City to city
Washington, DC to Miami by train
You can travel directly from Washington, DC to Miami on the Silver Meteor or the Floridian, with the trip taking about 21 to 33 hours depending on which train you choose.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Floridian | about 27 to 33 hours | Daily in each direction (temporary service, as of 2026) | Yes | No, direct |
| Silver Meteor | about 21 to 25 hours | Daily in each direction | Yes | No, direct |
Riding the train from the nation's capital down to southern Florida is a relaxing way to avoid airport crowds and highway traffic. Both the Silver Meteor and the Floridian offer direct daily service between Washington and Miami. The trip takes a full day and includes a night on board, making it a popular choice for travelers heading south. You will pass through Virginia, the Carolinas, Georgia and the length of the Florida peninsula. With private sleeper cabins and coach seating available, passengers can select the comfort level that suits their travel plans.
Your train options
Two daily trains run directly on this route. The Silver Meteor is the faster option, taking about 21 to 25 hours. The Floridian, which operates as a temporary combination of the Capitol Limited and the Silver Star as of 2026, takes about 27 to 33 hours because it takes a longer route through the Carolinas and detours to Tampa. Both trains require an overnight stay. Passengers can book standard Coach seats or upgrade to private sleeping quarters. Accommodations include a Roomette, a Bedroom or an Accessible Bedroom. If you want more privacy and included meals, Amtrak sleeper accommodations are the best choice. The Silver Meteor features a dining car, while the Floridian offers cafe and dining service with equipment that varies. If you are on a budget, sleeping in coach overnight is also possible.
The journey
Departing Washington, the trains head south through Virginia. The Silver Meteor crosses the Rappahannock River at Fredericksburg, while both trains eventually reach Richmond and Petersburg. The routes split through the Carolinas. The Floridian travels through the Carolina Piedmont and the Sandhills. The Silver Meteor takes a coastal path through the Carolina lowcountry, passing marshes and rivers around Charleston and Yemassee. Both trains meet again in Savannah before crossing into Florida at Jacksonville. As you travel south through Central Florida, you will see lakes and orange groves. The Floridian makes stops in Orlando and Tampa, while the Silver Meteor bypasses Tampa and stops in Winter Haven and Sebring. Finally, the trains run along the Atlantic coast, stopping in West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood before terminating in Miami. Depending on the time of year and the specific schedule, different sections of this scenery will pass by in darkness.
The stations
Your trip begins at Washington Union Station, which opened in 1907 near the US Capitol. This major hub connects with the Metro Red Line, MARC and VRE commuter trains. Many trains change crews or locomotives here as they transition between the electrified Northeast Corridor and the South. A long term expansion and rebuilding program is currently under way. The journey ends at the Miami Amtrak station in Hialeah, located northwest of downtown. Most passengers continue to their final destinations by taxi, rideshare or bus. Note that Brightline uses a separate station downtown called MiamiCentral.
Tips
- Review our Amtrak booking tips to secure the best fares for your trip.
- Book a Bedroom if you prefer an en suite toilet and shower.
- Check the current timetable to see which parts of the Florida coast you will pass during daylight.
- Read our guide for your first time on Amtrak to understand baggage rules and boarding procedures.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need to change trains between Washington and Miami?
No, you do not need to change trains. Both the Silver Meteor and the Floridian provide direct service from Washington to Miami. Every train listed on this route allows you to stay on board for the entire journey.
How long does the train take from Washington to Miami?
The Silver Meteor takes about 21 to 25 hours to reach Miami. The Floridian takes longer, requiring about 27 to 33 hours, because it travels a different path through the Carolinas and makes an additional detour to Tampa in Florida.
Are there sleeper cabins on the trains to Miami?
Yes, both trains offer sleeper cabins for this overnight trip. You can book a Roomette, a Bedroom or an Accessible Bedroom. These private rooms include meals in the dining car and provide a comfortable place to sleep during the journey.