The route from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Orlando, FL
The Fort Lauderdale to Orlando train is a south-north journey of roughly 221 miles. Heading up the Atlantic coast, it’s a scenic trip that cuts through the heart of southern Florida. There are only several services that make this current route: the Silver Meteor and Silver Star. Both of these New York-bound Amtrak trains travel via Orlando, with the Silver Star taking a detour via Tampa. This long-distance trip offers excellent onboard amenities, including premium legroom, Wi-Fi, and a café.
The train journey to Orlando departs from Fort Lauderdale Station on Southwest 21st Terrace. First opened in 1927, it is built in a classic Mediterranean Revival style. It is served both by the cross-country Silver services by Amtrak and a local Tri-Rail track. Be sure to arrive 30 minutes before your train’s departure. Upon leaving, you can expect to stop at the following stations:
- Delray Beach Station
- West Palm Beach Station
- Winter Haven Station
- Kissimmee Station
- Orlando Health Station
Skirting up the coast
From Fort Lauderdale, your train travels parallel with the Atlantic coast. You'll pass delightful beach towns en route to West Palm Beach, including Pompano Beach, Boca Raton, and Delray Beach. You'll cross colorful boulevards, prized golfing spots, and palm tree-laden streets as you head through West Palm Beach northwest. From here, your train skirts into the Everglades past the scenic Grassy Waters Preserve.
The Silver service follows the Bee Line Highways northwest through forests and waterways. You’ll pass Lake Okeechobee to your left, Florida's largest freshwater lake. Your train largely follows Kissimmee River for Sebring on this stretch. The charming lakeside town of Sebring gives you a feel for Old Florida as you pass Lakes Wales Ridge heading north.
Into Orlando
From Sebring, your train heads north for Winter Haven, past lakes, wetlands, and leafy forests. Winter Haven is located just southwest of Orlando, offering several fine amusements of its own, including Legoland. Depending on your train service, you’ll now head straight for Kissimmee and then Orlando, or head west for Tampa. The Tampa service adds 100 miles to your journey.
When you arrive at Orland Health Station, you’ll pass through leafy southern suburbs and lakeside towns. Orlando Health is located in southern Orlando, about 2 miles from Downtown. There are numerous connection services to get to the city center. You can opt for the local SunRail services, which stop at Church Street, or hop on a bus for Downtown.
Welcome to Orlando, FL – theme park capital of the world
Orlando’s entertainment renown is widespread. Many of the world’s best theme parks are located in and around Greater Orlando. But the city has much more to offer outside these fantastic amusements. First-rate dining, beautiful nature trails, and a welcoming Downtown mean that you can mix it up throughout your stay.
Theme park capital
There’s no escaping Orlando’s incredible repertoire of thrill-seeking attractions. Walt Disney World alone boasts an impressive 40 square miles of unparalleled fun. With four separate theme parks, two water parks, and a wealth of other entertainment hubs, you’ll need several days here. There's more to the park than rides; enjoy meet-and-greets with Disney stars and world-class parades and shows. All in all, Disney World offers the perfect blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge rides.
Orlando’s other big-hitter is Universal, made up of Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay. More ride and technology-driven, you'll find crowd-pleasing movie simulators and walk-on sets. One of Universal Studios' most popular attractions is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Here, budding spellcasters can take the Hogwarts Express to Diagon Alley. Aside from these two extraordinary parks, Aquatica, Legoland, and Gatorland also make exciting family days out.
Prized natural landscapes
Orlando is blessed by its location close to charming wetlands, rich forests, and breathtaking beaches. Head east from the city, and you’ll discover the scenic Canaveral National Seashore. This secluded area of sandy barrier islands and dunes is among the top spots for solitude. It’s also remarkably rich in wildlife, with sea turtles, bald eagles, and alligators aplenty. The popular John F. Kennedy Space Center is located to the south of the island.
Other prized natural spots in and around Orlando include the incredible Wekiwa Springs State Park. Tranquil, winding rivers and waterways make perfect kayaking excursions with the family. If you fancy tracking alligators, there are plentiful airboat tours in the vicinity to discover too. Another highlight for avid bird watchers is the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey. Nestled on Lake Lotus just moments from Downtown Orlando, you can view rehabilitated hawks and eagles up close.
Thriving arts and cultural museums
Orlando’s Downtown and central areas are criminally overlooked. Bursting with cultural attractions and first-rate museums, it makes a welcome respite from the hustle of theme parks. A scenic cluster of charming museums can be found around Orlando Loch Haven Park. These include the unmissable Orlando Museum of Art, a pretty 1920s museum boasting fine local and world-sourced artworks. The small but breathtaking Mennello Museum of American Art is also located nearby.
Heading northeast to Winter Park’s gorgeous Central Park, you’ll find several more standout attractions. These include the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, a world-famous museum loaded with curious artworks. As for parks and city greenery, Orlando can’t be beaten. For downtime Downtown, head to Harry P Leu Gardens, a scenic grove-laden park of 50 acres. It’s the perfect spot for a morning walk and home to the equally charming Leu House Museum.
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