If you want to avoid a congested flight and you’re trying to escape the dreary weather in New York, going to Miami by train is a great place to relax. Amtrak has Florida connected to major cities all across the East Coast.
We break down everything that you would need to know about traveling to Miami by train. This includes; which of the train lines services Miami, which tickets you would need, how to reserve tickets, where the train station is, and tips to save money. This guide is designed to be exhaustive and useful to the novice traveler and to the frequent Amtrak rider alike.
Why Take a Train to Miami? Top Reasons to Choose Train Travel
The answer includes comfort and convenience as well as the entire travel experience and explains why thousands choose the train every year:
1. No Airport Hassles : Flying is complicated. You must arrive at least two hours in advance, remove your shoes at security, try to outsmart everyone for overhead bin space, and endure constant delays and cancellations. With train travel, you show up 15-30 minutes prior, walk straight onto the platform, and get on the train. You also don’t pay for your bags and have a choice of your own seat.
2. Scenic Views of the East Coast : The train trip from cities such as New York or D.C. to Miami travels through some of the most gorgeous scenery in America. Georgia has marsh and coastal land. The historic small towns of the South pass by. The Carolinas have lush forests as well as Florida’s beaches. All of this is a view you cannot see from 35,000 feet.
3. Space and Comfort : Compared to airline seats, Amtrak seating is spacious. Amtrak has the advantage of relatively unlimited legroom, the option to get up and walk around, access to the dining and lounge cars, and comfortable beds for the overnight train. Amtrak even provides the option to book private, overnight accomodations.
4. Arrive in the Heart of the City : Miami’s Amtrak station (Miami-Alexandria Station, or Miami Central) being located in the center of the city means no long taxi rides like some travelers face coming from MIA. .
5. Environmentally Friendly : When comparing passenger car air miles, it’s clear that air travel leaves a larger carbon footprint than train travel. Trains are the better option for those passengers and travelers who are mindful of sustainable travel.
6. Affordable Options : When pricing tickets far in advance, coach seats on Miami-bound trains can be extremely economical. You’ll usually spend much less on a train ticket than an airline ticket purchased last minute.
7. Work, Relax, or Sleep : Unlike a car or bus, you can easily bring your work on board, take a nap, or just simply sit back and appreciate your surroundings. Along with free access to power outlets, many Amtrak trains have WiFi and Quiet Cars where you can bring your work on board and focus without any distractions.
Which Trains Go to Miami? Major Train Services Explained
The national passenger rail system, Amtrak, has a service depot in Miami. Presently, there are two primary Amtrak routes that provide service to Miami:
1. Silver Meteor
The Silver Meteor is one of Amtrak’s long-distance trains and is in operation daily. It travels from New York Penn Station to Miami. Along the way, the train stops in New Jersey, Philly, Wilmington, D.C., Richmond, Raleigh, Florence, Savannah, Jacksonville, and various other cities in Florida.
- Route: New York Penn Station → Miami
- Total Distance: Approximately 1,389 miles
- Travel Time: Around 28-30 hours
- Frequency: Daily (one train each direction per day)
- Service Type: Long-distance with coach, business, sleeper (roomette & bedroom)
2. Silver Star
Though parallel to the route that the Silver Star takes, the Silver Meteor deviates through Florida’s track and stops at more of Florida’s cities with the inclusion of Tampa and Orlando.
- Route: New York Penn Station → Miami (via Tampa & Orlando)
- Total Distance: Approximately 1,521 miles
- Travel Time: Around 30-32 hours
- Frequency: Daily
- Service Type: Long-distance with coach, business, sleeper
Key Differences: Silver Meteor vs Silver Star
| Feature | Silver Meteor | Silver Star |
| Origin | New York Penn Station | New York Penn Station |
| Destination | Miami | Miami |
| Florida Cities Served | Jacksonville, Orlando, Kissimmee, Okeechobee | Jacksonville, Sanford, Orlando, Tampa, West Palm Beach |
| Travel Time (NY-Miami) | ~28-30 hours | ~30-32 hours |
| Dining Car | Yes | Yes |
| Sleeper Cars | Yes | Yes |
| Daily Frequency | Once daily | Once daily |
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling from cities like Tampa or Orlando and want to continue to Miami, the Silver Star is your best bet as it connects these Florida cities directly.
