Plan a family train trip with Amtrak's 'kids ride free' sale

Amtrak is holding a "Kids Ride Free" flash sale, which allows one child aged 2-12 to travel free with each paid adult ticket across the US.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, travelers may be reassured by Amtrak's safety and cleaning measures. It requires that all customers and employees wear a face mask or covering while onboard and in stations, and has limited bookings on most trains to allow for more physical distancing in seating areas. It has implemented enhanced cleaning and disinfecting protocols at stations and onboard its trains, which are equipped with onboard filtration systems with a fresh air exchange rate every four to five minutes.

The sale applies to the Acela, Northeast Regional, Adirondack, Amtrak Cascades, Carolinian, Downeaster, Empire Service, Ethan Allen Express, Hiawatha, Illinois Service, Maple Leaf, Michigan Services, Missouri River Runner, Heartland Flyer, Piedmont, San Joaquins and Vermonter. It is also valid on trains that travel on the national network: Auto Train, California Zephyr, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, City of New Orleans, Coast Starlight, Crescent, Empire Builder, Lake Shore Limited, Palmetto, Silver Star, Silver Meteor, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle. It does not include the Pennsylvanian, Keystone, Capitol Corridor, Pacific Surfliner and 7000-8999 Thruways.

“Whether seeing family, taking a trip cross-country, or going on a weekend excursion, we truly believe the journey is the most important part of the adventure,” says Roger Harris, executive vice president and chief marketing and revenue officer with Amtrak. “With our latest sale, customers can make a trip extra special and a memorable opportunity to travel on Amtrak.”

The sale is valid for travel in coach and Acela business class, and an advanced reservation of at least three days is required. Blackout dates are November 24, 25, 28, 29, and 30 and bookings can be made on the Amtrak website here.

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