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There are approximately 45,000 flights flying through the skies every day, but no matter how advanced our ability to see the world, sometimes the scenic route is the best.
That’s what Amtrak is betting on with a new route connecting a few America’s most iconic cities.
While you can certainly fly to either place in just a handful of hours, it’s safe to say that traveling by train is a more rewarding and enjoyable experience.
Plus, seeing America’s vast beauty from above doesn’t compare to zooming in on the vibrant foliage from a train window this time of year.
Starting over Chicago and ending with MiamiThere’s so much to see on Amtrak’s newest adventure launching this fall.
Amtrak’s new ‘Floridian’ train ride
Have you ever checked your phone on a plane to see how much time has passed?
If that’s you, then this train will really be a treat for you!
The total time from Chicago to Miami is total 47 hours. And for those who think that’s insane, here’s why it’s not so bad…
The new ‘Floridian’ route This fall combines the ‘Capitol Limited’ and ‘Silver Star’ routes to form one epic journey.
In other words: you can stay for the entire 47 hours or leave for another nice destination along the way.
However, Amtrak is betting that this route will be popular, despite flights between the two cities only taking about 3 hours.
To offer daily departures start November 10Whether Miami is your last stop or not, there are some great stops along the way, including some other American icons and sunny hotspots.
The complete ‘Floridian’ route
The ‘Floridian’ isn’t the only big change Amtrak is making. Due to a tunnel construction project in New York that halts plans for one route and combines them all into the new brand name ‘Floridian’.
Given the name, it seems like Amtrak is encouraging travelers to make the full trip to Miami.
But even if you don’t quite make it one of America’s most vibrant cities, there are many others in Florida along the route, among other notable American cities.
Leaving Chicago, you’ll drive east through smaller cities like Toledo, via Cleveland, Pittsburgh, the glossy fall foliage of Harper’s Ferry and finally the capital of our vibrant country, Washington DC.
Remember what I said about that window seat?
From there, your eastbound journey comes to a halt as you descend south through Virginia, Cary, North Carolina’s newest travel hotspot, a few hidden gems in South Carolina, and finally reach the Southern Bell of Savannah as your first coastal stop.
After another Georgian station in Jesup you have reached your final state.
The underrated city of Jacksonville is your big welcome to Florida, followed by Orlando, Tampa and finally the destination, Miami, after zigzagging through the ‘Sunshine State’.
As you can see, between one icon and the next, there is no shortage of great cities to visit. It doesn’t matter whether you start or end in Chicago or Miami, this is one of Amtrak’s busiest routes.
What to expect on board
47 hours is a long time to twiddle your thumbs. Oh well, all it took was James Franco 127 hours to decide to cut off his arm.
When you ride the ‘Floridian’ you don’t need a helping hand; you just have to decide what type of accommodation you want to book.
Amtrak offers 2 classes for this railroad:
- Coach – adjustable seats with ample legroom, no middle seat and windows
*Food options limited - First class – more private with option for Roomette or Bedroom (twice the space!)
To elect First class you get automatically access to the loungewhere you would find me for the better part of 47 hours!
As an extra, First-graders are given priority in the dining car, where meals are served.
These are the 3 menu items on board the ‘Floridian’:
- Breakfast: Amtrak Signature Railroad French toast, 3-egg omelet
- Lunch: Artisan Grilled Cheese Sandwich, Natural Angus Burger, Vegan Chili Bowl
- Dinner: Amtrak Signature Flat Iron Steak, Atlantic Salmon, Rigatoni Bolognese
Tickets can be purchased here on Amtrak’s official website. Rates start at $466 for Coach and $1,555 for First class on the first launch date for the full route (Chicago to Miami).
Savings tip: The rates are much more bearable and continue into December. For example, fares for December 7 are $113 for Coach and $734 for First Class.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
