Santa Barbara Holiday Travelers Leave Cars Behind

Train travelers from Santa Barbara were glad to board an Amtrak train this afternoon while holiday traffic nearby was bumper to bumper.

Around 2:15 p.m. the Pacific Surfliner pulled in for a southbound ride to Ventura, Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego and many stops in between.

One family was especially excited on their trip to the Magic Kingdom.

“We’re going to Disneyland because we go every two years. It (the train) keeps us in a happy place when we arrive at the “happiest place on earth,” said San Luis Obispo resident Darci Hafley. She said the train will drop them off near a hotel and Disneyland.

Sylvia Byers says going to L.A. by car is not worth it to her. “I always take the train when I go down south. At my age, I just don’t want to go through L.A.!”

Many passengers said there was plenty to do along the way and they were not bored. “I read, and the wi-fi is really good,” said passenger Ren Wise. “It’s a good time and conversations with new people.”

Jack Gardner, a Cal poly student said he won’t have to study much this weekend. “I brought a few books and some music to listen to.” He is going to stop in Fullerton to hang out with friends.

About 700 passengers boarded when the train stopped in Santa Barbara and Goleta. Many were college students.

The next busiest day on the calendar for Amtrak will be Sunday when many travelers come back home.