Chicago, IL to Orlando, FL Train

Take the train from Chicago, IL, to Orlando, FL

Stepping aboard the train in Chicago, prepare yourself for a journey through the diverse American landscapes, culminating in the sun-drenched city of Orlando. This journey averages around . About trains ply this route each day. The approximate average fare for this journey is .

Your voyage starts from in Chicago and concludes at the in Orlando. To ensure a smooth boarding process, it's advisable to reach the station at least 30 minutes ahead of your departure.

The initial leg of your journey is aboard the Capitol Limited or LakeShore Limited train. Depending on your route, you might need to transfer to Washington or New York. You'll switch to the Silver Meteor train, known for passing through scenic landscapes of Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge mountains. If in New York, you'll board the Lakeshore Limited, which trails along the picturesque Lake Erie and the Erie Canal. Both transfers promise a variety of dining and sleeping accommodations to enhance your travel comfort.

Final Destination: Orlando, the City Beautiful

The central Orlando Amtrak station, 1400 Sligh Blvd, is a beautiful historical building from the 1920s that offers the convenient service of checked baggage and free overnight parking. Unfortunately, it needs to be better connected, especially if you go to Disney World. In that case, the Kissimmee station would be a better option. The city center, Universal Studio, and Disney World are approximately 10 miles away, but the only way to reach them is by taxi (Uber, Lyft). 

Orlando is a giant theme park. Besides the previously mentioned Disney World, it is also home to Seaworld, Legoland, Universal Studios, and GatorWorld Parks, making Orlando a dream destination for families and everyone who likes Mickey Mouse and alligators. But if you want something more sophisticated, we recommend checking out Winter Park and Thornton Park, Orlando's trendy neighborhoods, for some shopping and fine dining. For those with an appetite for adventure, Orlando Wetlands Park offers a glimpse of the Orlando wildlife (alligators).

Things to Do/See in Orlando

1. Universal Orlando Resort: Home to two thrilling theme parks, a water park, and a lively dining and entertainment district.
2. Walt Disney World: A must-visit destination with four unique theme parks and two water parks.
3. SeaWorld Orlando: Offering close encounters with marine life and an array of exciting rides.
4. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Get an in-depth look at NASA's space explorations.
5. Everglades National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site teeming with diverse wildlife.

Things to Eat/Drink in Orlando

1. Seafood: Being in Florida, trying fresh seafood is a must. Opt for local delicacies like stone crab or grouper sandwiches.
2. Cuban Sandwich: An iconic Florida delicacy, this sandwich combines ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami on Cuban bread.
3. Key Lime Pie: A classic Floridian dessert with a tangy, creamy filling and a crumbly crust.

Day Trips from Orlando

Orlando's location provides a base for multiple exciting day trips. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Ocala National Forest or take a kayak tour on the Wekiva River. Cocoa Beach and Daytona Beach are within a short drive if you are a beach lover.

Orlando Travel Tips

When visiting Orlando, timing your trip is crucial. The best weather and fewer crowds are typically between October and April. Prioritize visiting renowned theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios during weekdays and early mornings to avoid large crowds, considering FastPasses for expedited queues. With the city's heat, particularly during summer, always stay hydrated and protect your skin with regular sunscreen. While public transportation is efficient, renting a car may offer more flexibility for extensive exploration. Lastly, budget in advance to manage the city's costs, consider package deals for savings and pay attention to free or low-cost activities like exploring the downtown area or natural parks.

In conclusion, the train journey from Chicago to Orlando offers a fascinating glimpse of America's diversity, bridging the urban charisma of Chicago with the tropical allure of Orlando. For the latest travel information, including train schedules, ticket prices, and transfer points, visit Virail.com.