Washington - New York by Train
 

Looking to take train journey from Wasington to New York in late October. What suggestions would you give for the train route to be taken from a point of view of scenery, things to see etc I believe that the journey takes about 3 1/2 hrs so time is not a problem.

Also suggestions for good quality 3/4 Star hotel in Mid-Town NY 3 nights (Budget $250/$300 per night)

There are no choices to be made regarding the route. There is only one route, via Amtrak.

fyi. this is a commuter route. you are going thru a lot of old towns ( their charm -is - history- all the architectural features you can see - i love going thru these type towns) I've done the train a few times. you are not going to see major features of the east coast. I enjoy the train but i don't think it gives you a good feel for all that is inbetween NYC and DC. One of the things i do enjoy is seeing part of the garden of sculpture outside of trenton, nj near the hamilton station. interesting stuff.

correction grounds of sculpture sorry!

You already have the Amtrak info - one line, no choices except Metro liner or Acela (faster and more money). Be aware that if you're traveling on a Friday or Sunday night the train can be mobbed with NYC?DC comuters (like ot enough seats). so - if you're traveling then get on the train fast so you don;t end up standing the whole way.

October is high season for NYC hotels and your budget will not pay for a 4* and you'll have trouble with many 3*. (For example, the applecore group of budget hotels - Super 8, Red Roof etc - are showing rates of about $320 per night and up, including taxes for random dates in October.)

I would suggst you read some of the dozens of NYC hotel posts here, decide where you want to stay and then reserve something cancellable that you can live with. Then, assuming there are no more than 2 of you, try bidding on Priceline. Do 4* only, since some that are rated 3* are not too pleasant.

If you buy either a ticket on the Metroliner or the Acela you will NOT end up standing since the number of tickets sold is tied to seat reservations.

Sorry Dukey -

But I've been on Metroliners at least twice with people standing the whole way. Apparently someone got on the train w/o tickets.

^^ with a RESERVED ticket yes ^^.... non reserved ticket = it's ?able ...