You want to go to Orlando to see the theme parks, entertainment and shopping.   But flying is such a hassle with airport security, full planes (full of kids) and having to rent a car since the attractions are so spread out in Orlando.   Driving I-95?  Forget it.   The congestion and stress of the interstate will significantly reduce your ability to relax and unwind.

The best alternative is to take the Amtrak Auto Train.   You load your things in your car, load your car on the train and sit back and relax.   You may actually enjoy the journey as much as the destination!

Here are five tips/hints for effectively traveling to/from Florida by Amtrak Auto Train:

One:  The Auto Train runs from Lorton, Virginia to Sanford, Florida.   Lorton is 25 miles south of Washington, DC.   The exciting Civil War sites and beautiful golf courses of Virginia and Maryland are within a couple of hours of the Lorton terminal.   Historic Williamsburg, VA is only three hours away.   At the other end, Sanford is less than an hour from the Central Florida attractions and golfing.   You can get to either the east coast or Gulf coast beaches within two hours from Sanford.   Either way you go, the train leaves at 4:00 pm and arrives the next morning at 9:30 am.

Two:  The Auto Train carries more than cars and people.   You can also put SUVs, motorcycles, and trailer campers of limited size on the train.   Amtrak begins to accept vehicles at 11:30 am.   Regular cars must be checked in by 3:00 pm and oversized vehicles and motorcycles must be checked in by 2:00 pm.   Since there is no checked luggage on the Auto Train, you should put everything except your overnight bag in your car before checking it in.   You can have two carry-on items per person.   Unfortunately, pets that are not trained service animals are not allowed on the Auto Train.

Three:  You have a choice of a comfortable Coach seat or a private sleeping car room on the Auto Train.   Coach class on Amtrak is an upgrade from regular airplane seating.   You will be seated in a wide, comfortable, reclining seat with fold-down trays and individual reading lights.   There will be an electrical outlet at your seat.   If you choose sleeping accommodations, your seat at the beginning of the trip becomes your bed at night.   You will be provided bottled water, morning wake-up service including coffee, tea and orange juice and all necessary bedding.  A wash basin, toilet and shower are either in your room or nearby in the car.   There are five types of accommodations ranging from two person Roomettes to four people Bedroom Suites.   There are also Accessible Bedrooms that are designed for passengers with mobility impairments and their companions.

Four:  You are encouraged to explore the train while a passenger!  All passengers receive a complimentary, delicious sit-down dinner in the Dining Car that includes a choice of regional wines, vegetarian offerings and special meals for kids.   In the morning, a continental breakfast is served in the Dining Car.   The Lounge Car is open throughout the trip and offers snacks and drinks at an additional cost.   Also, the Lounge Car offers feature movies on upgraded screens!

Five:  It is extremely important to make advanced reservations for transportation on the Auto Car.   For families traveling together, children ages 2 to 15 always receive a 50% discount on the lowest available adult fare.   Infants under two ride free!  By buying your tickets early, you may be able to receive discounted advance purchase fares or special fares for students and seniors.

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