future could visit some places connected by trains and enjoy some travels. Thank you for share with us, regards.
I have always wanted to ride a train. I really wish the technology would be similar to that of Japan, but Americans are so gung ho about driving and hate the concept of public transit, so I don’t think we’ll ever get up to that status. It would be lovely to be able to go cross country in 24 to 36 hours.
I love Amtrak it is so relaxing! Definitely not for someone who is looking for a quick trip. ❤
I literally would fly from California to Lorton, and rent a car, just to experience the Auto Train!
I’m going to travel her this way n a few weeks these videos have persuaded me I’ll let you know.
Yes there could be a delay but that could happen on the highway as well!
Most vehicles and motorcycles, except:
"Can-Am motorcycles, Rewaco trikes and Polaris Slingshots are not permitted."
Bruh that's weird.
Very nice video. I really enjoyed the music 😊
Would like to see more Amtrak routes allow bringing a car along in this way. I love riding trains but do not like being stranded. Airports always have car rentals right there. Train stations not so much. This would go a long way to compensate.
Wow they need that here in Denver Colorado so I can go to Atlanta Georgia
AMTRak needs a makeover to catch up with Europe and some Asian countries.
Those hallways look really narrow 😮
I took an Amtrak from Pensacola to Newark and it only boarded at 2am on Monday and changed trains in Jacksonville to go north. Back from Newark it changed trains again at Jacksonville after a 6 hour sit in plastic seats and on the floor waiting for the train west to Pensacola. When we had trains. They've been gone many years. I imagine they thought they didn't make enough money, but 2 days a week how much could they make?
I wish the Auto Train started closer to New York in New Jersey. It would be even more successful then! But it's not worth driving all the way to Virginia to use it..
Nice video 👍. I’m planning to take the auto train to Florida next year for Daytona Bike week. I’m a big guy ( 6-5) would you recommend i get a coach seat or a roomette?
Roomette.
The other video I watched on these bedroom suites the people didn't care for that small Bathroom area with the Shower in it. They said the Public Restrooms / Showers Downstairs... were Much Roomier.
Need one down to AZ for the snow birds out west