Journey from Midwestern Cold to Miami Warmth: Embark on Amtrak's New Long-Distance Expedition
Amtrak, the national railroad passenger corporation, has introduced a new daily train route named The Floridian, linking Chicago and Miami. This long-awaited service, which commenced on November 10, 2024, replaces and combines the former Capitol Limited and Silver Star services, offering a direct connection for travelers from the Midwest to Florida without the need for a transfer in Washington, D.C.
The route covers a distance of 1,500 miles, passing through significant Midwestern and Southeastern cities. The train departs Chicago Sunday evening and arrives in Miami around 6 p.m. Tuesday, taking approximately 48 hours for the full journey. Some of the key cities en route include Toledo, Cleveland, Alliance in Ohio, Indianapolis, Nashville, Birmingham, Atlanta, and Jacksonville, before reaching Miami.
The Floridian utilises Amfleet II coach cars, combined Amfleet dining cars, and Viewliner sleepers offering roomettes, bedrooms, and accessible rooms. Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating, dining cars, and sleeper cabins during their journey. Amtrak allows for generous luggage allowances on The Floridian route.
For those seeking a winter escape from the Midwest cold to Florida's warm beaches, The Floridian offers an attractive option. However, it's worth noting that some American cities have high crime rates that could pose a risk to travelers, though the specific cities were not mentioned in this article. Additionally, 18 countries have imposed restrictions on American travelers, but the details of these restrictions were not provided.
To ensure a successful trip, it's recommended to book a flight, hotel, and insurance in advance. Kayak is recommended for finding inexpensive flights, while Booking.com is suggested for booking hotels or special accommodations. Travel insurance is advised for peace of mind during travels, as certain cruise lines may have hidden issues that travelers should be aware of before booking. Sleeper cabins start at around $400, offering more privacy and amenities.
This new service significantly restores and enhances rail connectivity between Chicago and Miami with a single daily train, serving multiple key cities en route in the Midwest and Southeast. However, it's important to stay informed about any potential issues or restrictions that may affect your travel plans.
This article was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor. Always verify information from multiple sources before making travel decisions.
Tips for a successful trip on The Floridian include booking flights, hotels, and travel insurance in advance, using Kayak for finding affordable flights and Booking.com for hotel bookings. It's also advisable to be aware of potential risks in certain cities and travel restrictions that may impact American travelers, as these details were not specified in this article. Lastly, consider choosing a sleeper cabin on The Floridian, which offers more privacy and amenities, starting at around $400.
