Exciting news for rail travelers!

Beginning November 10th, Northeast Ohio residents will have the opportunity to board an Amtrak train in Cleveland and relax in one comfortable seat all the way to sunny Orlando, vibrant Tampa, and dazzling Miami—a dream come true for vacationers and business travelers alike!

Introducing the 'Floridian' Service

Amtrak recently announced the launch of a temporary combined service called the 'Floridian,' merging two popular routes: the Capitol Limited, which travels between Chicago and Washington, D.C. via Cleveland, and the Silver Star, connecting Washington to Miami. This means non-stop service for an incredible 46 hours and 29 minutes from Chicago to Miami, making multi-state adventures more accessible than ever.

Travel Times and Stops

Travel time from Cleveland to Orlando will clock in at an impressive 32 hours and 13 minutes. Along the route, passengers can look forward to picturesque stops in Richmond, Virginia; Raleigh, North Carolina; Columbia, South Carolina; and Jacksonville, Florida, making for an enchanting journey through the eastern United States.

Ticket Information

Tickets are already available for this daily service departing from Cleveland at 1:54 a.m., conveniently synced with the current schedule of the Capitol Limited. Prices for coach seating start around $180, offering a budget-friendly option for travelers seeking a seamless trip to Florida.

Convenient Stops in Ohio

Travelers will also enjoy the added convenience of stops in Elyria, Sandusky, and Toledo right here in Ohio. The Amtrak experience on the Floridian will feature the use of single-level Viewliner cars, providing comfortable coach and first-class seating, along with roomettes and bedrooms equipped with private restrooms and showers for a touch of luxury on the rails.

Dining Options

Food lovers rejoice! The train will boast a traditional dining car that offers chef-prepared meals. First-class passengers will enjoy these culinary delights included in their fare, while others can purchase meals as an extra treat during their journey.

Demand for New Connection

This new connection comes as a response to increased demand and to relieve traffic congestion in New York, particularly due to the impending East River Tunnel rehabilitation project, which aims to improve the tunnels under the East River in New York City. While the duration of this new service is still unknown, it is expected to remain in operation for several years, making it a lasting option for travelers.

Alternative Services

For those wondering about alternatives, the Silver Meteor will still operate daily between New York and Miami, ensuring that travelers have multiple options for their routes.

Historical Context

This isn't the first time Amtrak has offered a connection from Chicago to Miami—though in the 1970s, the previous Floridian service did not include a stop in Cleveland. Jim Mathews, president and CEO of the Rail Passengers Association, shared his enthusiasm for the revived connection, stating, "Our members have long envisioned a one-seat ride from the Midwest to Florida. We're thrilled that a new generation of American passengers will experience this incredible service for themselves."

Final Thoughts

Don’t miss your chance to ride the rails to the Sunshine State! Secure your tickets now and prepare for an unforgettable journey.

Stay Tuned!

Stay tuned for more travel updates and insider tips as we get closer to the launch date!