Last Updated: October 2025
Planning a train trip to the Sunshine State? Florida’s Amtrak network connects nearly 20 stations along the eastern coast and central regions, making train travel an easy, scenic alternative to driving or flying. Whether you’re heading to Miami’s beaches, Orlando’s theme parks, or Tampa’s waterfront, this guide covers everything you need to know about Amtrak stations in Florida.
Key Takeaways
- 19 Amtrak stations operate across Florida, mostly on the East Coast and Central Florida
- 3 major routes serve Florida: Silver Meteor, Floridian (formerly Silver Star), and Auto Train
- No service in the Panhandle – Tampa is the only Gulf Coast city with Amtrak access
- Daily departures available from major cities like Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, and Miami
- Direct connections to New York, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and Chicago
Quick Answer: How Many Amtrak Stations Are in Florida?
Florida has almost 20 Amtrak stations, with most located on the East Coast and in Central Florida. The network also includes approximately 10 Thruway motorcoach stops that extend service to cities without direct rail access.
Understanding Florida’s Amtrak Network
Which Routes Serve Florida?
Three Amtrak routes travel to Florida: Auto Train (which only stops in Sanford, Florida and in Lorton, Virginia), Silver Star (currently a part of the Floridian route) and the Silver Meteor. Here’s what makes each unique:
Silver Meteor
- Runs daily between New York City and Miami
- Travels primarily on the East Coast
- Fastest route to South Florida (approximately 28 hours)
- Stops include Baltimore, Washington D.C., Richmond, Charleston, and Jacksonville
Floridian (Temporary Route)
- Currently combines the Silver Star and Capitol Limited routes
- Connects Chicago to Miami through Washington D.C.
- Services Tampa, Lakeland, and inland Florida cities
- Best option for Midwest travelers
Auto Train
- Unique service transporting both passengers and vehicles
- Only two stops: Lorton, Virginia and Sanford, Florida
- Perfect for travelers who want their car in Florida
- Advanced booking required with vehicle reservation
Where Don’t Trains Go in Florida?
Unfortunately, there is no service in the Panhandle, and Tampa is the only city near the Gulf of Mexico with a station. Cities like Pensacola, Tallahassee, and Panama City have no direct Amtrak access, though Thruway bus connections serve some areas.
Major Amtrak Stations in Florida (North to South)
Jacksonville Amtrak Station (JAX)
Location: Northeast Florida, downtown area
Routes Served: Silver Meteor, Floridian
Features: Staffed station, ticket office, waiting area
Jacksonville is a busy hub that welcomes visitors from all over and provides easy access to the Silver Meteor and Floridian routes. It’s Florida’s northernmost major station and serves as a gateway to the state.
Nearby Attractions:
- Jacksonville Landing
- Timucuan Ecological Preserve
- Historic downtown districts
Station Address: 3570 Clifford Lane, Jacksonville, FL 32209
Palatka Station (PAK)
Location: Along the St. Johns River
Routes Served: Silver Meteor, Floridian
Features: Historic 1908 station building
This charming riverside stop offers a glimpse into Florida’s railway heritage. The station maintains its historic character while serving modern travelers.
DeLand Station (DLD)
Location: Between Jacksonville and Orlando
Routes Served: Silver Meteor, Floridian
Features: Gateway to Stetson University
A convenient stop for visitors to Central Florida’s historic communities.
Winter Park Station (WPK)
Location: Just north of Orlando
Routes Served: Silver Meteor, Floridian
Features: Historic early 20th-century station, walkable downtown
Winter Park is a historic station from the early 20th century that keeps its old look but has modern features for Amtrak passengers.
Why Visit:
- Charming Park Avenue shopping district
- Art museums and galleries
- Scenic boat tours
- Within 20 minutes of downtown Orlando
Orlando Station (ORL)
Location: Central Florida, downtown Orlando
Routes Served: Silver Meteor, Floridian
Features: Major hub, full amenities
Station Address: 1400 Sligh Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32806
Distance to Attractions:
- Disney World: ~35 minutes by car
- Universal Studios: ~20 minutes
- Orlando International Airport: ~15 minutes
Orlando serves as Central Florida’s primary rail hub with easy access to theme parks and attractions.
Kissimmee Station (KIS)
Location: South of Orlando
Routes Served: Silver Meteor, Floridian
Features: Closest Amtrak station to Walt Disney World
Kissimmee is the closest stop to Walt Disney World. It’s ideal for families heading to the parks without dealing with Orlando highway traffic.
Theme Park Access:
- Walt Disney World: ~25-30 minutes
- Animal Kingdom: ~20 minutes
- Less interstate driving than Orlando station
Lakeland Station (LKL)
Location: Between Tampa and Orlando
Routes Served: Floridian only
Features: Two station codes (northbound/southbound)
Note: Lakeland has unique station coding – one for northbound travel, another for southbound.
