The one-way trip between Lorton and Sanford lasts about 17½ hours. These are the only stations with Auto Train service.
A round trip booked in July 2010 cost approximately $410 per passenger traveling in a coach seat, plus $429 for a normal vehicle, for a total of $839. An oversized vehicle would cost slightly more, while a motorcycle could travel for only $224. Discounts may be available through AAA, AARP and other places. Kids aged 2-15 travel for half off the lowest available adult rail fare. Infants under 2 ride free.
Travelers can reserve private bedrooms or "roomettes." These accommodate various numbers of people, and some include bathrooms and showers. Meals are included in the Auto Train ticket price. These include dinner in the dining car, with special meals for kids. Movies are shown in the lounge car. Continental breakfast is served in the morning.
The Auto Train saves vehicle wear and tear while emitting about half the greenhouse gases that would be released by driving the vehicles that it carries. The Auto Train can haul as many as 370 vehicles per trip.
You can reserve space on an Auto Train by visiting the Amtrak "Reservation Options" Web page (see Resources).
