CHICAGO — Travelers looking to escape Midwest chill for Florida sunshine will soon have a new option: Amtrak is launching a direct train route from Chicago to Miami next month, a rare and nostalgic journey revived for a limited time.
New Route Will Revive Classic Rail Connections
Amtrak’s newly announced “Floridian” line will debut on November 10, running daily between Chicago and Miami. The route will stop in Cleveland, Washington D.C., Orlando, and Tampa, before reaching its final destination in South Florida.
The service is being implemented by temporarily combining two existing lines — the Capitol Limited and the Silver Star — due to ongoing repairs on the East River tunnel in New York. The tunnel, damaged during Superstorm Sandy in 2012, is undergoing massive rehabilitation, prompting route restructuring nationwide.
This new alignment opens up an extended journey between two of the U.S.’s most iconic cities — and it’s expected to attract both tourists and rail enthusiasts alike.
Travel Time, Ticket Prices, and What’s Included
The full Chicago to Miami ride will take nearly 48 hours, Amtrak officials confirmed. While it’s not the fastest way to get to Florida, it promises scenic views and onboard comfort that may appeal to slow travelers.
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Coach tickets start just over $100, offering wide reclining seats, ample legroom, and no middle seats.
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Private First-Class rooms begin at $700, and include amenities such as:
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Two reclining seats that turn into beds
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Private in-room restrooms (in some options)
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Shower access
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Bi-level windows
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Full turndown service from a dedicated attendant
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According to NBC Chicago, attendants will also assist with meals, luggage, and may even offer stories of life on the rails.
Dining Options Onboard
Food is a major selling point for travelers opting for private rooms. Amtrak’s dining car will serve meals like:
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French toast and omelets for breakfast
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Burgers, steak, salmon, pasta, and vegan chili for lunch and dinner
There’s also a café car open to all passengers, where snacks and beverages will be available for purchase.
Why the Floridian Line Matters
The original Floridian route ceased operations in the 1970s, but the memory of long-distance train journeys between the Midwest and the Southeast still resonates with many.
Amtrak’s revival of the route, albeit temporarily, offers a glimpse into a different era of American travel — while also providing a timely solution to infrastructure constraints in the Northeast.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation start, a romantic rail experience, or just a new way to journey across the country, the Chicago–Miami “Floridian” line may be your ticket to ride this fall.
Have you taken a long-distance Amtrak ride before? Planning to try the Chicago-to-Miami route? Share your rail travel experiences with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com!
