florida travel by train

5 Incredible Florida Day Trips You Can Take By Train

Victoria is a native Floridian and writer for OIYS. She also makes art, jewelry, and other things for her shop, The Gilded Gator .

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Florida has plenty of incredible day trip destinations all over the state. Whether you want to visit the ocean, explore charming small cities, or get out into the lovely rural areas, there’s something for everyone. Don’t get us wrong, we love road trips, but there’s just something special about taking a train. It feels adventurous, and dare we say, a little glamorous. It’s pretty nice not to worry about sitting in traffic or braving Florida’s highways, too. For all you train enthusiasts out there, we put together a list of a few scenic train rides in Florida that you can take and a couple of train rides that are just for fun – check them out!

1. Seminole Gulf Railway Murder Mystery Dinner Train, Fort Myers

2. Tampa (via Amtrak)

3. Savannah, Georgia (via Amtrak)

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4. Florida Railroad Museum, Parrish

5. Winter Park (via Amtrak)

Do you enjoy train travel? This is one great way to enjoy a day in Florida. With so many different options for train trips in Florida, it will be hard to just choose one! We recommend spacing them out throughout the year so you can continue your exploration of these fun train adventures.

Have you taken any of these scenic train rides in Florida? Do you have a favorite among the train tours in Florida that we might have missed? Let us know in the comments! If you’re looking for other great options to get out and explore the state, check out these 13 Florida day trips that will definitely make your day. No matter where you go or how you get there, you can plan your trip with the help of our friends at Expedia.com .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Train rides in florida.

How many train rides near me in Florida are there?

If you're wondering, "How many train rides near me in Florida are there?" you're in luck! There are three train routes in Florida and 18 stations, so there are quite a few trains around the state. That means plenty of places to explore via the classic railroad. Traveling by train is such a fun and unique experience, and there are plenty of wonderful ways to enjoy it in Florida. With 14 different passenger railroad carriers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

When did the railroad come to Florida?

Florida has had a railroad for 160 years. The railroads were built in Florida in the 1860s, with the very first line running from Fernandina Beach to Cedar Key . After the Civil War, the railroad lines expanded. They expanded into Henry Flagler's Florida East Coast Railroad and grew from there. There is a long and rich history of railroads in this amazing southern state.

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Explore Florida

Amtrak To Florida Route Options and Train Map

When taking Amtrak to Florida, these three Amtrak routes offer the only service to the sunshine state. The Auto Train , Silver Meteor and Silver Star are your options if you want to travel to Florida by train. It is only possible to reach Florida on Amtrak from the east coast as there are no cross country routes that include stops in Florida. The Auto Train has only one stop in Sanford, Florida. The Silver Star and Silver Meteor will make stops up and down the east coast and both have multiple stops in Florida.

The Auto Train

The only way you can take Amtrak to Florida with a car is on the Auto Train. The Auto Train only makes stops in Lorton, Virginia and Sanford, Florida. It is also the only train that will transport your vehicle. This train is mainly used by people who are heading to Florida for a long period of time and want a vehicle with them, but don’t want to make the long drive.

This is an overnight train in both directions and has tickets available in coach or sleeper cars . You’ll have wifi service as you make the 17 hour journey that covers 855 miles. The Auto Train also features a dining car and cafe.

Both stations that service this train are small and have minimal services.

The Silver Meteor

The Silver Meteor travels between New York City and Miami, making many of the same stops as the Silver Star. The Silver Meteor will reach Miami 3 hours quicker though, but it doesn’t stop in Tampa, or a few locations in North Carolina. If you are going to Tampa, you’ll want to choose the Silver Star.

The Silver Meteor travels to the major stations of New York City, Philadelphia, Wilmington DE, Baltimore, Washington D.C., Richmond, Charleston SC, Savannah, Jacksonville, Winter Park, Orlando, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Miami.

The prices for both trains are generally the same, unless one is more booked than the other for your particular dates. This is an overnight Viewliner train so you’ll have ticket options in coach and sleeper cars. Meals are available in the dining car and the cafe and there is Wifi on the train.

If you are taking Amtrak to Florida, and deciding between the Silver Meteor and the Silver Star, it usually come down to which train arrives at your station at a more convenient time.

Penn Station – Moynihan Train Hall

You will board your Amtrak train in Moynihan Train Hall in New York. It’s a gorgeous hall with 92 ft high skylights and modern amenities. It is a world class station. You will find restaurants as well as convenience stores.

There are lots of options for hotels near this station. The closest option is the Fairfield Inn & Suites Penn Station .

Miami Amtrak Station

This is a small station servicing the Silver Star and the Silver Meteor. Amtrak was supposed to move their services to the new 2 billion dollar train station but were unable to make the move when it was discovered they had miscalculated and the Amtrak trains would not fit. The Miami Amtrak Station is just 20 min from the airport by car. They have checked bag service, restrooms and bag storage. You will find a Walmart about 15 min walk from the station but it’s best to bring what you need with you to avoid this walk in the Miami heat.

