Amtrak Promotion Code Discounts & Amtrak Coupon Codes

Amtrak operates intercity passenger trains including long-distance routes plus regional corridors in the Northeast, Illinois, Michigan, California, and Pacific Northwest. This page lists the latest 2012 Amtrak promotion codes, coupons, deals, and tips for purchasing discount train tickets. Although most Amtrak discounts are available to all passengers booking online at Amtrak.com, please review promotion code terms for eligibility.

Legal Note: This page is Copyright © 2012 RailServe.com and may not be reproduced in whole or in part on any website, message board, or other medium. RailServe.com assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or eligibility of any Amtrak promotion code, coupon, or other Amtrak discounts. This page is in no way affiliated with National Railroad Passenger Corp (Amtrak).

Standard Amtrak Discounts (Student Discount, AAA, etc.)

These Amtrak discounts apply to all train travel except weekday Acela Express but cannot be combined with an Amtrak promotion code or coupon code. Amtrak tickets must be purchased three days in advance for Student Advantage, ISIC, Veterans Advantage, AAA, or NARP fare discounts. Reservations can be made by phone (800-USA-RAIL), online (Amtrak.com), at any staffed station, or any Quik-Trak train ticket machine.

• Student Advantage: Save 15% on all Amtrak tickets with a Student Advantage card for just $20.
  • Special February Offer: Click here to save $10 on your Student Advantage card.
    You will instantly receive a card number that you can use online to save on Amtrak tickets, flights, hotels, rental cars, cell phones, the Apple Store, and more. Student Advantage is available to all students and faculty ages 16 and up -- even part-time college students.
• Veterans Advantage: Save 15% on Amtrak fares with a Veterans Advantage card.
• AAA: Save 10% with the American Automobile Association (AAA) Amtrak discount.
• NARP: Save 10% with National Association of Railroad Passengers membership.
• Children: Kids 2 to 15 years of age ride 50% off the standard adult fare on most trains.
• Seniors: Travelers 62 and over receive a 15% discount on most trains (excludes Auto Train).
• Military: US military personnel, plus their spouses and dependents, receive a 10% discount.
• Disabilities: Disabled passengers, plus one companion, receive a 15% Amtrak ticket discount.

Advance Purchase Amtrak Discounts

Amtrak tickets are priced using fare "buckets" based on availability. Similar to airlines, the fare will increase to the next bucket as tickets are sold and availability declines. Thus, you'll usually save on Amtrak tickets by booking as early as possible, especially on long-distance routes and holiday travel.

Amtrak specials often include New York's Empire Service, California routes, Chicago-area routes, and partial segments of long-distance routes nationwide. Discount fares are offered 1-5 weeks in advance, are non-refundable, and must be booked online at Amtrak.com's Weekly Specials Page. These ticket deals cannot be combined with Amtrak promotion codes, coupon codes, or other Amtrak discounts.

Save 50% on Companion Amtrak Fares for College Campus Visits in 2012

Note: This Amtrak discount is for high school students only. If you're a college student, we recommend purchasing a Student Advantage Card to receive 15% off all Amtrak tickets.

High school juniors and seniors visiting a college or university with one parent/guardian are eligible to receive 50% off the companion fare. You must make your reservation via Amtrak's Campus Visit Promo Page at least three (3) days prior to travel and present a student ID to pick-up your discount Amtrak tickets. This offer is NOT valid on Acela Express or Auto Train. Valid for sale through December 19, 2012.

Amtrak Promotion Codes & Amtrak.com Coupon Codes for 2012

Most 2012 Amtrak promotion codes require a three-day advance purchase; apply to adult, child, and senior fares only; may not be combined with other discounts (e.g. Student Advantage 15% off); exclude Acela Express; and, are subject to blackouts during peak travel periods.

Most Amtrak promotional codes may be used for reservations online (Amtrak.com), by phone (800-USA-RAIL), at a staffed station, or with a Quik-Trak train ticket machine. However, some Amtrak promotion codes apply only to Internet or phone reservations as noted in the promotion code restrictions. To use an Amtrak promotional code online at Amtrak.com, enter the four-character code in the "Promotion Code" field after selecting the desired Amtrak train.

Note #1: Unless otherwise specified below, you must select the Adult, Child, or Infant fare type to receive the Amtrak promotional code savings. If you select any other discount fare type (e.g. AAA, Student Advantage, Senior, Military, etc.), you will not receive the Amtrak promotional fare.

