This summer, Amtrak and Crayola have teamed up to launch a nationwide initiative designed to make family travel both fun and affordable. Running from May 8 to August 31, 2025, the campaign features free train rides for kids aboard Amtrak’s Auto Train and complimentary access to Crayola Experience attractions in select U.S. cities. The initiative is part of Amtrak’s broader effort to promote accessible, eco-friendly, and family-friendly rail travel in line with federal transportation goals.
Families traveling between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida , on the Auto Train can now book free child tickets in both Coach and First Class. The offer allows up to two children per adult to ride for free, provided that tickets are reserved at least three days in advance through Amtrak.com or the mobile app. This promotion aligns with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s push for reducing highway congestion and cutting emissions by encouraging a shift from road to rail.
Known for its unique service that allows travelers to bring their personal vehicles aboard, the Auto Train offers families the convenience of road travel with the comfort and scenery of a long-distance train journey.
Imagination Takes the Lead with Crayola Experience Perks
Beyond the rails, the partnership with Crayola brings an artistic twist to the family travel experience. Each valid Amtrak child ticket also grants free entry to Crayola Experience centers in Easton, Pennsylvania; Bloomington, Minnesota (Mall of America); Orlando, Florida; and Plano, Texas. This offer is available through September 30, 2025.
These Crayola venues are designed to spark creativity in kids through hands-on activities like interactive coloring stations, live manufacturing demonstrations, and DIY art projects. Children can also explore exclusive Crayola merchandise, adding an element of fun and learning to their summer adventures.
The U.S. Travel Association notes that family travel is increasingly driven by educational and immersive experiences. By combining transportation with creative engagement, this campaign meets the growing demand for travel that is both enriching and entertaining for younger passengers.
Crayon-Wrapped Trains and a Vision for Sustainable Family Travel
Adding a splash of color to the rails, two Amtrak locomotives now feature Crayola-themed designs. Operating along the Northeast Corridor between major cities such as Washington, D.C., New York, and Boston, the trains include a violet blue engine showcasing “unretired” Crayola crayon shades, and a bright yellow engine featuring “Dan D,” a cheerful crayon mascot. Both display the slogan “Creativity on the Go!”
Corporate leaders from both Amtrak and Crayola praised the partnership’s shared mission to bring joy, imagination, and accessibility to children and families. Jessica Davidson, Amtrak’s VP of Digital and Brand Marketing, called it “a way to create extraordinary summer memories,” while Crayola’s Head of Global Partnerships Anna Roca highlighted the effort to “bring color and creativity into unexpected places.”
The campaign also contributes to national sustainability goals by encouraging families to opt for rail over car travel, particularly along the busy I-95 corridor, supporting federal initiatives such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the U.S. Climate Resilience Framework.
Families interested in participating can book tickets and view promotion details on Amtrak’s website. Through this colorful collaboration, Amtrak and Crayola aim to make every mile of the journey as inspiring as the destination.
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