5 Incredible Florida Day Trips You Can Take by Train

Florida has plenty of incredible day-trip destinations throughout 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

This three-and-a-half-hour round trip takes visitors over the Caloosahatchee River and back to Fort Myers, while travelers enjoy a five-course meal and an interactive mystery show. This is a fantastic day trip that’s both fun and delicious. Put this on your list for your next date night! This is one of the most scenic train rides in Florida, so remember to bring your camera. Visit the website for the murder mystery train ride to make reservations.

2. Tampa (via Amtrak)

Tampa Union Station is only a short cab or bus ride from Tampa's historic Ybor City neighborhood. Here you'll find all kinds of restaurants, shops, and landmarks. You can explore the area with walking tours or the TECO streetcar system. Plan on making a day of it and grab lunch and dinner in one of the fabulous restaurants nearby. There are so many things to see and do in this area that it makes it one of the best Florida train rides for a day trip. Visit Amtrak's website to purchase tickets.

3. Savannah, Georgia (via Amtrak)

We know it's not in Florida, but we can pay a compliment to our neighbors once in a while. Depending on where you live in Florida, Savannah is only a short ride away. This historic city is the epitome of Southern charm with beautiful parks and cobblestone streets. It’s always fun to hop on over and visit nearby states and see what they have to offer. And with the quick trip, it’s easy to make a fun day of it! Visit Amtrak's website to purchase tickets.

4. Florida Railroad Museum, Parrish

At this museum in Parrish, you ride the exhibits. There's an ever-changing list of events, including everything from a murder mystery dinner train to holiday celebrations to the North Pole Express. This is a great place to bring the whole family. Whether your children want to get up close and personal with Thomas the Train or you’re looking for more information about the history of the railroad in America, there’s so much to learn! You'll love taking some train rides in Florida here. Visit the Florida Railroad Museum website to check out upcoming events and purchase tickets.

5. Winter Park (via Amtrak)

The Winter Park station is in a great location for exploring the city's charming downtown historic district. You can easily walk to the shops, cafes, art galleries, and museums right after stepping off the train. One of the best train trips in Florida, you’ll love the convenience of visiting this wonderful downtown district. Skip the drive and hop on the train next time you’re in the mood to visit Winter Park. Visit Amtrak's website to purchase tickets.

You can check out the whole Silver Service route and purchase tickets on Amtrak's website. There are a ton of great places to go on the Amtrak line, so when you’re planning your next trip away, consider hopping on a train instead of flying on a plane. Train travel in Florida provides a unique experience that you’ll never forget. I know trains aren't as popular in the United States as they are in Europe, but I think if you give it a try, you'll find a whole new world opens up to you!

Have you taken any of these scenic train rides in Florida? A train ride is certainly one great way to enjoy a day in Florida. With so many options for train trips in Florida, it will be hard to choose just one! We recommend spacing them out throughout the year so you can continue exploring these fun train adventures.

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.