Choo-chooinest Railroad Fix

Amtrak to Dallas

As we contemplated a visit to friends and relatives in Dallas, we considered our transportation options. Driving seemed tiresome after a long day at the salt mines, flying too cumbersome and expensive. Then we checked with Amtrak and hit paydirt. For an extremely modest fare, we left Austin at 10:30am and leisurely rolled into Dallas at 4:45pm. No, this trip isn't for slaves to the clock, but the trip is the thing. The seats are veritable Barca loungers with ample leg room. There's a glorious sightseeing car with swivel lounge chairs, a snack bar stocked with wine, beer, and the like, and a swanky dining car complete with white linens and fresh flowers. The return trip is equally convenient (3pm departure, 9pm arrival). We now look for any excuse to head to Big D on a big train.

Amtrak
250 N. Lamar, 800/872-7245
www.amtrak.com