Tampa Station (TPA)
Location: West Central Florida
Routes Served: Floridian
Features: Only Gulf Coast station, Thruway connections
Tampa is served by the Floridian, with Thruway bus connections to St. Petersburg and Sarasota.
Station Address: 601 N Nebraska Avenue, Tampa, FL 33602
Thruway Bus Connections:
- St. Petersburg
- Sarasota
- Bradenton
Tampa remains Florida’s sole major station on the Gulf side.
Sanford Station (SFA)
Location: North of Orlando
Routes Served: Auto Train only
Features: Vehicle loading facilities
Sanford is north of Orlando and the only Florida stop for the Auto Train. This station exclusively serves passengers transporting vehicles between Virginia and Florida.
West Palm Beach Station (WPB)
Location: Southeast Florida coast
Routes Served: Silver Meteor, Floridian
Features: Closest station to the ocean
The West Palm Beach Amtrak station is closest to the ocean (about a 45-minute walk or 7-minute car ride).
Beach Access:
- Atlantic Ocean: 7-minute drive
- Palm Beach attractions
- Downtown West Palm Beach: Walking distance
Fort Lauderdale Station (FTL)
Location: Downtown Fort Lauderdale
Routes Served: Silver Meteor, Floridian
Features: Major South Florida hub
Station Address: 200 SW 21st Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Nearby Highlights:
- Fort Lauderdale Beach: 15 minutes
- Port Everglades cruise terminal
- Las Olas Boulevard shopping
- Brightline connection for faster regional travel
Hollywood Station (HOL)
Location: Between Fort Lauderdale and Miami
Routes Served: Silver Meteor, Floridian
Features: Historic station building
This charming stop offers a quieter alternative to Miami’s station for travelers heading to South Beach or downtown Miami.
Miami Station (MIA)
Location: Downtown Miami
Routes Served: Silver Meteor, Floridian (southern terminus)
Features: Full-service station, connections to Tri-Rail and Metrorail
Station Address: 8303 NW 37th Avenue, Miami, FL 33147
Miami marks the southern end of both major Florida routes. The station connects to South Florida’s commuter rail system.
Transit Connections:
- Tri-Rail commuter service
- Metrorail (requires short walk to transfer station)
- Miami Beach: ~30 minutes by bus/rideshare
Amtrak Routes Comparison Table
| Route | Origin | Destination | Florida Stops | Travel Time (approx.) | Best For |
| Silver Meteor | New York | Miami | Jacksonville, Palatka, DeLand, Winter Park, Orlando, Kissimmee, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Miami | 28 hours | Fastest to South Florida, coastal cities |
| Floridian | Chicago | Miami | Jacksonville, Palatka, DeLand, Winter Park, Orlando, Kissimmee, Tampa, Lakeland, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Miami | 47 hours (Chicago-Miami) | Midwest connections, Tampa access |
| Auto Train | Lorton, VA | Sanford, FL | Sanford only | 17 hours | Vehicle transport, Orlando area |
Station Amenities: What to Expect
Staffed vs. Unstaffed Stations
Not all Florida Amtrak stations offer the same amenities. Here’s what to know:
Staffed Stations (Full Services):
- Jacksonville
- Orlando
- Tampa
- West Palm Beach
- Fort Lauderdale
- Miami
Services Available:
- Ticket counters
- Waiting areas
- Restrooms
- Baggage assistance
- Real-time schedule information
Unstaffed Stations (Limited Services):
- Palatka
- DeLand
- Winter Park
- Kissimmee
- Lakeland
- Hollywood
- Sanford (staffed only during Auto Train operations)
What You’ll Find:
- Platform shelters
- Basic seating
- Ticket machines (some locations)
- Must book tickets online or via app
How to Check Schedules and Book Tickets
Finding Your Train Times
Want to know when trains depart from Florida Amtrak stations? Here’s how:
- Visit Amtrak.com or download the Amtrak mobile app
- Enter your departure and arrival cities
- Select your travel dates
- Review available trains with times and prices
The system shows all connections automatically, so you’ll see if transfers are needed.
Booking Options
Online: Amtrak.com (easiest, most flexible) Mobile App: Available for iOS and Android Station Ticket Counter: At staffed locations Phone: 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245)
Pro Tip: Book early for the best fares. Amtrak uses dynamic pricing, so tickets cost more as travel dates approach.
