An employee of the Department of Transportation had an idea that families may wish to bring their cars with them on a trip, relaxing instead of driving but then not having to rent a car upon arriving. In 1971, the Auto Train began service, pulling about 30 cars per trip. The Auto Train had several derailments, which cost it 6 million dollars and put it into bankruptcy. The service, though popular, ended 10 years after it had begun. It was revived by Amtrak in 1983.
Dinner is included in the price of a ticket and is freshly prepared by a chef; it includes wine, vegetarian options and kids' meals. Continental breakfast the following morning is also included. The lounge car shows movies. Snacks and beverages are also available but cost extra; passengers may instead opt to bring these onto the train.
The trip takes 17 and a half hours, leaving at 4 p.m. and arriving at 9:29 the following morning. (The departure/arrival times are the same in both directions.) It travels from Lorton, Virginia, (about 20 miles from Washington, D.C.) to Sanford, Florida, (about 20 miles from Orlando). It passes through Richmond, Virginia; Rocky Mount, North Carolina (just outside of Raleigh); Florence, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; and Jacksonville, Florida. The train runs daily and makes no station stops except origin and destination.
A seat starts at about $93; a vehicle adds $112 to $220, depending on size, type and availability. Sleeping car upgrades add approximately $125 and up (in addition to seat fare); the seats convert to sleeping berths. The largest bedroom accommodates two adults and two small children, and includes a private bathroom and shower.
Vans are accepted until 2 p.m. and cars until 3. Automobiles must have 4 inches clearance from the ground and cannot be taller than 65 inches; taller vehicles must reserve an oversize space, if available. Vehicles taller than 89 inches will be refused. Two-wheel factory-standard motorcycles are also accepted; they must have a minimum clearance of 5 inches and cannot exceed a height of 57.5 inches. No vehicle is allowed with luggage or bicycle racks unless the rack is factory installed and empty.
