For many travelers on the East Coast, the pilgrimage to Florida is a test of endurance.
It usually involves a white-knuckled battle with I-95, dodging semi-trucks in the rain, and enduring the gridlock that inevitably forms around Washington, D.C. By the time you reach the Sunshine State, you need a vacation just to recover from the drive.
But there is a “back door” to Florida that allows you to skip the traffic without sacrificing your vehicle.
Amtrak’s Auto Train is unique in the United States. It is the only route in the country that transports passengers and their vehicles simultaneously. It eliminates nearly 900 miles of driving, transforming a stressful road trip into an overnight hotel stay on rails.
How the Auto Train works
The route is a non-stop shot between Lorton, Virginia (roughly 20 miles south of D.C.), and Sanford, Florida (about 20 miles north of Orlando).
The process is surprisingly hands-off. You drive your vehicle to the station, where Amtrak valets take over, loading it into an enclosed train car meant for automobiles. According to Amtrak, the train accepts standard cars, vans, SUVs, and trucks, as well as motorcycles and even small trailers or jet skis with special reservations.
You don’t see your vehicle again until the next morning. While your car rides in the back, you ride in the passenger cars upfront.
Travelers can choose between Coach Class and First Class private rooms. Because this is a purpose-built long-distance train, Coach seats are significantly larger than airline seats, featuring deep reclines, leg rests, and no middle seats.
For those wanting a bed, Roomettes and Bedrooms are available. These First Class accommodations come with priority boarding and complimentary meals. While Coach passengers can purchase snacks and meals in the café car, sleeper car passengers enjoy “Traditional Dining” in the dining car, which includes a chef-prepared dinner (with wine) and a hot breakfast.
The cost
Pricing is two-part: you pay a fare for yourself (and any other passengers) plus a ticket for your vehicle.
According to Amtrak, one-way Coach fares can start as low as $95 (or even lower during “Saver Fare” promotions), while private rooms can range from the hundreds to over $1,000 dollars, depending on demand.
The vehicle fee is separate and typically hovers around $200 to $300 for a standard car, though priority offloading upgrades are available if you want your car to be among the first off the train.
Why do it?
Beyond avoiding I-95, the biggest perk is luggage. Amtrak advises you to “pack your car like your suitcase.” Because you don’t have access to your car during the trip, you can stuff it full of golf clubs, beach gear, and luggage without worrying about weight limits or baggage fees. Just grab a small carry-on for your overnight train ride.
For more unique rail routes, check out “17 American Train Trips You Can Take in a Day (or Less).”
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