Distance-wise, Amtrak from Miami to NYC is a journey of about 1783 miles (2872 km), depending a bit on the train route. Travel time varies significantly depending on the train route and number of stops along the way.
The direct route, Amtrak Silver Star, takes about 28 hours, including 1 transfer in Washington D. C. and 7 stops in total. Other routes can take anywhere from 40 to 60 hours with several transfers. Amtrak also has higher-speed Acela Express train lines that take about 20 hours and make 5 stops.
However, tickets for Acela Express trains tend to be more expensive than those for slower routes. Whichever route and speed one chooses, the Miami to NYC trip is a long and memorable journey.
Is it cheaper to fly or go by Amtrak?
It ultimately depends on the particular route you’re traveling and how far in advance you plan your trip. Generally speaking, flying is typically going to be the cheaper option compared to Amtrak, as airfare is generally discounted if booked well in advance.
On the other hand, Amtrak is typically a cheaper option for shorter routes or those with several connections, such as a journey from New York to Washington DC. Additionally, Amtrak often has promotions and deals such as discounts for children and seniors, or a rewards program that can help take the edge off the expense.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which option is cheaper is to shop around and compare rates.
Are Amtrak sleeper cars worth it?
Amtrak sleeper cars are often worth the extra cost for a more comfortable and luxurious experience. The sleeper cars have large, comfortable beds and come with big, adjustable overhead lights and air conditioning.
During the day you’ll have privacy curtains and plenty of legroom. Amtrak also offers meals, snacks, and a variety of beverages included in the upgrade fee. Additionally, you can use the lounge car to use the Internet or watch TV.
For those comfortable with the cost, sleeping in an Amtrak sleeper car is definitely a worthwhile experience.
What is the price of a sleeper on Amtrak?
The price of a sleeper on Amtrak can vary based on the route, class of service, and the level of amenities. Amtrak offers three levels of sleeping accommodations: Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Family Bedrooms.
A Roomette on Amtrak normally ranges from $189 to $500 with the cost varying based on the route, time of year, and the number of occupants. A Roomette typically occupies 2 passengers and features 2 reclining chairs that fold out into a bed, a fold-down sink, and a toilet/shower located in the nearby vestibule.
A Bedroom will cost between $499 and over $1000 depending on the route, class of service, and the number of occupants. A Bedroom is larger than a Roomette and features two large comfortable beds, a fold-down sink, and a toilet/shower located in the nearby vestibule.
Family Bedrooms are the most spacious and can cost between $800 and over $2500, depending on the route, class of service, and the number of occupants. Family Bedrooms accommodate up to four passengers and include two berths (which can convert into a double bed) for sleeping, a dining area with a wash basin, and a toilet/shower located in the nearby vestibule.
The rates for regular and discounted fares can also vary based on discounts, membership programs, and other activities. Amtrak offers a wide range of discounts for seniors, military personnel, children, AAA members and others, which can significantly reduce the cost of a sleeper on Amtrak.
How Fast Is Amtrak in Florida?
Amtrak in Florida operates on dedicated lines along the Atlantic seaboard and the Gulf of Mexico coast from Miami to West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa. The maximum speed for this stretch is approximately 79 miles per hour.
The maximum speed for traveling between Miami and Fort Pierce is approximately 70 miles per hour. Travel between Jacksonville and Orlando has a maximum speed of 68 miles per hour. Other shorter lines have lower speed limits, such as the train from Key West to Fort Myers that has a maximum of 50 miles per hour.
Some of the longer south to north routes, such as the trip from Miami to New York City, can reach a maximum speed of 110 miles per hour. However, most long-distance trips average around 80-90 miles per hour.
Overall, Amtrak in Florida is typically slower than its interstate counterpart, although the slower speed allows for picturesque views and a relaxed travel experience.
Is Amtrak cheaper than flying?
The answer to this question really depends on a number of factors. Generally speaking, Amtrak can be cheaper than flying in certain situations. Amtrak fares are typically priced on a tiered system; the longer the trip, the cheaper the fare per mile.
Therefore, if you are travelling for a longer period of time then Amtrak can be a more cost effective option. Another factor in determining the expense is how far in advance you are booking the trip.
Reserving a ticket with Amtrak further in advance can save you money, as the cost of tickets go up as the departure date approaches.
However, there are circumstances in which flying can be the cheaper alternative. Generally speaking, airfare is cheaper if you are travelling a short distance or if you book your flight far in advance.
Airlines also offer various deals and specials, which can make flying a cost-effective option in certain situations.
But, the best way to determine the cost difference is to compare both travelling options with one another. Amtrak and major airlines often have fare calculators that can give you a precise financial comparison.
In some cases, it might even be cost effective to book a combination of air travel and Amtrak.
At the end of the day, there are a lot of factors that go into determining the cost between Amtrak and flying. The best way to find out which option is less expensive is to check the fare calculators for both methods and compare the two.
Why is Amtrak so expensive compared to flying?
Amtrak is typically more expensive than flying because Amtrak does not receive the same subsidies that airlines receive for fuel and services. Amtrak often has to pay more for services and staffing than commercial airlines, as federal funding does not cover these costs.
Additionally, Amtrak has to pay large sums of money to states to gain access to the railway infrastructure, whereas airlines don’t tend to face the same type of large upfront costs. Additionally, Amtrak operates on a fixed schedule and must purchase contracts to use railway tracks that are often owned by other companies, while airlines can schedule flights as they organize.
All of these factors add up and make Amtrak more expensive than flying.
Is roundtrip cheaper Amtrak?
