Get On Track and Enjoy The Land of Lincoln for Less

02-03-2009

Illinois Bureau of Tourism partners with Amtrak to offer discounted train travel

    CHICAGO, Feb. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Affordable travel just got easier for those exploring the great state of Illinois.  The Illinois Bureau of Tourism (IBOT) is proud to announce a new partnership with Amtrak offering travelers a 20 percent discount off a regular adult rail ticket in Illinois, now through June 30.  Details, including how to book a trip and the rules for the Enjoy Illinois discount code*, can be found at http://www.enjoyillinois.com; blackout dates do apply and seats are limited.

    "As wallets continue to get tighter and people seek more environmentally friendly ways to travel, we are happy to announce a partnership that meets both needs," said Jan Kostner, deputy director of the Illinois Bureau of Tourism.  "Together with Amtrak we are thrilled to offer an affordable way to help travelers get out and see Illinois, whether it be to take part in this year's historic Bicentennial celebrations or a 3-Day Getaway through the Land of Lincoln this spring."

    "We are excited to offer this option for Illinois residents to help them explore the state at a reduced price," said Tracy Robinson, Chicago-based Amtrak Marketing Director.  "We urge consumers to lock-in their Illinois getaways now by purchasing their Amtrak tickets -- you will know what you'll pay regardless of how high gas prices can go."

 

    Lincoln Bicentennial

    For those traveling to Springfield next month to celebrate Abraham Lincoln's 200th birthday, Amtrak offers an easy, comfortable way to get there and the Illinois discount now makes it an affordable one, too.  Beginning the first week in February, the capitol city will host a variety of events, exhibits, lectures and workshops that will honor the country's 16th president and commemorate this historic anniversary in Illinois. A complete listing of events can be found at http://www.enjoyillinois.com.

    For more information about the Illinois Amtrak discount, please visit the Illinois Bureau of Tourism's official Web site, http://www.enjoyillinois.com. The bureau also offers free travel resources with additional information on magnificent 3-Day Getaways, events and attractions through the site or its travel counselors at 1-800-2CONNECT.  Travelers can also visit Amtrak.com to find out more about Amtrak travel in Illinois.

    The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Bureau of Tourism manages industry efforts that result in sustainable and significant economic and quality-of-life benefits for Illinois residents.

 

    About Amtrak

    Amtrak has posted six consecutive years of growth in ridership and revenue, carrying more than 28.7 million passengers in the last fiscal year. Amtrak provides intercity passenger rail service to more than 500 destinations in 46 states on a 21,000-mile route system. For schedules, fares and information, passengers may call 800-USA-RAIL or visit Amtrak.com.

 

    *Amtrak routes included in the Enjoy Illinois discount, fare code V574: Lincoln Service (four daily round-trips between Chicago and St. Louis); Illini & Saluki (two daily round-trips between Chicago and Carbondale); Illinois Zephyr & Carl Sandburg (two daily round-trips between Chicago and Quincy). Blackout dates for the Illinois Amtrak discount are April 10 and 13, 2009. Passengers receive 20 percent off the best available fare.  The number available seats are limited per train. Discount is valid in Business Class with the payment of that accommodation charge -- subject to availability. Other rules apply and can be found at Amtrak.com.

 

[Back to Press Releases Main]