The Silver Star

The Silver Star is a sister train to the Silver Meteor and makes many of the same stops, including the end stations of New York and Miami. The major difference is that the Silver Star travels to Tampa, and a few extra stops in North Carolina, making the trip 3 hours longer. It shares the same beginning and ending stations of New York City and Miami, but you can board at any station it stops at.

Major stations along the route are New York City, Philadelphia, Wilmington DE, Baltimore, Washington D.C., Richmond, Raleigh, Columbia SC, Savannah, Jacksonville, Winter Park, Orlando, Tampa, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Miami.

Meals are available in the dining car or cafe and wifi is available on the train.

Amtrak To Florida Tips

If you can’t decide between traveling in coach or getting a sleeper car when you take Amtrak to Florida, you can get an idea of what each experience would be like on our YouTube channel .

We’ve also reviewed all the meal options you’ll be offered in the dining car on each of these trains. In addition to the dining car, each train also offers a cafe.

Robert Marmion

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Tour the Sunshine State Aboard Amtrak's Florida Expeditions (2024)

Last revised: January 1, 2024

By:  Adam Burns

Florida, known for its sunny beaches, vibrant cities, and tourist attractions, is also home to a diverse range of passenger trains including intercity, regional, and commuter in nature.

These services offer an efficient and convenient mode of transportation for both residents and visitors, connecting major cities, tourist destinations, and key regions across the state.

This article provides a brief look at the current services available in Florida, highlighting their routes, features, and contributions to the state's transportation network.

One of the prominent passenger train services in Florida is Brightline, a private intercity rail system operated by Brightline Trains LLC. Currently, Brightline operates two routes:

Miami to West Palm Beach: This route covers approximately 70 miles and connects downtown Miami to West Palm Beach, with intermediate stops in Fort Lauderdale and Miami International Airport. Brightline offers a high-speed and comfortable travel experience, featuring amenities like free Wi-Fi, power outlets, food and beverage services, and spacious seating.

West Palm Beach to Orlando: Under construction and expected to be operational in the near future, this route will extend Brightline's service from West Palm Beach to Orlando, spanning around 170 miles. The expansion will enhance connectivity between South Florida and Central Florida, providing a convenient transportation option for tourists and residents alike.

Amtrak, the national passenger rail service in the United States, operates several routes that serve Florida. These routes include:

Silver Service

Amtrak's Silver Star and Silver Meteor connect Florida to major cities in the Northeast and Southeast regions of the country. The Silver Star runs between New York City and Miami, while the Silver Meteor connects Miami to New York City via cities like Jacksonville, Savannah, and Washington, D.C.

Together, these trains are known as the Silver Service .  Both trains have quite a history as part of the Seaboard Air Line Railroad's popular fleet of southern streamliners during the classic era of rail travel when no expense was spared to make sure passengers thoroughly enjoyed their trip.

As the trains served the sub-tropical regions of the U.S. from South Carolina to Florida they actually remained fairly popular with the public all of the way through the 1960s, which is a significant reason why several of then-Seaboard Coast Line's fleet was retained after Amtrak began.

While the carrier's versions of the trains today are not quite as opulent, combined they still attract nearly one millions riders annually.  The most prominent train to make up Amtrak's Silver Service today would certainly be the SAL's Silver Meteor.

This train was the railroad's flagship, first inaugurated on February 2, 1939 just when the streamliner craze was really catching on around the country. The Meteor evoked the South in every way possible with "tropical" colors adorning both the exterior and interior.

While the original train was meant to be an all-coach run on the SAL it also offered through Pullman, sleeper service between Richmond-New York/Boston via the Pennsylvania and New Haven railroads.

In the 1950s the Meteor sported its most prominent feature, the “Sun Lounge”, which featured glass ceilings since height restrictions forced the railroad from using domes.

In any event, the inauguration of the Silver Meteor forced rival Atlantic Coast Line to scramble and showcase its own streamliner to Florida, The Champion .

By the late 1960s both trains were still in service on the Seaboard Coast Line and because of their success survived through the start of Amtrak on May 1, 1971.

While the Silver Meteor has been retained by Amtrak it has undergone numerous routing changes, and even a name change since 1971.  The train began bypassing Jacksonville just a year later in 1972, one of the major stops under SAL ownership. However, this was returned in 1973.

Later that decade and into the 1980s it switched over to former ACL lines in Florida although part of these changes were due to the abandonment of SAL corridors as then CSX Transportation.

Today, the Meteor uses Amfleet coaches for dining, lounge, snack, and diner services while Viewliners sleepers as used for nightly accommodations. Power north of Washington, D.C. is provided by AEM-7 electrics and General Electric "Genesis" diesels south of that point.

Overall, the entire corridor from Boston to Miami is 1,389 miles in length and requires more than 28 hours per trip. Ironically, this is now more than two hours slower than during the Seaboard era when the train required just under 26 hours along the same route.

Annual ridership on the Meteor now sits at nearly 400,000 annually, or just over 1,000 passengers per trip. As for the Silver Star the sister train to the Meteor offers quite a similar routing.

However, the one change with the train is that it connects directly to Tampa before reaching Miami as its sibling bypasses this city (but does offer bus service).

