Booking Amtrak In Florida ..!!
Florida is known for its sunshine, beaches, and vibrant cities. While driving is a popular choice, traveling by Amtrak offers a unique, stress-free, and often scenic way to explore the Sunshine State. Imagine leaning back in a comfortable seat, watching the landscapes roll by, and avoiding I-95 traffic!
Whether you’re visiting for the theme parks, cruising from a port, or simply enjoying the coastal charm, Amtrak connects many of Florida’s key destinations. This guide provides a comprehensive look at every Amtrak station in Florida, complete with their locations and estimated driving distances to major cities and airports.
Amtrak’s Presence in Florida: The Silver Service & Auto Train
Most of Florida’s Amtrak stations are served by the Silver Service trains:
- Silver Meteor (Train 97/98): Travels along the East Coast from New York to Miami.
- Silver Star (Train 91/92): Also travels New York to Miami, but takes a slightly more inland route through Orlando/Tampa before heading south.
Additionally, the unique Auto Train (Trains 52/53) provides a convenient service for travelers wanting to transport their vehicles between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida.
Let’s explore the stations, working our way generally from North to South.
North Florida Stations
1. Jacksonville (JAX)
As the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, Jacksonville serves as a major gateway to Florida. Its Amtrak station is a bustling hub.
- Address: 3573 Clifford Ln, Jacksonville, FL 32209
- Amenities: Ticket office, checked baggage, large waiting area, restrooms, vending machines, long-term parking, accessible platforms.
- Connections: Local JTA bus service available.
Distances from Jacksonville Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Jacksonville | 5 | 10-15 min |
| Jacksonville Airport (JAX) | 16 | 25-30 min |
| St. Augustine | 40 | 45-60 min |
| Gainesville | 70 | 1 hr 15 min |
| Daytona Beach | 90 | 1 hr 30 min |
2. Palatka (PAK)
A historic city situated on the St. Johns River, Palatka offers a quieter, more charming stop.
- Address: 220 N 11th St, Palatka, FL 32177
- Amenities: Unstaffed station (shelter, no ticket office), accessible platform, parking.
- Connections: Local taxi services available.
Distances from Palatka Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Palatka | 1 | 5 min |
| St. Augustine | 30 | 40 min |
| Gainesville | 45 | 50 min |
| Daytona Beach | 50 | 1 hr |
Central Florida Stations
3. DeLand (DLD)
Known for its historic downtown and Stetson University, DeLand offers a pleasant stop in Central Florida.
- Address: 2491 Old New York Ave, DeLand, FL 32720
- Amenities: Unstaffed station (shelter), accessible platform, parking.
- Connections: Local taxi/rideshare.
Distances from DeLand Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown DeLand | 4 | 10 min |
| Daytona Beach | 25 | 30 min |
| Orlando | 45 | 45-60 min |
| Sanford (Auto Train) | 15 | 20 min |
4. Sanford (SFA) – Auto Train Station
Sanford is home to the unique Amtrak Auto Train, which transports passengers and their vehicles between Sanford and Lorton, Virginia. This is a dedicated Auto Train station, not served by the Silver Service.
- Address: 600 S Persimmon Ave, Sanford, FL 32771
- Amenities: Ticket office, waiting lounges, restrooms, dedicated vehicle loading/unloading area. (Note: No checked baggage service as passengers travel with their cars).
- Connections: Primarily for travelers with personal vehicles.
Distances from Sanford Auto Train Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Sanford | 1 | 5 min |
| Orlando | 25 | 30-40 min |
| Orlando Airport (MCO) | 35 | 40-50 min |
| Daytona Beach | 35 | 40 min |
| Port Canaveral | 55 | 1 hr |
5. Winter Park (WPK)
A charming and affluent suburb of Orlando, Winter Park boasts beautiful parks, museums, and upscale shopping unique to the Silver Service route.
- Address: 150 W Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789
- Amenities: Unstaffed station (shelter), accessible platform, limited parking.
- Connections: SunRail commuter rail (shares platform), local buses, rideshare.
Distances from Winter Park Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Orlando | 5 | 10-15 min |
| Orlando Airport (MCO) | 15 | 25-30 min |
| Universal Studios | 10 | 20-30 min |
| Walt Disney World | 20 | 30-40 min |
6. Orlando (ORL)
The heart of Central Florida, Orlando is world-renowned for its theme parks and attractions. The Amtrak station is centrally located near downtown.
