auto train travel time

Amtrak Auto Train: 12 Things You Need To Know Before Riding

The Amtrak Auto Train allows passengers to bring their vehicle on the train between Lorton, VA and Sanford, FL. The Auto Train is the only Amtrak train that allows passenger vehicles. With only two stops, the Auto Train is a quick way to transport yourself and your car between Virginia and Florida.

• 1 What Food Is Available On The Auto Train
• 2 Where Is The Best Place To Sit On The Auto Train
• 3 Where Does the Amtrak Auto Train Go
• 4 How Much Does A Car Cost On The Amtrak Auto Train
• 5 How Much Is A Ticket On The Auto Train
• 6 How Long Is The Auto Train Ride
• 7 Can I Sleep In My Car On The Auto Train
• 8 Is The Auto Train Cheaper Than Flying
• 9 Can I Bring My Pet On The Auto Train
• 10 Does The Auto Train Have An Observation Car
• 11 Which Sleeper Car Rooms Are Available On The Auto Train
• 12 What Is Priority Offloading On The Auto Train

What Food Is Available On The Auto Train

Sleeper car passengers on the Auto Train will be delighted to know that the Auto Train has traditional dining for all sleeper car passengers included in the price of their ticket. All passengers can also eat from the Cafe car on the Amtrak Auto Train. Traditional dining meals can be eaten in the dining room car or in your room. Meals from the Cafe can be eaten in your coach seats, the observation car, or your sleeper car room.

Where Is The Best Place To Sit On The Auto Train

The best place to sit on the Amtrak Auto Train is in the middle of a coach car on the upper level. In the middle of the car you’ll be away from the wheels and opening doors. On the upper level of the Auto Train you’ll have a much better view out of the windows than the lower level. If you have a roomette, the best views are also from the upper level. On the lower level it could be a little noisier, but you’ll have access to more bathrooms.

Where Does the Amtrak Auto Train Go

The Auto Train starts and ends in Lorton, VA and Sanford, FL. It is meant to provide service between the greater Washington D.C. and Orlando areas. There are no intermediate stops on this route and you cannot get off until the end. Even though the Auto Train goes through Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina, you cannot get off in these states.

How Much Does A Car Cost On The Amtrak Auto Train

When riding the Auto Train you’ll have to factor the cost of your car into the price of your ticket. In addition to your coach class or sleeper car ticket, you’ll need to pay for your vehicle. Standard cars start at $208, while extended vehicles are $239. Motorcycles cost $146 and there is a $60 charge for priority offloading.

How Much Is A Ticket On The Auto Train

Amtrak often runs sales on the tickets for the Auto Train. The regular starting price for a coach class ticket is $89 and the sleeper car rooms start at $301. In addition to this cost you’ll need to pay for your vehicle. Prices will go up as the train fills up, so as soon as you know your plans you should buy your tickets. There are not usually last minutes sales on Amtrak Tickets.

How Long Is The Auto Train Ride

The Auto Train takes 17 hours to travel from outside Washington D.C. to outside Orlando. You could drive this route in 12 hours, so taking the train does not save time. It does save having to deal with driving on I-95 and provides a more peaceful way of getting to and from Florida.

If you don’t like driving on the interstate the Auto Train is a great option.

Can I Sleep In My Car On The Auto Train

Passengers on the Auto Train will be sleeping for one night on the train. On the Auto Train you can sleep in coach class seats or in a sleeper car, but Auto Train passengers cannot sleep in their car while on the train. Vehicles are put in a special car which cannot be accessed by passengers during the trip.

The best way to sleep on the Auto Train is to get a roomette or bedroom.

Is The Auto Train Cheaper Than Flying

Taking the Auto Train is cheaper than flying because you won’t need to rent a car once you reach your destination. The price of a coach ticket ($89) and your vehicle fee ($208) will be less than buying airfare and renting a car in Orlando or Washington D.C. Riding the Auto Train for your vacation is a good way to save money.

Can I Bring My Pet On The Auto Train

Passengers are not allowed to bring pets on the Amtrak Auto Train. While pets are permitted on most Amtrak routes in coach class, the Auto Train is not one of them. You may bring your car, but not your pet, so if you have a pet you may need to rethink this form of travel.

Does The Auto Train Have An Observation Car

The Amtrak Auto Train is a Superliner train with a sightseer lounge car. The observation car on the Auto train can be used by all passengers. The car has a domed ceiling with great views out of both sides and includes seats that face out and tables where 4 passengers can sit together. There are outlets to charge electronics in the observation car .

Which Sleeper Car Rooms Are Available On The Auto Train

The Amtrak Auto Train is a Superliner train and has the following sleeper car rooms:

• Family Bedroom
• Accessible Bedroom

What Is Priority Offloading On The Auto Train

Priority offloading on the Auto Train means that your vehicle will be among the first 30 to be brought off the train after arrival. This will save you time at your destination. The cost to purchase priority offloading is $60 and can be purchased when you buy the ticket for your vehicle.

Select Executive Amtrak Guest Rewards members get one free priority offloading coupon per year.

Robert Marmion

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Train review: Amtrak's Auto Train from Virginia to Florida

During the COVID-19 crisis, our team has temporarily ceased taking review trips. However, we have resumed the publication of new, previously unpublished flight , hotel and lounge reviews, from trips taken before the lockdown. We are also republishing a selection of our most popular reviews from 2019 and 2020, including the one below, which was originally published in September 2019. We hope this will help you choose once we're all ready to start booking trips again.

Please note that Amtrak says it can limit ticket sales to allow for physical distancing. Amtrak is also waiving all change and cancellation fees for reservations made by August 31, including reservations booked with points. All customers are required to wear a facial covering.

This review, part of TPG's coverage of train travel , h as been edited from the original.

So you live in the Northeast and want to take the family down to Florida. Do you spend the cash or miles, fly everyone and then rent a car when you land, or suck it up and just drive down I-95? Well, maybe neither.

There's a third option you've probably heard of, but also probably haven't seriously considered: the Auto Train, where you can ride the rails — with your car. Amtrak has operated an Auto Train for over 25 years between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida. If you don't live in Lorton or Sanford (or haven't flown Allegiant to Central Florida) you may not have heard of either town, but Lorton is just south of Washington, D.C., and the Sanford Auto Train station is about a 45-minute drive north of Disney World.

The Auto Train doesn't just allow you to bring your car on the train but actually requires you to bring a vehicle on the journey. If you just want to hop the train between New York and Florida, the Silver Meteor and Silver Star lines are what you're looking for.

The Auto Train leaves every afternoon from both Lorton and Sanford around 4 p.m., arriving the next morning. While there's a stop to change crews late at night, the train makes no stops for passengers to embark or disembark along the way. It's a straight shot that clocks in around 14 hours, though you're likely to be on the train for closer to 17 hours total.

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The Auto Train is the only Amtrak train that runs between Lorton and Sanford, so there's no chance of you booking the wrong train if your travel involves those two stations, but there are still booking challenges.

Amtrak's website is workable for normal reservations but has problems digesting some of the Auto Train configurations. The Auto Train has a number of different seating/sleeping options: reserved coach seat (both upper and lower deck), Superliner roomette (both decks), family bedroom (only lower deck) and Superliner bedroom (both decks).

The Superliner roomette can fit two people, while the family bedroom can hold up to two adults and two children. The Superliner bedroom technically sleeps three, but the Amtrak website won't allow you to book it for three passengers online. Phone agents are more than capable of solving this problem, usually after a healthy hold time.

In all of the sleeping rooms, neither the website or the phone agents can book them for more total passengers than the listed capacity. I inquired about booking a fourth passenger in a reserved coach seat but having that person ultimately sleep in the Superliner bedroom. The phone agent I spoke with told me that it was totally up to the discretion of the cabin attendant for our train car. As an aside, that's a bad idea. You don't want to try to sleep four people in a Superliner bedroom — trust me.

Amtrak has a number of discounts publicly available, though the vast majority do not apply to the Auto Train. Auto Train fares for children are generally available for 50% of the adult fare. However, that's only on the base fare, even in a sleeping car. Amtrak splits up the fare for each passenger into two categories. The base fare is roughly equal to the coach price for that segment (whether that's a saver, value or other fare bucket). The sleeping car portion of the fare is the other portion and wasn't discounted on our voyage or any of the test bookings we tried.