As such, the entire route is 1,522 miles in length, nearly 150 miles longer.  The accommodations, however, are roughly the same with Amfleet and Viewliner cars used on every train. A typical consist for the Star includes a baggage, two Viewliners, a Heritage Fleet diner, a café car, and at least three coaches.

This unique service allows passengers to transport their vehicles (cars, motorcycles, or small boats) along with them on the train. The Auto Train operates between Lorton, Virginia (near Washington, D.C.), and Sanford, Florida (near Orlando), providing a convenient option for travelers who wish to avoid long-distance driving.

Tri-Rail, officially known as the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) Tri-Rail Commuter System, is a commuter rail service that operates in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. It was established in January, 1989 to alleviate traffic congestion along the busy Interstate 95 corridor and provide an alternative mode of transportation for commuters.

Tri-Rail operates along a 74-mile corridor, stretching from Miami International Airport to Mangonia Park, with 18 stations serving major urban centers, employment hubs, and suburban neighborhoods. The rail system effectively connects cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, providing a seamless and convenient commuting experience for thousands of daily passengers.

The service operates seven days a week, with increased frequency during peak hours. Weekday service starts early in the morning and continues until late evening, catering to individuals working various shifts. On weekends, Tri-Rail offers a reduced schedule, ensuring continued accessibility for those who rely on public transportation outside of typical working hours.

Tri-Rail prioritizes passenger comfort and convenience. The trains are equipped with comfortable seating, spacious interiors, and amenities like Wi-Fi access, charging stations, and bike racks.

Passengers can relax, catch up on work, or simply enjoy the journey while avoiding the stress of traffic congestion on busy roadways. Additionally, Tri-Rail stations provide ample parking spaces, making it convenient for commuters to park their vehicles and board the train.

Tri-Rail plays a crucial role in integrating various transit modes within the region. Many Tri-Rail stations are strategically located near bus terminals, allowing passengers to seamlessly transfer between rail and bus services. This interconnectivity facilitates multi-modal commuting, enabling passengers to reach their final destinations efficiently and sustainably.

Tri-Rail has plans for future expansion and enhancement. The Tri-Rail Coastal Link project aims to extend service to downtown Miami, connecting the existing Tri-Rail system with the vibrant urban core. This expansion will further improve connectivity within the region and offer additional commuting options for residents and visitors.

SunRail, operated by the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority (CFRTA), is a commuter rail system serving the Central Florida region. Launched in 2014, SunRail was introduced as a solution to the increasing traffic congestion on major roadways and as a means to enhance connectivity for commuters.

SunRail operates along a 61-mile corridor, spanning four counties: Volusia, Seminole, Orange, and Osceola. The service connects key urban centers, suburban neighborhoods, and employment hubs within the region. The route encompasses stations in cities such as DeBary, Sanford, Orlando, and Poinciana, ensuring widespread coverage and accessibility for residents and visitors.

On weekdays, the service operates from early morning to late evening, with increased frequency during peak hours. The trains operate less frequently during non-peak hours and weekends, providing essential service for those who rely on public transportation beyond traditional working hours.

SunRail has plans for future expansion and enhancements to further improve connectivity and service in Central Florida. Proposed expansions include extending the rail line to DeLand in Volusia County, and adding new stations to better serve growing communities and key destinations. These expansion efforts will increase accessibility and connectivity, further reducing reliance on personal vehicles and easing congestion.

Rail travel in Florida plays a significant role in the state's transportation infrastructure, connecting major cities, regions, and tourist destinations. Brightline, Amtrak, Tri-Rail, and SunRail offer a variety of routes and schedules to cater to the needs of both residents and visitors.

These train services provide a reliable, comfortable, and eco-friendly alternative to driving or flying, easing traffic congestion, reducing carbon emissions, and contributing to sustainable transportation in the Sunshine State.

As Florida continues to grow and evolve, the expansion and improvement of passenger train services will further enhance connectivity, accessibility, and mobility throughout the state.

Tourist Trains

If you are simply after a train ride for the day, Florida is home to a few organizations which offer scenic trips for the public.  Most notably these include the Florida Railroad Museum, Seminole Gulf Railway, and Gold Coast Railroad Museum.

SteamLocomotive.com

Wes Barris's SteamLocomotive.com is simply the best web resource on the study of steam locomotives. 

It is difficult to truly articulate just how much material can be found at this website. 

It is quite staggering and a must visit!

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Find train tickets to Orlando

Good to know, top tips for finding orlando train tickets.

