There’s just something special about riding a train. Whether it’s taking in the beautiful scenery that passes by, or relaxing in a comfy seat as the rhythm of the rails sounds beneath your feet, traveling by train is one of the best ways to travel. In fact, people have been riding trains in America since the South Carolina Canal and Railroad Company offered service on the “Best Friend of Charleston” in 1830. A lot has changed since then, and obviously for the better.
Riding Amtrak is not only practical and economical, but fun too!
It’s true that many College students are on a limited budget, and may not be able to afford gushing $100 worth of gas into a vehicle just for a weekend trip, where stressful driving and traffic lie ahead on the interstate. However, Amtrak’s Piedmont service connects Salisbury with eight other North Carolina cities between Charlotte and Raleigh on a daily basis for an affordable price.
Additionally, Amtrak’s Carolinian travels to those NC cities, three more stations in NC, and then travels north to places such as Richmond, Washington, D.C., and New York City. The prices for these trains are extremely reasonable. For example, a single trip ticket from Salisbury to Greensboro is only $10, with a round trip ticket being $20. Paying $20 to relax and avoid interstate driving is definitely worth the cost.
Riders on the Piedmont are welcomed by a friendly conductor that leads them to their seat upon climbing aboard NCDOT’s newly refurbished coaches. A polite and helpful Volunteer Car Host gladly walks through the train during the trip assisting with any questions passengers may have. Vending machines are available in the combine car, allowing for a nice snack during the ride. And for bicycle riders, Amtrak’s Piedmont includes bike racks so your personal method of transportation can travel with you. Numerous trains are offered throughout the day that pass through Salisbury, stopping at the Historic 1908 Passenger Depot. They are:
Northbound (Piedmont: Charlotte-Raleigh, Carolinian: Charlotte- New York):
Train #80 (Carolinian)- 7:41 AM
Train #74 (Piedmont)- 12:41 PM
Train #76 (Piedmont)- 5:56 PM
Southbound (Piedmont: Raleigh- Charlotte, Carolinian: New York-Charlotte):
Train #73 (Piedmont)- 9:08 AM
Train #75 (Piedmont)- 2:08 PM
Train #79 (Carolinian)- 7:24 PM
Many claim that Amtrak trains are unpopular and obsolete. This proves to be false due to the fact that train travel is critical for commuters traveling intercity and for basic travel throughout the state. And NCDOT Rail/Amtrak is very popular. According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Website, 170,266 riders rode on the Piedmont, creating $3.3 Million Dollars in revenue. The Carolinian experienced 317,550 riders, enjoying $19.8 Million during the 2013 fiscal year. So if you desire for a nice, fun, affordable way to travel home or travel across North Carolina, Amtrak’s Carolinian and Piedmont provides an exceptional service that is both satisfying and memorable. So All Aboard for a great time, and a great way to travel.
For more information on Amtrak’s Piedmont and Carolinian Service, check out this link:
http://www.ncbytrain.org/