Ticket Prices: What to Expect
Amtrak fares vary based on:
- Travel distance
- Time of booking
- Day of week
- Class of service
- Season (peak vs. off-peak)
Sample Fare Ranges (One-Way Coach)
| Route | Distance | Price Range* |
| Jacksonville → Orlando | ~140 miles | $25-$45 |
| Orlando → Miami | ~235 miles | $40-$75 |
| Tampa → Miami | ~280 miles | $45-$85 |
| New York → Miami | ~1,389 miles | $120-$300+ |
| Chicago → Miami (Floridian) | ~2,400 miles | $150-$400+ |
*Prices approximate and subject to change. Book early for best deals.
Classes of Service
Coach Class:
- Comfortable reclining seats
- Overhead luggage storage
- Access to café car
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power outlets
Business Class (Select trains):
- Extra legroom
- Complimentary soft drinks
- Priority boarding
- Available on some Northeast Corridor connections
Sleeper Cars (Long-distance trains):
- Private roomettes or bedrooms
- Meals included in fare
- Dedicated sleeping car attendant
- Shower facilities
- Worth it for overnight trips
Thruway Bus Connections
Can’t reach your destination by train? Amtrak has you covered with Thruway buses, which extend your travel options.
Florida Thruway Routes
From Tampa:
- St. Petersburg (beach communities)
- Sarasota (Gulf Coast resorts)
From Jacksonville:
- Tallahassee (state capital)
- Gainesville (University of Florida)
Other Connections:
- Fort Myers
- Naples
- The Villages
- Additional Gulf Coast destinations
Thruway tickets can be booked as part of your Amtrak journey, making connections seamless.
Onboard Amenities and Services
What’s Available on Florida Trains?
Free Wi-Fi All Silver Meteor and Floridian trains offer complimentary wireless internet. Great for working, streaming, or staying connected during your journey.
Café Car Available to all passengers:
- Hot and cold beverages
- Snacks and light meals
- Sandwiches and salads
- Beer and wine
Dining Service Sleeper car passengers receive complimentary meals with traditional dining service on the Silver Meteor and Floridian.
Power Outlets Every seat has access to electrical outlets for charging devices.
Spacious Seating Much more legroom than airlines, with reclining seats and footrests in coach.
Baggage Allowance
- 2 personal items (free)
- 2 carry-on bags up to 50 lbs each (free)
- 2 checked bags up to 50 lbs each (free on most routes)
- Additional bags for small fee
Accessibility Features
Amtrak stations in Florida accommodate passengers with disabilities:
Station Accessibility:
- Wheelchair-accessible platforms (major stations)
- Elevators where needed
- Accessible restrooms
- Assistance available at staffed stations
Onboard Accessibility:
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Accessible restrooms
- Boarding assistance
- Service animals welcome
Booking Assistance: Call 1-800-USA-RAIL at least 24 hours before travel to arrange special accommodations.
Travel Tips for Florida Train Journeys
Best Times to Book
- 2-3 months ahead: Best selection and prices
- Avoid peak season (December-March): Higher fares, fuller trains
- Weekday travel: Often cheaper than weekends
- Sign up for emails: Get flash sale notifications
Packing Smart
What to Bring:
- Valid photo ID (required for travel)
- Comfortable clothing (trains can be cool)
- Entertainment (books, tablets, headphones)
- Snacks (though café car available)
- Refillable water bottle
- Phone charger
- Light jacket or blanket
What NOT to Bring:
- Flammable materials
- Weapons (except properly stored firearms in checked bags)
- Oversized luggage (follow size limits)
Station Arrival Times
- Long-distance trains: Arrive 45-60 minutes early
- First-time travelers: Give yourself extra time
- Checked baggage: Allow time for check-in
- Unstaffed stations: Arrive at least 20 minutes early
Making Connections
If your journey requires transfers:
- Allow adequate connection time (60-90 minutes recommended)
- Major connection points: Washington D.C., Jacksonville, Orlando
- Check schedule changes seasonally
- Amtrak rebooking assistance if connections are missed due to delays
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my bike on Amtrak in Florida?
Yes! Most Florida trains accept bicycles with advance reservations. Options include:
- Checked bikes: $20 fee, must be boxed
- Roll-on service: Limited availability, $20 fee
- Book bike space when purchasing your ticket
Is there food service on Florida trains?
Yes. All long-distance trains have café cars with snacks, sandwiches, beverages, and light meals available for purchase. Sleeper car passengers receive complimentary full meals.
Can I use my cell phone on the train?
Absolutely. Free Wi-Fi is available, and cell service works throughout most of Florida. The café car is designated for phone conversations, while coach areas are quieter.
Are pets allowed on Amtrak?
Small pets (dogs and cats) under 20 pounds are allowed for a $29 fee on trips under 7 hours. Pets must remain in carriers. Service animals travel free without restrictions.