• Traveling by train to Orlando is possible with your furry travel buddy in tow. However, we recommend that you check the train provider’s pet policy beforehand and make reservations when necessary. That’s because train carriers often limit the number of pets per train and customer as well as weight restrictions. Traveling with your pet also limits the type of class ticket to purchase since pets may not be allowed in accommodations such as food service cars.
• Selecting connecting trains usually gives users better deals for train tickets to Orlando. That’s because direct train tickets often have a faster travel time hence the presence of higher fares. However, when you book trains with scheduled stops where passengers can alight or those that require travelers to connect trains, you’re likely to get a good travel deal, even though the journey may take longer. Therefore, a ticket with two or more stops may be cheaper than the one with one or no stop at all.
• Advance fares for trains to Orlando will be worthwhile. This option is ideal if you’re not likely to change your travel plans and are happy with a fixed date. Advance fares often come cheaper since fares hike once the departing date nears, but they are often in high demand and subject to their availability. Therefore, it’ll be in your best interest to book as early as possible. Such tickets can be available as far back as 12 weeks before the departing date.
• We advise that you book group tickets for trains to Orlando if your rail journey includes many travelers. That is because people traveling in groups are usually eligible for discounts off the usual train fare. However, the option may be subject to the train type, class of service, time of year, or space availability, so making reservations early on will enable you to get the best travel arrangements and fares for your group.
• Looking for cheap train tickets to Orlando? 25% of our users found round-trip tickets to Orlando for the following prices or less: From Tampa $25, from Jacksonville $54, from West Palm Beach $59
• Orlando's most searched train station on KAYAK is Orlando. It is located 1 mile from the city center.
• You will generally catch the best train deals if you travel to Orlando at noon.

FAQs when traveling to Orlando by train

What is the most popular train station in orlando.

Orlando is the most searched station in Orlando by KAYAK users.

Which train companies travel to Orlando?

Amtrak and Brightline are popular train companies operating in Orlando.

How long is the train journey to Orlando from the closest popular cities?

Jacksonville to Orlando - 2h 39m West Palm Beach to Orlando - 3h 35m Fort Lauderdale to Orlando - 2h 55m Tampa to Orlando - 1h 49m Miami to Orlando - 3h 30m

Can I get Wi-Fi aboard a train to Orlando?

Yes. You’ll find that multiple Amtrak trains that run east of the Mississippi River offer complimentary Wi-Fi service. Orlando lies on the east coast, with trains such as the Silver Star and the Silver Meteor serving the city. Both are long-distance and overnight trains that let travelers tap into the free internet and have some fun en route. However, you can only access basic web browsing activities since the Wi-Fi doesn’t support actions that require high bandwidth, for instance, downloading large files or streaming music.

What are the advantages of journeying by train to Orlando?

When it comes to journeying by Amtrak to Orlando, whether it’s a short distance or a long-distance from the west coast, traveling by train will let you have convenient arrival locations close to the city’s heart. You’ll also get to travel in comfort, thanks to the ample legroom and large seats. In addition, there are seldom any delays due to weather conditions when it comes to rail travel. With high-speed rail lines, travelers get to reach their destinations faster and save time otherwise spent on road traffic.

Is there a luggage restriction policy for trains to Orlando?

Amtrak usually allows each passenger to bring with them two personal bags and two pieces of carry-on luggage. You also reserve the right to check-in a maximum of four bags; two will be at zero cost while the other two attract a fee of about $20 per item. You can carry special items such as bicycles, firearms, musical instruments, or golfing equipment in place of checked baggage or carry-ons aboard trains to Orlando, but that might come at a service cost.

Which amenities can I find at Orlando Station?

Orlando Station, your destination train station, features ATMs, payphones, restrooms, vending machines, an enclosed waiting area, and a ticket sales office to ease your travel experience. The train station has a free car parking area, with the availability of same-day and overnight parking. Orlando Station is a disability-friendly location with resources such as wheelchairs, wheelchair lift access, and the lack of high platforms. Bag storage and checked baggage service onsite are other convenient amenities.

Book train tickets to Orlando (round-trip)

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Transportation | Avelo Airlines to test Miami-to-Orlando route…

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Transportation

Transportation | avelo airlines to test miami-to-orlando route for $46 one-way — faster and mostly cheaper than brightline.

This is only a test. But could it be long before airlines start competing with Brightline’s high-speed rail service with high-volume discount flights between Central and South Florida?

Up-and-coming discounter Avelo Airlines announced Wednesday it is taking a flier on the high-volume Miami-Orlando travel market with “seasonal” Boeing 737-800 flights on Fridays and Sundays, between June 7 and Aug. 18.

Avelo’s first-day one-way fares: $46 for a one-hour, five-minute flight.

The Brightline SMART fares posted for June 7: $39 to $89 for its three-hour, 30-minute train rides, depending on the time of day during the course of the railroad’s 16-train schedule.

Based in Houston, Avelo previously operated charters before becoming a regularly scheduled carrier in 2021. It serves 52 U.S. destinations in 23 states and Puerto Rico. The airline operates at 10 Florida airports, including South Florida’s three international airports in Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Miami.

Courtney Goff, the Avelo communications manager, said the cheap fare idea arose because the airline is operating charters between Miami and Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic , and is moving an Orlando-based plane to Miami to cover those flights starting June 8.

Low-fare experiment

“We thought, ‘Maybe those in Central Florida want a quick, affordable trip to Miami for the weekend,'” she said. “We’re also the only low-fare carrier on this route.”

“If you look at our flight dates and times compared to theirs, we are almost $100 less and have a shorter travel time,” Goff added.

About 20% of the plane’s 160 or so seats will go for $46. But the other seats will be priced slightly higher as the airline is keeping all of its fares at low levels, she said.

