Amtrak Children Discounts
Make lasting memories with your family while saving on every trip. Amtrak makes train travel easier and more affordable for families by offering generous children discounts, simple booking options, and great perks for young travelers. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer cross-country adventure, Amtrak will help you ride comfortably and affordably with your children.
Amtrak Reservation Assistance 24 Hours Support
Need help booking or want to lock in the best seats for your family?
Call for reservations: +1 (888) 929-3161
Friendly agents are ready to assist you with routing, fare options, and special accommodations.
Children’s Fare Overview
Amtrak offers reliable discounts that help families travel together with confidence.
Children Discounts
| Age Range | Fare Benefit | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 – 12 years | 50% off adult fares | Discount applies when traveling with a fare-paying adult (18+) in the same reservation. |
| Under 2 years (Infants) | Free travel | One infant rides free on an adult’s lap. |
| 13+ years | Adult fare applies | Ages 13 and above pay full adult fares. |
How the Child Discount Works
- Children ages 2–12 receive half-price tickets compared to standard adult rail fares when booked with at least one adult (age 18+) in the same ticket.
- Infants under 2 ride free without a seat when seated on the lap of a paying adult.
- If you want a separate seat for an infant under 2, the child discount fare (2–12 years) applies.
- Discounts are automatically applied during booking — no Amtrak promotional codes needed.
Important Discount Rules & Restrictions
Before booking, make sure to know the fare conditions:
✔ Children and infants must travel with an adult (18+) in the same reservation.
✔ Children ages 2–12 may NOT travel alone under standard child discount rules.
✔ All persons 13 years or older pay the regular adult fare.
✔ Child discounts apply only to base rail fare — not to sleeping accommodations or upgrades.
✔ Children’s age for fare purposes is determined by age on the trip’s first travel date.
✔ Amtrak may require proof of age at any time.
Additional Travel Considerations for Families
Traveling with Children
- Amtrak trains typically allow families to sit together, especially when booked early.
- Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes ahead to settle in and prepare with kids.
What About Seating & Car Seats?
Amtrak policy regarding child seats:
- Child car seats cannot be secured to train seats.
- You may place a car seat in an empty seat if no other fare-paying passenger needs it.
- Infants riding on adult laps should have seats cleared for their comfort and safety.
Tips for Stress-Free Family Rail Travel
Here are some recommendations to make your trip easier and more enjoyable:
Before You Go
- Pack essentials (snacks, entertainment, wipes, first-aid).
- Check train status ahead of time using the Amtrak app or upon calling reservations.
- Board early to choose the best seating.
Onboard Tips
- Let kids explore the aisles safely — trains allow movement unlike plane travel.
- Most trains have onboard dining options and restrooms with diaper stations.
- Encourage kids to watch for train horns and scenery for an immersive experience.
Bonus Programs for Families & Groups
In addition to everyday child discounts, Amtrak features other programs perfect for youth and school groups:
Kids ’n’ Trains (Special Group Discount)
- Designed for schools, youth groups, and chaperones on select routes like Pacific Surfliner and Gold Runner.
- Groups (ages 5–18) may travel at significantly reduced rates, with adults and children paying the same discounted group fare.
- Reservations must often be submitted 30+ days in advance.
Why Choose Amtrak for Family Travel
- Kids ride up to 50% off
- Infants under 2 ride free
- Easy reservations with friendly support — +1 (888) 929-3161
- Comfortable, scenic train journeys
- Flexible policies for family trips