All that said, adult coach seats on the Auto Train generally range from $105 to $140 per seat, though Amtrak is running a promotion on certain days where you might be able to snag a seat for $89 one-way, though with limited availability. Roomettes run from about $450 to just over $600 for two passengers. Superliner bedrooms range from $500 to $725 for two passengers. A third passenger would add anywhere from $60 (child) to $140 (adult). Family bedrooms range from about $850 to $1,150 for a family of two adults and two children 12 and under (kids 2 and under are free with a paid adult in all cabins).

As part of the booking process, you need to note your vehicle type and whether you want priority vehicle offloading. Transporting standard automobiles, which include cars, vans, SUVs and trucks with a maximum height of 85 inches and width of 84 inches, range from $204 to $254 one-way. A standard, two-wheel motorcycle costs $143. Any other vehicles, including modified standard vehicles, require picking up the phone.

Priority vehicle offloading is a flat $65 per car. This guarantees that your vehicle is one of the first 30 vehicles offloaded upon arrival. At maximum capacity, the Auto Train holds 330 vehicles, so if you're pressed for time, you'll want to seriously consider the $65 fee or arriving very early for departure.

Amtrak makes it very easy to search for award redemptions on its website; simply select points instead of dollars when searching for a train. However, Amtrak doesn't use a fixed award chart anymore. Much like Southwest or JetBlue, the reward prices are roughly tied to the cash cost of the ticket. In order to get the best value from your points, you'll want to use them on trips when the cheapest saver-level tickets are sold out.

Related: Your guide to Amtrak Guest Rewards

If you'd like to build up your stash of Amtrak points, you might want to consider applying for one of its two cobranded credit cards issued by Bank of America. The Amtrak Guest Rewards World Mastercard is currently offering a welcome bonus of 20,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days of account opening, while the no-annual-fee Amtrak Guest Rewards Platinum Mastercard is offering 12,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days of account opening. TPG values Amtrak points at 2.5 cents each, making these bonuses worth $1,000 and $300 respectively.

The information for the Amtrak Guest Rewards World Mastercard and Amtrak Guest Rewards Platinum card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: The best credit cards for train travel

Vehicle check-in for the Auto Train begins at 11:30 a.m. in both stations. Specialty vehicles are accepted no later than 2 p.m., while standard vehicles are accepted no later than 2:30 p.m.

Upon arrival, a gate attendant checks your boarding pass and directs you to a lane to unload your carry-on luggage. Once you leave your vehicle, you don't have access to it again until it's offloaded at the arrival stations, so be sure to take all essential items. Don't leave valuables in your vehicle. Amtrak performs a video walkaround of each vehicle, recording the current condition of your vehicle.

Passengers are permitted two carry-on bags not to exceed 28 inches by 22 inches by 14 inches and 50 pounds each, as well as two personal items not to exceed 14 inches by 11 inches by 7 inches and 25 pounds each. None of our bags were weighed or measured on either voyage.

There's a quick check-in process for all passengers inside the terminal. This is a requirement even if you checked in online and received a boarding pass with a barcode. You also select your dinner seating on a first-come, first-served basis. On a full train, dinner seatings are at 5 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. On lighter days, the 9 p.m. seating is dropped.

Both stations have an appropriate amount of seating for everyone in the terminal, assuming you like being friendly with your neighbor. A family of four arriving later in the afternoon will struggle to find seats together.

In Lorton, there's outdoor seating for a breath of fresh air before the long train ride. There's also a small play area for young children. And you're free to walk the platform while you wait — you may even catch an engineer to ask questions.

Each station has a small shop with sandwiches, drinks, snacks, magazines and other sundries. The pricing is reasonable, though the selection is sparser than Hudson News stores in sizable airports.

You're free to bring on any snacks or drinks you purchased prior to arrival. This includes alcoholic beverages, though those can only be consumed in your sleeping car. You can also bring on a small cooler of up to 12 inches by 12 inches by 12 inches, though there are reports of people bringing larger coolers on without a problem.

Cabins and Seats

The coach cabin on the Auto Train looks like many other Amtrak coach cabins but you find considerably more space and comfort. The seats are in a 2-2 configuration and recline quite generously, similar to the slanted lie-flat business-class seats common on international flights in decades past.

A small footrest aligns nicely for taller travelers. The seats are cushioned and wide enough such that sleeping is possible, though you'll want to bring items such as pillows, blankets and eye masks if you need them, as there are no amenity kits.

Each coach car has bathrooms on the lower level. They're similar in size to lavatories on most domestic airplanes (maybe not the teeny-tiny slimline version). There's no shower in the coach cabin. There also aren't any showers in either terminal, so the most you can hope for is washing your face and changing into fresh clothes after a long overnight train ride.

The roomette is the smallest of the sleeping car options. The seating is actually less comfortable than regular seats. They don't have the steep recline or footrests in the coach cabin, and you're also sharing legroom with your companion.

The roomette is a closed-off cabin with a door, so you definitely have more privacy. You also have a modest amount of climate control and an easily accessible electrical outlet (only one outlet, so consider packing a small power strip). Roomettes are equipped with a garment rack, though not a lot of space for luggage.

Sleeping cars generally have some storage outside the sleeping rooms. Additionally, the roomette has a small amount of storage space underneath each seat that would fit a soft-sided bag.

When it comes time to sleep, you'll be a lot happier in a roomette than a coach seat. The two reclining chairs fold down to form a bed. Overhead, a bunk swings down for the second passenger. Your cabin attendant makes up the beds upon request. There's even a mattress topper for the passenger sleeping in the lower bunk. The beds are 6 feet, 6 inches long and 3 feet, 6 inches wide.

The top bunk is a little bit of a challenge to climb into, but there are steps built into the sides of the cabin. Inside the bunk is a reading light and restraints to keep you from falling out while the train is moving. (The ride can get pretty bumpy at times.) Lastly, there is a vent control in the ceiling, though given the age of the cars, they can be tough to operate.

The roomettes make up quite a bit of the total inventory in the sleeping-car sections. As a result, there are are reports of prices dropping for this room type without much notice on longer routes. If you're shooting for an option that might drop in price, this is probably your best bet.

Family bedrooms can sleep up to four people, specifically two adults and two children. We found these on the lower deck of sleeping cars at the end of a short hallway.

These rooms are quite spacious for what they are. A family of four will find plenty of space during the day. The bench seat that stretches the width of the train is plenty large enough for four. And there's a single seat on one side opposite the bench.

At each end of the cabin is a foldout tray table with plenty of space. The tables also double as a checkers/chessboard. There's a narrow closet that would fit a suit bag or a few coats but not much else.

There's also a small amount of storage space underneath the seats. As in the roomette, there isn't any other luggage storage in the room. We probably brought one or two too many bags. Our suggestion here is to be thoughtful about what you really need for the train ride, leaving the rest in your car.

The Auto Train cars were built 25 years ago, when most people hadn't really thought about carrying around a wireless phone or its charging cord. There's one electrical outlet near the door of the family bedroom — not the best location. If your family is like ours, you'll want to pack a power strip to charge all your devices at once. You'll also find reading lights, a music volume control (yes, Amtrak has a number of stations) and a climate-control knob that surprised us a bit with its effectiveness. We were told to use the cabin-attendant call button when we were ready to have our room made up in the morning. Other than that, we treated it like a flight-attendant call button.

The family bedroom seats convert to form two lower bunks, while two bunks fold down from the ceiling. As in the roomette, there are reading lights and vent controls for the upper bunks.

The bunks are at right angles to each other. Because the family bedroom is a rectangle, two bunks are shorter than the others. Unless you're a very small adult, you won't be able to fit in the shorter beds. Our kids were initially worried about sleeping in the upper bunk, in case the lurching train launched them to the floor, but the protective straps put them at ease. When our cabin attendant made up our beds for the evening he also brought a ladder to access the top bunks.

Lastly, the larger of the two lower bunks is actually a bit wider than the others. It's not as big as a full-size bed, but if a small child wanted to cosleep, that could be an option. Note: Even if a small child sleeps in that lower bunk with a parent, the maximum capacity for a family bedroom is four passengers.

Family bedrooms represent the smallest percentage of the available cabins in the sleeping cars. During searches, we consistently saw dates with only one or two left. If this is the right option for your traveling family, book early.