In a monthly financial report covering March, Brightline said demand is on the rise for its 235-mile rail service between Miami and Orlando, which has station stops at Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton and West Palm Beach. That’s despite a rise in the average fare per passenger to $57.96 from $26.23 in March 2023.

Although Avelo is unlikely to see the passenger volumes enjoyed by Brightline, the airline believes the Orlando-Miami route is worth testing as a bargain proposition.

“While this is only scheduled for summer due to the charters, it is similarly a test to see if the demand is fully there,” Goff said. “Having a base of operations in Orlando makes it easier to try out new options for travel and see what resonates with travelers.”

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Brightline trains break 4 March records as Miami-Orlando eclipses South Florida service

Brightline’s growing long-distance ridership continued to eclipse the fluctuating short-distance ridership, helping the high-speed rail company break four records in March, according to its latest reports.

The Miami-Orlando service that launched Sept. 22 broke records in March for:

• 4,600 average daily bookings
• 133,928 monthly ridership

That boosted total ridership for Miami-Orlando and South Florida service combined:

• 8,332 total daily average bookings, up from 7,887 in February
• 258,307 total monthly ridership

Brightline has prioritized online seat bookings for Miami-Orlando, cutting the share available for South Florida. Lower ridership and higher ticket prices for the short-distance service is “consistent with Brightline’s strategy as it rolls out long-distance service,” according to S&P Global Ratings.

But Brightline plans to add more Siemens coaches to accommodate more passengers. The new coaches will arrive later this year, spokesperson Katie Mitzner previously told TCPalm. Each 240-seat train now contains four coaches flanked by two engines. Stations can accommodate 10 coaches, Mitzner said.

Miami-Orlando ridership eclipsed South Florida ridership for the first time in January and again in March, but not in February. TCPalm doesn't know whether the shorter month was the reason. Miami-Orlando ridership has been growing since the service began over six months ago:

• 17,578 in September
• 79,686 in October
• 93,184 in November
• 115,683 in December
• 122,703 in January
• 113,874 in February
• 133,928 in March

South Florida ridership increased 9% to 124,379 in March compared to February, but was 31% less than 179,576 in March 2023. It has fluctuated since the Miami-Orlando service started:

• 125,475 in September
• 126,059 in October
• 112,423 in November
• 121,386 in December
• 113,560 in January
• 114,264 in February
• 124,379 in March

Combined ridership was:

• 143,053 in September
• 205,745 in October
• 205,607 in November
• 237,069 in December
• 236,263 in January
• 228,138 in February
• 258,307 in March

Miami-Orlando average daily bookings for months Brightline has released data were:

• 2,800 in October
• 4,200 in January
• 4,300 in February
• 4,600 in March

Ananya Tiwari is a business reporter for TCPalm. You can reach her via email at [email protected] or follow her work on Facebook , Twitter or X , and MuckRack .

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April 22, 2024

Making history: brightline west breaks ground on america’s first high-speed rail project connecting las vegas to southern california  , officials hammer the first spike commemorating the groundbreaking for brightline west.

LAS VEGAS (April 22, 2024)  – Today, Brightline West officially broke ground on the nation's first true high-speed rail system which will connect Las Vegas to Southern California. The 218-mile system will be constructed in the middle of the I-15 and is based on Brightline’s vision to connect city pairs that are too short to fly and too far to drive. Hailed as the greenest form of transportation in the world, Brightline West will run zero emission, fully electric trains capable of speeds of 200 miles per hour. Brightline West is a watershed project for high-speed rail in America and will establish the foundation for the creation of a new industry and supply chain. The project was recently awarded $3 billion in funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill. The rest of the project will be privately funded and has received a total allocation of $3.5 billion in private activity bonds from USDOT.

The groundbreaking included remarks from U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Brightline Founder Wes Edens, Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, Sen. Jacky Rosen, Senior Advisor to President Biden Steve Benjamin and Vince Saavedra of the Southern Nevada Building Trades. In addition, Nevada Reps. Dina Titus, Susie Lee and Steve Horsford and California Reps. Pete Aguilar and Norma Torres made remarks and joined the celebration. More than 600 people, including union representatives, project supporters and other state and local officials from California and Nevada, attended the event.

“People have been dreaming of high-speed rail in America for decades – and now, with billions of dollars of support made possible by President Biden’s historic infrastructure law, it’s finally happening,” said Secretary Buttigieg. “Partnering with state leaders and Brightline West, we’re writing a new chapter in our country’s transportation story that includes thousands of union jobs, new connections to better economic opportunity, less congestion on the roads, and less pollution in the air.”

“This is a historic project and a proud moment where we break ground on America’s first high-speed rail system and lay the foundation for a new industry,” said Wes Edens, Brightline founder. “Today is long overdue, but the blueprint we’ve created with Brightline will allow us to repeat this model in other city pairs around the country.”

CONSTRUCTION OF BRIGHTLINE WEST

Brightline West's rail system will span 218 miles and reach speeds of 200 mph. The route, which has full environmental clearance, will run within the median of the I-15 highway with zero grade crossings. The system will have stops in Las Vegas, Nev., as well as Victor Valley, Hesperia and Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.