Note #2: Amtrak limits the number of seats available on many discount fares. If you receive a "Problem with Promotion Code" error when booking online, you may try an alternate train, date, or code. Trains selling at higher fare buckets (closer to sold-out, thus more expensive) are less likely to be eligible for discount.

Note #3: Amtrak discounts have been compiled from a variety of sources including Amtrak.com, Amtrak publications, tourism websites, and word-of-mouth. Amtrak coupon codes requiring specific membership or eligibility (e.g. Amtrak discounts for college students) are identified below. If placing a reservation online at Amtrak.com, you may find that a promotion code is accepted for destinations/dates not specifically identified below. However, it is suggested that you confirm eligibility with Amtrak prior to booking.

NEW ENGLAND Amtrak Promotion Codes & Coupon Code Discounts

This section covers 2012 Amtrak discounts for the following routes: Downeaster, Vermonter, Ethan Allen Express, Lake Shore Limited, Adirondack, Acela Express, and Northeast Regional.

SAVINGS TIP: Do not use the NORTHEAST REGIONAL promo codes if booking at least 14 days in advance. These Amtrak promotion codes will replace an included 25% advance purchase discount.

• PORTLAND/BOSTON - Buy-1-Get-1-Free on select Downeaster trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: V353   Amtrak Promo Code Source: Amtrak Downeaster Promo
  Expiration: Book by December 28, 2012. Travel by December 31, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Southbound Downeaster trains 686, 688, 696 & 698 (afternoon/evening departures from Portland) and northbound Downeaster trains 681, 683, 691 & 693 (morning departures from Boston). Valid seven days a week.
  Additional Terms: Must purchase one adult fare Amtrak ticket at full price to receive a free companion ticket.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• PORTLAND/BOSTON - Kids ride free on all SUNDAY Downeaster trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: V581   Amtrak Promo Code Source: Amtrak Downeaster Promo
  Expiration: Book by June 27, 2012. Travel by June 30, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: All Downeaster trains on Sundays only.
  Additional Terms: Select the Child (2-15) fare type and enter the promotion code. Also, must purchase one adult fare Amtrak ticket at full price to receive discount.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• PORTLAND/BOSTON - Seniors save 50% on Downeaster trains to any destination
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Seniors Half Off on Downeaster
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: All Downeaster trains.
  Additional Terms: Select the Senior (62+) fare type and enter the promotion code.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• MASSACHUSETTS - Companion saves 30% on Northeast Regional & Downeaster
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 30% to Massachusetts
  Expiration: Book by December 16, 2012. Travel by December 19, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Northeast Regional, Downeaster, and Lake Shore Limited (Albany-Boston segment only) routes to/from all cities in Massachusetts including Boston, Framingham, Worcester, Springfield, and Pittsfield. Acela Express excluded.
  Additional Terms: Must purchase one adult fare Amtrak ticket at full price to receive discount.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• RHODE ISLAND - Save 30% on a companion fare on Northeast Regional trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Visit Rhode Island & Save 30%
  Expiration: Book by December 16, 2012. Travel by December 19, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Northeast Regional service to/from Westerly, Kingston, and Providence only. Acela Express excluded.
  Additional Terms: Must purchase one adult fare Amtrak ticket at full price to receive discount.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• CONNECTICUT - Save 15% on Northeast Regional trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 15% to/from Connecticut
  Expiration: Book by March 28, 2012. Travel by March 31, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Northeast Regional service to/from Stamford, Bridgeport, New Haven, Old Saybrook, New London, and Mystic, Connecticut, plus Shuttle service to/from Hartford, Connecticut. Acela Express excluded.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• VERMONT - Save 20% on Ethan Allen Express and Vermonter trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Visit Vermont & Save 20%
  Expiration: Book by October 28, 2012. Travel by October 31, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Ethan Allen trains to/from Rutland and Castleton, plus Vermonter trains to/from St. Albans, Burlington, Waterbury, Montpelier, Randolph, White River Junction, Windsor, Bellows Falls, and Brattleboro, Vermont.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance purchase required.
   
• VERMONT - $12 fare on Vermonter trains within the state of Vermont
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Travel Vermont for Just $12
  Expiration: Book by December 30, 2012. Travel by December 31, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Vermonter trains between the following Vermont stations only: St Albans, Burlington, Waterbury, Montpelier, Randolph, White River Junction, Windsor, Bellows Falls, and Brattleboro.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: One day advance purchase required.
   
