Guide to the Silver Meteor: Amtrak's Direct Train from New York to Miami

This route suits passengers looking for a direct rail link between the Northeast and Florida. Because it stops in Charleston and Savannah, the Silver Meteor appeals to travelers planning stopovers in historic Southern cities. It is also a practical option for reaching Central Florida destinations like Orlando from the Mid-Atlantic without flying or driving. The overnight schedule allows you to cover significant ground while you sleep. Whether you book a simple coach seat or reserve a private room, the journey provides a relaxed alternative to crowded airports and busy highways.

Route overview

The Silver Meteor covers about 1,389 miles between New York and Miami. Operating daily as of 2026, it serves as the direct New York to Miami train while the Silver Star is suspended. The complete trip takes about 27 to 28 hours end to end.

Departing from New York, the train heads south through Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, DC. The route continues into Virginia, stopping in Richmond before crossing into the Carolinas. Passengers spend one night on board. Southbound travelers usually wake up to views of the Carolina lowcountry before arriving in Charleston and Savannah in the morning.

The train then enters Florida, making stops in Jacksonville and Orlando before continuing down the peninsula. The final stretch runs along the coast through Fort Lauderdale to Miami. Travelers can use the Silver Meteor to bridge major cities or access smaller towns along the Eastern Seaboard. Because it runs daily in each direction, it is easy to incorporate a segment of this route into a larger East Coast itinerary.

What you see, section by section

Washington to Richmond

After leaving the busy Northeast Corridor, the train travels through Northern Virginia. The landscape shifts from urban centers to suburban towns and wooded areas. A notable point on this section is the Rappahannock River crossing at Fredericksburg. Depending on the time of year and direction of travel, you might see this stretch in daylight or darkness. This segment links the capital to the South, setting a quieter tone for the journey ahead.

Florence to Savannah

The route through South Carolina and Georgia highlights the coastal plain. Passengers travel through the Carolina lowcountry, characterized by expansive marshes and winding rivers. The areas around Charleston and Yemassee offer excellent views of this distinct regional landscape. On the southbound schedule, the train usually passes through this lowcountry section in the morning. This provides a pleasant backdrop as passengers wake up and prepare for arrival in Savannah.

Jacksonville to Miami

Once the train crosses into Florida, the scenery changes to reflect a warmer climate. The route passes Central Florida lakes and numerous orange groves as it heads toward Orlando. After leaving the central part of the state, the tracks move closer to the coast. The final portion of the trip runs through the busy Gold Coast cities, including West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, before terminating in Miami.

Classes and onboard

• Coach
• Viewliner Roomette
• Viewliner Bedroom
• Accessible Bedroom
• Dining car

The Silver Meteor offers several classes of service to accommodate different budgets and needs. Passengers looking for basic transport can book Coach class, which provides reclining seats with ample legroom. For those who prefer privacy and a flat bed on the overnight journey, Amtrak provides sleeper accommodations. You can choose a Viewliner Roomette for one or two people, or upgrade to a Viewliner Bedroom for more space and a private shower. An Accessible Bedroom is also available for passengers with mobility requirements.

All passengers have access to the Dining car. Sleeper class tickets include meals, while Coach passengers can usually purchase food on board. If you are sleeping in coach overnight, bringing a blanket and travel pillow is highly recommended. Booking a roomette or bedroom is ideal if you value privacy and a traditional dining experience during the 27 to 28 hour trip.