- Address: 1400 Sligh Blvd, Orlando, FL 32806
- Amenities: Ticket office, checked baggage, large waiting area, restrooms, vending machines, short-term and long-term parking, accessible platforms.
- Connections: LYNX local buses, taxi, rideshare.
Distances from Orlando Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Orlando | 1 | 5 min |
| Orlando Airport (MCO) | 12 | 20-30 min |
| Universal Studios | 8 | 15-25 min |
| Walt Disney World Resort | 18 | 30-45 min |
| Port Canaveral | 50 | 50-60 min |
7. Kissimmee (KIS)
Often considered a southern gateway to the Orlando theme parks, Kissimmee offers a more budget-friendly option for visitors.
- Address: 111 E Dakin Ave, Kissimmee, FL 34741
- Amenities: Unstaffed station (shelter), accessible platform, limited parking.
- Connections: SunRail commuter rail (shares platform), CAT local buses, taxi, rideshare.
Distances from Kissimmee Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Walt Disney World Resort | 10 | 20-30 min |
| Orlando Airport (MCO) | 15 | 25-35 min |
| Downtown Orlando | 20 | 30-40 min |
| Old Town Kissimmee | 2 | 5 min |
8. Lakeland (LAL)
Located between Orlando and Tampa, Lakeland is known for its beautiful lakes, historic architecture, and abundance of swans.
- Address: 600 E Main St, Lakeland, FL 33801
- Amenities: Ticket office, checked baggage, waiting area, restrooms, vending machines, parking, accessible platforms.
- Connections: Citrusexpress local bus, taxi, rideshare.
Distances from Lakeland Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Lakeland | 1 | 5 min |
| Tampa | 35 | 40-50 min |
| Tampa Airport (TPA) | 40 | 45-60 min |
| Winter Haven | 15 | 20 min |
| Orlando | 55 | 1 hr |
9. Winter Haven (WTH)
Home to LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Winter Haven lives up to its name with many beautiful lakes.
- Address: 188 W Central Ave, Winter Haven, FL 33880
- Amenities: Unstaffed station (shelter), accessible platform, parking.
- Connections: Local taxi/rideshare.
Distances from Winter Haven Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| LEGOLAND Florida | 5 | 10 min |
| Downtown Winter Haven | 1 | 5 min |
| Lakeland | 15 | 20 min |
| Tampa | 50 | 1 hr |
10. Tampa (TPA)
A vibrant city on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa boasts a lively downtown, historic Ybor City, and beautiful waterfronts. The Amtrak station is an impressive historic building.
- Address: 601 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, FL 33602
- Amenities: Ticket office, checked baggage, spacious waiting area, restrooms, vending machines, short-term and long-term parking, accessible platforms.
- Connections: HART local buses, TECO Line Streetcar System (close by), taxi, rideshare.
Distances from Tampa Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Tampa | 1 | 5 min |
| Tampa Airport (TPA) | 8 | 15-25 min |
| St. Petersburg | 20 | 30-45 min |
| Clearwater Beach | 25 | 40-55 min |
| Sarasota | 60 | 1 hr 15 min |
South Florida Stations
11. Okeechobee (OKC)
Located near the vast Lake Okeechobee, this station provides access to Florida’s “inland sea” and a more rural side of the state.
- Address: 801 N Parrott Ave, Okeechobee, FL 34972
- Amenities: Unstaffed station (shelter), accessible platform, parking.
- Connections: Local taxi/rideshare.
Distances from Okeechobee Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Okeechobee | 2 | 5 min |
| Fort Pierce | 35 | 40 min |
| West Palm Beach | 60 | 1 hr 15 min |
12. West Palm Beach (WPB)
A beautiful city on Florida’s Gold Coast, known for its vibrant downtown, Clematis Street, and proximity to Palm Beach island.
- Address: 201 S Tamarind Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
- Amenities: Ticket office, checked baggage, waiting area, restrooms, vending machines, parking, accessible platforms.
- Connections: Brightline (shares station), Palm Tran local buses, taxi, rideshare.
