Living and growing up in South Florida most of my life, taking regular trips up to Orlando was and still is a normal yearly thing for me. Whether it's to see a concert, visit an old friend or go to one of the theme parks, a 3+ hour drive north, plus tolls, was the only way to get there cheap. That was until I discovered AMTRAK!!
Now I know what you are thinking...huh?? Amtrak? The TRAIN? I know, I know! I thought the same thing. But I was meeting a large group of friends in Orlando for a long party weekend. I knew we weren't leaving the hotel so all I needed was a ride there and back. All the cars were full (I decided last minute to attend - yolo) and I didn't want to waste my money on gas and tolls. Then I talked to a friend at work and she suggested Amtrak.
Why? This is why...
Here's the deal, a one way ticket to Orlando or Kissimmee from any South Florida pick-up station (same place as tri-rail fyi) is only $32. I got on the train in WPB, but they start in Miami and work their way up (Ft. laud, Deerfield etc.). It was a breeze start to finish.
First, long term parking is secured and also protected by a gate. Did I forget to mention it's also FREE!!! There is no check in or security line cause your ticket is right on your mobile phone. You don't need to get there an hour early either. 20min is more than enough time.
When the train arrives, they tell you where to line up based on drop off location and they assign you to a seat. There are 2 seats per row and the seats are super big, comfy and roomy. There was plenty of leg room in front of me and I had my duffel bag there. There is a fold out tray if you want to use it to eat or do work etc. They also have a food and drink cart on the train but I just packed my own snacks. Restrooms are on the train as well.
The ride was smooth and not bumpy at all and it took exactly as long a car ride would but I didn't have to worry about driving, tolls, gas or mileage on my car. ALL FOR $64 roundtrip!!! I got off the train in Kissimmee, took a 15min UBER to my hotel and had the time of my life then slept the whole way home, IT WAS PERFECT!
Now for me this was a deal. I would have spent a minimum of $30 alone on the one way trip in gas, not including tolls and other crap that comes up along the way. This would have been way over the $64 that I spent!!
I not only saved money but it took the responsibility of safely getting up to Orlando and back off my plate. I can't recommend using them enough! Most people would never think to use Amtrak, I know I didn't but it was a fun new way to travel a short distance and made the adventure that much more fun! read more