Planning an Amtrak trip from Washington, DC, to Orlando, Florida, in 2026? Travelling by train is a convenient way to connect the nation’s capital with one of Florida’s most popular destinations. Instead of driving for hours or navigating airport procedures, passengers can board at Washington Union Station and travel south toward Central Florida.

Amtrak offers service between Washington, DC, and Orlando through two long-distance routes: the Floridian and the Silver Meteor. Both provide direct train service between these cities, although their routes, departure times, and overall journey durations differ.

Whether you are planning a family vacation, visiting friends, or travelling to Orlando’s famous attractions, understanding the available train services can help you choose a suitable itinerary. This guide covers the Amtrak Washington DC to Orlando train schedule for 2026, route details, ticket options, onboard accommodations, baggage information, and ways to compare available fares.

Is There an Amtrak Train from Washington DC to Orlando?

Yes. Amtrak provides direct passenger-train service from Washington, DC, to Orlando, Florida. Passengers can generally compare two services:

Floridian: A long-distance train connecting Chicago with Florida through Washington, DC.
Silver Meteor: A long-distance train operating between New York City and Florida, with a stop at Washington Union Station.

Both routes serve Orlando, so travellers can compare their departure times and journey durations when planning a trip.

The Floridian is an option for passengers who prefer an afternoon departure from Washington, while the Silver Meteor offers an evening departure in the published February 2026 timetable.

Service times can change, so always check the schedule for your actual travel date before booking.

Amtrak Washington DC to Orlando Train Routes 2026

Choosing the right route is an important part of planning your journey. Although both trains connect Washington with Orlando, they travel along different long-distance corridors.

1. Amtrak Floridian

The Floridian connects Chicago with Florida and travels through several major cities, including Pittsburgh and Washington, DC. It continues south through the Carolinas and Georgia before reaching Florida.

For passengers departing from Washington Union Station, the Floridian provides a direct train journey to Orlando without requiring a transfer.

The route is particularly useful for travellers who want to continue farther into Florida. Depending on the itinerary, the train also serves destinations such as Kissimmee, Winter Haven, Lakeland, Tampa, and Miami.

Key Floridian details:

Departure station: Washington Union Station.
Arrival station: Orlando Amtrak Station.
Train service: Floridian.
Southbound train number: 41.
Journey type: Direct train service.
Published 2026 timetable: March 15, 2026.

2. Amtrak Silver Meteor

The Silver Meteor is another option for travelling from Washington, DC, to Orlando. It operates between New York City and Florida, stopping at Washington Union Station along the way.

The service continues south through Virginia, the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida. Passengers can use it to reach Orlando and several other destinations in the state.

The Silver Meteor may suit travellers who prefer an evening departure from Washington. It also offers sleeping accommodations on eligible services, making it worth considering for an overnight journey.

Key Silver Meteor details:

Departure station: Washington Union Station.
Arrival station: Orlando Amtrak Station.
Train service: Silver Meteor.
Southbound train number: 97.
Journey type: Direct train service.
Published 2026 timetable: February 8, 2026.

Washington DC to Orlando Train Schedule 2026

Amtrak operates long-distance service on this corridor, but always check departure and arrival times for your travel date.

The following examples come from Amtrak’s published 2026 timetables. They are reference schedules, not a guarantee that every departure will operate at precisely the same time throughout the year.

Sample Floridian Schedule

The March 15, 2026, Floridian timetable lists the following southbound times:

Station	Train 41
Washington, DC – Union Station	1:48 PM
Orlando, FL	10:19 AM (next day)

The published timetable gives a scheduled journey duration of approximately 20 hours and 31 minutes between Washington and Orlando.

Sample Silver Meteor Schedule

The February 8, 2026, Silver Meteor timetable lists the following southbound times:

Station	Train 97
Washington, DC – Union Station	7:24 PM
Orlando, FL	1:19 PM (next day)

This example represents a journey of approximately 17 hours and 55 minutes.

Floridian vs. Silver Meteor: Schedule Comparison

Feature	Floridian	Silver Meteor
Train number	41	97
Washington departure	1:48 PM	7:24 PM
Orlando arrival	10:19 AM next day	1:19 PM next day
Approximate scheduled duration	20 hours 31 minutes	17 hours 55 minutes
Timetable reference	March 15, 2026	February 8, 2026
Departure station	Washington Union Station	Washington Union Station
Arrival station	Orlando Amtrak Station	Orlando Amtrak Station

The timetable examples are taken from different 2026 publication dates. They should not be treated as a same-day comparison or a promise of current departure times. Use Amtrak’s schedule search to compare services for your selected date.

