This year, there will be more Amtrak Wolverine service trains traveling to and from Michigan.
“Amtrak encourages travelers to plan ahead for Thanksgiving travel and book tickets now for best availability and pricing,” said Janet Foran, a representative from the Michigan Department of Transportation’s Office of Communications.
There is not a train stop in Ypsilanti, but there are ones nearby in Ann Arbor and Dearborn. The price varies depending on the day and time you plan to travel, but you can look up all of these routes and rates at www.amtrak.com. Student Advantage cardholders are also eligible for a 15 percent discount.
Students are encouraged to consider this mode of transportation because it is “convenient, comfortable and offers flexibility when you travel with friends and family,” Foran said.
Foran said it is also good for the environment.
“Travel green with Amtrak – less carbon dioxide emissions than a car or air travel and fewer cars on the roads,” she said. “Taking the train means you are leaving your car at home, which reduces highway congestion.”
“There is comfortable, spacious seating with reclining seats and trays. Passengers can walk around and visit with friends. Trains are equipped with 120-volt electric outlets, so you can plug in PCs, DVDs, tablets and CD players,” Foran said.
The train also has reading lights. If you get hungry, there is a snack car as well.
Passengers are able to carry on two bags at no charge, and a purse, laptop or briefcase doesn’t count against that number.
“This summer, Amtrak launched its eTicket program for all trains. eTickets provide passengers with the convenience to skip the line at the ticket window and go straight to the gate by printing your ticket whenever, wherever or by using a smartphone to present the eTicket to the conductor,” Foran said.
This also provides increased flexibility for making reservations or changing them. You can also do this on the Amtrak mobile app, which is available as a free download for your smartphone.
Foran said since many students don’t have cars, “Train travel can take you city to city, with easy transportation options at the stations. Some stations are connected to local and intercity bus and are served by cabs. If friends or family are picking you up, there’s accessible parking at all stations.”