The privately led infrastructure project is one of the largest in the nation and will be constructed and operated by union labor. It will use 700,000 concrete rail ties, 2.2 million tons of ballast, and 63,000 tons of 100% American steel rail during construction. Upon completion, it will include 322 miles of overhead lines to power the trains and will include 3.4 million square feet of retaining walls. The project covers more than 160 structures including viaducts and bridges. Brightline West will be fully Buy America Compliant.

STATIONS AND FACILITIES

Brightline West will connect Southern California and Las Vegas in two hours or almost half the time as driving. The Las Vegas Station will be located near the iconic Las Vegas Strip, on a 110-acre property north of Blue Diamond Road between I-15 and Las Vegas Boulevard. The site provides convenient access to the Harry Reid International Airport, the Las Vegas Convention Center and the Raiders’ Allegiant Stadium. The station is approximately 80,000 square feet plus parking.

The Victor Valley Station in Apple Valley will be located on a 300-acre parcel southeast of Dale Evans Parkway and the I-15 interchange. The station is intended to offer a future connection to the High Desert Corridor and California High Speed Rail. The Victor Valley Station is approximately 20,000 square feet plus parking.

The Rancho Cucamonga Station will be located on a 5-acre property at the northwest corner of Milliken Avenue and Azusa Court near Ontario International Airport. The station will be co-located with existing multi-modal transportation options including California Metrolink, for seamless connectivity to Downtown Los Angeles and other locations in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. The Rancho Cucamonga Station is approximately 80,000 square feet plus parking.

The Hesperia Station will be located within the I-15 median at the I-15/Joshua Street interchange and will function primarily as a local rail service for residents in the High Desert on select southbound morning and northbound evening weekday trains.

The Vehicle Maintenance Facility (VMF) is a 200,000-square-foot building located on 238 acres in Sloan, Nev., and will be the base for daily maintenance and staging of trains. This site will also serve as one of two hubs for the maintenance of way operations and the operations control center. More than 100 permanent employees will report on a daily basis once operations begin and will serve as train crews, corridor maintenance crews, or operations control center teammates. A second maintenance of way facility will be located adjacent to the Apple Valley station.

The Las Vegas and Southern California travel market is one of the nation’s most attractive corridors with over 50 million trips between the region each year. Additionally, Las Vegas continues to attract visitors from around the world, with 4.7 million international travelers flying into the destination. The city dubs itself on being the world’s No. 1 meeting destination, welcoming nearly 6 million people to the Las Vegas Convention Center last year.

In California, approximately 17 million Southern California residents are within 25 miles of the Brightline West station sites. Studies show that one out of every three visits to Las Vegas come from Southern California.

ECONOMIC & ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS

Brightline West's $12 billion infrastructure investment will create over $10 billion in economic impact for Nevada and California and will generate more than 35,000 jobs, including 10,000 direct union construction roles and 1,000 permanent operations and maintenance positions. The investment also includes over $800 million in improvements to the I-15 corridor and involves agreements with several unions for skilled labor. The project supports Nevada and California's climate goals by offering a no-emission mobility option that reduces greenhouse gasses by over 400,000 tons of CO2 annually – reducing vehicle miles traveled by more than 700 million each year and the equivalent of 16,000 short-haul flights. The company will also construct three wildlife overpasses, in partnership with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and Caltrans for the safe passage of native species, primarily the bighorn sheep.

BRIGHTLINE FLORIDA

Brightline’s first rail system in Florida connecting Miami to Orlando began initial service between its South Florida stations in 2018. In September 2023, Brightline’s Orlando station opened at Orlando International Airport, connecting South Florida to Central Florida. The company has plans to expand its system with future stops in Tampa, Florida’s Space Coast in Cocoa and the Treasure Coast in Stuart.

BRIGHTLINE WEST

ABOUT BRIGHTLINE WEST

Brightline is the only private provider of modern, eco-friendly, intercity passenger rail service in America – offering a guest-first experience designed to reinvent train travel and take cars off the road by connecting city pairs and congested corridors that are too short to fly and too long to drive. Brightline West will connect Las Vegas and Southern California with the first true high-speed passenger rail system in the nation. The 218-mile, all-electric rail service will include a flagship station in Las Vegas, with additional stations in Victor Valley and Rancho Cucamonga. At speeds up to 200 miles per hour, trains will take passengers from Las Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga in about two hours, twice as fast as the normal drive time.

Brightline is currently operating its first passenger rail system connecting Central and South Florida with stations in Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando, with future stations coming to Stuart and Cocoa. For more information, visit  www.brightlinewest.com  and follow on  LinkedIn ,  X ,  Instagram  and  Facebook .