What if my train is delayed?
Amtrak provides real-time updates via:
- Amtrak mobile app
- Text message alerts
- Station announcements
- Customer service phone line
Can I change or cancel my ticket?
Yes, but policies vary by fare type:
- Flexible fares: Change or cancel for full refund
- Saver fares: Changes allowed with fee, cancellations may have restrictions
- Sleeper accommodations: More flexible policies
- Review terms when booking
Is there a senior discount?
Yes! Passengers 65+ receive 10% off most fares. AAA members and military personnel also get discounts. Check Amtrak.com for current promotions.
How early should I book for best prices?
Book 2-3 months ahead for optimal pricing. Amtrak releases schedules 11 months in advance, and early booking secures lowest fares.
Connecting to Florida Attractions
Getting to Disney World and Universal Studios
From Orlando Station:
- Taxi/Rideshare: ~35-40 minutes to Disney
- Rental car pickup available nearby
- Hotel shuttles (book ahead)
From Kissimmee Station:
- Closest to Disney World
- 25-30 minute drive
- Less traffic than Orlando route
- Many hotels offer free shuttles
Beach Access from Stations
Miami Station → South Beach: 30 minutes via public transit or rideshare
Fort Lauderdale Station → Beach: 15 minutes by taxi
West Palm Beach Station → Palm Beach: 7-10 minutes (closest beach access)
Cruise Port Connections
Port of Miami: 20 minutes from Miami station
Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale): 15 minutes from Fort Lauderdale station
Port Canaveral: 90 minutes from Orlando or Kissimmee stations
Why Choose Train Travel in Florida?
Environmental Benefits
Train travel produces significantly less carbon emissions per passenger than driving or flying. It’s the eco-friendly choice for exploring Florida.
Stress-Free Journey
- No traffic jams or road rage
- No TSA security lines
- No parking hassles
- Stretch your legs anytime
- Enjoy scenic views
Cost Effective
When you factor in gas, tolls, parking, and wear on your vehicle, train travel often costs less than driving – especially for families or groups.
Productive Time
Unlike driving, you can:
- Work on your laptop
- Read or watch movies
- Sleep comfortably
- Socialize with travel companions
- Enjoy the landscape
Planning Your Florida Train Adventure
Sample Itineraries
Miami to Orlando (Theme Parks):
- Depart Miami morning
- Arrive Orlando early afternoon
- Explore Universal or Disney
- Return trip in 3-5 days
New York to Miami (Winter Escape):
- Overnight journey on Silver Meteor
- Wake up in Florida sunshine
- 28-hour scenic journey
- Book sleeper car for comfort
Chicago to Tampa (Snowbird Special):
- Take the Floridian
- 47-hour journey through 7 states
- Stop in D.C. for sightseeing (if desired)
- Arrive Tampa refreshed
Station Safety and Security
Amtrak stations maintain security protocols:
- Well-lit platforms and waiting areas
- Station staff at major hubs
- Police presence in large stations
- Emergency call boxes
- Security cameras
Travel Smart:
- Keep valuables with you
- Watch belongings in station
- Follow staff instructions
- Report suspicious activity
Future of Florida Rail Travel
While the Florida high-speed rail project was canceled in 2010 by Governor Rick Scott, private companies like Brightline now offer faster regional service between Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando.
Current Developments:
- Brightline expansion ongoing
- Station modernization projects
- Improved connectivity to airports
- Enhanced accessibility features
Amtrak continues to be Florida’s primary long-distance rail option, connecting the state to the national network.
Additional Resources
Official Amtrak Information:
- Website: www.amtrak.com
- Customer Service: 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245)
- TTY (hearing impaired): 1-800-523-6590
- Email support through Amtrak.com contact form
Social Media:
- Twitter: @Amtrak (service alerts)
- Facebook: Amtrak (updates and promotions)
- Instagram: @Amtrak (travel inspiration)
Final Thoughts
Florida’s Amtrak network offers a relaxed, scenic way to explore the Sunshine State without the hassles of driving or flying. With nearly 20 stations serving key cities and attractions, you can travel from Jacksonville’s historic districts to Miami’s vibrant beaches, all while enjoying comfortable seating, onboard Wi-Fi, and spectacular views.
Whether you’re a snowbird escaping cold winters, a family heading to Disney World, or a traveler seeking adventure along the East Coast, Amtrak’s Florida stations provide convenient gateways to your destination.
Ready to book your Florida train adventure? Visit Amtrak.com today to check schedules, compare fares, and reserve your seats. The journey is just as memorable as the destination!
Have you traveled on Amtrak in Florida? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
Disclaimer: Schedules, fares, and services subject to change. Always verify current information on Amtrak.com before traveling.