• NEW YORK/ALBANY/MONTREAL - $89 round-trip on Adirondack trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Boot It Now' at Amtrak.com: $89 Weekend Getaway
  Expiration: Book by April 23, 2012. Travel by April 26, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: A special $89 round-trip fare is available on Amtrak's Adirondack between New York, Albany, Montreal, and intermediate stops. The discount is valid Thursday through Monday only.
  Additional Terms: The departure and return must occur within five consecutive days (e.g. leave Thursday and return Monday, or leave Monday and return Friday). When booking at Amtrak.com, the full fare is displayed when selecting departing and returning trains. The discount is applied automatically during Step 3: Discounts if qualifying dates are selected.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance purchase required.
   
• Northeast Regional Buy-Two-Get-One-Free Winter 2012 Promotion
  See Amtrak Guest Rewards section below.
   
• Acela Express Buy-Three-Get-One-Free Winter 2012 Promotion
  See Amtrak Guest Rewards section below.
   
• UPDATES: Subscribe to our Facebook Page for new Amtrak Promotion Code discounts.

MID-ATLANTIC Amtrak Coupon Codes & Amtrak Promotion Code Deals for 2012

This section covers 2012 Amtrak promotions for the following routes: Northeast Regional, Acela Express, Keystone Service, Pennsylvanian, Empire Service, and Maple Leaf.

SAVINGS TIP: Do not use the NORTHEAST REGIONAL coupon codes if booking at least 14 days in advance. These Amtrak promotional codes will replace an included 25% advance purchase discount.

NJ Transit and SEPTA offer train service between New York and Philadelphia for $24.25 each way. Also, MegaBus and Bolt Bus offer express bus service between these and other cities. For NJ Transit & SEPTA details, plus Bolt Bus & MegaBus promotion code discounts, please see the Amtrak Alternatives section.

• NEW YORK - Save 15% on trains WITHIN New York State, plus to/from Montreal
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: See New York and Save 15%
  Expiration: Book by May 28, 2012. Travel by May 31, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Adirondack, Empire Service, Ethan Allen Express, and Maple Leaf routes to/from all cities within New York, plus Montreal and St. Lambert, Quebec. Note this discount is NOT valid on the Lake Shore Limited.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• NEWARK - Save 30% on a companion fare on Northeast Regional trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 30% to Newark, NJ
  Expiration: Book by December 16, 2012. Travel by December 19, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Northeast Regionals to/from Newark. Acela Express excluded.
  Additional Terms: Must purchase one adult fare Amtrak ticket at full price to receive discount.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• PHILADELPHIA - Save 30% on a companion fare on Northeast Regional & Keystones
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 30% to Philadelphia, PA
  Expiration: Book by December 16, 2012. Travel by December 19, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Northeast Regionals & Keystones to/from Philadelphia. Acela excluded.
  Additional Terms: Must purchase one adult fare Amtrak ticket at full price to receive discount.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• WILMINGTON - Save 30% on a companion fare on Northeast Regional trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 30% to Wilmington, DE
  Expiration: Book by December 16, 2012. Travel by December 19, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Northeast Regionals to/from Wilmington. Acela Express excluded.
  Additional Terms: Must purchase one adult fare Amtrak ticket at full price to receive discount.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• BALTIMORE - Save 30% on a companion fare on Northeast Regional trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 30% to Baltimore, MD
  Expiration: Book by December 16, 2012. Travel by December 19, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Northeast Regionals to/from Baltimore. Acela Express excluded.
  Additional Terms: Must purchase one adult fare Amtrak ticket at full price to receive discount.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• BWI AIRPORT - Save 30% on a companion fare on Northeast Regional trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 30% to Annapolis, MD
  Expiration: Book by December 16, 2012. Travel by December 19, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Northeast Regionals to/from BWI Airport. Acela Express excluded.
  Additional Terms: Must purchase one adult fare Amtrak ticket at full price to receive discount.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• WASHINGTON - Save 30% on a companion fare on Northeast Regional trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 30% to Washington, DC
  Expiration: Book by December 16, 2012. Travel by December 19, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Northeast Regionals to/from Washington. Acela Express excluded.
  Additional Terms: Must purchase one adult fare Amtrak ticket at full price to receive discount.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• Northeast Regional Buy-Two-Get-One-Free Winter 2012 Promotion
  See Amtrak Guest Rewards section below.
   
• Acela Express Buy-Three-Get-One-Free Winter 2012 Promotion
  See Amtrak Guest Rewards section below.
   
• UPDATES: The latest Amtrak promotion codes and discounts are posted on Facebook.

