I am on standby in DC for whatever ends up happening! If I can help with decision making, I'm here for that, too.

Any input on decision making gratefully accepted!

There are a LOT of options for tootling around the east coast by rail, and a lot of people to try to see! I feel like I have a lot of time to play with, the pass is good through 5/16, but I won't actually be able to get everywhere...I'm thinking shoot up to Boston briefly, a few days in the NYC area, a few days in the DC area, maybe another day or two in Chicago and a couple of days in LA. I'd rather spend money on short train rides than hotel rooms, but not sure if that's practical. Like, there's an overnight route from NY to DC which seems like it would be convenient but it apparently involves sitting at the Philadelphia station for four hours. Is that something I want to do? Maybe! Should I be going to Philadelphia? Perhaps! Too many options.

I think I have talked myself into futzing around in the general DC area before futzing around in the general CT area. To that end - Dana there are two Richmond stations if I am reading the Amtrak info correctly, Main Street and Staples Mill Road, which is more convenient for you? It looks like Staples Mill Road is more of a hub but I am pretty sure I can get to either with little difficulty

Looks like they're about the same distance from me. Are we talking about meeting up for a meal, are you staying the night?

Also, Cashmere's husband is in Richmond right now, I believe. I don't know how often she comes down, but it would be cool to see her too.

Staples Mill Road looks easier to get to without backtracking. Just a layover in Charlotte. An hour and a half at 5 am does not seem ideal for visiting, but is Charlotte convenient to anyone?

Hm, I was thinking just a meal but staying overnight would be very convenient. Looks like I can get to Richmond but the last train going on to DC same day is about 5:30pm, which is very doable but would leave me needing to stay overnight in DC as there appear to be no evening trains leaving there at all. Which would not be a bad outcome, but having a place to stay already sorted is always better.

Ooh, but there's an overnight to Savannah. Oh dear, I'll have to think about that. Probably too much to try to fit in, but maybe not...

Seeing Cashmere would be very cool! I'll ping her just in case.

I believe a lot more trains go to Staples Mill. Just keep me posted.

Great, thank you!

Throwing it out that BWI as a stop in Baltimore on the way to DC might garner a few Balto. Buffistas, and I could certainly go to Baltimore for a visit, dinner, whatever. I mean, and hang in DC, too, but if maximizing seeing people is a plan, think about a Balto. stop!

Was planning on Baltimore already! DC is more of a hub so I will definitely pass through there, but I should be able to arrange things so I'm in Baltimore for longer. Or take some other transit between DC and Baltimore, that might be the practical option

futzing around in the general CT area

Yay CT! Im about 45 minutes from Java (in Hartford), so would love to see you! I'm also about 90 minutes from Stamford if that's easier for you.