Popular Train Routes to Miami From Major US Cities
Amtrak connects Miami to cities all across the eastern United States. Here’s a quick look at the most popular origin cities and what you can expect:
| Origin City | Train(s) | Approx. Travel Time | Typical Coach Fare |
| New York City, NY | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | 28-32 hours | $89-$180 |
| Washington, D.C. | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | 22-24 hours | $75-$150 |
| Philadelphia, PA | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | 25-27 hours | $80-$160 |
| Baltimore, MD | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | 23-25 hours | $78-$155 |
| Richmond, VA | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | 21-23 hours | $65-$140 |
| Raleigh, NC | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | 17-19 hours | $55-$120 |
| Columbia, SC | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | 14-16 hours | $50-$110 |
| Savannah, GA | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | 11-13 hours | $45-$100 |
| Jacksonville, FL | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | 6-7 hours | $35-$85 |
| Orlando, FL | Silver Star | 4-5 hours | $28-$70 |
| Tampa, FL | Silver Star | 5-6 hours | $30-$75 |
| West Palm Beach, FL | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | 1.5-2 hours | $15-$40 |
NYC to Miami Train: Schedule, Duration & Ticket Tips
The New York City to Miami train route is by far the most popular long-distance Train journey in Amtrak’s eastern corridor. Here’s everything you need to know about this iconic overnight trip.
Schedule Overview
The Silver Meteor and Silver Star both leave New York Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan, on the corner of 31st and 8th Avenue. They leave in the late afternoon to early evening, and get to Miami by the next morning to early afternoon, making the train a perfect overnight option.
| Train | Departs NYC | Arrives Miami | Duration |
| Silver Meteor (#97) | ~3:15 PM | ~6:53 PM (next day) | ~27 hrs 38 min |
| Silver Star (#91) | ~7:10 AM | ~3:58 PM (next day) | ~32 hrs 48 min |
Key Stops Along the NYC-Miami Route
The train passes through some remarkable American cities. Here are the major stops:
- Newark, NJ
- Philadelphia, PA (30th Street Station)
- Wilmington, DE
- Baltimore, MD (Penn Station)
- Washington, D.C. (Union Station)
- Richmond, VA (Main Street Station)
- Petersburg, VA
- Rocky Mount, NC
- Raleigh, NC
- Florence, SC
- Charleston, SC (some routes)
- Savannah, GA
- Jacksonville, FL
- Orlando, FL (Silver Star only)
- Tampa, FL (Silver Star only)
- West Palm Beach, FL
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Miami, FL (Miami-Alexandria Station)
Ticket Tips for NYC to Miami
- Book 2-6 weeks in advance for the best coach fares
- Travel Tuesday-Thursday for lower prices (weekends cost more)
- Set up fare alerts on Amtrak.com or use the mobile app
- Join Amtrak Guest Rewards – points accumulate toward free travel
- Consider the sleeper – overnight trips are far more comfortable in a roomette, and the cost includes all meals in the dining car
- Check multi-city options – sometimes booking two separate tickets (e.g., NYC → Washington and Washington → Miami) saves money
Miami Train Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers
If you’ve never taken an Amtrak long-distance train before, here’s what you need to know to have a great experience:
Arrive Early Plan to arrive at the station at least 20-30 minutes before departure. Unlike airlines, you don’t need to check in hours ahead, but you’ll want time to find your track, board, and settle in.
Pack Smart You’re allowed 2 carry-on bags and 2 personal items for free. Additional checked bags cost extra. On long trips, pack snacks, a neck pillow, an eye mask, earplugs, and entertainment (book, tablet, headphones).
Dining Options Long-distance trains have a dining car serving hot meals (included with sleeper tickets; purchased separately for coach passengers) and a café/lounge car for snacks, drinks, and light meals. Prices are moderate. Bringing your own snacks is perfectly acceptable.
Power Outlets & WiFi Most Amtrak long-distance trains offer power outlets at seats. WiFi is available but can be slow on rural stretches – download movies or shows before you board.
Sleeper Cars If you’re taking the NYC-to-Miami overnight journey, seriously consider upgrading to a Roomette ($150-$300+ extra). You get a private space with two reclining seats that convert into beds, plus all meals included. It transforms a long journey into a genuine travel experience.
Be Flexible Amtrak trains can run late due to freight train priority on shared tracks. Don’t schedule tight connections immediately after arrival. Build in buffer time.
Quiet Car Most Amtrak trains have a designated quiet car – no phone calls, music must be through headphones, and conversations kept to a whisper. Perfect for sleeping or working.
Direct and Connecting Train Routes to Miami
The answer depends on where you’re starting your journey.
