As the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld, Orlando, FL is one of the most popular stateside tourist destinations. Each year, millions visit and many of them take the train instead of flying to Orlando. Travel by rail is often much more relaxing and scenic, and can also be more budget friendly. This guide is for those customer looking to take Amtrak to Orlando.
This article will cover all major trains that service Orlando, major routes, how to book, costs, and useful insights for first time users. Let’s get into it.
Why Take a Train to Orlando? Top Reasons to Choose Rail Travel
Compared to flying, train travel has its own set of unique advantages. Here are the top reasons why rail can be a smart choice for your Orlando trip:
- Stress-free travel – Skip the airport security lines, baggage restrictions, and boarding hassles. You can carry your luggage without worrying about extra fees at every step.
- Scenic journey – The East Coast route to Orlando passes through Washington DC, the Carolinas, and Georgia, offering beautiful scenery along the way. The journey itself becomes part of the experience.
- Family-friendly – Traveling with kids is generally easier on a train. You can walk around, visit the café car, and enjoy more spacious seating compared to flights.
- Budget-friendly option available – If you book in advance, train tickets can sometimes be cheaper than flights, especially in coach class.
- City-center stations – Amtrak stations are typically located near city centers, while airports tend to be farther out. This saves both time and money on local transportation.
- No baggage fee drama – Amtrak generally offers coach passengers free carry-on and checked baggage allowances (depending on the station), which is far more generous than most airlines.
- Overnight sleeper option – If you’re traveling from the North, overnight sleeper rooms are available so you can sleep through the night and arrive in Orlando refreshed the next day.
Note :- If you’re not a fan of crowded, rushed airports and prefer a relaxed, scenic journey, train travel is definitely worth considering.
The Environmental Benefit of Train Travel
More travelers have begun thinking about their environmental impact. Consequently, a lot of people are choosing train travel over flying. A train can carry over 400 passengers at a time. This is why train travel has a smaller carbon footprint than flying. If you care about the environment, taking the train to Orlando is the better choice.
The Social Experience
Meeting people is one of the best parts of traveling by train. Unlike airplanes, you’re not strapped to your seat. You can socialize on the train. The dining and cafe cars have people just looking for someone to talk to. It can be hard to turn a flight into something social, but it’s easy with train travel.
Reduced Pre-Travel Anxiety
For nervous travelers, airport security is an unnecessarily complicated process. Restrictions on liquids, random checks, and the labyrinth of boarding gates, are enough to cause anxiety in the average person. On the other hand, boarding a train does not require prior knowledge of the system. After you show your ticket to the conductor, you walk to the boarding platform and that’s it. Passengers still apprehensive with travel, or others who don’t enjoy going through the motions of it can benefit from the use of train travel.
Which Trains Go to Orlando? Major Rail Services Explained
There are two primary long-distance Amtrak routes that serve Orlando:
| Train Service | Route Covered | Orlando Stop | Special Notes |
| Silver Meteor | New York – Washington DC – Carolinas – Georgia – Florida – Miami | Yes | Coastal route, passes through Charleston and Savannah |
| Silver Star | New York – Washington DC – Raleigh – Columbia – Florida – Miami | Yes | Slightly different inland route, also covers Tampa |
| Amtrak Auto Train | Lorton, VA – Sanford, FL | No (stops at Sanford, about 30 minutes from Orlando) | For travelers who want to bring their car along |
Silver Service – Together, the Silver Meteor and Silver Star are known as “Silver Service,” connecting New York to Miami and passing directly through Orlando.
In addition, if you’re traveling within Florida itself, two additional regional services can be useful:
- SunRail – A local commuter rail service within the Orlando metro area, connecting to the Orlando Health/Amtrak station.
- Brightline – This high-speed rail service connects Orlando (Orlando International Airport) to South Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach). It’s not an Amtrak service, but it’s a useful connecting option.
For long-distance intercity travel, most people choose either the Silver Meteor or Silver Star, since both run directly to the Orlando station.
Silver Meteor vs Silver Star: What’s the Difference?