SOUTHEAST Amtrak Coupon Codes & Promotion Code Specials, including Amtrak Auto Train discounts

This section covers 2012 Amtrak discounts for the following routes: Auto Train, Carolinian, Piedmont, Crescent, Silver Meteor, Silver Star, and Palmetto.

• PALMETTO / CRESCENT - Save 50% on a companion fare in June
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book Now' at Amtrak.com: June Travel Deals in the South
  Expiration: Book by February 29, 2012. Travel June 1 through June 30, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Palmetto between Fayetteville, NC, and Savannah, GA (plus intermediate stops) and Crescent between Atlanta and New Orleans (plus intermediate stops).
  Additional Terms: Must purchase one adult fare Amtrak ticket at full price to receive discount.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Book in February for travel in June.
• ORLANDO - Save 15% on Silver Service to Orlando, Florida
  Amtrak Promotional Code: V174   Amtrak Promo Code Source: Orlando Magicard
  Expiration: Book by March 28, 2012. Travel by March 31, 2012.
  Amtrak Trains/Routes: Silver Star and Silver Meteor to Orlando, Winter Park, and Kissimmee.
  Additional Terms: This Amtrak promotion code may only be used by phone: 800-USA-RAIL.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• CRUISE PASSENGERS - Save 20% (or 15% on sleeper accommodations) to port cities
  Amtrak Coupon Codes: V357 (Norwegian), V602 (Carnival), V785 (Holland America)
  Expiration: Book by December 27, 2012. Travel by December 31, 2012.
  Amtrak Trains/Routes: Valid on all routes except Acela Express, Auto Train, Illinois Zephyr, Kansas City Mule, Keystone Service, Lake Shore Limited, Lincoln Service, Missouri River Runner, St. Louis Mule & Canada service.
  Additional Terms: Valid only in conjunction with a Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Line, or Holland America Line cruise itinerary for arrival at the port city at least one day prior to cruise departure. Cruise reservation number required. Code may only be used by phone: 800-USA-RAIL.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• AUTO TRAIN - Kids ride Amtrak's Auto Train to Florida for $19
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book a Trip Now' at Amtrak.com: Kids Ride Auto Train for $19
  Expiration: This Amtrak discount has expired. Check back in April for any new Auto Train promos for Summer 2012.
  Amtrak Trains/Routes: Auto Train between Lorton, Virginia and Sanford, Florida only.
  Additional Terms: One child (age 2-15) travels for $19 per accompanying adult.
   
• UPDATES: Check our Facebook Page for the latest Amtrak discounts and coupon codes.

MIDWEST Amtrak Promotional Codes & Amtrak Discount Codes for 2012

This section covers 2012 Amtrak promotions for the following routes: Capitol Limited, Cardinal, Hoosier State, City of New Orleans, Texas Eagle, Heartland Flyer, Hiawatha, Illinois Zephyr, Illini, Saluki, Carl Sandburg, Lincoln Service, Missouri River Runner, Pere Marquette, Wolverine, and Blue Water.

• ILLINOIS - Save 20% on select Amtrak trains in Illinois
  Amtrak Promotional Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 20% in Illinois
  Expiration: Book by April 29, 2012. Travel by April 30, 2012.
  Amtrak Trains/Routes: Chicago-Quincy (Carl Sandburg and Illinois Zephyr), Chicago-St. Louis (Lincoln Service), and Chicago-Carbondale (Illini and Saluki).
  Advance Purchase Requirement: One day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• MICHIGAN - Save 20% on select Amtrak trains in Michigan
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 20% in Michigan
  Expiration: Book by April 29, 2012. Travel by April 30, 2012.
  Amtrak Trains/Routes: Chicago-Grand Rapids (Pere Marquette), Chicago-Pontiac (Wolverines), and Chicago-Port Huron (Blue Water).
  Advance Purchase Requirement: One day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• ST. LOUIS / KANSAS CITY - Save 20% on Missouri River Runner trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 20% in Missouri
  Expiration: Book by April 28, 2012. Travel by April 30, 2012.
  Amtrak Trains/Routes: Missouri River Runner trains (numbers 311, 313, 314 & 316) between St. Louis, Kansas City, and intermediate stops.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Two day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• CHICAGO / MILWAUKEE - Kids ride free on WEEKEND Hiawatha trains
  Amtrak Promotion Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Kids Ride Free on Weekends
  Expiration: This Amtrak discount has expired. Check back in June for Summer 2012 promos.
  Amtrak Trains/Routes: Hiawatha trains between Chicago, Milwaukee, and intermediate stops on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only.
  Additional Terms: Two kids (ages 2-15) travel free per adult.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: None.
   
