If your calendar looks anything like ours, it’s likely telling you that you’re long overdue for a spring getaway. And there’s no better way to do that than aboard Amtrak’s Floridian, recently named one of five “best new U.S. rail trips” by National Geographic!
Combining two existing lines — the Capitol Limited and the Silver Star — the long-distance journey takes travelers from Miami to Chicago, marking the first time the cities are connected by direct rail line since 1979.
The temporary route was born out of the need to improve the flow of rail traffic in New York as the East River Tunnel undergoes a major rehabilitation project. But once the tunnel repairs finish in 2027, the Floridian will revert back to two separate trains. So if you’re looking for a cross-country journey, you should take advantage of it while you can!
Taking the Floridian train
First thing’s first, this is not a high-speed bullet train. It’s for travelers who believe the trip is just as important as the destination, as the lengthy 47-hour trek makes 46 stops up the East Coast and across the Midwest.
Of course, there are a few different options you can choose from to make your ride as comfortable as possible:
- Coach Class – The most budget-friendly option, featuring reclining seats with plenty of legroom and no middle seats.
- Roomette Sleeper – Private cabins for one or two people, featuring two seats that convert into beds and includes meals.
- Bedroom Sleeper – Much larger private space with a sofa, in-room toilet and shower, large picture window and includes meals.
As NatGeo points out, Chicago is the ultimate hub for the country’s Amtrak routes, pinning the Florida-to-Midwest rail at No. 3 on its list!
Miami is home to two of the best new U.S. rail trips
While the Amtrak Floridian landed right in the middle of the list, another local route surprisingly made the cut: Brightline’s Miami to Orlando train! Following directly at No. 4, the publication notes the company’s touch of luxury, from high-speed Wi-Fi to signature citrus-scented stations and spacious seats said to be made from the same leather used in Bentleys.
Here’s the full list of new U.S. rail trips highlighted by National Geographic:
- Amtrak’s Borealis: Chicago to Minneapolis/St Paul
- Canyon Spirit: Salt Lake City to Denver
- Amtrak’s Floridian: Chicago to Miami
- Brightline: Miami to Orlando
- Amtrak’s Mardi Gras Service: New Orleans to Mobile