Many people get confused about the difference between the Silver Meteor and Silver Star, since both run from New York to Miami and both serve Orlando. Here are the key differences:
| Feature | Silver Meteor | Silver Star |
| Route Length | 1,389 miles | 1,522 miles (slightly longer) |
| North Carolina Stops | Fayetteville | Raleigh |
| South Carolina Stops | Florence, Charleston | Columbia |
| Tampa Stop | No | Yes |
| Dining Car | Traditional dining car | Traditional dining car |
| Overall Travel Time | Slightly shorter | Slightly longer (due to extra stops) |
Note :- If you also want to visit Tampa as part of your trip, the Silver Star may be the better choice. But if you just want to reach Orlando or Miami by the fastest route, the Silver Meteor is generally quicker.
Amtrak Thruway Bus Connections
Amtrak Thruway services enable them to provide bus connections to cities not serviced directly by rail. In relation to Orlando, Thruway connections can bring you from places like Tampa to the Orlando station if that segment is booked with your itinerary.
Popular Train Routes to Orlando From Major US Cities
Orlando has train connections from several major US cities. Below is a table of popular starting points and their approximate travel times:
| From City | Approx Travel Time | Train Used | Change Required? |
| New York, NY | ~23-24 hours | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No, direct |
| Washington, DC | ~17-18 hours | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No, direct |
| Philadelphia, PA | ~20-21 hours | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No, direct |
| Charlotte, NC | Varies (connecting) | Piedmont/Carolinian + Silver Service | Sometimes |
| Savannah, GA | ~9-10 hours | Silver Meteor | No, direct |
| Jacksonville, FL | ~3-4 hours | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No, direct |
| Tampa, FL | ~2-3 hours (via connecting bus/train) | Silver Star + Thruway connection | Sometimes |
| Miami, FL | ~3.5-4 hours (reverse direction) | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No, direct |
Note: Actual travel times can vary depending on delays and host railroad traffic, so always check the current schedule on Amtrak.com before booking.
If you’re traveling from the West Coast or Midwest, you’ll generally need a connecting train or Amtrak Thruway bus service, since there’s no direct transcontinental train to Orlando.
Route Highlights From East Coast Cities
- Philadelphia to Orlando: Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station is a major hub for Silver Service trains. This journey takes approximately 20-21 hours and passes through Washington DC, Richmond, and the Carolinas before reaching Florida.
- Washington DC to Orlando: This is a popular route for travelers departing the capital, since the journey time (17-18 hours) is quite manageable – you can board in the evening and arrive in Orlando by the following afternoon or evening.
- Savannah and Charleston to Orlando: If you’re already in the South, the trip from Savannah or Charleston to Orlando is just a few hours – perfect for travelers who are already doing a Southeast USA trip and want to add Orlando to their itinerary.
- Jacksonville to Orlando: This is a short, convenient route within Florida itself, especially useful for local Florida residents who want to visit Orlando without driving.
Route Planning Tips
When planning your route, keep these factors in mind:
- Direct vs connecting route time difference – Connecting routes can generally add 2-4 extra hours due to layovers.
- Overnight vs daytime travel – For long distances, overnight trains are better since you can sleep and save time simultaneously.
- Multi-stop trips – If you want to visit multiple Florida cities in one trip, you can also book your Amtrak ticket as a “multi-city” itinerary.
NYC to Orlando Train: Schedule, Duration & Ticket Tips
New York City to Orlando is one of the most popular train routes, especially for Northeast travelers. Here’s a detailed breakdown of this route:
- Departure Station: Moynihan Train Hall (Penn Station), New York City
- Arrival Station: Orlando Amtrak Station, 1400 Sligh Boulevard
- Duration: Approximately 22 to 24 hours (can be longer due to delays)
- Frequency: Roughly 2 daily trains, up to 3 on weekends
Schedule Highlights
| Detail | Information |
| Train Names | Silver Meteor, Silver Star |
| Typical Departure Time | Evening/Afternoon (exact time varies by schedule) |
| Arrival in Orlando | Next day, generally daytime |
| Distance | Approx 1,000+ miles |
| Overnight Stay | Yes, you’ll spend one night on the train |
Ticket Booking Tips for NYC to Orlando
- Book in advance – The earlier you book, the cheaper the fare. Booking 30-60 days ahead tends to work best.
