My wife and I are interested in going to Florida for a vacation in May and we are looking into taking the train or driving (she is not a fan of flying and this would be her first LD train trip).

I have about 50,000 AGR points built up and was looking at taking one of the Silver trains down from Philly and spending the 20,000 each way for a nicer room. Is this worth it and is this the best value for my points? Is it better value to drive? or take the train down and drive back?

Also, where in Florida would you recommend going if we have 3 nights to spend down there before heading back.

Thanks for the advice. I appreciate any information.

Welcome to FT! You will see several current threads discussing the Silver Service trains, Viewliner sleepers, and long-distance service in general. These topics have been discussed at length.

In my humble opinion, sleeper awards are bar none the most valuable use of AGR points. Take the train both ways, or drive one way if you'd rather meander and sightsee along the way.

For more third-party information on Amtrak travel, please visit RAILtravelling.com. Remember, every trip on Amtrak is an adventure!

Please feel free to ask any additional questions if you cannot first find answers in the threads on this forum.

I would definately recommend the train travel to Florida. My wife and I are currently in Florida, came down on the Silver Star in a sleeper and had a most enjoyable trip. We will return on the Silver Star in one week. We went from New York to Tampa, although the train goes to Miami.

The train stops in Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa and other small town along the way to Miami. We rented a car and have been visiting friends and family as well as seeing the sites. We checked our luggage and brought only a small carry-on bag with us in the train. I think if you come in May, you will likely be ahead of the family travel crowds, although we have been surprized of the many people down here now.

I wish you well and hope you have a delightful trip.