• UPDATES: New Amtrak coupon codes & promotions are posted on our Facebook Page.

WEST Amtrak Promotion Code Deals & Amtrak Discounts for 2012

This section covers 2012 Amtrak discounts for the following routes: Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, California Zephyr, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited, plus the following four regional corridors:

• Pacific Surfliner: San Luis Obispo - Santa Barbara - Los Angeles - San Diego
• San Joaquin: Oakland - Sacramento - Stockton - Bakersfield
• Capitol Corridor: Auburn - Sacramento - San Francisco - Oakland - San Jose
• Cascades: Eugene - Portland - Seattle - Vancouver
   
• SEATTLE - Save 15% on Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, and Amtrak Cascades
  Amtrak Discount Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: 15% Off Train Tickets to Seattle
  Expiration: Book by April 22, 2012. Travel by April 29, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Valid for travel to/from Seattle on the Empire Builder (between cities in Washington, Idaho & Montana only), Coast Starlight, and Amtrak Cascades.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• WHITEFISH - Save 20% on the Empire Builder to/from Whitefish, Montana
  Amtrak Discount Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 20% to Whitefish
  Expiration: Book by February 13, 2012. Travel by March 31, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Valid for travel between Whitefish and the following cities only: Chicago, Milwaukee, Columbus, Lacrosse, Winona, Minneapolis, Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, Williston, Havre, Shelby, Spokane, Everett, Edmonds, Seattle, Portland, Vancouver (WA), and Pasco.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• PACIFIC SURFLINER & SAN JOAQUIN - Save 20% to/from Santa Barbara County
  Amtrak Discount Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Take a Vacation from Your Car
  Expiration: Book by December 16, 2012. Travel by December 19, 2012.
  Amtrak Trains/Routes: Pacific Surfliner, San Joaquin, and associated thruway buses to/from the following Santa Barbara County stations only: Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, Goleta, Surf, Guadalupe, Santa Maria, Solvang, Buellton, and Lompoc.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• PACIFIC SURFLINER & SAN JOAQUIN - Save 20% to/from San Luis Obispo County
  Amtrak Discount Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Go Car Free to San Luis Obispo
  Expiration: Book by December 16, 2012. Travel by December 19, 2012.
  Amtrak Trains/Routes: Pacific Surfliner, San Joaquin, and associated thruway buses to/from San Luis Obispo, Grover Beach, Atascadero, and Paso Robles, California.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance ticket purchase required.
   
• CAPITOL CORRIDOR - Chinook Book includes buy-one-get-one-free Amtrak coupon
  An Amtrak coupon for a free companion ticket on Capitol Corridor trains is included in the 2012 editions of both the East Bay and Silicon Valley Chinook coupon books. The books are sold for $20 each in the online store and at local retailers.
   
• CASCADES - Chinook Book includes Amtrak coupons for companion and child fares
  Both the Portland and Seattle Chinook coupon books include Amtrak Cascades coupons for a half-price adult ticket (or free child ticket) with the purchase of one full price adult ticket. The books are sold for $20 each in the online store and at local retailers.
   
• WHISTLER - Save 25% on Amtrak Cascades to Whistler, British Columbia
  Amtrak Discount Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Save 25% Off to Whistler
  Expiration: Book by February 2, 2012. Travel February 2 to February 14, 2012.
  Amtrak Routes/Trains: Valid on train numbers 510 and 517 for travel originating in Seattle, Everett, and Edmonds only. Discount applies to rail fare only (not Thruway bus).
   
• COLLEGE STUDENTS - Select university students save 20% on California routes
  Amtrak Promotional Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Take A Break From Classes
  Expiration: Book by June 12, 2012. Travel by June 15, 2012.
  Amtrak Trains/Routes: Pacific Surfliner, San Joaquin, Capitol Corridor, and associated thruways.
  Additional Terms: Student ID required for Amtrak ticket purchase and onboard train. Valid for students at participating universities only: Cal State (Fresno & Bakersfield), Fresno City, Cal Poly, University of California (Merced, Irvine, Santa Barbara & Los Angeles), University of the Pacific, University of San Diego, San Diego State, and Santa Barbara City College.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance purchase required.
   
• COLLEGE FACULTY/STAFF - Select university staff save 15% on California routes
  Amtrak Promotional Code: Click 'Book It Now' at Amtrak.com: Take The Break You Deserve
  Expiration: Book by December 28, 2012. Travel by December 31, 2012.
  Amtrak Trains/Routes: Pacific Surfliner, San Joaquin, Capitol Corridor, and associated thruways.
  Additional Terms: University ID required for Amtrak ticket purchase and onboard train. Valid for faculty/staff at participating University of California and California State campuses. Refer to Amtrak.com promotion code link above for complete list of eligible institutions.
  Advance Purchase Requirement: Three day advance purchase required.
   
