For families traveling between cities in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions this summer, there is an affordable and arguably more enjoyable alternative to taking the car or plane. Amtrak is cutting fares by as much as 25% on routes in the Northeast corridor between Boston and Washington for travel between June 2 and September 3. Sample one-way fares include:

• $65 Boston-Washington, DC
• $49 NYC-Washington, DC
  
• $60 Boston-Philadelphia

On most trains and on most days, up to two children aged 2 to 15 may travel at the half-price fare with each fare-paying adult. To get these lower fares, you must make reservations at least 14 days in advance.