Amtrak Train Specials, From $51

Things are looking up for America's train system. President Obama recently announced an $8 billion plan for high-speed train and track development in 10 corridors in the U.S. In the meantime, this Saturday is National Train Day, which brings events like live music and train-equipment displays to Chicago, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. Want to experience the railways? We've gathered a few deals available from Amtrak to get you started.

Acela one-way tickets, from $51
The Real Deal Business class one-way tickets on the Acela Express, America's only high-speed train, and all taxes and fees. In business class, seats each have a power source for gadgets (laptops, iPods, DVD players), and the train has a café car for snacks. Why it's a deal These lower fares save you up to 25 percent. For example, the New York City to D.C. route usually costs $133 each way—this lower fare is $99 each way. Other discounted routes include New Haven, Conn., to New York City ($51), Boston to New York City ($79), and Boston to D.C. ($124). When Through June 25, 2009. Details Tickets must be booked at least 14 days in advance. All taxes included. Why take the train? Popular with business travelers, Acela is a pleasant, generally hassle-free alternative to air travel between Northeastern cities. The stations are usually downtown—meaning no long, expensive cab ride from the airport—and you won't pay extra fees for your luggage or be stuck in snaking security lines.

California Rail Pass, from $159
The Real Deal Seven full days of travel on the Capitols, San Joaquin, Pacific Surfliner, and Coast Starlight corridor trains. Why it's a deal The California Rail Pass is a good value if you'll be traveling a lot within the state—how much you save will depend on your route. For example, if you want to travel between Oceanside and Oxnard seven times, which costs $35 each way, the rail pass would save you $85. When Ongoing. Details You must use the seven days of travel within 21 days of your first trip. All taxes included. Note that you have to purchase the pass by phone rather than online (800/872-7245). You must also make reservations on your route to get a seat—these come at no extra charge. Children's passes are $80. Why take the train? The rail pass, also mostly for business travelers, could make a fun alternative to a road trip for exploring the state, from San Francisco to San Diego. Check out this route map to get started.

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Amtrak has many other specials and rail passes available. If you're an East Coaster looking for a quick weekend escape, Amtrak has limited time weekend specials, starting at $32 each way between Philadelphia and Baltimore. Your trip must be taken on a Saturday, with same-day or Sunday return. And did you know that Amtrak offers rewards points? You earn points on each trip you take and can cash them in for free or discounted tickets, like airline miles. You can redeem points starting at 1,000—and if you sign up for the program now, you'll get 500 bonus points.

Read these guidelines before you book any Real Deal.

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