- Choose midweek travel – Tuesday/Wednesday travel is generally cheaper than weekends.
- Decide sleeper vs coach – For such a long journey, a roomette or bedroom is worth it if your budget allows for extra comfort.
- Keep dates flexible – If your dates are flexible, use Amtrak’s fare calendar to find the cheapest day.
- Amtrak Guest Rewards – If you travel frequently, collecting points can get you discounts on future trips.
What to Expect During the Journey
- Prepare to go on a long, multi state adventure. The route travels through New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Washington DC, Virginia, North/South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. Sleeper cars allow you to get some quality rest. By morning you’ll see the small towns and greenery of North Florida and Georgia.
- Passengers of the sleeper class are offered meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- During the day passengers of the sleeper class can visit the café car where snacks and drinks are for sale.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Last-minute booking – Prices rise significantly if you book close to your travel date.
- Ignoring baggage weight limits – Every bag has weight and size limits; check these beforehand.
- Leaving too little connection time – If your trip involves a connection, leave at least 1-2 hours of buffer for delays.
- Not carrying ID – You won’t be allowed to board without a valid photo ID.
Orlando Train Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers
If you’re traveling on Amtrak for the first time, be sure to follow these tips:
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early – Especially if you’re checking baggage or boarding a sleeper car.
- Don’t forget your ID – Always carry a government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or driver’s license).
- Bring snacks and entertainment – Long-distance trains have café cars, but bringing your own is much more convenient.
- Dress in layers – Train cars can sometimes get quite cold, so keep a light jacket or blanket handy.
- Check power outlets – Most Amtrak seats have outlets, but bringing your own charger and a portable power bank is a smart idea too.
- Don’t expect reliable WiFi – Onboard WiFi is available but the connection can be weak in rural areas.
- Mentally prepare for delays – Long-distance Amtrak trains sometimes run late (due to freight traffic), so build in buffer time, especially if you have connecting travel planned.
- Check luggage limits – Coach passengers generally get 2 free carry-on and 2 free checked bags (with weight limits), but this availability can vary by station.
What to Pack for Your Journey (Packing Checklist)
Here’s what to bring along to make your long-distance train journey more comfortable:
| Item Category | Suggested Items |
| Documents | Photo ID, e-ticket/printed ticket, travel insurance papers (if purchased) |
| Electronics | Phone charger, portable power bank, headphones |
| Comfort | Neck pillow, light blanket, eye mask, earplugs |
| Food & Drinks | Snacks, refillable water bottle, favorite beverages |
| Entertainment | Books, downloaded movies/shows, magazines |
| Toiletries | Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, toothbrush (for overnight trips) |
| Clothing | Light jacket/sweater (AC can get cold), comfortable clothes |
Onboard Etiquette Tips
- Respect the quiet car – Some trains have a “quiet car” option where phone calls and loud conversations aren’t allowed.
- Share seat space – If the train is crowded, keep your luggage in the overhead rack so others have space too.
- Respect the café car line – Lines can form during peak meal times, so be patient.
- Follow conductor instructions – Listen carefully to safety announcements and boarding instructions.
Direct and Connecting Train Routes to Orlando
There are two broad options for reaching Orlando – direct routes and connecting routes.
Direct Routes
If you’re traveling from any major East Coast city (New York, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Richmond, Charleston, Savannah, Jacksonville), the Silver Meteor or Silver Star will take you directly to Orlando without any changes.
Connecting Routes
If you’re coming from the South, Midwest, or West Coast, you may need one or two connections:
| Starting Region | Typical Connection Point | Final Leg |
|---|---|---|
| Midwest (Chicago) | Washington DC or New York | Southbound Silver Meteor/Star |
| Texas / Southwest | New Orleans → connecting bus/train | Florida route |
| West Coast | Chicago or New Orleans | Multi-day journey with 2 connections |
| Southeast (Charlotte) | Direct connecting Amtrak service | Silver Service pickup point |
Note :- Connecting routes tend to take longer and can be a bit more complicated, so if possible, it’s better to start your journey from a station on a direct route.