• UPDATES: See our Facebook Page for new Amtrak discounts, promotions, and coupons.

Amtrak Guest Rewards Promotions

Amtrak Guest Rewards is a complimentary program that awards points for Amtrak travel, hotel stays, car rentals, and other purchases. To earn points, you must first sign-up for a Guest Rewards account and provide your member number with every reservation. Points are redeemable for free Amtrak travel and gift certificates and can be easily transferred to rewards programs at many hotels and airlines. The latest Amtrak Guest Rewards promotions and specials are listed below:

• Northeast Regional Buy-Two-Get-One-Free Winter 2012 Promotion
  Take two round-trips (or four one-ways) on Northeast Regional between January 4 and February 29 and earn one free round-trip redeemable between July 4 and August 30. To qualify, each trip must be at least $49 one-way or $98 round-trip. To earn up to two (2) free round-trips, you must be an Amtrak Guest Rewards member and register online prior to travel.
   
• Acela Express Buy-Three-Get-One-Free Winter 2012 Promotion
  Take three round-trips (or six one-ways) on Acela Express between January 4 and February 29 and earn one free round-trip redeemable between July 4 and August 30. To qualify, each trip must be at least $90 one-way or $180 round-trip. To earn up to two (2) free round-trips, you must be an Amtrak Guest Rewards member and register online prior to travel.
   
• Refer-A-Friend and Earn 500 Bonus Amtrak Guest Rewards Points
  Enter the e-mail addresses of potential Amtrak Guest Rewards members. If a referral joins the program and travels within 90 days, both you and the new member earn 500 bonus points. Referrals must be submitted on the Refer-A-Friend Page.
   
• Amtrak Guest Rewards MasterCard with 12,000 Bonus Points
  Earn two points per dollar on Amtrak purchases and one point per dollar on all other purchases. Receive 12,000 bonus points after your first purchase, enough for two round-trips in the Northeast or six round-trips on select Amtrak routes. Click Here for complete details from Amtrak Guest Rewards. Note: Some members may be eligible for additional bonus point offers (16k, 18k, etc.). Login to your Amtrak Guest Rewards account to see if you receive a better offer.

General Amtrak Ticket & Travel Tips

This section provides several practical tips for making Amtrak reservations. Although route-specific details are beyond the scope of this page, we recommend USA By Rail for a comprehensive guide.

• Book Early for Lowest Fare Bucket: Amtrak uses four to five price levels ("buckets") for coach seating and five for sleeper accommodations. With the exception of peak travel times (e.g. Thanksgiving week) when only the highest price bucket may be offered, a percentage of coach seats and sleepers are typically available at lower price buckets when Amtrak tickets first go on-sale 11 months prior to departure. As a train approaches sell-out, Amtrak's yield management system will automatically move to the next higher fare bucket. This can cause Amtrak fares to increase significantly as you approach the departure date. It is suggested that you book as early as possible to receive cheap Amtrak tickets, especially given Amtrak's flexible refund policy (see below). An unofficial website, AmSnag, allows one to search a range of dates for the lowest fares, excluding any applicable Amtrak promotions.

• Wait to Pick Up Tickets: When booking at Amtrak.com or 1-800-USA-RAIL, your Amtrak tickets will be held for pick up unless you opt to have the tickets mailed. Although you can pick up your tickets from a staffed Amtrak station or Quik-Trak ticketing machine at any time prior to departure, it is suggested that you wait until close to your departure date for the greatest flexibility in changing or canceling your reservation. Most Amtrak reservations are 100% refundable until the tickets are physically printed (sleeping accommodations are ineligible for refund within 7 days of travel). Once Amtrak tickets are printed, however, refund requests must be mailed-in or taken to a staffed Amtrak station. Refunds on printed Amtrak tickets are subject to a 10% service fee, or you can opt to receive the full ticket value in the form of an exchange voucher valid for one year. For more information, see Amtrak's Refund Policy.

• Avoid Sell-Outs: If you attempt to make a reservation and find that coach or upgrades (business class, first class, sleepers) are sold-out on the desired train, it is suggested that you try the next morning as soon as possible after 4AM ET. Amtrak's reservation system is updated overnight with cancellations, so tickets may become available. If coach is available but upgrades are sold-out, you may wish to make the coach reservation and keep checking with 1-800-USA-RAIL to see if upgraded accommodations can be added. If an upgrade still isn't available prior to departure, you may still be able to upgrade from coach onboard by checking with the conductor regarding no-shows or last minute cancellations.

