Who else hates sitting in traffic on I-4? The interstate and traffic jams have improved a lot since adding express lanes and widening portions of the roadway, but it’s still not a fun drive (and one I personally dread).
On a recent trip to Kissimmee, my 6-year-old son and I parked the car and hopped aboard SunRail. You can’t miss the SunRail signs along the I-4 corridor between DeLand and Celebration advertising the commuter rail service as an alternative to I-4 road traffic. The train runs along a former CSX transportation line and covers a 49-mile route with 16 stations in four counties (Volusia, Seminole, Orange, and Osceola). For people who work along the line or go downtown for dinner or games, it’s a no-brainer — you save on gas, avoid rush hour traffic, and can avoid event parking fees.
So, how does this benefit someone from Northeast Florida? Let’s say you’re going to visit a friend or family — instead of driving all the way to their destination, park in DeLand and ride the train, and they can pick you up from the nearest station. If you’re going to a concert in downtown Orlando like I am in a few weeks, park in DeLand and take the train to the downtown station. Walk half a mile to the venue, and you’re there on time with less stress of fighting traffic and having to find and pay for parking. Then hop back on after the show and head back to your car at the station. You just knocked off 30–60 minutes worth of driving.
READ: On the Road: Jax to Orlando (No Theme Parks!)
Things you need to know about SunRail
- SunRail only operates on weekdays and operates every 30 minutes during peak morning and evening hours when traffic on I-4 is at its worst. During off-peak hours, it operates every 2–2.5 hours. Check Northbound and Southbound schedules online.
- Fares are based on the number of zones a rider travels, trip type, and rider type. Initial cost is $2. My one-way fare from Sanford to Kissimmee was $5 and my son was free (6 and under). Ages 7–18, seniors 65 and older, and disabled riders receive a 50% discount. Tickets can be purchased through the SunRail app, online at sunrail.com, or from a ticket vending machine at the station.
- You can expect free Wi-Fi, power outlets, luggage and bike storage, and onboard restrooms. The second level is designated a “quiet area.”
- SunRail recommends arriving at the station 20 minutes early, as the train does not wait for latecomers.
This may not be ideal for everyone traveling through Orlando. But it could be a fun day trip to ride the train to Winter Park for lunch or just to hop aboard for a change in scenery. The kiddos will love it!