Connecting Route Planning: What to Keep in Mind
If your journey involves a connection, keep these important points in mind:
- Same-station transfers – Most Amtrak connections happen at the same station, making the transfer process simple.
- Guaranteed connections – Amtrak generally guarantees booked connections, meaning if your first train runs late, Amtrak will accommodate you on the next available connection.
- Luggage re-check – On some connections, you may need to transfer your checked luggage yourself, so confirm this at the time of booking.
- Make use of layover time – If your layover is more than 1-2 hours, you might have a chance to explore the area around the station (in larger stations like Washington DC or Chicago).
Multi-City Itinerary Option
If you want to visit more than just Orlando – say, Miami, Tampa, or West Palm Beach – Amtrak offers a “multi-city” or “open-jaw” booking option, letting you enter one city and exit from another. This is especially useful for travelers who want to cover multiple Florida destinations in one trip without returning to the same station.
Business Class vs Coach on Orlando Trains
Amtrak’s Silver Service offers multiple class options. Here’s a comparison:
| Feature | Coach Class | Business Class | Sleeper (Roomette/Bedroom) |
| Seat Type | Reclining seats, extra legroom | Reclining seats, priority | Private room with bed |
| Price | Least expensive | Moderate | Most expensive |
| Meals Included | No (purchase from café car) | Sometimes discount/snacks included | Yes, meals included |
| Privacy | Low | Low-Moderate | Full privacy |
| Best For | Budget travelers, short-medium trips | Those wanting a bit of extra comfort | Overnight long-distance trips |
| Power Outlets | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Legroom | Good | Better | Extensive (private room) |
Note: Business Class availability varies by route; it’s not standard across all Silver Service trains, so confirm this at the time of booking.
Which one should you choose?
- If your trip is short (5-6 hours) → Coach Class is sufficient.
- If you’re traveling overnight and want to sleep comfortably → Sleeper Roomette/Bedroom is best.
- If you want a bit of extra comfort without the sleeper price → Business Class (where available) is a good middle option.
Sleeper Class Types: Roomette vs Bedroom
If you choose sleeper class, there are two main options:
| Feature | Roomette | Bedroom |
| Space | Compact, fits 2 people | Spacious, fits 2-3 people |
| Bed Configuration | One upper and one lower bunk | Larger beds, more room to move |
| Private Bathroom | No (shared bathroom nearby) | Yes, ensuite bathroom |
| Price | Cheaper than bedroom | More expensive than roomette |
| Best For | Solo travelers or budget-conscious couples | Families or those wanting extra comfort |
Note :- Both options include meals, and you also get priority boarding, which helps you avoid long lines.
Amenities Comparison Across Classes
| Amenity | Coach | Business Class | Sleeper |
| Free WiFi | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power Outlets | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Complimentary Meals | No | Sometimes (route dependent) | Yes |
| Priority Boarding | No | Yes | Yes |
| Access to Lounge (select stations) | No | Sometimes | Yes |
| Extra Legroom | Standard | Better | Full private room |
Orlando Train Station: Everything You Need to Know About Orlando Amtrak Station
Orlando’s main Amtrak station is located in the heart of the city, and it’s a historic building with a lot of character.