Overall, roundtrip fares with Amtrak are usually cheaper than purchasing two one-way tickets. Amtrak offers numerous fare discounts, including Kids Ride Free, Military and Veterans Discounts, AAA discounts, and Senior discounts.
Taking advantage of these discounts can make roundtrip fares even cheaper. Additionally, Amtrak offers various discounts when you book in advance, including the Saver Fare and Value Fares. These discounts are only available when you book at least 14 days ahead of time, so if you plan your train travel in advance, you are likely to get the best price.
Additionally, depending on the route, Amtrak may offer promotions and discounts from time to time. So it is a good idea to check the website often for the best prices and deals. In general, roundtrip fares are cheaper than purchasing two one-way tickets, but it pays to shop around and compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Can you sleep in an Amtrak coach seat?
Yes, you can sleep in an Amtrak coach seat. Amtrak does not provide sleeping accommodations for coach riders. However, you can purchase a ticket for a regular coach seat and then recline the seat and use a pillow to sleep in comfort.
Although many coach seats have extra legroom and recline to a flat-bed position, there are no beds or bedsheets like in the sleeper cars. Additionally, you may need to sleep in shifts if you are sharing the seat with other passengers.
If you are in a window seat, it can be a bitdrafty since you need to keep the window open, but it can work out in a pinch if you don’t mind the discomfort. Overall, sleeping in an Amtrak coach seat is doable, but for longer rides it may not be the best option for getting a good night’s rest.
Why would you take Amtrak?
Taking Amtrak can be a great way to travel, especially if you’re trying to avoid the hassles of air travel or the stress of driving a long distance. Amtrak offers comfortable, reliable and efficient transportation that can take you across the country or around the corner.
You can take Amtrak to visit family, explore different cities and states, or to get away on a romantic weekend. It’s often a less expensive option than flying or taking a car, plus it eliminates the hassle of navigating traffic and searching for a parking spot.
With Amtrak you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Plus, you can bring your suitcase, bike, or snowboard without worrying about airline weight limits. Furthermore, Amtrak’s full-service dining car offers meals and snacks with a unique touch of nostalgia, whereas most airlines provide only snacks or a limited menu.
Whether you’re traveling to visit family or getting away for a weekend, Amtrak can be a great option.
Can I bring my own food on Amtrak?
Yes, you may bring your own food on Amtrak. However, it must be packaged, non-perishable food items. Amtrak’s on-board cafe offers a range of snacks and meals. When preparing your own food, please remember that all liquids, including water, must be able to fit in a closed container no larger than 16.
9 ounces. Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. Additionally, you will need to declare that you are bringing your own food before traveling and can be subject to inspection by Amtrak personnel.
What does Coach seat mean on Amtrak?
Coach seat on Amtrak is a type of seating accommodation where you get a seat that is typically located in the economy section of a train car. These types of tickets come with limited amenities such as non-reclining seats and limited legroom.
On some Amtrak trains, the Coach seat tickets will give you access to the onboard cafe or lounge car, depending on the route. Other than the limited amenities, Coach seat tickets come with many of the same features as other ticket types, including the ability to select your own seat and free Wi-Fi in most trains.
For budget-savvy travelers, the Coach seat tickets offer a great way to travel affordably, as they are usually discounted over other ticket types.
How does Amtrak coach seating work?
Amtrak coach seating works a bit differently than the traditional airline style seating. When booking a ticket on Amtrak, each coach car has rows of two-by-two seating that face each other. All passengers with tickets who sit in the same row must have the same tickets in order to be seated together.
Seating is usually done by first come, first served basis and accordig to the ticket purchased.
If you select Reserved Coach Seating, you select your exact seat and row when booking your ticket online. Also, upon boarding the train, passengers with a Reserved Coach Fare ticket get priority for boarding and seating.
For Standard Coach Service, passengers will be assigned their seats on the train. When you board the train, you will see two charts near a coach attendant – one for the first half and one for the second half of the coach.
Just look up your name on the chart and it will give you your ‘reservation. ’.
Seating is available in a variety of options, including individual seats or seating with two or four seats facing each other, depending on the train car. Some train cars have compartments that offer more privacy to their passengers.
No matter which ticket you choose, Amtrak will do its best to seat families together. There is also a Sightseer Lounge/Cafe Car available in most routes which has snack and drink options for all passengers to enjoy.
How many bags can you take on Amtrak train?
It depends on the type of service that you are traveling with. On most Amtrak trains, passengers can take up to four (4) bags (50 lbs/23 kg each) at no additional charge. On certain Intercity services such as Acela, the limit is up to two (2) bags (50 lbs/23 kg each) at no additional charge.
Additional bags may be accepted, however, they must be checked and will require an additional fee. Additionally, baggage exceeding linear dimensions of 80 inches (203 cm) or overweight/over-sized baggage may be restricted, or may be subject to additional fees.
All baggage items must fit in the overhead racks or under the seat and must not block aisles or doorways. For more information on bag restrictions and fees, please contact Amtrak customer service for further assistance.
Do all Amtrak trains have sleeper cars?
No, not all Amtrak trains have sleeper cars. Amtrak provides a range of rail services, and some services don’t include sleeper cars. For instance, some of Amtrak’s regional services don’t offer sleeper cars, while their long-distance routes, like the Auto Train, Lake Shore Limited, and Silver Meteor, do provide sleeper cars.
Most of Amtrak’s sleeper cars are of the roomette type, which include two comfortable seats that can be converted into a bed, two other seats, and a table. Some Amtrak trains also offer bedroom compartments, which have private rooms with two bunks and provide extra amenities, such as an attached bathroom, a sink, and storage space.
The availability of these compartments will depend on the specific route and its stops.