Distances from West Palm Beach Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown West Palm Beach | 1 | 5 min |
| Palm Beach Airport (PBI) | 3 | 10 min |
| Jupiter | 20 | 30 min |
| Fort Lauderdale | 45 | 50-60 min |
13. Delray Beach (DLB)
A charming coastal city with a lively arts scene, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant Atlantic Avenue.
- Address: 345 SW 2nd Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33444
- Amenities: Unstaffed station (shelter), accessible platform, parking.
- Connections: Brightline (shares station), Palm Tran, taxi, rideshare.
Distances from Delray Beach Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Delray Beach | 1 | 5 min |
| West Palm Beach | 20 | 25 min |
| Boca Raton | 10 | 15-20 min |
| Fort Lauderdale | 30 | 40 min |
14. Deerfield Beach (DFB)
Known for its award-winning beach and fishing pier, Deerfield Beach offers a beautiful stop along the South Florida coast.
- Address: 1300 W Hillsboro Blvd, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442
- Amenities: Unstaffed station (shelter), accessible platform, parking.
- Connections: Brightline (shares station), Broward County Transit, taxi, rideshare.
Distances from Deerfield Beach Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Deerfield Beach Pier | 3 | 10 min |
| Boca Raton | 5 | 10-15 min |
| Fort Lauderdale | 15 | 25 min |
| Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) | 20 | 30-40 min |
15. Fort Lauderdale (FTL)
A major South Florida destination famous for its beaches, canals (the “Venice of America”), and bustling port for cruise ships.
- Address: 200 SW 21st Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
- Amenities: Ticket office, checked baggage, waiting area, restrooms, vending machines, parking, accessible platforms.
- Connections: Brightline (shares station), Broward County Transit, taxi, rideshare.
Distances from Fort Lauderdale Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Fort Lauderdale | 3 | 10-15 min |
| Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) | 5 | 10-20 min |
| Port Everglades (Cruise Port) | 5 | 10-20 min |
| Miami | 25 | 30-45 min |
16. Hollywood (HLW)
A vibrant coastal city nestled between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, known for its Broadwalk and Art Deco district.
- Address: 300 N Railroad Ave, Hollywood, FL 33021
- Amenities: Unstaffed station (shelter), accessible platform, limited parking.
- Connections: Brightline (shares station), Broward County Transit, taxi, rideshare.
Distances from Hollywood Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Hollywood Beach Broadwalk | 3 | 10 min |
| Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) | 7 | 15-25 min |
| Aventura | 8 | 15-25 min |
| Miami Beach | 18 | 30-45 min |
17. Miami (MIA)
The vibrant multicultural hub of South Florida, Miami offers stunning beaches, diverse cuisine, and a lively arts and nightlife scene.
- Address: 8303 NW 37th Ave, Miami, FL 33147
- Amenities: Ticket office, checked baggage, waiting area, restrooms, vending machines, short-term and long-term parking, accessible platforms.
- Connections: Metrorail (connects to Miami International Airport, Downtown Miami), Metrobus, taxi, rideshare.
Distances from Miami Station:
| Destination | Distance (Miles) | Est. Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Miami International Airport (MIA) | 5 | 10-20 min |
| Downtown Miami | 7 | 15-25 min |
| PortMiami (Cruise Port) | 8 | 15-25 min |
| Miami Beach | 10 | 20-35 min |
| Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) | 25 | 35-50 min |
Tips for Your Florida Amtrak Journey
- Book in Advance: Especially during peak season (winter months, holidays), tickets can sell out.
- Arrive Early: For stations with checked baggage, allow ample time. Even at unstaffed stations, it’s good practice to be there at least 15-20 minutes before departure.
- Bring Snacks & Drinks: While some trains have a Cafe Car, selection can be limited.
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi availability varies and can be spotty. Don’t rely on it for critical work.
- Be Flexible: Trains can sometimes experience delays. Factor this into your travel plans, especially if connecting to a flight or cruise.
- Consider a Roomette or Bedroom: For longer overnight journeys, a private room offers comfort, meals, and privacy.
Amtrak offers a charming alternative to hitting the congested Florida highways. From the historic charm of Palatka to the bustling energy of Miami, these stations connect you to the diverse experiences Florida has to offer. So, sit back, relax, and let the train take you on your next Sunshine State adventure!