Your stress-free family travel guide
by Rhea Seymour
Trains
Kids love trains and riding the rails also gives mom and dad a chance to relax — hopefully. Not to mention, the seats on trains are comfortable, sleeping cars are available for long trips and the passing scenery will keep the kids mesmerized. Try these tips to save a few dollars and enjoying your journey once you’re all aboard:
Ask about discount fares
Most trains offer special rates for pint-sized travellers. For example, on most Amtrak train routes, kids (ages 2-15) ride for half price. To get the reduced fare for two children, one adult must ride at full-fare. On the Amtrak Auto Train, kids ride free during summer months. The train travels overnight from Lorton, Virginia — just outside Washington, D.C. to Sanford, Florida, about an hour outside of Disneyworld in Orlando. Load up the family car and take it with you so you won’t have to rent one when you arrive at your destination. On Canada’s VIA Rail, kids ride free with one ticket-purchasing adult.
Check out kid-friendly features
On VIA Rail in Canada, some trains offer special cars with panoramic domes for getting a good view of the passing countryside. Ask about the VIA Rail Kids Activity Book to keep the kids amused. On some VIA trains, children can start their day with games, activities and video screenings. Some trains also offer children’s menus.
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