Orlando to Tampa train

Orlando is the Theme Park Capital of the World, thanks to the high density of thrilling parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, LEGOLAND, Gatorland and more. It's no wonder we rated Orlando the #1 travel destination for families. Family vacation or not, if the highlight of your trip is picking out a wand at Ollivanders in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter or finally meeting Elsa in the Magic Kingdom, you know we won't judge.

Winter Park and Thornton Park – not more theme parks, we promise – are trendy neighborhoods where you can experience some of Orlando's world-class shopping, dining, and craft beer. You can also immerse yourself in some of Florida's unique wildlife at Orlando Wetlands Park, or the more central Lake Eola Park downtown. Orlando enjoys an average of 233 days of sunshine a year, so even though it's one of the cheapest cities to visit over Spring Break, you'll soak up that sweet, sweet sun almost any time of year.

Craving the ocean? Head a few hours outside Orlando for some of Florida's gorgeous beaches like New Smyrna Beach, Cocoa Beach, and the Canaveral National Seashore. Two large airports, as well as many bus and train companies with service in the area, mean that traveling from Orlando to other sunny Florida destinations and beyond is a breeze.

Sitting at the heart of the Gulf Coast, Tampa offers a perfect blend of cultural attractions and relaxing indulgences. Infused with a colorful mix of Cuban and Spanish cultural elements, the city of Tampa houses some of the most impressive historic buildings in the state, including the Henry B. Plant Museum, which boasts a permanent exhibition of Victorian-era artifacts. Animal lovers can also rejoice, as the city’s many aquariums and zoos will certainly melt your heart. Head down to the Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center for some heart-melting cuteness. And for animal lovers with a penchant for streaming docu-series, the Big Cat Rescue (yes, THAT one!) will be a great choice.

Most of the finest restaurants in town are concentrated around the Riverwalk area, which offers unrivaled views of the waterfront. Oystercatchers is reputed as one of the best establishments in town, so you should not miss out on it. Tampa’s cuisine features a very clear Cuban influence, and the best spot to try out these unique fusion dishes is at Ybor City.

The principal train station in the city is the Tampa Union Station, which is also a historic building. It is currently served by Amtrak. At the station, travelers can also take an Amtrak Thruway motorcoach to get to Orlando, Lakeland, Bradenton, etc. The main airport is Tampa International Airport, which is located just six miles west of downtown Tampa.