Taking the Amtrak Auto Train from Virginia to Florida - Some Questions?

Question

How many hours before the 4:00 departure time should we show up to load the car on?

Is dining included in the price of the coach ticket?

How is the food? What kinds?

What kinda entertainment is available? Is there a bar?

Sorry so many questions but the Amtrak site does not give much detail. Also, I'm a little confused. On the first info page for the auto train it says dining is included no matter what class ticket is purchased. But later, right before you confirm the ticket purchase, it says that coach tickets pay an additional fee for dining. ???? Bait and switch?

thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Good choice on taking the auto train!  I just took it for the first time in March and it is now my sworn method of travel down to FL.

Dining is included for coach tickets.  The food was good.  I wouldn't classify it gourmet, but nothing was bad.  I found a little salt and pepper went a long way.  Wine was also included, all you care to drink.  The desert was actually real good.  If they offer you the apple pie thing I recommend it, but try and get them to make it a la mode.  The entree options were actually fairly inclusive of everything.  There was a chicken option, beef option, fish option, pasta option, vegy option, and maybe one other.  I went with chicken pomodoro on the way down, and meatloaf on the way back...both were good.

The entertainment is a movie played on tv in the lounge cars and smoking car.  They played it twice, something like 7 and 9:30.  They also offer rentals of little movie players, which are ok I guess, if you have nothing else.  I would recommend bringing a laptop or portable DVD player if your a curl up and watch some movies type.  The only problem is there aren't many plugs on the train to charge your equipment.  If you do bring electronics that you are going to want to plug in or charge I would recommend getting to the station VERY early.  We happened to have gotten lucky on the way down, we got there right when the station opened, I think around 11ish.  We had to sit there for a while, but we got the seat that has the plug socket.  There is only one seat in each car that has a plug next to it.  I beleive it was seat 52 or 53.  If you are interested in the plug seat just make sure to get there and check in early, and specifically ask for it.

There is a bar, but the best part about Amtrak is you can byob.  We brought a cooler with some wine and beers onboard with us.  Saves some money, and makes you the envy of the lounge car after the bar closes.  I find it a good idea to bring some snacks too.  And i'd definately recommend bringing a nice pillow and maybe a throw blanket.  They do provide a throw blanket and pillow, but the blanket is real thin and the pillow is just a small travel pillow.  It's good for the head, but it's usually nice to have a big one for your back as the seats are a bit firm.

Hope I was of some help, and hope you enjoy your trip!

Answer 2

A friend of mine took the train several times during the mid 90s . They liked it. Sorry I don't know any details .

Have fun and enjoy the scenery. LOL

Answer 3

Hold on going from Hamlet NC to Columbia SC.

Rough  jointed track.

Answer 4

I believe it is 2 hours, but they should send info telling when you need to show up. On most amtrak trains dining is not included with the coach ticket, but I noted your early comment and this might be something special with the auto train.  Why don't you call them up and ask.  You might have saw their standard comment for regular coach trains.  The food is fair like steak or chicken.  Not much entertainment, a wine tasting or a movie or two in the viewing car.  Note most of the trip is during night and you probably will sleep at least a third of it.  Yes there is a bar, not much choice.  Thoug they have beer.

took it so I would't have to drive the distances, stay over in a hotel room and less wear and tear on my car.