How Do I Get Cheapest AMTRAK fares?
 

Family of 3 looking to take the train from NYC area to Orlando vicinity. Several dates, including ~Nov 22 and April 3 '02. <BR> <BR>I need tips on how to get cheapest AMTRAK fares. <BR> <BR>Any fare codes; <BR> <BR>co-marketing agreements with partners; <BR> <BR>Airline offers (do they accept airline tickets in lieu of rail pass); Can I buy a dirt cheap air ticket and have it be accepted by AMTRAK? <BR> <BR>Web sites to 'buy' return trips [as all AMTRAK fares used to be one way, with a 'free' return] <BR> <BR>Tricks like booking for Miami and getting off at Sanford (or wherever); <BR> <BR>Open Jaw fare strategies <BR> <BR>Any experiences and advice would be appreciated. <BR> <BR>I am very confident I know how to shop for the lowest airfare; But I am very short of knowledge on obtaining the best rail fare. <BR> <BR>HELP PLEASE!!!

Simple question. Have you tried contacting Amtrak directly with these questions?

www.amtrak.com -- click on promotions and special offers. I know they have some family packages, but there are also things like student advantage that allow discounts.

Kids usually go for half-fare on Amtrak, not sure what the cutoff for age is. And AAA members get a 10 percent discount. But you have to specifically ask for these.

I believe in the spring Amtrak offers a 1st passenger - full price, 2nd half price and the third passenger travels free!

You can also sign up to get frequent traveler miles/points (good at hotels, for travel, etc.) Visit the website. I love Amtrak.

OK. <BR> <BR>I've seen fares on Amtrak.com's website for $3.40 (Indy - Chicago) .. For example, NYC to Chicago for $16. [Under Rail Sale Online Discounts] For less than eating out, I can go from NYC to anywhere along the route to Chicago. <BR> <BR>Pretty good deals. Not my destination, though. <BR> <BR> <BR>