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I am going out west from FL this time, instead of from the NE where I live. Is there anything I should know about the DC connection? I tried to get on the Silver Meteor but could not and have to take the Silver Star, a bummer because of the long Tampa detour . . . will I have trouble making the connection from Silver Star to the Capitol Ltd? Anything else I need to know about this different route?
notelvis Member # 3071
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Seems like you'll have about a four hour layover for that connection and you should be safe. The trains on CSX have been closer to on-time in recent weeks.
I was on a northbound Silver Star that was on-time to the minute from Winter Park to Raleigh in October. While I wouldn't expect perfection, I'd certainly expect to be within two or three hours of on-time......knock on wood.
As for what's different on the Star - not much as the diffeent route is pretty much all done during the night. The restored Hamlet, NC depot would be worth a glimpse on the left side of the train if you're awake when you get there.
wayne72145 Member # 4503
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I took the Silver Star to DC the day after Thanksgiving from Wildwood Florida and I was amazed that everything ran close to on time. During the 4 hour lay over in DC I walked down to the National Gallery and viewed the Turner Collection and was much impressed. The Capitol Limited ran exactly on time until we got near Chicago and the Empire Builder ran completely on time during the entire trip ! ! I take this trip at least twice a year and much enjoy the lay overs.
Ocala Mike Member # 4657
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wayne72145, where did you board the Silver Star? Not in Wildwood, I'm sure, unless it was on a detour over the "S" line through Ocala. Deland?
wayne72145 Member # 4503
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I got on the Silver Star in Jacksonville this time, my daughter lives in Floral City and it was easier for her to take me to Wildwood for an Amtrak Thruway than to Tampa. The Thruway stops in Ocala -- Gainsville and a few other un-manned stations--very comfortable.
Ocala Mike Member # 4657
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Forgot about the bus, wayne. I guess that's how the "S" line stations will be served forever from now on.
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