QUOTE SHEET

“Through this visionary partnership, we are going to create thousands of jobs, bring critical transportation infrastructure to the West, and create an innovative, fast, and sustainable transportation solution. Nevada looks forward to partnering with Brightline on this historic project.”  - Governor Joe Lombardo, Nevada

“Today, not only are we breaking ground on a historic high-speed rail project here in Nevada, we are breaking ground on thousands of good paying American jobs, union jobs.”  - Steve Benjamin, Senior Advisor to the President and Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement

“For decades, Nevadans heard about the promise of high-speed rail in our state, and I’m proud to have led the charge to secure the funding to make it a reality. Today’s groundbreaking is the beginning of a new era for southern Nevada -- creating thousands of good-paying union jobs, bringing in billions of dollars of economic development, enhancing tourism to the state, reducing traffic, and creating a more efficient and cleaner way to travel. This is a monumental step, and I’m glad to have worked across the aisle to make this project come true.”  - Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

“Having high-speed rail in Las Vegas will electrify our economy in Southern Nevada, and I’m thrilled to celebrate this milestone today. This project is on track to create tens of thousands of good-paying union jobs while cutting down traffic on I-15, and I’ll keep working with the Biden Administration to get this done as quickly as possible and continue delivering easier and cleaner transportation options for everyone in Nevada.”  - Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV)

“Today’s groundbreaking is a historic step in modernizing rail service in the United States. Californians driving between the Los Angeles region and Las Vegas often face heavy traffic, causing emissions that pollute the air in surrounding communities. The Brightline West Project will provide travelers with more options—helping Californians and visitors alike get to their final destination without facing gridlock on the road.”  - Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

"High-speed rail in the Southwest has been a dream as far back as the nineties when Governor Bob Miller appointed me to the California-Nevada Super Speed Train Commission. As a senior Member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, I am honored to have helped write the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and secure $3 billion to turn that dream into a reality which will generate millions of dollars in tax revenue, reduce carbon emissions by easing traffic on Interstate 15, and create thousands of good-paying union jobs. I am proud to stand with advocates and transportation leaders as we break ground on the Brightline West project and look forward to welcoming high-speed passenger rail to Southern Nevada."  - Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-1)

“For decades, high-speed rail was just a dream in southern Nevada – but now, I’m beyond proud that we finally made it a reality. I worked across the aisle to help negotiate, craft, and ultimately pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because I knew it would kickstart transformative projects like Brightline West that will stand the test of time. Together, we’re cutting down on traffic, boosting our tourism economy, and creating thousands of good-paying union jobs.”  - Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-3)

“I am proud to join Brightline West for the groundbreaking of this monumental project for Southern Nevada and the southwestern United States. By connecting Las Vegas to Southern California via high-speed rail, we will boost tourism, reduce congestion on the I-15 corridor, and create jobs. The impact on our local economy and the people of the Silver State will be tremendous. In my conversations with Secretary Buttigieg, Brightline West, and our Nevada labor leaders, I know that local workers and our Nevada small businesses will benefit from this transformational investment. This will be the nation's first true high-speed rail system, blazing a new path forward for our nation’s rail infrastructure, and we hope it will serve as a blueprint for fostering greater regional connections for many other cities across the country.  - Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-4)

“Brightline West’s groundbreaking today marks the construction of a dynamic high-speed rail system that will link Las Vegas, Hesperia, and Apple Valley to Rancho Cucamonga’s Metrolink Station, creating new jobs and fostering economic growth in California’s 23rd Congressional District. This convenient alternative to driving will reduce the number of cars on the road, decreasing emissions and reducing congestion in our High Desert communities. This is an exciting step and I look forward to the completion of this project.”  - Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23)

"Today's groundbreaking on the Brightline West high-speed rail project marks an incredible milestone in the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to fulfilling the promise of high-speed rail and emissions-free transportation across the country. As a longtime supporter of this project, I helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which has already invested over $3 billion to support the completion of this project. By increasing transportation options, spurring job creation and new economic opportunities, and improving our environment through cutting over 400,000 tons of carbon pollution each year, this project will be transformative to my district and all of Southern California for generations—particularly in and around the last stop in Rancho Cucamonga. With the goal of being operational in time for Los Angeles to host the Summer Olympic Games in 2028, I look forward to Brightline West facilitating travel for the millions visiting our region and elevating our 21st-century connectivity on the global stage."  - Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28)

"As the Member of Congress that represents the City of Rancho Cucamonga and a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development, it is my honor to participate in breaking ground on one of the most highly anticipated high-speed rail projects in the country. We gathered today thanks to the Biden Administration's leadership, which enacted the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act to fund vital projects like this and transform our economy. The Brightline project is a stellar illustration of the power of successful public-private partnerships. Thanks to all the labor unions, Tribes, and wildlife advocates for their hard work, which brought this project to life. The bright line is fully electric and has zero emissions, which is excellent for our environment. I am eagerly anticipating the completion of this project in my district and look forward to seeing everyone there."  - Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35)

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Travel | Hike Canaveral Seashore’s Klondike Beach: A…

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Travel | hike canaveral seashore’s klondike beach: a 13-mile trek along wild florida coastline.

Booming waves crash one over another while pelicans fly overhead and shorebirds forage in the sand, comprising the kind of idyllic sunny beachside scene Florida is known for. Except this time, there aren’t people or high-rise condos for miles around.

This was the view during a 13-mile hike on Klondike Beach, the sandy stretch of Canaveral National Seashore that lies between Apollo Beach on the north end and Playalinda Beach on the south side. I was joined by Chris Stevens, a fellow explorer and outdoor writer for Florida Hikes who is known on Instagram (with his wife and family) as the Sunshine State Seekers .

