I'm back after a long absence. We live in northwest Florida and losing the Sunset has been one of many disappointments due the storm (sorry but I refuse to dignify the storm with a name).
We (me, husband, kiddo) are planning a trip to DC to celebrate her turning 13 in early August. It will be a fairly budget trip as most trips are. We'd like to take Amtrak and are struggling a bit.
We'd like to park the SUV (big, green) at an Amtrak lot and take the train, returning about three days later. Is that an issue? We're considering both Jacksonville and Savannah, with plans to take the Meteor up (overnight - in coach) and the Palmetto possibly back (only for SAV), spending the night on our return.
Obviously I'm concerned about my car being okay. On Trip Advisor, I don't read great things about the area around the station. I've been to Jacksonville station and have never been a fan.
I'm also concerned about the difference (if any) of the two trains (Palmetto and Meteor) and in general about being able to sleep in coach on the Meteor. I like the times in Savannah better for both trains.
Thoughts (seeming a little scattered but any thoughts appreciated).
I've also considered the Crescent out of Birmingham - way closer to where we live but we've never seen the East Coast really so the Silver Service is the preference. Thoughts on that?
Thanks
Gilbert B Norman Member # 1541
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My long standing comment on Atlantic Coast Line (A-Line in CSXese) scenery:
"If you've seen one Pine Tree, you've seen 'em all".
George Harris Member # 2077
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I consider the B'ham to Atlanta segment a pretty ride. Hills and kudzu.
Where northwest Florida? If Pensacola or close, you could reduce your driving further by going to either Hattiesburg or Meridian for the Crescent.
MB in FL Member # 3770
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We're within an hour or less of Pensacola so Hattiesburg is really close (within a couple of hundred miles - way less than Savannah.
Good suggestion.... but husband is sort of opposed with the idea that we'd be driving away from our destination rather than towards it.
notelvis Member # 3071
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Of the three choices you are considering, (Birmingham, Savannah, Jacksonville), I think Savannah is the one where I would be most inclined to leave a vehicle for a few days. The station is in decent condition and it's not convenient to ANYTHING.
(That's a good thing......)
By that, I mean Savannah's station is out by the mainline in kind of a warehouse district. It is hard to find at night which means those who would damage or steal a vehicle would likely prey on easier targets. Because the Silver Star is a nocturnal caller, there are Amtrak employees present and the station open for business much of the night. On your return there are some decent chain hotels out by the interstate once you come in on the Palmetto.....and the Savannah station is nearer the interstate than it is to downtown.
The most interesting scenery would be on the Crescent between Birmingham and Atlanta and then again at dawn the next day coming down the mountain into Charlottesville, VA. BUT.....I wouldn't leave a car in Birmingham and I wouldn't want to ride overnight in coach both directions.
palmland Member # 4344
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Meteor northbound and Palmetto southbound is a good plan. If the Palmetto trip is around a weekend, you might consider business class.
The crowds can make a long trip in coach seem longer. In business class it will be quieter and you'll have spacious 2-1 seating. You'll also be in the same car with the cafe and some tables for a change of scenery if your daughter gets restless.
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