Florida Residents Ride for 50 Percent Off On New Daily Steam Train Between Orlando and Mount Dora in February and March

Business Wire, Feb 14, 2002

Business Editors/Travel & Entertainment Writers

MOUNT DORA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 14, 2002

An introductory 50 percent discount is available to all Florida residents who ride the newly-inaugurated Orlando - Mount Dora, Florida daily steam train between February 19 and March 31, 2002. This discount adds up to substantial savings for family groups anxious to experience the new service.

"Following our initial publicity tour on February 6, interest has been running high," says Neil Bagaus, General Manager, Orlando & Mount Dora Railway. "We've had lots of calls, and we want to introduce as many Florida residents to our service as quickly as possible. We know our neighbors are going to be some of our best ambassadors to Florida's tourists for years to come."

The savings for families adds up quickly with this generous discount. Tickets for two adults and two children, which normally sell for a total of $144, can be purchased under this program for just $72. Anyone presenting a valid Florida state ID will be permitted to purchase discounted tickets for the period of this offer. Travel must be completed by March 31.

Each morning at 9 a.m. the railway's 1913-vintage steam locomotive toots its whistle to signal departure time from Orlando. As it eases away from the station, passengers settle in for a comfortable, climate-controlled ride, or they may choose to directly experience the sounds and smell of the engine as it chuffs and chugs down the tracks from the old-fashioned open window car that is carried in all trains.

Along the way the train crew regales passengers with stories, tips about the scenery and the intriguing history of The Cannonball (Orlando & Mount Dora #4) built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works. The engine has starred in over 25 motion pictures and television shows, including "Rosewood", the TV mini-series "North and South," "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" and "Texas Rangers."

Upon arrival in Mount Dora passengers disembark to enjoy lunch at one of the town's many cafes, with plenty of time for shopping and strolling along the charming streets. Mount Dora boasts a number of fine antique, gift, fashion and art shops. And it prides itself on being "Florida's Friendliest Small Town."

Passengers returning to Orlando board the train starting at 2 p.m. and settle in for an easy trip back home ... relaxed and recharged ... ready once again to enjoy the fun and magic that awaits in Orlando.

The steam train operates daily, departing Orlando at 9 a.m. and returning at 5 p.m. Regular fares are $40 for adults, $35 seniors (55+), $32 children (3 - 9). First class tickets, including complimentary snacks and beverages, are available for $60 each. The Florida resident 50 percent discount applies to all tickets purchased for trips completed by March 31.

Trains depart from Orlando at 350 Hughey Avenue, conveniently located near the Orlando Centroplex. Ample public parking is available.

This historic train is also available for charters and parties. Convention planners and group tour operators are invited to contact the Orlando & Mount Dora Railway to develop unique entertainment packages.

Reservations for regular trips are strongly recommended, though tickets are sold up to 10 minutes prior to departure, if available. Call 352-735-4667 for more information, or visit www.mtdoratrain.com.