How to Book Train Travel From Orlando to Los Angeles

People choose transcontinental train travel for a number of reasons. Tops on that list is a fear of flying. These days some people are more afraid to fly than ever, and the idea of traveling from Orlando to Los Angeles by train has become more appealing. Unfortunately, because of damage caused to Amtrak infrastructure east of New Orleans, you can no longer book a direct trip between these two cities by train.

To book train travel from Orlando to Los Angeles, call Amtrak at 1 (800) USA-RAIL (872-7245) or visit the link in Resources below.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Choose Your Route From Orlando to Los Angeles

1. Go by train only and avoid a bus transfer. Choose the route that travels from Orlando to Washington, D.C., then to Chicago and finally Los Angeles. This route from Orlando to Los Angeles takes about 80 hours.

2. Go by train and bus: One route makes its first stop out of Orlando in Richmond, Virginia. From there, you take a bus to Charlottesville, Virginia, about an hour and a half away. Next you take Amtrak's Cardinal line to Chicago. From Chicago you board the Southwest Chief line to Los Angeles. This route takes 80 to 82 hours depending on whether you take the Silver Meteor line or the Silver Star line out of Orlando.

Prepare for Long Distance Train Travel

3. Bring your own entertainment. This is going to be a very long trip any way you look at it. Occasionally, there may be onboard tour guides provided for a couple of hours in some cities, but don't count on it. Pack your laptop, a good book, a music player, games and whatever else you can think of to pass the time.

4. Pack an overnight bag. No one wants to have to dig through a large suitcase on a train. If you pack a smaller bag with just the things you need on the trip, you will have easier access.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget your power cords for electronic devices like laptops, cell phones and personal DVD players. Trains have power outlets for passenger use.
• Use your PDA or Web-enabled phone to access the Amtrak Web site for making reservations, reviewing and updating your profile, checking on train status and canceling or reviewing existing reservations. There is no need to install anything to use this free service: Simply type Amtrak's Web site address in your browser and the system will automatically recognize the type of device you are using.
• Layover time is not included in travel times.
• Because you must book tickets on multiple lines for service between Orlando and Los Angeles, ticket prices are now significantly more than they used to be when you could travel direct.