Station Details
| Detail | Information |
| Station Name | Orlando Health/Amtrak Station |
| Station Code | ORL |
| Address | 1400 Sligh Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32806 |
| Built | 1926 (Mission/Spanish Revival architecture) |
| Owned By | City of Orlando |
| Platforms | 1 side platform, 1 island platform |
| Tracks | 3 |
| Services | Amtrak (Silver Meteor, Floridian) + SunRail commuter rail |
| Accessibility | Fully accessible |
| Parking | Available onsite |
| Bicycle Facilities | Available |
Nearby Landmarks
The Orlando station is just a mile from downtown. Nearby, you can visit:
- Lake Eola Park – A beautiful lake with walking trails and swan boats
- Church Street Station – A historic entertainment district with shops and restaurants
- Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts – A popular venue for concerts and shows
- Amway Center – Home of the Orlando Magic basketball team
- Orange County Regional History Center – A local history museum
- Thornton Park District – A trendy neighborhood with unique shops and cafes
Alternative Stations Near Orlando
If you’re staying closer to the theme parks, these alternatives are worth considering:
| Station | Distance from Disney World | Best For |
| Orlando (Main) | ~25-30 min drive | Downtown stay, general Orlando visits |
| Kissimmee Station | ~20 min drive | Closer to Animal Kingdom and Disney resorts |
| Winter Park | ~30-35 min drive | Winter Park area visitors |
| Sanford (Auto Train) | ~30 min drive | If you’re bringing your car on the train |
Getting From Orlando Station to the Theme Parks
There are several transportation options for getting from the Orlando Amtrak station to the theme parks:
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) – The most convenient and quick option, especially if you’re traveling with luggage.
- Rental Car – If you want flexibility during your trip, rental car agencies are available near the station.
- Taxi Services – Traditional taxis are also readily available outside the station.
- Hotel Shuttle – Some hotels offer complimentary shuttle service for their guests; confirm this at the time of booking.
- SunRail + Local Bus – For budget travelers, a combination of the SunRail commuter train and local bus is also an option, though it takes longer.
Station Facilities
The Orlando Amtrak station offers passengers the following facilities:
- Waiting area with seating
- Ticket counter and self-service kiosks
- Restrooms
- Baggage check-in (during select hours)
- Vending machines
- Accessible entrances and ramps for disabled passengers
- Nearby parking (both short-term and long-term options)
How to Book Train Tickets to Orlando: Step-by-Step Guide
Booking Amtrak tickets is a fairly simple process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Open the Amtrak Website or App
Booking is possible through both Amtrak.com and the official Amtrak mobile app.
Step 2: Enter Origin and Destination
Select your departure city and “Orlando, FL (ORL)” as your destination.
Step 3: Select Travel Dates
Choose one-way or round-trip and enter your preferred travel date. Use the flexible date search to find the cheapest day.
Step 4: Compare Available Trains
The system will show you available trains along with their departure/arrival times and prices. Compare Silver Meteor and Silver Star options.
Step 5: Choose Your Class of Service
Select from Coach, Business Class, or Sleeper (Roomette/Bedroom) based on your budget and comfort needs.
Step 6: Fill In Passenger Details
Accurately fill in all passenger details (name, age, ID information).
Step 7: Select Add-ons (Optional)
Add travel insurance, extra baggage, or meal upgrades if needed.
Step 8: Complete Payment
Pay with a credit/debit card or Amtrak gift card. Your e-ticket will arrive in your email immediately.
Step 9: Save Your Confirmation
Print your e-ticket or save it in the mobile app so you can show it at the station.
Alternative Ways to Book
- Amtrak Mobile App – Mobile ticket is saved directly on your phone
- Amtrak Ticket Kiosks – Available at major stations
- Ticketing Agents – You can book directly at the station counter
- Third-Party Platforms – Platforms like Wanderu and Omio can also be used for comparison and booking
Common Booking Mistakes to Avoid
- Selecting the wrong station – There are multiple stations around Orlando (Kissimmee, Winter Park), so selecting the correct one matters.
- Not confirming the return date – Double-check your return date when booking round-trip.
- Passenger name mismatches – The name on the ticket must exactly match your government ID.
- Skipping payment confirmation – Always check your confirmation email after completing a booking.
Modifying or Cancelling Your Booking
If you need to cancel or modify your booking, Amtrak generally offers flexible policies, especially if you booked a non-discounted fare:
- Refundable fares – A full refund is possible if you booked an eligible fare type.
- Non-refundable fares – These generally result in a credit voucher for future travel, not a cash refund.
- Change fees – Some fare types allow free changes, while others carry a nominal fee.
- Cancellation window – The earlier you cancel/modify before your travel date, the better the terms you’ll typically get.
Always read the fare rules carefully before confirming your booking.
