Chicago to Orlando by train

Taking the train from the Midwest to central Florida is a long but comfortable ride. The direct route connects Chicago Union Station with Orlando, avoiding the need to change trains or navigate airports. The service is currently provided by the Floridian, a temporary route created by combining two other trains. Whether you are heading south for a vacation or visiting family, the journey offers a chance to relax and watch the eastern United States roll past your window.

Your train options

The only direct train on this route is the Floridian, which runs daily in each direction. The trip takes about 34 to 41 hours and involves spending at least one night on board. Because this is an overnight journey, you have several classes of travel to choose from. Passengers on a budget can book a standard Coach seat. If you prefer a bed and more privacy, Amtrak offers Roomettes and Bedrooms, as well as an Accessible Bedroom. Sleeping car passengers have access to a café and dining service, though the exact equipment varies. The Floridian is a temporary combination of the Capitol Limited and the Silver Star, introduced in November 2024 due to track work around Washington. Amtrak has stated the separate trains should return eventually, but the timing remains unconfirmed as of late 2026.

The journey

The route covers a vast section of the eastern United States. Leaving Chicago, the train travels through northern Indiana and Ohio along the hinterland of Lake Erie. This stretch to Pittsburgh is mostly covered at night when traveling southbound. From Pittsburgh to Washington, the train follows the old Baltimore and Ohio route. You will pass through the Allegheny Mountains along the Youghiogheny and Potomac rivers, seeing Cumberland and Harpers Ferry where the Shenandoah meets the Potomac. South of Washington, the scenery shifts to Virginia, the Carolina Piedmont, the Sandhills and the Carolina lowcountry. Major stops include Cleveland, Richmond, Raleigh, Columbia, Savannah and Jacksonville. Entering central Florida, you will pass lakes before arriving in Orlando. The exact scenery you see in daylight depends on the time of year and whether the train is running on schedule.

The stations

Your trip begins at Chicago Union Station, located in the West Loop just west of the Chicago River. It is a short walk or bus ride from the Loop and is near the CTA Blue Line Clinton stop. The station features the Great Hall, a classic Beaux Arts waiting room opened in 1925. Sleeping car passengers can use the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge. Your destination is the Orlando station, a 1926 Mission Revival building situated south of downtown. SunRail commuter trains share this facility. Note that Brightline uses a completely separate station located at Orlando International Airport.