Direct (No-Transfer) Routes to Miami
The following cities have direct Amtrak service to Miami with no transfers required:
| City | Direct Train | Transfer Required? |
| New York City | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No |
| Philadelphia | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No |
| Baltimore | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No |
| Washington, D.C. | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No |
| Richmond | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No |
| Raleigh | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No |
| Savannah | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No |
| Jacksonville | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No |
| Orlando | Silver Star | No |
| Tampa | Silver Star | No |
| West Palm Beach | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No |
| Fort Lauderdale | Silver Meteor / Silver Star | No |
Connecting Routes to Miami
From cities not directly served by the Silver Meteor or Silver Star, travelers typically need to connect through a major hub:
| Origin City | Connect Through | Total Travel Time |
| Boston, MA | New York Penn Station | ~32-36 hours |
| Chicago, IL | Washington D.C. or New York | ~40-48 hours |
| Atlanta, GA | Washington D.C. | ~28-34 hours |
| New Orleans, LA | Washington D.C. or Jacksonville | ~36-44 hours |
| Charlotte, NC | New York or Washington D.C. | ~26-30 hours |
Note: Amtrak does not currently have a direct train connecting Miami to the Gulf Coast or Midwest without going through the eastern corridor.
Business Class vs Coach on Miami Trains
Choosing the right fare class significantly impacts your travel experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Coach Class
All Amtrak trains to Miami offer Coach as the only seating option. Seats have an attached tray with more legroom and a footrest compared to most airline economy class. Seats are also wider than most airline economy class seats.
What’s included:
- Reserved seat
- 2 free carry-on bags
- Access to café/lounge car
- Power outlet at seat (most trains)
- WiFi (where available)
Best for: Budget travelers, shorter trips (under 12 hours), solo travelers comfortable sleeping in their seat overnight
Business Class
Business Class is available on select Amtrak routes and offers upgrades over coach in terms of seat size, positioning, and amenities.
What’s included:
- Larger, more comfortable reclining seats
- More legroom
- Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages on some routes
- Quieter, less crowded car
Note: Business Class is not always available on the Silver Meteor/Silver Star long-distance routes.
Sleeper Class (Roomette & Bedroom)
For overnight journeys – especially NYC to Miami – the Sleeper Class is the crown jewel of Amtrak travel.
Roomette:
- Private space for 1-2 passengers
- Two seats that fold into bunk beds at night
- Fold-down privacy curtain or door
- All meals in the dining car included
- Dedicated sleeping car attendant
Bedroom:
- Larger private room with toilet and sink inside
- Two berths for sleeping
- Shower access (shared)
- All meals included
- Premium privacy and space
| Class | Best For | Price Range (NYC-Miami) | Meals Included? |
| Coach | Budget travelers, daytime trips | $89-$180 | No |
| Business Class | Comfort upgrade (where available) | $130-$250 | No |
| Roomette | Overnight trips, couples, comfort | $250-$500+ | Yes |
| Bedroom | Maximum comfort, privacy | $450-$900+ | Yes |
Miami Train Station: Everything You Need to Know About Miami-Alexandria Station
The Miami-Alexandria Station – commonly referred to as Miami Central or MiamiCentral – is one of the most impressive transit hubs in Florida. Here’s a complete overview:
Station Details
| Feature | Details |
| Official Name | Miami Central (MiamiCentral) / Miami Amtrak Station |
| Address | 600 NW 1st Avenue, Miami, FL 33136 |
| Neighborhood | Downtown Miami / Overtown |
| Amtrak Station Code | MIA |
| Trains Served | Silver Meteor, Silver Star |
Amenities at Miami Central
Miami’s Train Station is a multi-tiered structure built in 2018. It is not simply a train station; it is a fully equipped transit center and mixed-use facility.
Available amenities:
- Ticketing counter and Amtrak self-service kiosks
- Waiting areas with seating
- Restaurants and cafes
- Retail shops
- Restrooms
- Luggage storage (limited availability)
- WiFi throughout the station
- Accessibility features (elevators, ramps, accessible restrooms)
Getting To & From Miami Central
One of the best things about Miami Central is its excellent connectivity to the rest of Miami:
| Transportation Mode | Details |
| MetroTrain | Directly connected to Miami Central via the Overtown/Arena Station |
| Brightline (Virgin Trains) | Miami Central is also the main Brightline station – connecting to Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Orlando |
| Metrobus | Multiple bus routes stop nearby |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | Pickup/dropoff zone available at the station |
| Taxi | Available at the station entrance |
| Rental Cars | Multiple rental agencies accessible from the station area |
| Parking | Paid parking garage on-site |
Nearby Hotels (Walking Distance)
Miami Central is in the heart of downtown Miami, with numerous hotels within a short walk or quick rideshare:
- Hyatt Place Miami Downtown (0.5 miles)
- AC Hotel by Marriott Miami Downtown (0.8 miles)
- JW Marriott Marquis Miami (1.2 miles)
- YOTEL Miami (0.3 miles)
How to Book Train Tickets to Miami: Step-by-Step Guide
Booking an Amtrak ticket to Miami is simple. Here’s how to do it:
Method 1: Book Online at Amtrak.com
Step 1: Go to www.amtrak.com
Step 2: On the homepage, select:
- Trip Type: One Way, Round Trip, or Multi-City
- From: Your departure city
- To: Miami, FL (MIA)
- Date: Your travel date
- Passengers: Number of adults/children/seniors
Step 3: Click “Find Trains” to see available trains and times.