If you're a family of four with kids on the smaller side (5 feet, 5 inches or shorter) the family bedroom is probably the most cost-efficient option for sleeping cars on the Auto Train. You'll have plenty of space during the day to lounge in the cabin, and everyone will have their own bed in the evening.

The Superliner bedroom is a smaller capacity than the family bedroom but has a hidden feature if you're not on a strict budget. The Superliner bedroom has a maximum capacity of three passengers, though the Amtrak website will only let you book it for up to two passengers, so call if you need three.

The couch in this room type is shorter than in the family bedroom. Additionally, there's a single seat opposite the couch with a tray table in between.

Alongside the couch is a narrow closet for hanging up items, only able to fit a few jackets.

Above the individual seat in the cabin is a small shelf that can fit a small suitcase. Other than that, you need to rely on the narrow space under the seats for storage. If you don't need to use the individual seat, it folds away to allow for some stacked luggage in the corner.

Each Superliner bedroom has its own toilet/shower combo and a sink. The toilet is about the same size as the public bathrooms in each car. The shower occupies the same space and is noticeably smaller than the public showers.

We did try showering and managed to do so without making much of a mess, but did not try the recommendation to sit while showering! The only potential downside to the shower is privacy from the rest of the bedroom occupants. There's really no room to get dressed or undressed in the shower, at least not without risking getting all of your clothes wet.

The Superliner bedroom has an overhead bunk that folds down with protective restraints to keep you from falling out while sleeping. Unlike the family bedroom, the Superliner bunks are all longer, at least 6 feet, 6 inches. The bottom bunk is wider to accommodate a second person, though you'll have to get cozy. The cabin attendant will add a ladder when they make up the room.

The Superliner bedroom has a great feature if you're not on a tight budget and want extra space: Each Superliner bedroom backs up to another room in a mirror image, which you can use to your advantage. Be sure that you get adjacent bedrooms, booking with a phone agent so they can note that on your reservation. Once you're on board, the cabin attendant removes the partition between the two cabins, freeing up a lot of space.

You actually have space to store a few suitcases between the individual seats. Our family of four was definitely able to spread out most in this format, but you're essentially buying two rooms, so it's not a budget play.

Each sleeping car has its own set of bathrooms on the lower level and one shower per car. The shower is shared between all the roomette and family-bedroom guests, though we found it only lightly used during both of our voyages.

The shower unit consists of a small changing area connected to a shower, separated by a shower curtain. The showers were more spacious than we were expecting, with plenty of space to get changed and shower without bumping into walls.

We didn't find much in the way of amenities other than bars of soap and towels. However, we did have plenty of hot water and solid water pressure. Given the low ceiling height, the shower probably would not have passed the TPG shower test .

Sleeping on board the Auto Train is possible for sound sleepers, troublesome for light sleepers. The Auto Train makes one stop to swap crew members late in the evening (around 11 p.m. heading south and after midnight heading north). They do stop announcements after 10 p.m. and make breakfast announcements starting at 6:30 a.m. and only the soundest of sleepers will manage to sleep through those.

In the coach cabins, the lights are extinguished overnight, and it is truly dark inside the car other than light from outside. When I walked through the coach cars at 11 p.m., virtually every light was out, and almost everyone was sleeping.

In the sleeping cars, the doors to each room did a good job shutting out any noise in the hallway. The curtains also did a reasonable job shutting out light in the morning, but the announcements were loud enough that I wish I'd worn headphones to sleep.

The train itself also does a fair amount of lurching along the ride. It speeds up and slows down throughout the night, leading to periods of heavy movement. Each of us had some trouble falling asleep, and one of our children woke up when the train stopped to swap out crew members. All in all, we all slept some, but none of us felt well-rested.

Food and Beverage

Each car on the Auto Train has a self-service drink station. Push-button coffee and decaf are readily available. There is also hot water and plenty of teabags and hot chocolate, along with an ice bin and buckets.

Every Auto Train has two food and beverage venues: the dining car and the lounge car. The dining car is where the included breakfast and dinner are served. While meals are included for all right now, coach passengers will lose free dinner in 2020, moving to a buy-on-board program. The lounge car offers a variety of food and beverages for sale a la carte.

Dinner is served at your assigned time, whereas breakfast is open seating starting at 6 a.m. until 7:30 a.m. The lounge car is open from 6 a.m. until approximately 11 p.m. During breakfast, a handful of free grab-and-go items are also available.

There are similar menus for the coach cabin and the sleeper cars. Each menu has a steak option, with coach passengers being served flank steak and sleeper-car passengers a sirloin or flat-iron steak. The menu also generally features a chicken, fish and pasta entree.

The food quality may surprise you. While it's certainly not the caviar you would find in Lufthansa First Class , the quality of the meals on Amtrak generally exceeds most domestic U.S. airline first-class meals.

Our Amtrak Auto Train meal started out with bread service and a salad. Nonalcoholic beverages were included, and you could purchase liquor, beer and wine from your server.

Steaks were cooked to the right temperature, the fish was tender and flavorful, and dessert was tasty. We weren't dining on fine china, but the steak tasted just fine on a plastic plate.

The cheesecake and molten chocolate cake weren't award-winning, but they beat any dessert I've had in domestic first class in quite some time.

Breakfast service is actually the meal to miss if you want to grab some extra sleep. Breakfast seating in the dining car is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Breakfast for us consisted of a banana, a bowl of cereal, orange juice and bagels. These were not fresh New York bagels. They were small, frozen bagels. In short, unless you're really hungry, skip breakfast and sleep. Or grab a few things and head back to your seat or sleeping berth.

Wi-Fi on board the Auto Train is free, but remember the saying: "You get what you pay for." The Wi-Fi speeds are ... bad. I tried running speed tests but mostly got this message:

When I was able to get connectivity, it was really poor.

I used my phone hotspot for a decent part of the journey due to the complete lack of usable Wi-Fi on board. Due to the rural nature of parts of the route, even the hotspot dropped from time to time.

Bottom line? Bring a book, play checkers, watch downloaded Netflix episodes — just don't count on good connection speeds.

When the train pulls into each station, there's a process to get your car back and get on your way. In Sanford, the train platform is shorter, which means that they need to split the train in two. Coach passengers wait longer to get off the train, though that may not matter much if you didn't pay for priority offloading, since you'll likely be waiting to leave anyway.

As I mentioned earlier, the Auto Train can hold up to 330 vehicles. The Auto Train is one of Amtrak's most profitable routes, in that it loses a fairly small amount of money as a standalone route. The profitability facts and our research on pricing leads me to believe that the Auto Train generally runs close to full capacity — and 300 vehicles can take a long time to offload.

On our journey down to Sanford, we were off the train and sitting in the station less than five minutes after arriving. Our car was off the train in less than 10 minutes, definitely exceeding our expectations and worth the priority-offloading fee. In Lorton, we were driving off the Auto Train lot in under 15 minutes.

Even though the staff moves the cars off at a brisk pace, there are only about 10 slots for people to load their luggage, hop in their car and hit the road. The Amtrak team doubled that up with another 10 cars slotted right behind those waiting for spots to open, but the process still took time. We hung around for about 45 minutes in Sanford and still didn't see half the cars come off our train. That means the last to arrive at the outbound station could be waiting up to two hours to retrieve their car upon arrival.

Is it worth it?

Is the Auto Train worth the price to avoid the hassle of driving? What about all that extra time it takes versus just flying?

Let's say you're a family of four, just like ours. If we assume a benchmark price of $300 per airline ticket from the D.C. area down to Orlando, Florida, that's $1,200. Throw in a rental car for roughly $400 for the week and $150 for airport parking or transportation. That makes flying to Florida around $1,750, in my rough estimate.

Now let's compare some of the other options, based on average prices of each cabin. For our Amtrak examples, we used half-priced fares for children, assuming both kids were between 2 and 12.

• Flying: $1,750
• Auto Train in coach: $1,170
• Auto Train in two roomettes: $2,550
• Auto Train Superliner bedroom: $2,050*
• Auto Train family bedroom: $2,450
• Driving from New York City to Orlando: $320**

*For the Superliner bedroom pricing, we assumed one adult and two children in the Superliner bedroom, with one parent sleeping in coach.

**For driving from New York to Orlando, we assumed 1,080 miles at an average of 24.7 miles to the gallon and a price of $2 per gallon. We also factored in $200 for a hotel room on the way. That does not factor in any "wear and tear."

