The Ins and Outs of Amtrak

Rules of the Rails

Traveling on Amtrak can be cost effective and fun. It can be cheaper than airfare or even driving. Taking the train can be the perfect alternative for shorter road trips this summer. For less than the cost of gas, tolls and parking, you can take the train round trip. Instead of doing all the driving, you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Riding the train for the first time can be exciting, and a little more complicated than you would think.

Does Amtrak have a route that meets your needs? Amtrak has many routes that run all over the country. However, there may not be a route that runs near you. If there is, you need to make sure there is a route running near your destination. Sometimes you will be lucky, and you will find one train that will take you from point A to point B. Other times you will have a layover. For example, there is a route that goes through Indianapolis, and there is a line that goes through Toledo, OH. They are two separate routes; however, they both run into Chicago. You can ride one rain from Indy to Chicago, and then transfer to another train.

Even if there is a train, is Amtrak for you? You will need to be aware of the station details, Amtrak Rules and Regulations and other miscellaneous details. Knowing and understanding these details will make your life much easier.

Station Details

Look online at www.amtrak.com. Find out about the stations you will be utilizing. Some stations are full service. Some are a little less accommodating. Other stations are just stand alone buildings or even shacks. Find out what you are getting yourself into before you leave for the station. 

What if you have to drive yourself to and from the station? Find out of your station has a parking area. You can usually do this by e-mail Amtrak, or by calling the actual station. If it does not, they can usually tell you where there is nearby parking. If they give you multiple locations, be sure to get contact information. Find out who has the best rate, where is the closest location and where is the safest location.