Amtrak Vacations

Vacations are thought of as a time of leisure — a chance to relax, reenergize, and reconnect with loved ones. However, the reality is that vacations are usually far from leisurely. Pack up the car, pull out the maps, find the interstate, find a restaurant, find a hotel, drive hundreds of miles in a cramped car … sometimes a "carefree" vacation can be a lot more work than, well, work.

Instead, let Amtrak come to the rescue. With Amtrak, you simply sit back, relax, and discover the sights that make North America beautiful. Recline in one of Amtrak’s spacious seats, enjoy a light meal in one of the food service cars, and watch the world — and the stress that goes with it — pass you by.

Not sure where you want to go? Then an Amtrak® Vacations package is for you. With Amtrak Vacations, you can travel at your own pace to a variety of exciting destinations. Select from any of 25 popular packages or create your own itinerary. You can customize your package so that you can explore the parts of America that appeal to your special interest and sense of adventure. Your itinerary can highlight one exciting place, or you may stop at several different destinations, including Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Niagara Falls, Orlando, New Orleans, the Grand Canyon, Seattle, and all throughout Canada.

Amtrak Vacations packages provide more than just transportation. Packages include lodging at your destination, with a range of hotels to fit every budget. Superior and deluxe hotels feature outstanding accommodations with an array of services and amenities. Economy and moderate-level hotels are more conservative but budget-friendly, with limited facilities and amenities.

If you are planning to travel for more than a couple of days on a long-distance dream vacation, you’ll want the affordable luxury of a private sleeper, so you can enjoy the comfort and privacy of personal service. And, of course, kids are welcome aboard — with inviting accommodations, friendly service, and incredible scenery to make their trip special too.

Not sure if you have enough time to travel roundtrip by rail? No problem, because Amtrak also offers air-and-rail packages to meet any travel schedule.

Amtrak gives you more than just a relaxing vacation; you also get peace of mind — with the Amtrak satisfaction guaranteed promise. Amtrak promises to make your trip a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience. If something isn’t right, talk to any Amtrak employee, and he or she will try to make it right. If that’s not enough, call (800) USA-Rail for customer service and a possible Service Guarantee certificate toward future travel.

AAA members save 10 percent on Amtrak’s lowest rail fare at the time of booking, including the rail portion of Amtrak Vacations packages. Members also get 10 percent off vehicle fares on the Auto Train.

Amtrak Launches New Frequent Rider Program
Amtrak Guest Rewards enables members to earn points towards free travel on Amtrak, transfer points for free flights on participating airlines, and earn free car rentals through participating program partners. Additionally, members may redeem their points for a variety of rewards offered through program partners and restaurants.

To book your vacation onboard Amtrak or for more information on the Amtrak Guest Rewards, call your AAA Travel agent.

Return to online archive list.

Published in the May 2001 issue of the AAA Traveler.