If you're taking the family to Florida for vacation, getting a good night's sleep on the way is probably a pretty firm requirement. Every family sleeps differently, but I would imagine most families struggle to get a good night's sleep in coach.

The family bedroom is probably the most cost-effective option that balances getting a good night's sleep with a reasonable budget. Still, it's likely to cost you a bit more. As we looked on different message boards talking about overnight Amtrak train trips, we found people who snagged last-minute deals on roomettes, one of the most plentiful cabins on board. If the train is in your future and budget is your primary option, booking in coach and stalking a cheap upgrade to a roomette could be a consideration.

Keep in mind that certain Amtrak fare categories will pay a penalty if you're looking to get a refund. In this case, upgrading should be seen as a change, which is normally free other than the price differential. However, over the course of a couple of phone calls with Amtrak phone agents, we heard this policy misrepresented.

There are many ways to look at the value equation when it comes to the Auto Train. Ours was a more simple comparison, living in the D.C. area. However, if you live in Boston or Albany, New York, it's still feasible to reach the Auto Train without getting up when the sun is still sleeping. When airline ticket prices go up, this could be viable, since you wouldn't need to pay for a hotel room during your drive by sleeping on the Auto Train.

Keep in mind also that if your final destination in Florida is somewhere like Key West, Florida, your airfare would come in higher than the examples above to fly all the way there.

Overall impression

Our family went into the Auto Train experience without preconceptions. Our biggest takeaway? The Auto Train takes a lot of time. That might seem obvious, but families generally have tighter windows for vacation than, say, retirees, unless we're talking about a long summer trip. If you only have a week or so off, tying up two days on the train really cuts into your time.

We learned quickly that we would pack differently in the future. Our bags were all soft-sided, a plus, but we would have done better leaving more of our stuff in the car.

When the dust settled on our journey down to Disney World, our family was happy we got to experience the Auto Train. My wife even emphasized the word "experience." We turned it into a fun family journey with checkers made out of Play-Doh and family games of Uno. The lack of reliable Wi-Fi may have been a blessing.

As my wife put it, the Auto Train helped avoid a lot of the stress of travel. We didn't deal with traffic on I-95, a virtual guarantee. There were no lines at airport security, no beverage cart blocking the aisle when a kid urgently needed to use the restroom. Our phones worked, and the seat-belt sign didn't restrain us from getting up and moving around the cabin.

The biggest trade-off was just the amount of time it took, but everyone said they'd consider making that trip again if circumstances allowed in the future.

Edward Pizzarello covers family travel for TPG Family and also blogs at Pizza in Motion . You can find him podcasting at Miles to Go and eating doughnuts on Twitter and Instagram .

Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, auto train: rider guide.

Amtrak’s Auto Train is an overnight route between Virginia and Florida that allows passengers to take cars, motorcycles and some other special vehicles on the train for a fee (view requirements ). This route is the only one in the United States that transports cars, and on-board amenities include WiFi, a dining car for sleeper car passengers and a café.

This website is reader supported and not affiliated with Amtrak. We may earn a small commission from links on this page.

Schedule Highlights

The Auto Train schedule is the same each day with one northbound and one southbound train. All trains depart early evening and arrive the next day in the morning.

View latest schedules and timetables on Amtrak.com .

Things to Know

• The Auto Train travel direct between Florida and Virginia with no stops in between.
• Meals are included if you book a  roomette or bedroom .
• Coach seats  are available at a cheaper price (food can be purchased in the café car or bring food on the train).
• Trip time is about 17 hours, but you need to arrive to the station early for vehicle loading. Learn more .
• You can only book a ticket if you are transporting a vehicle (if you aren’t bringing a car or other vehicle with you, book a ticket on the Silver Star or Silver Meteor routes to reach Florida).

You can reserve coach seats, roomettes or bedrooms on the Auto Train. Coach seats are the cheapest option. Expect to pay around $100 to $200 for a one-way coach ticket. Prices vary depending on how far in advance you book your ticket and other factors.

Roomette prices range from around $500 to over $700. Bedrooms cost over $1,000 and include a private shower, sink, toilet and two beds (one is wider than the other). Maximum occupancy is two adults in both of these room types. There is also a family bedroom for two adults and two children and bedroom suites, which are connecting bedrooms (you’ll need to purchase two rooms). Note that prices for roomettes and bedrooms include meals and coffee.

In addition to ticket fees, you’ll also pay fees for each vehicle you are transporting. Prices range from $150 to $300 per vehicle.

• Sanford, FL

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Matador Original Series

The Auto Train Is the Most Unique and Unexpected Train in the Whole Amtrak Fleet

W hen you board Amtrak’s Auto Train, you’re doing something unique that happens on no other train within the Amtrak system. First of all, you and your vehicle (car, motorcycle, van, small trailer, or SUV if it meets the measurement limits) must both be on board . You can’t go without it and it can’t go without you.

Where does the Auto Train go?

The Auto Train runs between Lorton, Virginia (about 20 miles south of Washington, DC), and Sanford, Florida (about 25 miles north of Orlando), a distance of 855 miles that lets you avoid 900 miles of driving on the I-95. No more cries for bathroom or stretch breaks, stopping to refuel, or searching for a hotel or restaurant.

It leaves Lorton at 5 PM and arrives in Sanford by 10 AM and vice versa. And there’s only one scheduled stop: a short 15 minutes just south of Florence, South Carolina, for a crew change and refueling. Otherwise, once the train leaves the station, no other passengers or vehicles board or depart the train. When fully booked, the Auto Train holds 650 passengers and 330 vehicles in 18 passenger cars and 33 auto rack cars. The Auto Train measures more than three quarters of a mile, making it the longest passenger train in the world!

Inside, it’s much more comfortable than your vehicle; you can choose to sleep in Coach class on a reclining seat or in a bed in one of the sleepers. And, you won’t have to dine or breakfast on gas station food — the café provides you with sustenance while the train keeps putting on the miles.

Unlike many long-haul Amtrak trains , there’s no observation car because most of the scheduled 17-hour trip is done at night. But for the few hours of daylight you’re on board, make sure to look out the window; you’ll see a variety of landscapes, animals, cityscapes, Colonial towns, urban areas, country estates, farms, industrial plants, broad rivers, and swampland.

How much does it cost to ride the Auto Train and what’s included?

At the time of writing, the fare is $89 per passenger and $269 per car. For an additional amount, you can book sleeping accommodations instead of spending the night on a reclining seat. Note that Amtrak has frequent sales and promotions if you want to snag a deal on your future Auto Train journey.

The Auto Train’s café car is available to buy food and beverages . A complimentary continental breakfast is provided. Sleeper car passengers get to enjoy dinner in the dining car which includes a complimentary glass of wine or bottle of beer.

Unlike other Amtrak routes where no animals are allowed on any route that’s longer than seven hours, service animals are allowed on the Auto Train.

How does the Auto Train work exactly?

Passengers and their vehicles must arrive at the station between 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM to check in. A magnetic number plate is attached to the driver-side door of your vehicle and it is video graphed against damage claims. Leave your key in your unlocked car. An attendant places plastic sheets in the driver’s footwell and on the driver’s seat to prevent dirt and it’s driven to an Autorack railroad car. Once your car’s checked in, you can’t access it until your destination.

The Lorton station is a pleasant place to wait for your unusual ride. Walls of glass make the place bright and airy for the 450 waiting passengers that can fit inside. The station is home to a gift shop, a coffee shop, restrooms accessible for people with disabilities, an ATM, and WiFi. Outside are benches and an enclosed children’s play area.

The Sanford station has curved glass walls and seating for 600 passengers. It has a ticket counter, restrooms, gift shop, and café, all accessible.

Passengers start boarding at 2:30 PM and both the Lorton and Sanford stations have high platforms for ease of wheelchair boarding. The train leaves once all the vehicles have been stored. Then, just settle into the gentle rocking of the train and enjoy not being behind the wheels of your vehicle.

The vehicles are unloaded at your destination, with thirty available priority vehicles coming off first. It takes approximately one hour to get your car back. The number you were given when you checked in will be called when your car is ready.

Accommodations on board the Auto Train

Coach class seating is a two-and-two configuration and each seat pair has a two-plug outlet under the window for your electronics. You might want to bring ear plugs, eye mask, blanket, pillow, and fan, depending on how fussy your personal thermostat is.

