Why not fly to your conference and return by Amtrak to revive
Exactly.
I am flying from Austin to NYC for my brother-in-law's funeral, next Monday - flying in Sunday. Staying at my other brother-in-law's home in Montgomery County PA overnight Tuesday after driving back with him from the funeral.
On Wednesday, rather than flying back, I am taking the Northeast Regional from Philly to DC, 2 hours in Union Station, roomette overnight to Chicago, couple of hours in Union Station, and roomette on the Eaglette to Austin. Two overnights from Wednesday at noon in Philly until late Friday afternoon in Austin. I have no worries about delays, of course.
I'll suffer the eastern food, but I will get home rested and somewhat recovered from an emotional experience, with [libby] library audiobooks and books, podcasts, music, etc.to keep me company.
I will be free to walk around the train, and not be stuck in a cramped seat surrounded by strangers. I can eat my gruel in my roomette or in the dining car. I can shower down the hall. Train seating is more confortable than plane seating.
Note: Western food is very good, eastern food is typically plain bad on AMTRAK.
Caveat: My decision was easy because I had a voucher, an upgrade coupon, and points to spare, and no time limitations.