When you search for travel to “Hollywood,” you might think of movie studios and the Walk of Fame. However, if you are looking at Amtrak schedules, the station code HOL refers to the vibrant, beautiful beach city in Hollywood, Florida, nestled between Fort Lauderdale and Miami.
This complete guide will help you understand the specific Amtrak services, identify the operational airports, and navigate the smooth connections that make traveling to or from Hollywood, FL, a breeze.
Part 1: All Aboard – The Hollywood, FL Amtrak Station (HOL)
The Hollywood, FL Amtrak station (code HOL) is a smaller, essential stop on the eastern seaboard’s primary north-south rail routes. It also serves as a critical interchange point with the local commuter rail system.
Station Location and Facilities
The Hollywood station is not located directly on the beach, but a short drive inland, making it highly accessible for residents and visitors throughout Broward County.
- Location: 3001 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, FL 33021
- Station Type: Unstaffed/Minimal facilities (A sheltered platform and ticket kiosk are available, but major baggage services are handled elsewhere).
- Crucial Note: The Amtrak station is typically co-located with or immediately adjacent to the Tri-Rail station. Tri-Rail is South Florida’s commuter service, essential for local travel between Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach.
Amtrak Routes Serving Hollywood (HOL)
Hollywood sits on the main corridor that connects the Northeast to South Florida. This makes it a frequent stop for Amtrak’s major long-distance trains.
| Route Name | Key Destinations (Northbound) | Key Destinations (Southbound) | Frequency | Travel Time to NYC (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Service (Star & Meteor) | Charleston, Raleigh, Richmond, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, New York City (Penn Station) | Miami (MIA) | Daily (One train in each direction for each service) | ~28 – 30 hours |
Tip: Because the Silver Service routes operate on similar schedules, always double-check whether you are booking the Silver Star or the Silver Meteor, as their middle-of-the-route stops (especially in Florida) can differ slightly.
Part 2: Airport Operations Serving Hollywood
Hollywood, FL, does not have its own major international airport, but it is perfectly positioned to utilize two of South Florida’s busiest hubs. The proximity to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) makes air travel extremely straightforward.
Major Airports Serving Hollywood, FL
| Airport Code | Full Name | Distance to Downtown Hollywood | Primary Focus | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FLL | Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport | Approx. 5 – 8 miles | Domestic and Caribbean/Latin American flights, Budget Carriers (Spirit, Southwest) | Most convenient and fastest access point to the city. |
| MIA | Miami International Airport | Approx. 25 – 30 miles | Major International Hub, Flag Carriers (American Airlines, etc.) | International travelers or those needing extensive global connections. |
| PBI | Palm Beach International Airport | Approx. 50 miles | Regional and seasonal flights, North Palm Beach access | Alternative if FLL/MIA are experiencing severe delays. |
Connecting HOL Amtrak to FLL Airport
The connection between the Hollywood Amtrak/Tri-Rail station and the FLL airport is exceptionally efficient—often taking less than 20 minutes outside of peak traffic.
- Rideshare/Taxi: The quickest option. A standard ride from the HOL station to FLL Airport terminals costs approximately $15–$25, depending on surge pricing.
- Tri-Rail Connection (Recommended Budget Option): You can take the Tri-Rail commuter train one stop north from the Hollywood Station to the Fort Lauderdale Airport Station (FLL/Dania Beach). From there, a free shuttle bus operated by Tri-Rail transports passengers directly to the airport terminals. This is the most cost-effective solution for transferring between rail and air modes.
Part 3: The Hollywood, California Caveat
If you were searching for transit information for the famous Hollywood in California, it is essential to note that the Amtrak code HOL does not apply.
Hollywood, CA, is located in Los Angeles County and relies on the following major transit hubs:
| Mode of Transport | Primary Hub Serving Hollywood, CA | Notes & Access |
|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Rail | Los Angeles Union Station (LAUS) | LAUS is the main intercity hub. Hollywood is usually accessed from LAUS via the Metro Red Line or rideshare. |
| Local Rail | Metro Red Line (Subway) | Stops directly in Hollywood (e.g., Hollywood/Vine, Hollywood/Highland). |
| Airport Access | Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) | LAX is the primary airport. Access from Hollywood requires a shuttle, bus, or rideshare (approx. 45 min to 1 hour drive). |
Summary: Your Hollywood Transit Checklist
Whether you are arriving in Florida or heading north on the train, transportation to and from Hollywood, FL, is streamlined and efficient.
| Transit Mode | Best for… | Key Terminals/Stations |
|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | Long-distance, scenic Northeast travel. | HOL (Hollywood, FL) Station |
| Tri-Rail | Commuting between Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, and Palm Beach. | HOL Station (Adjacent to Amtrak) |
| Air Travel | Domestic and quick international arrival/departure. | FLL (Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport) |
| Local Transfer | Quickest/Cheapest transfer between train and plane. | Rideshare/Tri-Rail Shuttle (FLL Airport Station) |
Enjoy your trip to Hollywood, Florida! With these clear connections, switching from the comfort of an Amtrak coach to the convenience of an airport terminal is straightforward and stress-free.
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