Orlando Train Ticket Price: How Much Does It Cost & How to Save Money
The price of an Orlando train ticket depends on several factors – distance, class of service, booking time, and season.
Approximate Price Range
| Route | Coach Class (Approx) | Sleeper Roomette (Approx) |
| New York → Orlando | $150 – $300+ | $400 – $700+ |
| Washington DC → Orlando | $100 – $220 | $300 – $550 |
| Jacksonville → Orlando | $25 – $60 | N/A (short route) |
| Miami → Orlando | $30 – $70 | N/A (short route) |
| Savannah → Orlando | $50 – $100 | $200 – $350 |
Disclaimer: These are approximate figures only and can change significantly based on season, demand, and booking time. Always check Amtrak.com for exact fares.
Money-Saving Tips
- Book in advance – The earlier you book, the better the rate.
- Travel off-season – Prices peak around summer holidays and major US holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas).
- Choose midweek travel – Tuesday-Thursday are generally the cheapest days.
- Check for discounts – Special discounts are available for seniors, students, military, veterans, and children.
- Join Amtrak Guest Rewards – Collect points to earn free or discounted tickets in the future.
- Look for Saver Fares – Amtrak occasionally offers a lower “Saver” fare category available with advance booking.
- Check group discounts – If you’re traveling with 3 or more people, inquire about group rates.
- Keep dates flexible – Use the fare calendar to select the cheapest available date.
Factors That Affect Orlando Train Ticket Prices
| Factor | Impact on Price |
| Booking Time | Advance booking = lower price; last-minute = higher price |
| Day of Week | Weekday travel generally cheaper than weekends |
| Season | Holiday seasons and summer see peak pricing |
| Class of Service | Coach is cheapest, Sleeper is most expensive |
| Distance | The longer the distance, the higher the price |
| Demand | Prices dynamically rise on high-demand routes/dates |
| Fare Type | Saver, Value, and Flexible fares offer different pricing tiers |
Discount Categories Available
Amtrak offers discounts across several categories that can make your Orlando trip more affordable:
- Senior Citizens (65+) – Generally up to 10% discount
- Children (2-12 years) – Up to 50% discount off the adult fare when traveling with an adult
- Students – Special discounts with a verified student ID (through select programs)
- Military & Veterans – Discounted fares for active duty and veterans
- Passengers with Disabilities – Discounts available with proper documentation
- AAA Members – In some cases, AAA membership can also get you a discount
These discounts generally don’t stack – meaning you can typically apply only one discount category at a time.
Best Time to Visit Orlando by Train: Seasonal Travel Tips
Orlando stays warm year-round, but each season has its own vibe. Here’s a seasonal breakdown:
| Season | Weather | Crowd Level | Train Prices | Best For |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Mild, pleasant | High (around holidays) | Peak pricing during holidays | Theme parks, mild weather lovers |
| Spring (Mar-May) | Warm, comfortable | Moderate-High (Spring Break) | Moderate-High | Outdoor activities, festivals |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Hot, humid, rainy afternoons | High | Peak pricing | Families (school holidays) |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | Warm, cooling down | Low-Moderate | Generally cheapest | Budget travelers, fewer crowds |
Recommendation
If you want the cheapest fares and fewer crowds, September to November is the best time (keeping hurricane season in mind). If you want a festive vibe, December is perfect, but expect both higher prices and bigger crowds.
Month-by-Month Quick Guide
| Month | Weather Highlight | Traveler Type Suited |
| January | Cool, dry, pleasant | Budget and crowd-avoiding travelers |
| February | Mild, comfortable | Family trips, fewer crowds |
| March | Warm, Spring Break starts | Party crowds, higher prices |
| April | Warm, pleasant | Outdoor enthusiasts |
| May | Getting hot | Early summer travelers |
| June | Hot, humid | School holiday families |
| July | Peak summer heat | Families (but crowded) |
| August | Hot, rainy afternoons | Deal seekers (slight price dip before fall) |
| September | Warm, hurricane season starts | Budget travelers (with weather caution) |
| October | Pleasant, cooling | Best overall balance of price and weather |
| November | Cool, comfortable | Thanksgiving crowds toward month-end |
| December | Cool, festive | Holiday travelers (expect peak prices) |
Weather Considerations for Train Travel
Florida’s hurricane season runs from June to November. If you’re traveling during this period, follow these tips:
- Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover weather-related cancellations.