There are four different sleeping arrangements in sleeper cars: Roomettes, Bedrooms, Family Bedrooms, Accessible Bedrooms. In each, pillows and blankets are provided and you can control the temperature. All rooms have a small pull-up-and-out table for game-playing and dining. You can choose to eat in the dining car or your room.

• Roomettes are designed for two people, with two seats that are pulled toward each other to make the lower bed and an upper bunk that lowers from the ceiling.
• Bedrooms have a sofa that pulls out for the lower bunk and an upper bunk that lowers. They also have a small bathroom/shower room. You can reserve two adjacent bedrooms with a connecting door for a suite setup.
• Family Bedrooms sleep two adults and two children in beds made from chairs for the lower bunk and a pulldown bed. The room extends the full width of the car.
• T he Accessible Bedrooms have two chairs that form the lower bed and an upper bunk is lowered. There’s a sink, toilet (with a privacy curtain), several handrails, and windows on either side. The shower is nearby.

Expert advice to take the Auto Train from a seasoned passenger

Photo: richard pross /Shutterstock

• Unlike routes along the Northeast part of the country, the Auto Train cars are two-level Superliners. Each level has its benefits and limitations. On the upper level, you have better views of the countryside, more seating, and you’re on the same level as the café car. On the other hand, you have to navigate a steep stairway with two tight 90-degree turns.
• Join Amtrak’s free Guest Rewards program . You earn points toward future travel and get discounts for purchases. More importantly, it lets you talk to the Guest Rewards representative who can access parts of the system that the website and regular agents can’t. This includes adding a third person to a bedroom or third child to a family bedroom. Once you reach select executive status, you’re entitled to one free priority offloading per year.
• Book your ticket as soon as you can for best selection and fare. The pricing is dynamic and increases as the cars fill and the departure date nears. Children (one child, two to 12, is half price with each adult), and seniors, students, military, and people with disabilities receive discounts on base fare (not sleepers). If you spot a sale after buying your ticket, call the Guest Rewards line and ask for the credit.
• Don’t schedule your arrival for the same day as a cruise departure or big event. The train can be late.

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Everything you need to know about taking Amtrak’s Auto Train

Skip coach, pack plenty of snacks and other advice from a first-time rider.

As I packed to move from Arlington, Va., to the Tampa Bay area in 2018, several friends asked whether I planned to use Amtrak’s Auto Train . The idea was intriguing. I would be a passenger with my car in another carriage, saving me from driving through the Carolinas, Georgia and northern Florida.

I opted to drive myself, arriving in St. Petersburg, Fla., after 19 hours on the road. The trip wasn’t terrible, but I encountered intense summer storms. I often tracked the same route as torrential rains. Going 35 mph on the highway with low visibility led to many miles of white-knuckle tension. It wasn’t a trip I wanted to repeat.

Working remotely gave me the flexibility to take a road trip this July to destinations north of D.C. This time, I decided to leave 855 miles of driving between Florida and the Washington area to Amtrak.

The most unexpected part of the 17-hour trip — departure at 4 p.m. and scheduled arrival by 9 a.m. — is how disoriented you can get while sleeping with pandemic protocols. I had my nose and mouth covered with a face mask, I was wearing a sleep mask to block out light, and I wore ear buds for ambient noise. A couple of times when I was jarred awake, I thought someone had put a bag over my head before I remembered where I was.

6 trip ideas from health experts for safer travel this fall

There were many takeaways during this long journey. I absolutely recommend booking in the sleeper car rather than in coach — especially if you are traveling with someone else. You’ll get more privacy and space, you’ll have a decent dinner provided by Amtrak, and you might even get a good night’s sleep.

Here’s what else to know before you book.

What to expect for your vehicle

The scarcity of rental cars this summer has driven up prices, and many people are wary of flying during the pandemic. The Amtrak route with daily departures between Lorton, Va., and Sanford, Fla., is the only one on which passengers can travel at the same time as their vehicles.

Tales from the rental car apocalypses: How travelers are coping

Price depends on the type of vehicle. I paid $258 for my small SUV, booked five weeks in advance.

Regardless of departure point, vehicle drop-off begins at 11 a.m. The cutoff load time is 2:30 p.m. Special vehicles such as two-wheel motorcycles or small trailers must be at the station by 2 p.m.

A magnetic number will be attached to your vehicle for faster identification at your destination. An Amtrak employee will walk around the vehicle with video camera and a wand to point out preexisting damage. Another employee lays protective covers on the driver’s seat and floorboard before driving the vehicle to the double-decker train carriage. An Amtrak official said each departure can accommodate up to 300 vehicles, though passenger fares usually sell out before vehicle capacity is reached.

How to cancel your flights, hotels and Airbnbs because of delta

At the end of your train journey, be prepared to remain seated as crews disconnect the passenger carriages from those transporting vehicles. If you book early enough, you can pay extra to be among the first 30 vehicles off the train. Otherwise, you will wait at the station until your vehicle number flashes onto overhead TVs. In both directions of travel, my wait was about an hour, which is efficient considering the hundreds of vehicles they offload in that time.

What to expect in coach

Upon check-in at the station, you’ll receive a ticket with your seat assignment. Passengers may board starting at 2:30 p.m. Many travelers opt to bring pillows, and some covered their seats with bedsheets from home.

Coach is definitely the budget experience. Seats can be as cheap as $29, and they were $50 during Amtrak’s 50th-anniversary sale earlier this year. The earlier you start checking dates, the more affordable options you’ll find.

The seating space is similar to what you might encounter on the Northeast Regional trains. There’s no armrest to separate you from your seatmate (you probably will not be sitting alone), and seats all face the direction of train travel.

What 6 health experts say about traveling during the delta surge

Regardless of whether you’re starting in Lorton or Sanford, the train is scheduled to depart at 4 p.m. The train makes only one stop about midway through the 17-hour journey: to switch out the conductor and engineers in Florence , S.C. That is also the only opportunity for smokers or service animals to step outside. Pets aren’t allowed on this route.

The route is all inland. You will get good views of swampland, farms and towns built up alongside the tracks. Seats on the upper level of the carriage have panoramic views and direct access to adjoining carriages. The lower level is where bathrooms are, so that level might be a better choice for anyone with issues navigating stairs.

Unlike a plane, there is more room to stretch your legs, so you can skip compression socks if you move regularly. While in coach, you’re restricted to other coach carriages and the cafe car. The cafe car has limited food options, including cheeseburgers and macaroni and cheese. Beer, wine and liquor are also available.

Breakfast is available between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m., and it’s complimentary for all passengers.

What to expect in the sleeper cars

You choose from three kinds of rooms: a roomette, a bedroom or a family bedroom.

The roomette has a maximum occupancy of two people. Until I boarded, I didn’t realize quite how small the space would be — especially if I had a companion. The roomette is slightly wider than a single seat, and you face the other seat. An unexpected feature was a dial to choose music that pipes into the room. Your options are Sirius’s Soul Town or The Blend.

The bedroom offers twice the space of the roomette and also accommodates up to two adults. The setup includes an in-room bathroom with a shower, toilet and sink.

The family bedroom is the most spacious as it spans the width of the train, with space for two adults and two children younger than 12. Passengers in the family bedroom or roomette have access to bathrooms — including a private shower — in the same carriage. Towels are provided, though they are thin and scratchy. Toiletries are available on request.

Should you travel with kids during the delta surge? Consider these 6 trip scenarios.

Five weeks out, I booked a roomette for $638. A coach seat was $143.

A sleeping-car attendant will ask when you would like the sitting area converted into upper and lower beds, a process that takes about five minutes. A sleeping pad is provided, and the linens were surprisingly silky. When you’re ready to fetch the free continental breakfast, you press a button to alert the attendant, who remakes the room into a sitting area for the remainder of your journey.

Traveling in the sleeping car means you have access to a hot dinner, which can be served in your room or in the dining car. Several entree and dessert options are offered, including kids’ meals. Self-serve coffee and tea stations are available throughout the journey in every sleeping car.