It was Good Friday, and something felt almost biblical about our pilgrimage along the undeveloped seashore as we visited the church of nature and fully immersed ourselves in the wild Floridian coastline. At least we had the weather on our side, with high temperatures in the low 70s and a north wind at our backs the whole way.

I don’t know exactly when or how the idea hatched, but I had this hike on my radar for several years and finally found an ideal day and someone crazy enough to do it with me. My pack and gear kit for the day included 3 liters of water, an Arizona tea, a Publix sub, apples, a wide-brimmed straw hat, a sun shirt and hiking boots.

Adventurers who attempt this should be prepared with plenty of sun protection, food and water for hours in the open sun with no amenities. A $5 backcountry permit (available at either ranger station) is required to venture past Apollo Beach lot 5 and Playalinda Beach lot 13.

We set off southward just after 7 a.m. from the end of the road at Apollo Beach, catching a magnificent sunrise with an amber horizon and whispy clouds over the Atlantic as a bright half-moon shone above the Mosquito Lagoon. We first took a turn onto a section of trail or access road on the lagoon side, which continued for several miles as we observed vibrant sea grape leaves, bright red sea beans, white moonflowers in bloom, the occasional prickly pear cactus and mangrove forests. On both sides of the trail, we were flanked by lush green vegetation and saw palmettos.

Eventually, the trail lets out at the beach, which covers about 2/3 of the hike (or you can take the beach the whole way). A note on the Canaveral National Seashore website advertises that crossing protected dunes is unlawful, so be sure to contact a ranger for the best guidance on where to hike and where to avoid.

It’s remarkable to see so much sand and sea without any humans. Small crabs poked their heads out of the sand, curious but cautious at the sight of visitors.

Away from the development of New Smyrna Beach and Titusville, Chris realized there was nothing between us and Africa but the vast ocean (unless you were to stop in Bermuda). We were engulfed by the natural Florida coastline with no reminders of civilization — except for trash and debris that had washed up with the tide, a consistent sight for most of the hike.

I packed grabbers (which Chris graciously agreed to carry), but we ultimately decided that it would be too energy-intensive to walk on sand for 13 miles with heavy bags of trash. However, we picked up a few stray balloons and pieces of litter that traveled with us into the trash can at the end of the hike.

We soon stumbled upon a small shack along the beach labeled as a biological field station. I imagined it would be used by scientists conducting wildlife research for breaks and storage. We welcomed the chance to stop on its small porch for an early lunch and a snack.

A few volunteers on ATVs, likely conducting sea turtle nesting surveys, seemed surprised to see any other human life out there. Those chance encounters made us believe this hike isn’t something people do very often.

As we meandered onward, we stopped to look at odd pieces of washed-up debris, including large buoys and one ambiguous piece that could have been either maritime or space-related. At one point, we witnessed a trio of roseate spoonbills soaring over on the lagoon side, and pelican flyovers continued as the afternoon approached.

As we resumed our trek southward, closing in on the final quarter of our remaining mileage, NASA’s Vehicle Assembly Building came into view on the hazy horizon. As my mind wandered, I thought of Doris Leeper, a longtime resident of New Smyrna Beach and artist who was instrumental in creating Canaveral National Seashore in 1975.

With the risk of widespread development along the seashore, Leeper fought to preserve the land around her home alongside the Mosquito Lagoon, where she lived with her two Great Danes and created art.

While enjoying the serene scenery unencumbered by beachfront properties and crowds, I also thought about the Indigenous people who first inhabited this stretch of coastline up to 14,000 years ago and the Timucuan people who lived in harmony with the natural landscape for centuries before Europeans ever set foot in Florida.

Within the last few miles of our hike, a ranger pulled up on his ATV and stopped, saying, “I’ve been following your tracks for a long time.”

He asked if we needed any water, but we came prepared for hours outside, although I admitted that we might have a few screws loose for attempting such an endeavor. This wasn’t the kind of outing most normal people decide to do.

As we approached Playalinda’s Beach 13, preparing for the sight of nude sunbathers, we found a congregation of pelicans, flamingoes, gulls and terns gathered on the shore of the lagoon with cormorants perched in the background. We were mindful of our distance but curious to get closer and join in the social affair.

In concluding our hike, I replaced the lens cap on my camera as we began to pass sunbathers in their natural state. We clothed hikers were the ones who looked out of place, gathering curious glances from people inevitably wondering, “Where the heck did they come from?”

After 6 1/2 hours in the sun, Chris and I were delighted to see his wife, Chelsey, and their infant son, who arrived to pick us up from the parking lot. We rushed to Playalinda Brewing Company in Titusville for sandwiches and beer, the most welcome treats after a long day of hiking.

Ultimately, this adventure represented a challenging but beautiful immersion in the wild Florida coastline, one that I won’t soon forget.

Find me  @PConnPie on Instagram  or send me an email:  [email protected] .

Visit nps.gov to learn more about backcountry hiking at Canaveral National Seashore.

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