Washington DC to Orlando Train Route and Major Stops

The journey from Washington, DC, to Orlando covers a long section of the eastern United States. Depending on the train selected, passengers can travel through several states and pass through cities with their own attractions and regional character.

Major Stops on the Floridian

The Floridian travels south from Washington through Virginia, the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida.

Some of the major stations on its route include:

Alexandria, Virginia.
Richmond-area connections and stops, depending on the published service.
Petersburg, Virginia.
Raleigh, North Carolina.
Columbia, South Carolina.
Savannah, Georgia.
Jacksonville, Florida.
Palatka, Florida.
DeLand, Florida.
Orlando, Florida.
Kissimmee, Florida.
Tampa, Florida.

The exact stopping pattern depends on the service and timetable. Not every station listed above is necessarily served by every train segment or connecting service.

Major Stops on the Silver Meteor

The Silver Meteor also travels south through the eastern United States. Its published route includes several important cities before reaching Orlando.

Examples include:

Alexandria, Virginia.
Richmond, Virginia.
Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Florence, South Carolina.
Charleston, South Carolina.
Savannah, Georgia.
Jacksonville, Florida.
Palatka, Florida.
DeLand, Florida.
Orlando, Florida.

Passengers should check the selected train’s timetable to confirm its actual stops.

How Long Is the Amtrak Train Ride from Washington DC to Orlando?

The travel time depends on the train service and the operating timetable.

Based on the published examples above:

The Floridian takes approximately 20 hours and 31 minutes.
The Silver Meteor takes approximately 17 hours and 55 minutes.

These figures are calculated from the cited timetable examples and are not guaranteed journey times for every date.

What Can Affect Your Travel Time?

Several factors can influence the overall journey:

Train service: The Floridian and Silver Meteor follow different routes and schedules.
Track conditions: Maintenance work or operational restrictions can affect running times.
Weather: Severe weather may cause delays along the route.
Station stops: Each train has its own stopping pattern.
Schedule updates: Amtrak may adjust departure and arrival times.

For the most reliable information, check the timetable for your specific travel date.

Amtrak Ticket Prices from Washington DC to Orlando

Amtrak fares don’t stay the same year-round. The price of a Washington, DC to Orlando train ticket can vary according to travel date, booking time, accommodation type, and remaining seat availability.

A ticket purchased well before departure may cost less than one purchased closer to the travel date. Holiday periods and popular travel dates can also affect available fares.

Factors That Influence Ticket Prices

Fare factor	How it affects your ticket
Travel date	Prices may vary between weekdays, weekends, and holidays
Booking time	Earlier reservations may provide more fare choices
Coach or private room	Accommodation selection changes the ticket price
Passenger eligibility	Certain passenger groups may qualify for eligible discounts
Seat availability	Prices can change as inventory is sold
Ticket conditions	Refund and change rules depend on the fare purchased

How to Find Affordable Amtrak Tickets

Consider these practical booking tips:

Compare different departure dates if your schedule is flexible.
Check both the Floridian and Silver Meteor.
Review Coach and private-room options before deciding.
Look for eligible Amtrak discounts and current promotions.
Read the ticket’s cancellation and change conditions.
Compare the complete fare before confirming your reservation.

Do not rely on an advertised starting price without checking whether it applies to your chosen date and accommodation.

Amtrak Ticket Deals for Washington DC to Orlando

Looking for Amtrak ticket deals for your trip to Orlando? Comparing available fares can help you find an option that matches your travel dates and budget.

Amtrak offers different fare options and eligible passenger discounts. Promotional offers may also be available for specific routes or booking periods.

Ways to Save on Your Train Ticket

Book ahead when possible: Booking early gives you more time to compare options.

Compare travel dates: If you can adjust your schedule, compare nearby dates to see whether the fare changes.

Check passenger discounts: Amtrak publishes eligible discounts for certain passenger groups. Review the current terms before applying a discount.

Compare accommodation choices: Coach seating and private rooms have different prices and features. Select the option that fits your travel needs.

Review promotional offers: Check the official Amtrak deals page for current promotions, eligible routes, and restrictions.

Get Assistance Comparing Ticket Options

If you need help understanding the available Washington DC to Orlando travel options, you can contact an independent travel assistance service.

Call +1 (888) 929-3161 to ask about available train ticket deals and travel-planning assistance.

This is an independent travel assistance contact, not Amtrak’s official customer-service number. Confirm fares, discounts, and booking conditions with the relevant transportation provider before purchase.

Amtrak Seating and Accommodation Options

The Floridian and Silver Meteor are long-distance services, so passengers may be able to choose between standard Coach seating and private-room accommodations, depending on the train and availability.

Understanding the differences can help you choose a suitable arrangement for an overnight journey.