• Bring snacks and beverages. Hunger might strike before dinner service if you’re riding in the sleepers. If you’re in coach, you might want options besides the limited menu in the cafe car.
• Bring a long charging cord for your phone and/or tablet. In coach, the outlet is under the window, so if you’re in the aisle seat, you’ll want to be able to access your device while it’s charging. In the roomette, a single outlet is above one of the seats. If you’re traveling with a companion, you might want a multi-prong charger.
• The WiFi is spotty, so best not to rely on it. Cellular reception might also be low. If you’re planning to watch shows or do work on the train, download before you get to the station.
• Keep disinfectant spray and wipes handy so you can make sure your seating area is sanitized to your liking. Gel dispensers are in various carriages, including the cafe and dining cars.
• Prepare up to two carry-on bags per person for the train. Bags should be sized to fit under a seat as there won’t be easy access to wheeled suitcases that airlines consider carry-ons. You don’t need TSA-approved travel sizes for liquids or gels, and remember that your car is an extension of your luggage.
• Include an overnight kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste and maybe freshening wipes. A very cramped shower — as well as towels and toiletries — is available in sleeper cars.
• Pack noise-canceling headsets or ear buds — or ear plugs if you just want quiet. You’re unlikely to get much privacy (even in a sleeper room, which has a sliding door and curtains).
• Remember cash to tip attendants and dining staff.
• Have a Plan B once you arrive at your destination instead of sticking to a strict time table. Chances are that you — or someone else in your party — will be exhausted, so make allowance for that by scheduling an early check-in or finding a spot for a car nap. If you are headed to Orlando’s theme parks, keep in mind that you have an hour’s drive after you leave Sanford.

Doris Truong is director of training and diversity at the Poynter Institute. She worked at The Washington Post from 2003 to 2018.

By The Way tips for travel

A return to travel: How to plan a trip, in 5 steps | Airport etiquette 101

Before you go: Your pre-travel checklist | What to know about vaccine passports | How to get tested for travel | Update your documents | How to get a passport | Travel insurance in the covid era

Planning tips: Why you need to make reservations more than ever | National park tips | Booking a campsite | Summer rental tips | How to book Europe | Bikepacking from the experts | How to cancel your trip

How to get there: Should you fly or drive? | Why rental cars are so expensive? | Why you should avoid eating on a plane | Road trip tips | What happens if an airline cancels your flight

Destinations: Europe | Hawaii | Australia | Mexico | Montana | Italy | France | Canada

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I've brought my car on the Amtrak Auto Train over a dozen times. Here are 8 tips for first-time riders.

• The Amtrak Auto Train transports passengers and their vehicles between Virginia and Florida. 
• Booking early can help you get the best deals and your pick of seating options. 
• Be prepared to wait for your car to be loaded and unloaded at the start and end of the trip. 

The Amtrak Auto Train brings passengers and their vehicles on a nonstop journey between Virginia and Florida.

The train is a great way to save yourself hundreds of miles of driving and allows you to relax before reaching your final destination.

As someone who has taken this Amtrak train over a dozen times, here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind. 

Start planning your trip as early as possible

I recommend booking your trip as early as possible to ensure the best seat availability and lowest ticket price.

If you wait too long to book, you run the risk of the trip selling out. There are a limited number of seats and sleeper rooms available, and once they're all taken, you won't be able to reserve a spot on the train. 

Consider your needs when selecting a seat 

Because coach cars in the Auto Train have two seats per row, there's no need to worry about getting stuck in a dreaded middle seat . However, because seats are assigned, you may be seated next to a stranger if you're traveling alone .

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It's also important to keep in mind that it's a long trip that will require you to stay in your seat most of the time. If you want to get some rest or prefer privacy (which is especially helpful when traveling with young kids ), it may be worth paying extra for sleeping accommodations . 

Pay attention to ticket prices – and look for ways to save 

Unfortunately, you'll need to go through the entire reservation process before you can see the total ticket price. For example, the price you see for your seat(s) or sleeping car doesn't include the cost of your vehicle, which gets added on towards the end of the booking process. 

Luckily, there are a few ways to save money. Amtrak's Share Fares program offers reduced coach fares for small groups of up to eight passengers. There are also reduced fares for children and potential discounts you can receive by subscribing to the Amtrak newsletter and/or enrolling in the Amtrak Guest Rewards program. 

Anticipate wait times at both ends of your trip

Because it takes a considerable amount of time for the staff to load and unload all the cars at both ends of the trip, taking the Amtrak Auto Train involves some downtime.

You'll typically have to wait at least an hour at both the start and end of the trip, so bring a book or something else to help you pass the time. 

If you want to make a (relatively) quick exit upon arrival, consider paying extra for priority vehicle offloading, which ensures your vehicle will be among the first 30 offloaded when you reach your destination. 

Bring snacks and drinks with you

Guests in coach can choose to buy from a limited menu of snacks, drinks, and pre-packaged food in the café. Passengers in the sleeper car, however, receive a complimentary dinner.

If you're in coach and don't want to spend extra money on food, I recommend bringing your own snacks and drinks on the train with you.

Make sure you remove anything you need from your car 

Once you hand over your car keys and your vehicle is loaded into the transport carriers, you won't have access to it until you reach your destination.

Think about anything you might need (or anything you might not want to leave in the car for 18+ hours) and keep those items with you.

Watch: Amtrak has lost money every year since 1971. Here's why train tickets are so expensive.

• Main content

The Amtrak Auto Train schedule and more info

• Post author: Kevin Monteith
• Post published: April 18, 2024
• Post category: Amtrak Long-Distance Train Schedule / Amtrak Route / Amtrak Train Schedule / East Coast Schedule
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Are you ready to embark on a journey where the convenience of road travel meets the comfort of train transportation? Look no further than the Amtrak Auto Train – your ticket to adventures along the Eastern Seaboard. In this blog post, we’ll explore the Amtrak Auto Train and its schedule, offering insights into this unique service.

This article provides a guide to traveling between Virginia and Florida by train with your car, covering accommodations, food, and vehicle transport options.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first Amtrak adventure, this blog post will serve as a guide to the Amtrak Auto Train schedule. Get ready to discover a new dimension of travel as we delve into the world of the Amtrak Auto Train.

Auto Train Station Hours

The Auto Train has two stops; each station is open from 9:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. However, these hours may be subject to change in case of any delays.

The Amtrak Auto Train Stations address:

• Lorton Station:  8006 Lorton Road, Lorton, VA 22079
• Sanford Station:  600 South Persimmon Avenue, Sanford, FL 32771-2385

On-time performance to the Amtrak Auto Train

The Auto Train runs on CSX track but for the 16 miles owned by Florida East Coast Railway.

The Auto Train’s on-time performance averaged 65% from March 2023 to March 2024 , with an average delay of 73 minutes. However, in March 2024, the on-time performance dropped to 55.2%, with an average passenger delay of 161 minutes.

Major causes for delays: CSX: Freight train interference and slow order delays. FR: Slow order delays and signal delays.

Information from the March 2024 Amtrak’s host railroad report.

Booking a trip on the Amtrak Auto Train

If you’re planning a trip along the East Coast, consider taking Amtrak’s Auto Train to start or end your journey.

Booking the Auto Train is a breeze and can be done in three ways: visiting Amtrak.com , stopping by either of the Auto Train Stations or calling 1-877-SKIP-I-95 , the dedicated phone number for the Auto Train.

Be sure to use this number instead of the regular Amtrak number.

Station and train schedules for the Amtrak Auto Train

This train has two schedules : one for checking in your car and the other for your time on the rails!

AutoTrain vehicle check-in times

Remember: You must get to the station early because there is a firm check-in cut-off!

Auto Train Schedule

If the Auto Train is ready early, CSX may allow the train to depart before the scheduled time.

The other Auto Train “stop.”

The Auto train makes a service stop in Florance, SC, where the locomotives get refueled, and the conductors and engineers change.

This stop is usually a chance for passengers to stretch their legs but check with the conductors or attendants before leaving the train so you know how long you have.

If you decide to step off the train, stay nearby. The train will depart after the completion of refueling and crew change.

The engineer usually signals the departure with a horn toot, and the conductors give you the all-aboard before the train leaves. If you miss the departure, your car will travel without you, delaying your trip. You may even have to wait 24 hours for the next train and explain to Amtrak why you missed your ride. Your car could get lonely traveling without you.

Baggage on the Auto Train

The Auto Train does not offer checked bag service, as your vehicle serves as your baggage car.

Therefore, I suggest only bringing essential items on board, such as medications, a change of clothing, toiletries, chargers, an extension cord, and some snacks and beverages.

