Hello I was wondering if the prices of amtrak tickets go way up if you wait and buy them at the station?

Question

I was wanting to take a trip on the Amtrak but really was not sure when I would leave and was looking at prices on the Amtrak website but really do not want to commit and buy as I am not sure exactly when I'll leave It'll kind of be spur of the moment kind of deal I was wondering how much more expensive it is to just buy the ticket on the train I'll be leaving from Kankakee where I don't think there is a station you just buy ahead of time or board the train and then buy also this is my first time riding do you wait for the conducter to say now boarding before you get on or is it just get on when stops kind of thing

Answer 1

At smaller stations, you can board as soon as the train stops, the doors are opened, and the conductor or one of the train attendants lets you on.  There's usually less than a minute delay.

Answer 2

Sometimes they have online 'Rail Sale' tickets that are cheaper than walk-up fares.  The discounts aren't huge though, so if you aren't certain it's best to buy the ticket on the day you travel.

I would advise calling Amtrak at least a couple hours in advance of your departure time (1-800-USA-RAIL) and get a "boarding code".  That will make it easier for the conductor when he issues your ticket.  Also, if the train is crowded, that will make sure you get on!  It's not that common, but sometimes walk-up passengers w/o reservations are turned away if the train is packed.