Coach Class

Coach is a standard seating option for passengers who want to travel without reserving a private room.

Typical features include:

Reclining seats.
More legroom than many standard airline economy seats.
Access to shared restrooms.
Overhead and other designated luggage storage areas.
Access to onboard food service where available.

Coach is generally the first option to compare if your priority is a lower-cost ticket.

Roomette

A Roomette is a private sleeping accommodation designed for one or two passengers.

Features generally include:

Private space with daytime seating.
Beds arranged for overnight travel.
Bedding and attendant service.
Access to shared shower facilities on the sleeping-car level.

Roomette availability and pricing vary by train and date.

Bedroom

A Bedroom offers more private space than a Roomette and is designed for passengers who want extra room on longer trips.

Typical features include:

Seating that converts into sleeping arrangements.
An in-room toilet and shower.
Additional personal space.
Sleeping-car attendant service.

Confirm the exact features and inclusions when selecting a room, as accommodation details can vary.

Onboard Amenities on the Washington DC to Orlando Train

A long-distance train journey can provide a different experience from travelling by car or plane. Passengers can settle into their seats, move around when permitted, and enjoy the changing scenery along the route.

Food and Dining

Food options depend on the train and the service being operated.

Passengers may have access to a Café Car offering snacks, beverages, and light meals. The Silver Meteor and Floridian have long-distance service arrangements, so check the current onboard dining information before travelling.

Private-room passengers should review the meal inclusions shown for their specific reservation.

Power Outlets

Power outlets are generally available on Amtrak long-distance trains, although the exact arrangement may differ by accommodation.

Bringing a charging cable and a portable charger can be useful during a long trip.

Restrooms

Restrooms are available onboard. Sleeping-car passengers may also have access to private facilities in certain accommodation types.

Baggage Storage

Amtrak provides designated storage areas, but baggage allowances and checked-baggage availability depend on the route and station.

Review the rules before travelling, particularly if you are carrying large suitcases or special equipment.

Washington Union Station: Departure Information

Washington Union Station is the departure point for Amtrak passengers travelling from Washington, DC, to Orlando.

The station is near the U.S. Capitol and provides access to Amtrak services and other transportation connections.

Tips for Departing from Washington Union Station

Check your ticket for the correct departure time and train number.
Arrive early enough to find your boarding area.
Keep your ticket and identification accessible.
Check station announcements for boarding updates.
Confirm whether your train departs from the main concourse or another designated area.

If you are travelling with family or several bags, allow additional time to move through the station.

Arriving at Orlando Amtrak Station

Orlando Amtrak Station is located at 1400 Sligh Boulevard, south of the city’s central business district.

After arriving, passengers can arrange onward transportation to hotels, theme parks, residential areas, and other destinations.

Getting Around Orlando After Arrival

Depending on your final destination, onward transportation may include:

Taxi services.
Rideshare services.
Local public transportation.
Rental cars.
Hotel transportation, where offered.

If you are visiting Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, or other attractions, check the distance and transportation arrangements before choosing your accommodation.

Popular Places to Visit in Orlando

Orlando is known for its theme parks, entertainment districts, shopping areas, and family attractions. If you are arriving by train for a vacation, planning a few activities before you leave can help keep the trip organized.

Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World is one of the best-known attractions in the Orlando area. It includes multiple theme parks, resort hotels, dining options, and entertainment experiences.

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando offers theme parks, attractions, entertainment, and themed experiences. It is a popular destination for visitors planning a multi-day vacation.

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld combines marine-life experiences with rides, shows, and family attractions.

ICON Park

ICON Park is an entertainment and dining destination on International Drive. It offers restaurants, attractions, and views of the surrounding area.

Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola Park is located in downtown Orlando and is a pleasant place to walk, relax, and enjoy views of the lake and city surroundings.

Tips for Planning Your Washington DC to Orlando Train Trip

A little preparation can make a long-distance journey more comfortable.

Choose the Right Train

Compare the Floridian and Silver Meteor based on your preferred departure time, arrival time, and available accommodations.

Book the Correct Destination

Make sure your ticket shows Orlando, FL, as your destination. Check the station code and arrival details before completing the reservation.

Review the Baggage Policy

Check Amtrak’s current carry-on and checked-baggage rules. Not all stations offer checked-baggage service, so confirm availability for both Washington and Orlando.

Pack for an Overnight Journey

Useful items may include:

Comfortable clothing.
Phone charger.
Travel documents.
Personal toiletries.
Headphones.
Any required medication.
A small bag for items you want to keep close.

Keep an Eye on Schedule Updates

Check your booking before leaving for Washington Union Station. Amtrak may publish service alerts or timetable changes that affect your departure.