Information on the Auto Train

Information on the Auto Train

train platform image by Karin Lau from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

If you are headed for an outdoor adventure and want to take your vehicle but avoid having to drive it there, you can take it with about Amtrak's Auto Train. This daily service operates daily between Lorton, Va., near Washington, D.C., and Sanford, Fla., near Orlando. Travelers can fill their vehicle with all of their outdoor adventure gear and take the train. Your vehicle will be on the same train in an auto carrier car.

Schedule

The Auto Train departs daily in the afternoon from either Lorton, Va., and Sanford, Fla. The non-stop trip between the two cities takes about 18 hours one way.

Acceptable Vehicles

Travelers may bring automobiles, vans and sport utility vehicles as long as they do not exceed a maximum width of 84 inches in width and less than 182 inches in length. Motorcycles up to 57.7 inches are also acceptable.

Boarding and Vehicle Requirements

Regular-sized vehicles must be checked in at least one hour prior to departure. Other vehicles need to check in at least two hours before departure.

Accommodations

Travelers may want to book a bedroom that features a private restroom and shower. In the evening, the seats convert to sleeping berths. Less expensive roomettes with restrooms and shower facilities nearby are also available. Budget-minded travelers can travel in coach class.

Meals

All meals are included in the price of Auto Train tickets. Dinner is the first meal served and includes regional wines. In the morning, a continental breakfast is served.

Article Written By Nancy Wagner

Nancy Wagner is a marketing strategist and speaker who started writing in 1998. She writes business plans for startups and established companies and teaches marketing and promotional tactics at local workshops. Wagner's business and marketing articles have appeared in "Home Business Journal," "Nation’s Business," "Emerging Business" and "The Mortgage Press," among others. She holds a B.S. from Eastern Illinois University.

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