Hello Smile,
So far we have taken the Auto Train 6 times since 2022. When you check in at the station, you can request to have dinner in your room. (Although, once an employee told me that it was for handicap only. I believe she was mistaken.). They will assign an in-room dinner time. Your attendant will confirm this and take your order when they introduce themselves at the beginning of the trip.
As for breakfast, some attendants have directed us to go to the dining car - which they prefer since it gives them a chance to make up the bed. Most items are grab and go - bananas, cereal, coffee cake, OJ. But they do have some warm options which you would have to see a dining car employee about - sandwiches can be brought to the room, but I think there are a few other sit down meal options. But I have had 2 attendants tell us that if we wanted them to bring hot breakfast, they would bring us whatever we wanted.
Just remember, this is extra work for the attendants, so tip them well.
After watching many YouTube videos and seeing the rooms in person, I believe the worst room is room A because the corner of the room is cut off and the bathroom is actually backwards. Here is a great resource to see what room you have been assigned and to see if you want to try to move.
https://travelswithkev.com/auto-train-rooms/
Please note that most bedrooms have a sliding door between them which remains locked, but you may hear your neighbors if they are loud.
My one tip is if you can possibly afford it, get the priority offloading. We have been the 3rd to last and very last car off the train. 2.75 hours of actively listening for your car number is a negative end to an otherwise stress free and enjoyable trip.
I hope this helps!
Amtrak doesn't wash anything in Lorton and the car wash in Sanford isn't very effective.
