Escape the hustle of New York City and journey to the Sunshine State with a relaxing train trip to Florida. Amtrak’s Silver Service offers two routes, the Silver Meteor and Silver Star, both providing a unique travel experience from the Northeast to the warmth of Florida. Whether you’re heading to Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, Miami, or any station in between, here’s your guide to planning a memorable train adventure.
Discovering the Journey: NYC to Florida by Train
The train journey from New York to Florida is an overnight affair, offering a comfortable alternative to flying or driving. The Silver Meteor and Silver Star routes provide different travel times and stop selections, allowing you to choose the best option for your destination. For those heading to the first Florida stop, Jacksonville, the Silver Meteor takes approximately 18 hours, while the Silver Star takes around 20 hours. While driving might seem faster at around 14.5 hours to Jacksonville, consider the relaxation and scenic views offered by train travel, avoiding traffic and rest stops.
For popular destinations further south, Orlando is reachable in about 22 hours on the Silver Meteor and 23.5 hours on the Silver Star. If Tampa is your final point, the Silver Star is your route, with a travel time of approximately 26 hours. And for the southernmost point, Miami, expect a journey of nearly 28 hours on the Silver Meteor and over 33 hours on the Silver Star. Driving to Miami, in comparison, takes about 19.5 hours, but again, the train offers a chance to unwind and enjoy the changing landscapes.
Ticket Options and Budgeting Your Train Trip
Amtrak ticket prices are dynamic, fluctuating based on booking time, seat availability, and the type of accommodation you select. To secure the most favorable fares, it’s advisable to book your tickets at least three weeks in advance. You’ll have choices ranging from the economical Coach seats to private sleeping accommodations like Roomettes and Bedrooms, each offering different levels of comfort and amenities.
Coach class is the most budget-friendly option for Train Travel From New York To Florida. One-way tickets typically range from $100 to $150. While you’ll be seated upright, think of it as a scenic overnight bus journey but with more space to move around. Keep in mind that meals and snacks from the café car are purchased separately, so packing your own food is a smart way to save money.
For a more luxurious experience, consider Roomettes or Bedrooms. Roomettes offer private sleeping space and include meals, but expect to invest upwards of $600 for a one-way ticket, potentially reaching over $800 during peak times. Bedrooms provide even more space and privacy, including a private toilet, sink, and shower, with prices generally starting above $1,000.
To potentially reduce your travel costs, explore the Amtrak Rewards program. Learning how to earn and redeem Amtrak Points can lead to savings on future journeys, making your train travel from New York to Florida more affordable in the long run.
