Anyone ever take th Auto Train?

We are looking into going ot Florida over the CHristmas vacation but airline tickets are

I looked into the auto train and it is less expensive. I just wanted some opinions - we have 2 young children traveling.

Re: Anyone ever take th Auto Train?

My parents have taken it and loved the convenience of it. They're taking it again from VA to FL in Janurary. I don't know how it might be with small children though. It's a very long ride.

Re: Anyone ever take th Auto Train?

My mom takes it every year when they go down to Florida for the winter. She loves it- but it takes a while. Since she stays for the entire winter, its worth it. They also drive a while. How long are you planning on going for?

Honestly, I don't think I'd do it with young children. I think it would be too much to be stuck on a train for over 24 hours.

Message edited 10/28/2008 6:12:07 AM.

Re: Anyone ever take th Auto Train?

My parents take it to Florida every year and they love it.

Re: Anyone ever take th Auto Train?

I think I remember Anna took it to Disney once and said she's flying next time.

She wrote a review, I don't remember exactly what she didn't like.

Re: Anyone ever take th Auto Train?

For a vacation - if flying was cost prohibitive, I would either drive to Florida or take the train from NY. It seems like so much trouble to drive a good part of the way to FL just to get on a train for another stretch of time.

If you drive you can stop when you want and drive on your schedule. Although, the train is cool because you don't have to drive and can walk around.

Re: Anyone ever take th Auto Train?

Our friend did it when he was moving down here, but that was b/c he needed his car but was only one person and didn't want to do the long drive by himself (and it was cheaper than having his car shipped).

If you really can't fly, i'd just drive it.

But I quickly put in dates for the auto train and for southwest airlines for fares...

I just chose these dates (not sure of your real dates): dec 22 - dec 30

Auto Train
Passenger 1: Adult
Passenger 2: Adult
Passenger 3: Child
Passenger 4: Child
Rail Fare: $787.50
Accommodations (coach seats - no room)/Vehicle Price: $499.00

Total: $1,286.50


Southwest airlines
Passengers 4
Wanna Get Away (web only pricing)
Depart $646.00
Return $734.00

Total: $1380.00 USD


For the extra $100, i'd fly. Plus, you lose two whole days (or more) with the train.

Re: Anyone ever take th Auto Train?

My family and I did it when I was a child and I loved it. Now a days I would rather fly