Travel between Virginia and Florida with your vehicle.
The Auto Train provides a convenient way to travel between Virginia and Florida while taking an eligible personal vehicle with you. Instead of driving the entire distance along the East Coast, passengers board at Lorton, Virginia and travel overnight to Sanford, Florida, near Orlando.
The service operates in both directions and is designed specifically for travelers who want to combine passenger travel with vehicle transportation. Your vehicle travels on the same journey while you travel in coach seating or available private accommodation.
Two directions. Two dedicated terminals.
The main route connects Lorton, Virginia and Sanford, Florida, providing northbound and southbound overnight travel.
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Sanford, Florida
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Lorton, Virginia
Explore the route that matches your journey.
Whether you are heading south toward Florida or returning north toward Virginia, start with the guide for your direction.
Lorton to Sanford
Southbound travel from Northern Virginia to Central Florida, including station preparation, timing and travel-day guidance.
Explore southbound routeSanford to Lorton
Northbound travel from Central Florida toward Virginia, Washington, DC, Maryland and nearby areas.
Explore northbound routeRoute Map & Schedule
Understand the overall route, travel flow, approximate journey time and schedule considerations.
View route informationLorton, Virginia to Sanford, Florida
The southbound Auto Train travels from Lorton, Virginia to Sanford, Florida.
Lorton serves travelers from Northern Virginia, Washington, DC, Maryland and surrounding areas, while Sanford provides convenient access to Orlando and Central Florida.
The route can be particularly useful for travelers who want their own vehicle after reaching Florida instead of flying and arranging a rental car.
Who uses this route?
- Families traveling to Florida
- Travelers taking their own car on vacation
- Seasonal travelers heading south
- Seniors who prefer to avoid a long drive
- Travelers visiting Orlando and Central Florida
Sanford, Florida to Lorton, Virginia
The Auto Train also operates in the opposite direction from Sanford, Florida to Lorton, Virginia.
This journey is useful for travelers returning from Florida toward Virginia, Washington, DC, Maryland and nearby areas while continuing to travel with their own eligible vehicle.
Travelers depart from the Sanford terminal, travel overnight and collect their vehicle after arriving at Lorton.
Explore Sanford to LortonIs the Auto Train nonstop?
The Auto Train operates as a dedicated passenger and vehicle service between its two passenger terminals: Lorton, Virginia and Sanford, Florida.
Unlike a conventional passenger train with several passenger stops, travelers do not normally board or leave the train at intermediate cities.
Operational stops may occur during the journey for railroad operations, servicing, crew requirements or other operational needs, but these should not be confused with regular passenger stations.
How long is the Auto Train route?
Travel with your vehicle.
One of the main reasons travelers use the Auto Train is the ability to transport an eligible personal vehicle while traveling by train.
Cars
Review current eligibility, vehicle dimensions and preparation requirements before your trip.
Vehicle informationSUVs & Larger Vehicles
Larger vehicles may have different size, eligibility and transportation requirements.
Check requirementsMotorcycles
Motorcycle transportation may be available when the applicable eligibility and preparation requirements are met.
Learn moreTwo dedicated passenger terminals.
Travelers should plan around station location, vehicle check-in, passenger boarding and arrival procedures.
Six simple steps before travel day.
Good preparation can make the trip easier, particularly for first-time travelers transporting a vehicle.
Choose Your Direction
Decide whether you are traveling from Lorton to Sanford or Sanford to Lorton.
Check the Schedule
Review current departure, arrival and check-in information for your intended travel date.
Choose Accommodation
Compare available coach seating and private sleeping accommodations based on comfort and budget.
Add Your Vehicle
Confirm that your vehicle meets the current eligibility and dimension requirements.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Follow current preparation instructions and understand what should remain in or be removed from your vehicle.
Arrive at the Terminal
Allow sufficient time for vehicle check-in, passenger procedures and boarding.
Why choose the Auto Train route?
Auto Train route vs. driving.
Choosing between the Auto Train and driving depends on more than the ticket price alone.
Consider factors such as:
- Fuel costs
- Vehicle wear and tear
- Hotel and meal costs
- Total travel time
- Driver fatigue
- Passenger comfort
- Number of travelers
- Accommodation preferences
Prepare for a smoother overnight journey.
Book Early
Popular travel periods can have limited availability, particularly around holidays and vacation periods.
Check Vehicle Requirements
Verify that your specific vehicle meets the current eligibility requirements before booking.
Pack for Overnight Travel
Keep medication, toiletries, chargers, comfortable clothing, travel documents and other essentials with you.
Check Before Leaving Home
Review the latest operating information before traveling to the terminal.
Common questions about Auto Train routes.
What route does the Auto Train take?
The Auto Train connects Lorton, Virginia and Sanford, Florida. It operates in both directions and is designed to transport passengers and eligible vehicles between the two terminals.
Does the Auto Train go from Virginia to Florida?
Yes. The southbound route travels from Lorton, Virginia to Sanford, Florida.
Where does the Auto Train leave from in Virginia?
The Virginia terminal is located in Lorton, south of Washington, DC.
Where does the Auto Train arrive in Florida?
The Florida terminal is located in Sanford, near Orlando and Central Florida.
Is the Auto Train nonstop?
It operates as a nonstop passenger service between Lorton and Sanford. Operational stops may occur, but they are not regular passenger stops.
How long is the Virginia to Florida journey?
The trip is generally an overnight journey of approximately 17 to 18 hours, although actual schedule and travel time can vary.
Can I take my car on the Auto Train?
Transporting an eligible personal vehicle is one of the main purposes of the service. Vehicle eligibility, dimensions and preparation requirements should be checked before booking.
Is there an Auto Train from Florida to Virginia?
Yes. Northbound service operates from Sanford, Florida to Lorton, Virginia.
Continue planning your journey.
Route planning is only one part of the trip. Explore our guides covering vehicles, accommodations, stations, costs and common traveler questions.
Vehicle Information
Review vehicle eligibility, dimensions and preparation guidance.
Explore vehiclesAccommodation Guide
Compare coach seating and available private sleeping options.
Compare accommodationsPricing & Costs
Understand the factors that can influence the total travel cost.
Explore pricingStations
Learn more about Lorton and Sanford terminal planning.
Explore stationsTravel Guides
Find practical planning resources for a smoother journey.
View guidesFAQs
Find quick answers to common travel planning questions.
Read FAQsReady to continue planning your journey?
Explore our detailed travel guides covering routes, vehicles, stations, accommodations and pricing.