Step 4: Select your preferred train and departure time.
Step 5: Choose your fare class (Coach, Business, or Sleeper).
Step 6: Review your selection and add any extras (checked bags, etc.).
Step 7: Create an Amtrak account or continue as a guest.
Step 8: Enter payment information and confirm your booking.
Step 9: You’ll receive a confirmation email with your e-ticket. Save it to your phone or print it.
Method 2: Book via the Amtrak Mobile App
Download the free Amtrak app (iOS or Android). The process mirrors the website but is optimized for mobile. You can also manage your booking, check train status, and store your e-ticket in the app.
Method 3: Book by Phone
Call 1-800-USA-Train (1-800-872-7245) to book with a live Amtrak agent. This is helpful if you have complex itineraries or need assistance.
Method 4: Book at the Station
You can purchase tickets at the ticket counter at any Amtrak station. However, prices may be higher than booking online in advance, and popular trains can sell out.
Important Booking Notes
- No assigned seats in Coach on most routes – it’s open seating within your coach car (you’ll be assigned a car number)
- Sleeper rooms are assigned and you’ll be given your room number when you board
- Print or save your e-ticket – the conductor will scan it on board
- Cancellation policy: Amtrak allows free cancellation (for a full refund) on most tickets up to 15 minutes before departure. Always check the specific fare conditions when booking.
Miami Train Ticket Price: How Much Does It Cost & How to Save Money
Because there is variance across routes and classes, train prices differ when traveling to and from Miami depending on when tickets are purchased. The following is a breakdown of price variance, as well as the best ways to save money:
Typical Price Ranges by Route (Coach Class)
| Route | Budget Price | Average Price | Peak Price |
| New York → Miami | $79 | $120-$150 | $180-$250 |
| Washington D.C. → Miami | $65 | $100-$130 | $160-$210 |
| Philadelphia → Miami | $72 | $110-$140 | $170-$220 |
| Raleigh → Miami | $45 | $75-$100 | $130-$160 |
| Jacksonville → Miami | $25 | $45-$65 | $85-$110 |
| Orlando → Miami | $20 | $35-$55 | $70-$90 |
Sleeper Prices (NYC → Miami, approx.)
| Room Type | Low Season | High Season |
| Roomette (1-2 pax) | $200-$300 | $350-$500+ |
| Bedroom (1-2 pax) | $400-$600 | $700-$1,000+ |
Save Money on Miami Train Tickets
1. Book Early – Amtrak releases tickets 11 months in advance. The cheapest “Saver” fares go fast. Book as early as possible for the best deals.
2. Travel Mid-Week – Tuesdays and Wednesdays are consistently cheaper than Friday/Sunday travel.
3. Use Amtrak Guest Rewards – Amtrak’s free loyalty program earns points on every trip. Points can be redeemed for free tickets.
4. Look for Amtrak Sales – Amtrak regularly runs flash sales – follow @Amtrak on social media or subscribe to their email newsletter to catch them.
5. Student, Senior & Military Discounts
- Students (13-25 with valid student ID): 15% off
- Seniors (65+): 10% off
- Military/Veterans: 10% off
- Children (2-12): 50% off adult fare
6. AAA or NARP Membership – Members of AAA or the National Association of Trainroad Passengers (NARP) can receive discounts on Amtrak fares.
7. Consider Flexible Travel Dates – Use Amtrak’s calendar view to compare prices across a range of dates – shifting your trip by a day or two can sometimes save $30-$50+.
8. Train Pass (For Frequent Travelers) – The Amtrak USA Train Pass allows unlimited travel within a set time period, ideal if Miami is one stop on a longer Train journey.
Best Time to Visit Miami by Train: Seasonal Travel Tips
Miami is a year-round destination, but timing your visit – and your train journey – wisely can make a big difference in price, crowds, and weather.