- Keep your email and phone number updated at the time of booking so you receive Amtrak weather alerts.
- Choose flexible fare options so you can easily reschedule if needed.
Train vs Bus vs Car to Orlando: Which Is the Best Way to Travel?
Let’s compare all three major transport options:
| Factor | Train | Bus | Car |
| Comfort | High (extra legroom, room to walk around) | Moderate | Depends on driver stamina |
| Cost | Moderate | Least expensive | Fuel + tolls + wear-and-tear |
| Speed | Moderate (depends on route) | Slow (traffic dependent) | Fast (on direct routes) |
| Flexibility | Fixed schedule | Fixed schedule | Most flexible |
| Scenic Value | High | Low | Depends on route |
| Luggage Space | Good (free allowance) | Limited | Unlimited (up to car capacity) |
| Stress Level | Low | Moderate | High (on long drives) |
| Best For | Relaxed, scenic, medium-long trips | Extreme budget travelers | Families with lots of luggage, flexible schedules |
Quick Verdict
- Choose train if: You want a relaxed, scenic journey and don’t want the stress of driving.
- Choose bus if: Budget is your top priority and your time is flexible.
- Choose car if: You want your own timing, or need to make multiple stops during your trip.
Cost Comparison Example (New York to Orlando)
| Mode | Approx One-Way Cost | Approx Travel Time |
| Train (Coach) | $150 – $300 | ~23 hours |
| Bus | $80 – $150 | ~24-27 hours |
| Car (fuel + tolls, per person if shared) | $100 – $180 | ~18-20 hours (non-stop driving) |
| Flight (for comparison) | $150 – $400+ | ~2.5-3 hours |
Note:- These figures are approximate and can vary based on booking time, season, and specific route.
Which Option Suits Different Traveler Types?
| Traveler Type | Recommended Mode |
| Solo backpacker on tight budget | Bus |
| Family with kids | Train (comfort + space) |
| Business traveler with time constraints | Flight |
| Road trip enthusiast | Car |
| Someone who wants a relaxing scenic journey | Train |
| Group traveling with lots of luggage | Car (if driving is feasible) |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which Amtrak trains go to Orlando?
The Silver Meteor and Silver Star are the two primary Amtrak trains that serve Orlando. Both run from New York to Miami, passing through Orlando along the way.
2. How long does it take to reach Orlando by train from New York?
It takes approximately 22 to 24 hours, though this time can increase slightly due to delays.
3. What is the address of the Orlando Amtrak station?
The Orlando Amtrak Station is located at 1400 Sligh Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32806, close to downtown Orlando.
4. Is the Orlando train station near Disney World?
No, the main Orlando station is approximately a 25-30 minute drive from Disney World. The Kissimmee station is a somewhat closer option for some Disney resorts.
5. How much does an Orlando train ticket cost?
Prices depend on the origin city, class of service, and booking time. For example, a coach class ticket from New York to Orlando can range from approximately $150-$300, while sleeper rooms cost more.
6. Is WiFi available on Amtrak trains?
Yes, most Amtrak trains offer WiFi, though the connection can be weak in rural areas.
7. Does the Amtrak Auto Train go directly to Orlando?
No, the Auto Train goes to Sanford, Florida, which is about a 30-minute drive from Orlando. This service is specifically for travelers who want to bring their car along on the train.
8. What’s the difference between coach class and sleeper?
Coach class gives you a reclining seat without a private room, while sleeper (roomette/bedroom) gives you a private compartment, with meals included as well.
9. When should Orlando train tickets be booked – in advance or last-minute?
Booking in advance (30-60 days ahead) generally gets you the best rates. Last-minute booking can significantly raise prices.
10. Are there extra fees for baggage on Amtrak?
Coach passengers generally get a free carry-on and checked baggage allowance (with limits), but this can vary by station. Checked baggage service isn’t available at every station.