• Sleeper Accommodation Pricing: All sleeper accommodations are priced in addition to coach fares and are based on the number of rooms, not the number of passengers. For example, if the coach fare between Points A and B is $100 and a roomette is $250, two passengers could share a roomette for $450 ($100*2 + $250). Both passengers would also be entitled to free meals in the dining car. Note that you are charged the same price for the accommodation regardless of the number of passengers. For more information, see Amtrak's Sleeping Accommodations Page.

• Free Stopovers & Multi-City Trips: To book a trip with stopovers at the lowest possible fare, use the Multi-City Tickets option at Amtrak.com. If each stopover is less than 24 hours (same or next-day), the multi-city fare will be the same as a reservation booked directly from origin to final destination. For example, suppose the fare from New York (NYP) to Washington (WAS) is $49.00. However, one desires an 8-hour stopover in Philadelphia (PHL). Using Amtrak.com's multi-city ticket option, specify two legs for the journey (NYP-PHL and PHL-WAS) with the desired dates/times. If the stopover is less less 24 hours, the two-part Amtrak fare will still be $49.00. If the stopover is 24 hours or more, the two legs will be priced as separate travel and yield a significantly higher fare. Note: Free stopovers are available on any Amtrak route nationwide with more than one train per day. Free stopovers are NOT available on long-distance routes served by a single train per day, as the required layover will be at least 24 hours.  In such instances, the USA Rail Pass may provide the best value.

• Reservation Changes: Unlike most airlines, Amtrak does not charge a ticket change fee. When changing a reservation, Amtrak will simply charge (or credit) the difference in fare between trains. Keep in mind that Amtrak fares usually rise as the departure date approaches, so last-minute reservation changes may result in substantial charges. Also, if you received a promotional code discount on the original Amtrak reservation that included an advance purchase requirement (e.g. a 20%-off promotion code), you will lose the discount if changing your reservation after the advance purchase deadline. Reservations made online at Amtrak.com may be changed online if you have not yet picked up your physical Amtrak ticket(s). All other reservations must be modified by phone (1-800-USA-RAIL) or at a staffed station.

• Late Trains & Connections: Amtrak trains on the Northeast Corridor are usually on-time or subject to minor delays of 10-30 minutes. On all other routes, Amtrak trains operate over freight railroads and can be subject to delays as long as several hours due to trackwork and freight train interference. Amtrak publishes monthly on-time statistics for each route that may be helpful in travel planning. Amtrak will only "guarantee" connections with a minimum of 60 minutes (or 90 minutes if connecting between a long-distance train and the Northeast Corridor). When a train is late, Amtrak may do one of the following: a) hold the connecting train if the delay is minor and there are numerous connecting passengers, b) provide same-day alternative transportation on Amtrak or other carrier, or c) provide hotel accommodations and reservations on the next day's train.

• Train Status: Train status is available by web (Amtrak.com), phone (1-800-USA-RAIL), and mobile device (Amtrak.mobi). A third party website plots all Amtrak trains on a color-coded map and provides their current status. Train status is also found via text message using a free service from TextMarks.
  Simply text 41411 with the following: amtrakstatus [train number] [station code]
  For example, texting amtrakstatus 175 phl provides the status of train 175 at Philadelphia.

• Wi-Fi Internet: Wireless Internet is available free of charge on the following Amtrak routes: Acela Express, Northeast Regional, Downeaster, Empire Service, Keystone, Vermonter, Ethan Allen Express, Carolinian, Cascades, Pacific Surfliner, San Joaquin, Capitol Corridor, and Coast Starlight (sleeping car passengers in Pacific Parlour Car only). Additionally, free wifi is available in select cars on the following routes: Adirondack, Maple Leaf, Pennsylvanian, and Palmetto. Free wifi is also available in the following Amtrak stations: Washington, Baltimore, Wilmington, Philadelphia, New York Penn Station, Providence, Route 128 Station (Massachusetts), and Boston South Station (ClubAcela only), plus Auto Train stations Lorton and Sanford. The AmtrakConnect Wi-Fi Page provides additional information.

• See our Facebook Page for questions, answers, and additional Amtrak travel tips.

Amtrak Contact Methods

Comments and questions regarding this page may be submitted via our contact form. For assistance with Amtrak reservations, travel planning, discount eligibility, and customer service, please use the contacts below.