Additionally, I recommend bringing some extra cash to purchase refreshments from the cafe car and some entertainment to keep you occupied during the journey.

Coach Seating on the Amtrak Auto Train

The coach class on the Auto Train offers a range of amenities to make your journey comfortable.

You’ll get assigned a reclining seat with ample legroom, a fold-down tray, and foot and legrests.

Additionally, there are individual reading lights, 120v grounded (three-prong) electric outlets in the seat back pockets, and luggage storage above your seat.

There are upper- and lower-level seating options. Overall, these amenities will make your journey pleasant and relaxing.

Coach passengers have access to a cafe car but not a dining car.

Sleeper Car (Rooms) on the Auto Train

Amtrak’s sleeping accommodations offer more than just a place to sleep. They come with several amenities, including all meals on the train. 

Each room offers pillows, fresh linens, and towels.

When you enter your sleeping car, you meet your dedicated car attendant, who will assist you.

Each room has at least one outlet and a table between the seats. 

Most tables have a checkered board, so you can bring your chess and checkers pieces to play during the ride. 

You’ll also have access to showers, with bedrooms having them in the room. 

There are places to hang jackets and clothes, and Amtrak provides hangers for convenience.

Types of rooms offered on Amtrak’s Auto train

The following information provides details about the different types of rooms available for travelers:

Roomette: a room type that is great for solo travelers or a cozy fit for two people. It is available on both the upper and lower levels.

Bedroom: The bedroom is on the upper level and can accommodate up to two people. A suit is also available for use.

Family Bedroom:  A room on the lower level can accommodate two adults and two children.

Accessible Room: A room for travelers with mobility issues and their companions. If you require an accessible room, please call to reserve it in advance.

The Auto Train is the only train that has regular and deluxe sleepers.

Amtrak Auto Train sleeper car layout

Delux sleeper on the Auto Train

Find out the location of your room or coach car on the Auto Train.

Couch passengers receive seat assignments on the day of travel, while those with sleeping accommodations receive their room and car number upon reservation completion.

Food on the Amtrak Auto Train

The food options available during your train journey will depend on your accommodation.

If you are a coach passenger, you can access a cafe car but not a dining car. However, you can access the cafe and dining car if you have sleeping accommodations.

One of my favorite activities on a train journey is walking to the cafe car for a special treat, meal, or beverage. 

You can bring your food and drinks on board the train. However, Amtrak cannot store or heat the food you bring, so please plan accordingly. 

Please note that you can only consume alcohol that you brought on board in your sleeping accommodation. If traveling in a coach, please leave the alcohol in your car.

The cafe car offers hot and cold meal options, snacks, and a variety of hot, cold, and adult beverages. Additionally, playing cards can be a fun way to pass the time on your journey.

Meals for Auto Train sleeper car passengers

Passengers traveling in sleeping cars on Amtrak trains can enjoy the traditional dining meals prepared by the chef. They can enjoy their meals in the dining car or in their rooms. 

The meals include non-alcoholic beverages and hot and cold breakfast options. The dinner menu comprises a main course, a roll, a salad, and a dessert. Additionally, the first adult beverage is on Amtrak.

Vehicle requirements for Amtrak Auto Train

The family car will fit on the train if it is average-sized, but there are auto restrictions, and every vehicle needs a reservation.

Factory-model automobiles, vans, trucks, SUVs, and two-wheel motorcycles can ride on the Auto Train. Dual-wheel vehicles, gull wings, or scissor doors are prohibited. Unique cars are allowed with some limitations.

Special Vehicles

Each Auto Train allows for a limited number of specialized vehicles for a fee.

Amtrak may accept small trailers, limousines, jet skis, trikes, and choppers.

Can-Am motorcycles, Rewaco trikes, and Polaris Slingshots are not permitted.

To book a trip with a unique vehicle, call 1-877-SKIP-I-95 (1-877-754-7495).

Does your vehicle include a rack on the roof or at the rear?

Roof-mounted racks  are permitted if they are factory-installed and remain empty during the trip. Temporary luggage or bicycle racks attached to the roof are not allowed. Roof-mounted ones will count toward your vehicle’s maximum height requirements.

Bicycle racks must be attached to the back of the vehicle only. Bicycles are not allowed on board. Amtrak requires you to sign a loss or damage waiver for bicycles transported on the car’s rear. Bikes and racks count toward your vehicle’s maximum length and width requirements.

Luggage racks  must be removed by you from the top of your vehicle and stored inside the car before check-in.

Tips from Amtrak For You And Your Car

Amtrak suggests a few things for you to make a better trip.

• Give yourself enough time to arrive at the station, including traffic considerations surrounding D.C. and Orlando— there are no exceptions to the check-in times .
• Leave your suitcase in the car, but bring a carry-on bag for your trip.
• The Auto Train has no checked baggage service.
• You will not have access to your car during the journey.
• Failure to do so may result in a dead battery if your alarm goes off en route.
• Subject to availability,
• Priority Offloading is available when you purchase your ticket or during check-in at the station.

Check the official Amtrak Auto Train page for the most up-to-date vehicle information.

If you have questions about the Amtrak Auto Train

If you have questions about the schedule, I invite you to contact Amtrak’s Auto Train hotline: 1-877-SKIP-I-95 (1-877-754-7495).

Kevin Monteith

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14 Things To Know About Amtrak's Unique Auto Train Service

• The middle coach car on the upper level of the Amtrak Auto Train is the best place to sit for a quieter ride and better views out the windows.
• The Auto Train is a non-stop train with only two stops: Lorton, VA, and Sanford, FL, making it convenient for travelers with cars.
• Passengers on the Auto Train cannot sleep in their cars but can choose from various seating and sleeping options like roomettes or coach accommodations. Pets are not allowed on the Auto Train, and there is free Wi-Fi available onboard.

Among all Amtrak trains (diesel trains, electric or dual-mode trains), the Amtrak Auto Train is dubbed as unique since, apart from passengers, the train also loads up on passengers' cars, motorcycles, and trucks! It is the longest passenger train and promises a one-of-a-kind ride from Washington, DC, to Orlando, Florida , and offers a relaxing way to cover miles while skipping the traffic snarls of 1-95. Once travelers are all packed up for a memorable journey, it's time for the rundown on Amtrak Auto and how it all works.

UPDATE: 2023/09/26 20:38 EST BY REENA JAIN

Four More Things To Know About Amtrak Auto Train

For those who want to avoid congested highways (such as I-95) while traveling from Virginia to Florida, the Auto Train, an Amtrak route, is unlike any other. Even though the article has already mentioned ten fascinating things about the train, there are still plenty more that will delight travelers. Four additional entertaining things about Auto Train have been added to the list, educating visitors on some crucial information.

Which Seat On The Auto Train Is Best?

The middle coach car on the upper level of the Amtrak Auto Train is likely the best place to sit. Passengers will experience less noise and disruption if they are seated in the middle of the vehicle, away from the wheels and opening doors. Additionally, the seats on the upper level offer a considerably better view out the windows than those on the lower level. Compared with upper-level seats, lower-level seats are a little bit noisier. Furthermore, if the seat is a roomette, again, the best views are from the upper level.

Where Does The Amtrak Auto Train Stop?

The Auto Train is a non-stop train that runs between greater Washington, D.C., and Orlando, Florida, so it has only two stops: Lorton, VA, and Sanford, FL. Although the Auto Train passes through Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, passengers cannot disembark in these states because there are no stopovers on this route. The train is best for those who want to take their cars and the stuff that they can load in their cars without driving long between Virginia and Florida.

Can Travelers On An Auto Train Sleep In Their Cars?

Passengers on the Auto Train will spend one night on the train, but they will not be allowed to sleep in their cars. Cars (vehicles) are loaded into a dedicated car that passengers do not have access to while traveling. As there are multiple seating options available for passengers to choose from, it's a good idea to book a seat for themselves, preferably a roomette or bedroom if their pocket allows; otherwise, they can book a seat in a coach car.

Booking An Auto Train Ticket Is Similar To Booking A Flight

Booking an Auto Train trip is quite similar to purchasing a flight in that the cost of the ticket varies depending on the day and the demand at the time. Booking in advance is highly advisable because prices usually rise as the departure date comes close.

