Amtrak Guest Rewards - Quick Amtrak Rewards Points Question

I, of course, procrastinated and now two tickets from Washington DC or Baltimore to NYC are over $120 each for Tuesday or Wednesday travel. Is there some way to get that rate down?

Additionally, it looks like the number of points required would be 4K per ticket (by avoiding the Acela options). Is there any way besides buying the points that would allow for instant or very quick point accrual to redeem right away.

Thanks for any suggestions!

I, of course, procrastinated and now two tickets from Washington DC or Baltimore to NYC are over $120 each for Tuesday or Wednesday travel. Is there some way to get that rate down?Did you check this thread: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/amtrak-guest-rewards/1287214-2012-amtrak-promotions-discounts.html