Auto Train Travel Between Virginia and Florida

Take Your Car on the Train with You

Each year more and more "Baby Boomers" are reaching retirement age. If they are anything like my husband and me, they will want to spend at least part of the winter in a warm climate. We are from upstate New York and spend seven months of the year in Florida. At first we looked forward to the long journey south, planning a leisurely drive and choosing interesting places to spend the night. After a couple of close encounters with 18 wheelers, however, we decided to explore other options. A friend told us about the auto train.

The auto train travels daily between Lorton, Virginia, which is just outside of Washington, D.C., and Sanford, Florida, a distance of approximately 900 miles. It is the longest passenger train in the country because several cars are dedicated to vehicles. The train accommodates all sized cars as well as motorcycles. On our most recent commute there were 245 vehicles being transported.

The journey takes around 17 hours so you will want to choose your sleeping accommodations carefully. Coach is the least expensive option. It is described as follows in the auto train brochure, "...coaches feature wide reclining seats, generous legroom, leg and foot rests and individual reading lights." Sleeping cars offer an alternative way to travel. The roomette offers sleeping accommodations for one to two adults. It does not have a restroom but there are clean ones nearby. A roomier offering is the bedroom. It is slightly larger than a roomette and has a restroom. Also available are handicap accessible and family bedrooms.

My husband and I have taken the train four times. We booked a roomette the first time and enjoyed being able to watch the scenery go by in the privacy of our own room. However, the sleeping arrangements were a little cramped for us. The next three times we opted for the bedroom and have been very pleased with the choice. Although it is more expensive, we feel it is well worth the extra cost.