We have taken the Autotrain many times and I would not classify it as enjoyable. My term of endearment would be tolerable. Our latest trip was June of this year from Sanford Florida to Lorton Virginia. We take it as a convenience on our way to Boston MA. The drive to Sanford is just over an hour. You have to be at the station not much later than 2PM. The train leaves at 4PM and arrives at Lorton around 9AM the next day. You then have to wait an hour or so to get your car and then brave the traffic of DC.
We normally reserve Lower Level Coach. There is less sway and no walkby passengers and only about 12 seats. We tried mini roomettes and found them more expensive by around $200. For coach, price can vary significantly. Going north in late june 2014 , price was less than $400 for 2 plus car. Coming back in early Aug was about $800. We chose to drive. Plan far ahead for best price and check alternate dates.
Dinner and breakfast are provided but the quality is getting worse. I ordered fish and it was like cardboard and my wife had pasta which looked and tasted like a frozen meal. Wine used to be provided at dinner gratis but now is at a price.
Also the train has a lot of slow time when it must wait for track access which I think is CSX. In my opinion, a convenience at $400 and above that I prefer to drive.
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