Desiring an overnight train ride back to Atlanta means taking the Crescent south from the Northeast. Depending on your budget, there are lots of options for a quick trip up north. Fly to Boston and stay over, then take Acela or NEC Regional to New York, Philadelphia, or Washington DC and stay over, then hop the Crescent overnight back to Atlanta. Or, for a single destination, fly to New York, Philadelphia, or Washington and stay over then Crescent home. A lot depends on your budget and taste.
If the “we” includes children, then Washington with the air and space museum is a good choice. But the Franklin Institute Science Museum in Philadelphia is not a bad kids spot either. Kids love New York with the noise, crowds, and bustle. The Lion King on Broadway would be a hit.
Just adults? New York is a great choice with more shows, clubs, and museums than you can imagine. Philly and Boston are not bad either at a price tag a little lower than the Apple. You almost can’t go wrong.
From Atlanta, AirTran offers good one-way service and fares to Boston ($79), New York LaGuardia or Newark ($79), Philadelphia ($69), and Washington Reagan ($59). Fares include tax but exclude fees (about $10 each depending on destination). Delta often matches those fares but may limit seating inventory.
The train ride back to Atlanta is an afternoon departure with arrival the next morning. If the price tag permits, get a bedroom on the Crescent for the return trip. The privacy and comfort are well worth the cost and your onboard meals are included. For two, the Deluxe Bedroom is the only reasonable choice. The Standard Bedroom is much cheaper and has two bunks but is better suited for a solo traveler. That room is about the size of the bed alone and the open toilet is, for my taste, taking togetherness to a level I do not wish to attain. The Deluxe has enclosed facilities.
