Originally Posted by
DCA1983
The key to keeping amtrak fares down is simple: book REALLY early. You can refund 100% up to 24 hours before your train, then you can get 90% back until the train departs (and even after, if you don't make it for some reason)
Agreed. Fares are $50 when booked in advance. As others have said, it depends on how you value your time; working on the train is much easier than on the bus, and you're more likely to arrive on time if traveling at traffic hours. On the other hand, if you're traveling at off-peak hours, then the bus can be more cost-effective (if you're not losing work time or you don't mind working on the bus).