Tunnel maintenance work in New York is bringing Chicago-area travelers a long-sought present—a one-seat ride from the Midwest to Florida’s main cruise ports. The train will run under the name Floridian.
The train temporarily replaces the Capital Limited, which normally runs from Chicago to Washington, DC and the Silver Star that normally runs from New York City to Florida. The change is caused by rotating closures of New York’s East River Tunnels for repair of damage caused by 2012’s Superstorm Sandy.
Dubbed the Floridian, the train will make its first 47-hour run tomorrow, with stops at Orlando, Tampa and Miami. Departure from Chicago’s Union station is set for 6:40 pm, and will arrive at Washington, DC the next morning before continuing south, arriving in Florida the next day for daytime arrivals at the three cities.
Tickets range from coach class, with reclining seats and no middle seat, through to bedrooms with an in-room restroom and shower. Private room perks also include complimentary lounge access at major stations, priority boarding and luggage assistance.
Amtrak has not said if it will continue the route after work is completed in 2027, but if traffic develops, it seems likely. Otherwise, passengers following the whole route will have to resume changing trains, with their baggage, in DC.