Also, the route is quite popular for travelers looking for snowbird season excitement (October to April), so travelers looking for better rates and fewer crowds should avoid traveling right before or right after this season. Additionally, spring season attractions make southbound trains packed in November and December and northbound trains packed in February through the first few weeks of spring. Travelers should make reservations in advance if they want to travel during that period.

Amtrak Auto Train Stops Are Atypical

Before getting onto the train with a bag, baggage, and car, it is critical to know the Amtrack auto train routes and stations . The vehicle trundles through Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida, and covers stations like Washington, DC, and Orlando areas.

Travelers can often disembark from the train during planned stops, but there are limitations. Some trips don't permit travelers to get off the train, so check the details of the trip carefully before making plans.

The only motorail service in the United States, the auto train travels at 50.3 mph (81.0 km/h) on average.

Timing Matters On The Amtrak Auto Train

The Auto Train follows a strict schedule when the station gates open 2.5 hours prior to departure, and cars are moved to the vehicle staging area. The cars are assigned a unique number with a magnet for quicker identification at the destination. Next, they are loaded from the autorack ramps. At that point, all that's left is to wait for passenger boarding time.

• Being early is a necessity when loading up a car, but bring something to do while waiting to board.

Specific requirements are in place for vehicles and loading; there are limitations on vehicles, so check the specs before buying tickets.

How Much Does The Amtrak Auto Train Cost?

While taking a personal car on a road trip, knowing the cost of the Auto Train from Washington DC to Florida or the end station is important. Amtrak claims that its Auto Train is far more affordable than driving. So, how much does it cost to take the auto train from Virginia to Florida? Well, the price depends on the seat chosen, dates of travel, and many other factors, still it is still an affordable option. The journey from Virginia, Washington D.C., to Orlando costs an individual as little as $95.

Passengers will also have to pay for their cars. While standard cars can cost $208, extended vehicles cost $238. Motorcycles cost $146 and an additional $60 for priority offloading.

• On its website, Amtrak notes that Auto Train tickets can be as low as "$19 plus vehicle cost" during sales. Keep an eye out for promotions and discounts for even lower fares!

Related: Boston To New York City: 10 Things To Know About This Amtrak Route

Amtrak's Auto Train Has Multiple Meal Options

Passengers will be happy to learn about the traditional dining service on the Amtrak Auto Train. Breakfast and dinner are included in sleeper ticket fares, while a cafe is available for coach passengers. The dining choices are diverse and tasty, making even the Auto Train one of the best Amtrak trains for foodies .

Passengers can bring their own food on board but cannot eat in the dining car.

The Amtrak Auto Train Has Two Levels

Passengers can find the most comfortable seat in the middle of the coach car on the upper level of the Amtrak Auto Train. Apart from the fact that it is placed away from the constant opening of doors, it will also offer a better view.

The higher level at the roomette offers a quieter place to curl up with a book and avoid the noisy crowd. However, the lower rooms are closer to the bathrooms and more accessible for a quick loo break.

An auto-train rider may not be able to choose seats; generally, seats are auto-assigned, but travelers can often change their seating assignment in-app or on the Amtrak website.

Related: Amtrak New York: 10 Things To Know About The Moynihan Hall Station

How Long Is An Auto Train Trip?

The Auto Train journey from Washington D.C. to Orlando takes 17 hours and lasts overnight; the journey can be covered in 12 hours by car. So, what makes the train journey trump the car journey? In a word, peace and rest and not forgetting that it can help ditch the annoying traffic on the I-95. By the time the Amtrak rider reaches Florida, one will feel rested and rejuvenated.

• Looking to relax even more? Check out Amtrak's other sleeper train routes for adventure and a bit of rest time on board.

In a hurry? Get a Priority Vehicle Offloading ticket to be one of the first 30 to be out of the door.

Various Seating And Sleeping Arrangements

Can passengers sleep on the Amtrak Auto Train? Of course, they can! They can enjoy a unique experience when traveling First Class. For those seeking privacy, they can seek comfort in roomettes. Most of these roomettes are packed with amenities to make the journey comfortable. There is a difference between a roomette versus a sleeper bedroom , but either can be suitable for one or two travelers. Look into what travelers get in a roomette (plus costs) before booking!

Amtrak also provides coach accommodations on the Auto Train, which can still be more comfortable than driving a car.

Roomettes and sleepers often come with dining perks for breakfast and dinner. Check the terms upon purchase!

Are Pets Allowed On The Auto Train?

Pets are permitted on most Amtrak trains, but not the Auto Train due to its duration . Pet tickets (an additional fee) are available on most trips under seven hours in duration, though other limitations do apply.

Auto Trains Have Free Wi-Fi

Perhaps one of the perks of not driving oneself is the ability to lounge and use the Wi-Fi onboard the Auto Train. Amtrak offers its travelers free Wi-Fi during every trip, so there's bandwidth for work and play.

Related: Traveling Amtrak For The First Time? Here Are 10 Things To Know About Amtrak Trains

There Are Multiple Ways To Save On Auto Train Tickets

Vehicle tickets on the Auto Train can become pricey (albeit still cheaper than gas these days), but there are ways to save.

• Passengers can join Amtrak’s free Guest Rewards program and earn points they can use toward travel. Every trip generates points, but travelers also get rewards for more than Amtrak trips, including car rentals and more.
• Amtrak offers other deals and discounts, too; kids 2-12 ride for 50 percent off, small groups get discounts, and of course, coach tickets are always the least expensive on any train trip

There's a lot to know about the Amtrak Auto Train, but travelers who take the time to do their research and read the fine print will be in for an enjoyable trip.

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Score $19 Tickets on Amtrak's Auto Train — When to Book

The sale ends June 8.

Amtrak is helping travelers discover new places — and bring their car along for the ride — with their latest sale.

The rail service is currently offering fares as low as $19 for passengers who travel on the Amtrak Auto Train. Cars, vans, motorcycles, and SUVs can be accommodated on the train which travels along the I-95 corridor.

The sale price does not include the cost of the vehicle.

Standard Vehicle fees are $540, and larger cars are $620. Amtrak informs that passengers can pack their vehicles in a similar way that they would pack a checked luggage suitcase - travelers can fill it up, but they won’t have access to the vehicle until they reach their final destination.  Travelers can purchase the discounted fares between Wednesday and June 8 for travel throughout the summer between June 1 and September 4. The route operates between the Lorton, VA  Auto Train Station and the Sanford, FL Auto Train Station.  With the national average of gas prices hovering at $3.58 per gallon, according to AAA , the fare sale makes the “Auto Train” an opportunity to save on a summer holiday. The total cost for gasoline for an average SUV on a similar route of the AutoTrain would be $72.61, according to GasBuddy’s trip calculator . Amtrak recently announced that the coach car interiors have been recently updated with new cushions, fabrics, carpeting and curtains to modernize the travel experience. The Coach cabin does not have any middle seats, and there are several electrical outlets in every row.

There are additional amenities and accommodations including Bedrooms, Suites, and a Family Bedroom, although these perks are not included in the fare sale. Wifi is available on the entire train, and is complimentary for passengers. 

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Moscow to Elektrostal by train

Travel from Moscow (Russia) to Elektrostal (Russia) by train (52km): schedule and information to the train connection. Compare fares and buy your ticket.

To travel from Moscow to Elektrostal by train, read the following information. You can find the timetable and ticket prices online via our booking links.

Your travel route could be like that.

1 Moscow (Russia) - Elektrostal (Russia)

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train connections : popular connections travelled by other users

1a Travelling from Moscow (Russia) to Elektrostal (Russia)

To travel in Russia by train, buy your ticket online via one of the given booking links. There you find exact schedules and ticket prices. The price depends on the type of train and the time you travel and can vary a lot. For most trains you can chose your seat if you book online. And it is the easiest way if you do not speak the Russian language. Good to know: in Russia you will find very interesting long-distance trains, travelling overnight. They usually offer: 1st class sleeper with 2-berth compartments, 2nd class Kupé with 4-berth compartments and 3rd class Platskartny with open-plan dormitory cars.

From one metropolis to another in four hours

From russia with snow, an overnight journey in the russian grand express, travel in less than four hours between the two russian metropolises, with the rzd night trains, travel in style with russian railways, need a cheap place to sleep we recommend booking.com, find a cheap flight compare prices on kiwi.com.

Do you have questions about the connection between Moscow and Elektrostal? Does something not work as it should? Just ask in our forum and get competent answers from our rail travel experts.

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