From iconic steam engines to rapid-rail trains of the future, Orlando will move you in style (Hogwarts™ Express at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ at Universal Orlando Resort pictured).
The golden age of rail travel might be long gone, but here in Orlando, trains are still going full steam ahead at theme parks, attractions and modern rail services throughout the area, including the debut of Brightline high-speed rail in 2023. Don your best engineer’s cap and grab a whistle — it’s time to board some of the coolest trains in Orlando.
Discover: Orlando Transportation
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Train Rides & Experiences Throughout Orlando
ICON Park®
Take in the sights and sounds of ICON Park® aboard the Pearl Express Train. Your nostalgic journey begins near The Wheel at ICON Park, a 400-foot tall observation wheel with breathtaking views of Orlando. Hold on tight as the train makes its jolly way around the 20-acre open-air entertainment complex for a playful peek at dozens of shops, restaurants and attractions just waiting for you.
Discover: Sky High Thrills in Orlando
Gatorland
Go behind the scenes of the Alligator Capital of the World aboard the Gatorland Express train. Perfectly sized for kids and adults alike, the enchanting miniature train is led by an experienced conductor, who’ll regale you with tales of Gatorland’s past as you travel past beloved Gatorland attractions. The train’s predecessor, the Iron Horse Express, debuted in 1961, making it one of the first amusement park rides in the entire state — you can find the original parked near the entrance to the train station.
Discover: Things to Do at Gatorland
Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Discover the wonders of the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens on The Champion, a pint-sized replica of an Atlantic Coast Line Railroad steamer. The train travels through natural Florida landscapes, across realistic railroad crossings and all around the zoo for an adventure as lively as it is timeless.
Discover: Things to Do at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
SunRail & Amtrak
If a full-sized train is more to your liking, then hop aboard the SunRail for a full day of adventure in Orlando and beyond. This working commuter train travels across Central Florida, making it easy and fun to explore all that the destination has to offer. Explore shopping, dining, attractions and entertainment across Orlando, and don’t miss the historic Mission Revival-style Amtrak SunRail station in the SoDo District — it’s been around since 1926, when the Atlantic Coast Railroad ran through Orlando.
Discover: Orlando SunRail Day Trips
Brightline
Add some extra sunshine to your stay with a high-speed adventure on Brightline, Orlando’s first rapid rail system. Whether you’re traveling to Orlando or looking for fun day trip options, this colorful express train connects Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Miami, with several convenient smart stations along the way for travel made breezy. Service to Orlando is scheduled to begin in September 2023.
Discover: Frequently Asked Questions About Brightline Orlando
Central Florida Railroad Museum
True train enthusiasts also won’t want to miss the Central Florida Railroad Museum in Winter Garden. Dive into the history of railroading in Central Florida, complete with historic artifacts, photos, exhibits, a model railroad and more. You can also see a real Chessie caboose just around the corner by the Winter Garden Heritage Museum. Both are free to explore, though donations are welcome. Find this unique slice of Florida history in charming downtown Winter Garden, 25 minutes north of our main tourism districts.
Discover: Things to Do in Winter Garden
Train Rides & Experiences at Orlando Theme Parks
Walt Disney World® Resort
Trains have been an essential part of Disney’s DNA from the very beginning, from the miniature Carolwood Pacific Railroad in Walt Disney’s 1950s backyard to Walt’s original vision for a family-friendly theme park: “I just want it to look like nothing else in the world … and it should be surrounded by a train.”
Discover: Things to Do at WALT DISNEY WORLD Resort
That vision carried over to Walt Disney World Resort, where you can board the Walt Disney World Railroad for a grand circle tour of Magic Kingdom® Park, riding restored steam trains originally built between 1916 and 1928. The 20-minute scenic journey travels through the themed lands of Magic Kingdom, making stops in Frontierland®, Fantasyland® and on Main Street, U.S.A.® Elsewhere in Magic Kingdom, you can chase major thrills aboard train-themed coasters like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad® and Seven Dwarves Mine Train.
Discover: Must-See Attractions at WALT DISNEY World Resort
You can also board the rustic Wildlife Express Train at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park and travel across the African Savannah to Rafiki’s Planet Watch®. During the seven-minute journey, you’ll pass animal housing and veterinary facilities and catch a glimpse of the many ways that Disney is helping to protect the magic of nature.
SeaWorld® Orlando
The whole family can take an enchanting journey aboard Elmo’s Choo-Choo Train at Sesame Street Land™, part of SeaWorld® Orlando. Kids will have a blast honking the horn, ringing bells, and searching for butterflies, caterpillars and Elmo’s special friends, the Twiddlebugs. It’s one of many rides in this playful neighborhood where guests of all ages can learn, explore and meet their favorite furry friends.
Discover: Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld Orlando
Universal Orlando Resort
You don’t need a Hogwarts™ acceptance letter to board the Hogwarts™ Express. Just pack your trunks and head to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ at Universal Orlando Resort, where a two-park ticket unlocks train transportation between Platform 9 3/4™ in Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade™ Station in Universal Islands of Adventure. Just keep an eye out for escaped chocolate frogs and far more sinister visitors along the way.
Discover: Things to Do in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™
HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s19)
Another whimsical adventure by rail awaits in Seuss Landing™, where you can take to the skies and tour some of the area’s most beloved landmarks on the High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride!™
Dr. Seuss properties TM & © 2023 Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.P. All rights reserved.
LEGOLAND® Florida Resort
Board a life-size DUPLO® Train for plenty of pint-sized fun at LEGOLAND® Florida Theme Park. Spot farms, fishing holes and campgrounds as you wind through the countryside, then explore more imaginative fun tailored for tots in DUPLO® Valley and beyond.
Discover: Things to Do at LEGOLAND Florida Resort
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