Amtrak Reservations Phone: 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245), available 24/7.
     For new reservations, changes, cancellations, and train status inquiries.
     Amtrak's automated agent, Julie, can assist with basic reservations and train status.
     Press 0 at any time to speak with a live agent.
     International callers without toll-free access can dial (001) 215-856-7953 from 8:30a to 5:00p Eastern Time.

Amtrak Customer Relations Phone: 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245), press 0, ask for Customer Relations
     For feedback and complaints concerning Amtrak travel, including travel voucher requests.
     Available Monday through Friday, 7a-10p ET.

Amtrak.com: Online Contact Form
     For general comments and questions. Select the appropriate subject to route your request correctly.

Free Amtrak Publications: Online Request Form
     For requesting timetables, vacations guide, onboard magazines, Auto Train pamphlet, etc. by mail.

Amtrak Guest Rewards Phone: 1-800-307-5000
     For reward travel, points balance, and all customer service inquiries.
     Reward travel with connecting trains, sleeping accommodations, or Auto Train MUST be booked by phone.
     Available 7 days a week, 5a-Midnight ET.

Amtrak Guest Rewards Missing Points: Online Points Request Form
     Request credit for Amtrak tickets that weren't credited within three (3) weeks of travel.

Amtrak Alternatives (MegaBus, BoltBus, NJ Transit / SEPTA)

This section details several Amtrak alternatives in the Northeast. MegaBus and BoltBus offer express bus service between Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, while NJ Transit and SEPTA offer connecting train service between New York and Philadelphia.

MegaBus

MegaBus launched in 2006 and now serves cities throughout the Northeast, Southeast, and Midwest. Although slower than Amtrak, subject to traffic delays, and generally less comfortable than train seating/amenities, MegaBus tickets can be considerably cheaper. The following MegaBus routes compete directly with Amtrak's Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, Empire Service, and Downeaster:

MegaBus stops are located at Amtrak stations in Portland, Boston (South Station), New Haven, New York, Philadelphia, Washington, Richmond (Main Street Station), and Syracuse. MegaBus stops in other cities vary from downtown to suburban. Service operates hourly on the most popular routes, roughly the same as Amtrak.

MegaBus fares generally range from $1 to about $75 depending on the route and date of booking. A MegaBus promotion code is NOT required for the $1 fare. There are $1 seats available on every bus, but you may need to book several weeks in advance.

MegaBus promotional codes are infrequent and usually publicized directly at megabus.com. Current MegaBus promotion codes are listed below and announced via our Facebook Page.

• GOFREE: A limited number of free seats are available on all Megabus routes, January 4 through March 1, 2012. If the code does not provide a free ticket for a selected bus, you may try an alternate date/time. For many routes, you may need to book weeks in advance to find a free ticket.

Check megabus.com for details about MegaBus schedules, stations, deals, and other MegaBus promos.

BoltBus

BoltBus launched in 2008 as a joint venture between Greyhound and Peter Pan. Like MegaBus, Bolt Bus offers free wifi and cheaper fares than Amtrak, but is limited to the following routes:

BoltBus stops utilize Amtrak stations in Boston (South Station), New York, Newark, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington. Service is as frequent as every 30 minutes during peak travel times.

BoltBus fares generally range from $8 to $39 depending on destination and date of booking. The cheapest fares will be obtained by booking at least several days in advance.

Check boltbus.com for Bolt Bus tickets, schedules, deals, and bus stop locations. BoltBus coupon code and promotion code discounts are also posted when available.

NJ Transit & SEPTA

NJ Transit and SEPTA operate commuter rail networks in New York and Philadelphia, respectively. By riding NJ Transit's Northeast Corridor Line between New York Penn Station and Trenton, coupled with SEPTA's Trenton Line (formerly R7 route) between Philadelphia 30th Street Station and Trenton, hourly train service is available between New York and Philadelphia.

Although longer and less comfortable than Amtrak, the commuter rail connection has the benefit of lower fares ($24.25 one-way) and flexible ticketing (all trains are unreserved). Joint tickets for NJ Transit and SEPTA trains are available at New York Penn Station as well as all three SEPTA train stations in Center City Philadelphia. Tickets for each direction of travel will come in two parts -- one for NJ Transit and one for SEPTA. Tickets are unreserved and may be used on any train at any time of day.

The table below compares Amtrak with the NJ Transit / SEPTA alternative. Schedules and fares are subject to change. For current train schedules and more information, visit the NJ Transit and SEPTA websites.