In August 2006 we traveled by train from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania into New York City for our summer family vacation, and in December 2005 we traveled by train from Indianapolis into Chicago for a New Years trip. We liked this mode of travel so well, that when we planned a return trip to New York City in June of 2009 - well it was automatically our choice for travel with the childen!

The way that our family has approached train travel is to choose a train depot that is not too far from our home (6 - 8 hour drive) that has service into the major city that we are visiting.  We make the trip even more fun by incorporating a fun activity into the trip at the train depot city.
 

Lancaster PA to New York City - June 2009
On this trip to New York City, we chose to visit Lancaster, Pennsylvania and take in a tour of Amish Country. The train ride from Lancaster to New York City is a little more than 2 hours, and the ride goes very quickly. The greatest benefit of train travel from a major city is, of course on the return trip.... you can simply rest up from your family vacation.

Harrisburg to New York City - August 2006
Before the train travel to New York City, we spent the day in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.  My husband is a history nut, so the Gettysburg Battlefield was a real interest to him.  We also took the time to explore the Eisenhower Farm.  On the day of our train travel to New York City, we boarded the Amtrak train in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.  The trip into New York City took just over three hours.  Once again, the kids were occupied and happy, and we were rested and ready to enjoy our time in New York City. 

Now, can you imagine how tired we were after three very fast paced days in New York City?  Well, we did not have to try to figure out how to fight the traffic and get out of town.  All we had to do was to take a cab to Penn Station, and get on our train to Harrisburg.

Indianapolis to Chicago - December 2005
Before the trip to Chicago, we took an evening to ride around downtown Indianapolis.  My son is a huge Indianapolis Colts fan, so was tickled to death to see the RCA Dome.  We boarded the Amtrak 51 Train in Indianapolis at 6:30 AM on Thursday December 29, 2005.  Our trip into Chicago took about 4 hours. The trains are equipped with electrical outlets, reading lights, and blankets.  The kids had a great time playing Nintendo games , and we were rested and ready for our days in Chicago when we arrived.

The return trip to Indianapolis was just as restful.  After a tiring three days in Chicago, we welcomed the seats on the train to get us out of town and on our way home. 

Make your reservations early, and have the tickets shipped to you.

Check out the Amtrak Family Travel Page for more information about Train Travel on Long-Distance Family Vacations.