If you’re tired of battling Florida’s traffic or just want a more relaxed way to travel, Brightline is a total game-changer. I recently got to experience this high-speed train on a trip from Orlando to Boca Raton, and I was genuinely impressed. From the sleek station in Orlando to the comfortable onboard experience, it felt like a little slice of European train travel right here in Florida.
Let me share the details of my trip—what to expect, some pros and cons, and whether I think it’s worth it!
Starting The New Brightline Orlando Terminal In MCO
The Orlando terminal at MCO is *gorgeous*. Honestly, it’s one of the nicest train stations I’ve seen, with a futuristic vibe and all the amenities you could need. Since it’s connected to the airport, it’s super convenient if you’re flying in or out. Even if you’re local like me, it’s easy to navigate and stress-free. There were no long security lines or frantic rushing—it was just smooth sailing.
I opted for Premium Class on the way down to Boca and tried Smart Class on the return leg, so I could compare both.
Onboard the Train: Smart Class vs. Premium Class
No matter which class you choose, Brightline is fast, modern, and efficient. The train can reach speeds up to 125 mph, and my trip from Orlando to Boca took two and a half hours. That’s a bit of a time-saver compared to driving. Not to mention more stress-free compared to driving in south Florida.
SMART Class
Smart Class is Brightline’s more budget-friendly option, but it doesn’t feel like you’re sacrificing too much. The seats are comfy and recline a bit, plus there’s free Wi-Fi and power outlets at every seat. My only gripe? The seating was a bit worn for such a new train, and the 2-by-2 configuration can feel a little cramped if you’re next to a stranger. That said, the train wasn’t full during my ride, so I had some extra space to spread out.
PREMIUM Class
Premium Class was a whole different experience—it felt like flying first class. The seats are larger (21 inches wide!) and arranged in different configurations, including solo seats with tables, which was perfect for getting work done.
Premium tickets include complimentary snacks and drinks, and the service was top-notch. I even got a little lunch tray with a sandwich, salad, fruit, and chocolate. It’s definitely a step up in comfort, but whether it’s worth the extra cost depends on your priorities.
The Route: From Orlando to Boca Raton (and Beyond)
One of the coolest things about Brightline is how connected it makes Florida feel. And I can’t WAIT for it to connect Orlando to Tampa too. Here’s a quick rundown of the current stops:
Orlando: The starting point for my trip and home to world-famous attractions like Disney and Universal.
West Palm Beach: A lively city with plenty of shopping, dining, and waterfront views.
Boca Raton: My destination, known for its upscale vibe, beautiful beaches, and amazing restaurants. The station is super convenient and close to downtown—no need for a car!
Fort Lauderdale: Perfect for exploring the canals or hitting up Las Olas Boulevard.
Miami: The final stop, where you’re right in the heart of the action, from South Beach to Wynwood Walls. We might check out this route in the future for cruises or flights out of Miami.
Pricing: Is Brightline Orlando Worth It?
Let’s talk cost, because this seems to be the sticking point for a lot of people. Brightline isn’t cheap, especially if you’re used to driving or flying on budget airlines. My Smart Class ticket from Orlando to Boca was $213, round trip. After purchasing my ticket, I decided later to upgrade one-way to Premium for an additional $25. I chose to upgrade to also have access to the lounge since my husband, Pete, had to drop me off two hours before my train ride.
How To Get A Deal
If the time of day you can travel is flexible, you might be able to snag rates as low as $25 if you’re on Brightline’s email list. They also just started offering what they call “Twilight Trains” with $29 SMART Saver and $49 SMART Adult fares Monday through Thursday for rides between South Florida and Orlando after 6pm.
That said, the convenience, comfort, and time savings made it worth it for me. No traffic, no bathroom stops, and no stress? I’ll take it.
FAQs About Brightline
Here are some quick answers to questions I’ve gotten since taking Brightline:
1. How much do tickets cost?
Smart Class starts around $30 for shorter trips, up to $90 for longer trips depending on time of day. Premium can go over $100 depending on the route and timing.
2. How long does the trip take?
Travel times vary by route. My trip from Orlando to Boca was just under three hours.
3. Can I bring luggage?
Yes! There’s no extra fee for standard bags, and the storage areas onboard are spacious. If you have a SMART class ticket, there is a fee for checked luggage. But I see no need to check luggage unless the train is full. There was plenty of storage onboard.
4. Are there discounts?
Brightline runs promotions, so it’s worth signing up for their emails. Early morning trains seem to have the best deals.
5. Is it family-friendly?
Definitely! I saw families with kids onboard, and there’s plenty of room for everyone. In PREMIUM class I saw mostly business travelers.
Final Thoughts: Should You Try Brightline?
If you’re looking for a stress-free, comfortable way to travel through Florida, Brightline Orlando is an excellent option. It’s not the cheapest, but the convenience and experience more than make up for it. Whether you’re heading to Miami for a weekend, visiting family in West Palm, or checking out the new Boca station like I did, Brightline makes the journey part of the adventure.
Would I take it again? Absolutely. In fact, I’m already planning my next trip!
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