City to city
Washington, DC to Orlando by train
You can travel direct from Washington, DC to Orlando on the Floridian or the Silver Meteor, with the overnight journey taking about 16 to 24 hours depending on which service you choose.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Floridian | about 19 to 24 hours | Daily in each direction (temporary service, as of 2026) | Yes | No, direct |
| Silver Meteor | about 16 to 20 hours | Daily in each direction | Yes | No, direct |
Traveling by train from the nation's capital to central Florida is a popular route for vacationers and snowbirds. Amtrak provides two direct options for this trip down the East Coast. As of 2026, passengers can choose between the traditional Silver Meteor and the temporary Floridian service. Both trains offer comfortable seating and sleeping accommodations for the overnight journey. Because the trains take slightly different paths through the Carolinas, the travel time varies. Booking early is recommended, especially if you want a private room for the night. You can find more advice in our guide to first time on Amtrak.
Your train options
Two daily Amtrak trains run direct on this route. The Silver Meteor takes about 16 to 20 hours. The Floridian takes about 19 to 24 hours. As of 2026, the Floridian is a temporary route combining the Capitol Limited and the suspended Silver Star.
Both trains travel overnight. Passengers can book standard Coach seats or upgrade to private sleeping quarters. The options include a Roomette, a Bedroom, or an Accessible Bedroom. You can read more about these in our guide to Amtrak sleeper accommodations.
The Silver Meteor includes a dining car for sleeper passengers. The Floridian offers café and dining service, though the exact equipment varies. If you want the fastest trip, the Silver Meteor is the better choice. The Floridian takes longer because it travels an inland path through North Carolina and South Carolina.
The journey
Both trains leave Washington, DC and head south through Northern Virginia. You will cross the Rappahannock River at Fredericksburg before reaching Richmond. From there, the routes diverge.
The Floridian travels inland through the Carolina Piedmont and the Sandhills. It stops in cities like Raleigh, Columbia, and Denmark. The Silver Meteor takes a coastal path through the Carolina lowcountry. On this train, you might see marshes and rivers around Charleston and Yemassee during daylight hours, depending on the schedule.
The trains rejoin at Savannah and continue into Florida. After a stop in Jacksonville, the route passes through Central Florida lakes and orange groves. You will stop at Palatka, DeLand, and Winter Park before arriving in Orlando. Since this is a long trip, large sections of the journey will happen at night. The exact scenery you see in daylight depends on the time of year and your specific train.
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 between the electrified Northeast Corridor and the South. A long term expansion and rebuilding program is currently under way.
You will arrive at the Orlando station, a 1926 Mission Revival building located south of downtown. SunRail commuter trains share this facility. If you plan to connect to Brightline, note that it uses a completely separate station at Orlando International Airport.
Tips
- Check our guide to booking tips to secure the best fares on the Silver Meteor or Floridian.
- Bring a blanket or extra layers if you plan on sleeping in coach overnight.
- Be aware that Brightline trains do not depart from the Amtrak station in Orlando.
- Keep in mind that the Floridian is a temporary service and schedules may change.
Questions travellers ask
Do I have to change trains between Washington, DC and Orlando?
No, you do not need to change trains. Both the Silver Meteor and the Floridian provide direct service between Washington, DC and Orlando. You can stay on the same train for the entire journey.
How long is the train ride from Washington, DC to Orlando?
The travel time depends on which train you book. The Silver Meteor takes about 16 to 20 hours. The Floridian takes a longer inland route, resulting in a journey of about 19 to 24 hours.