Miami’s Seasons at a Glance
| Season | Months | Weather | Train Prices | Crowds |
| Peak (Winter/Dry Season) | December-April | 70-80°C, low humidity, sunny | Highest | Highest |
| Shoulder (Spring) | April-May | 75-85°C, some humidity | Moderate | Moderate |
| Off-Peak (Summer) | June-September | 85-95°C, humid, afternoon storms | Lowest | Lower |
| Shoulder (Fall) | October-November | 78-88°C, decreasing humidity | Moderate | Moderate |
Best Time to Travel by Train to Miami
For the best weather: November through April is Miami’s dry season. You’ll enjoy blue skies, low humidity, and perfect beach weather. January-March is the most popular time for Northeasterners escaping cold winters.
For the lowest prices: June through September offers the cheapest train tickets and hotel rates. Yes, it’s hot and humid, but Miami’s beaches, pools, and air-conditioned attractions make it very manageable. Afternoon thunderstorms typically clear quickly.
For special events, avoid: Miami Ultra Music Festival (March), Art Basel (December), and Spring Break (March) all spike hotel prices and crowds dramatically. Book train tickets far in advance if you’re traveling during these periods.
For a balanced experience: October-November is arguably Miami’s sweet spot – great weather, lower prices than peak season, and a relaxed vibe as the summer crowds thin out.
Train vs Bus vs Car to Miami: Which Is the Best Way to Travel?
Let’s compare the three main options for reaching Miami from the Northeast or Southeast:
Comparison: Train vs Bus vs Car (NYC to Miami)
| Factor | Train (Amtrak) | Bus (Greyhound/FlixBus) | Car (Drive) |
| Travel Time | ~28-32 hours | ~28-36 hours | ~18-20 hours |
| Cost (Budget) | $79-$150 | $49-$99 | $150-$250 (gas + tolls) |
| Comfort | High (wide seats, walk around) | Low-Medium (cramped) | Variable (fatigue) |
| Scenery | Excellent (window views) | Limited | Good (if you like driving) |
| Luggage | Generous (2 carry-on + checked) | Limited (extra fees) | Unlimited |
| Flexibility | Fixed schedule | Fixed schedule | Complete freedom |
| Overnight Sleep | Yes (beds in sleeper cars) | Very difficult | Not safe (need hotel stop) |
| Arrival Point | Downtown Miami | Bus terminals | Wherever you park |
| Stress Level | Low | Medium | High (I-95 traffic) |
| Environmental Impact | Low | Low-Medium | High |
The Verdict
- Choose Train if: You value comfort, want to sleep or work en route, enjoy scenic travel, and are okay with the journey being part of the adventure. The sleeper option on overnight runs is genuinely excellent.
- Choose Bus if: Budget is the absolute top priority and you don’t mind a less comfortable experience.
- Choose Car if: You need flexibility, are traveling with family and a lot of luggage, plan to explore Florida extensively, or the drive itself is part of your trip.
For most travelers coming from New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., or the Carolinas, the train offers the best balance of comfort, convenience, and value – especially on overnight routes where you essentially save on a night’s hotel room.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a direct Amtrak train from New York to Miami?
Yes. The Silver Meteor and Silver Star run directly from New York Penn Station to Miami without transfers.
2. How long does the train ride from Washington D.C. to Miami take?
It usually takes around 22 to 24 hours from Washington Union Station to Miami.
3. Does Amtrak have overnight trains to Miami?
Yes. Most Amtrak trains to Miami are overnight routes because of the long travel time.
4. What is the cheapest train ticket to Miami?
Coach fares to Miami can start from around $79-$89 from New York and even lower from nearby Florida cities.
5. Where is the Amtrak station in Miami?
Miami’s Amtrak station is Miami Central, 600 NW 1st Avenue, Miami, FL 33136.
6. Can I bring my bicycle on the train to Miami?
Yes. Amtrak allows bikes on many routes, either as checked baggage or on select trains with bike space.
7. Is there WiFi on Amtrak trains to Miami?
Yes. Most long-distance Amtrak trains to Miami offer free WiFi, though service may be limited in some areas.
8. Can I travel from Miami to other Florida cities by train?
Yes. From Miami, you can travel by train to cities like Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Orlando, and Jacksonville.
9. How early should I arrive at Miami’s Amtrak station before departure?
It’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes early, or 45 minutes early for long-distance trips.
10. Can I cancel or change my Amtrak ticket to Miami?
Yes. Most Amtrak tickets can be changed or canceled, depending on the fare type and timing.