I only take day trips...last month rode round trip Alexandria-Newport News, VA.Short train...engine + 2 coaches + coach/cafe. Southbound 98% full to Richmond, and maybe 50% beyond there.
North bound...maybe 50% at best.
Train was slightly delayed southbound (20 min) and northbound (10 min).
Interesting sights include Richmond Main St. station (not yet restored as a stop), triple crossing, and the elevated track through Richmond.
Ex-C&O track east of Richmond is in much better shape than the ex-C&O west of Orange/Charlottesville (Cardinal route).
Newport News station area has little to see (many passengers xferred to Norfolk bus) but there is a C&O Kanawha across the street in a park. Donated in 1963 and later cosmetically restored (and protected by a fence).
MP