Florida at 125 MPH: What It’s Like to Ride the Brightline for the First Time

If you’ve ever dreamed of ditching the car keys and gliding across Florida in comfort and style, Brightline delivers on that fantasy. Connecting Fort Lauderdale and Orlando in under three hours, this high-speed train has redefined how Floridians and visitors alike can experience the state; seamlessly, stress-free, and with a touch of luxury. On my first ride from Fort Lauderdale to Orlando, I tested both worlds: Premium on the way up and Smart on the way back. Let me say that the experience on either side of the train might make me consider other forms of travel from now on.

First Impressions of the Brightline

Riding the Brightline from Fort Lauderdale to Orlando for the first time felt like stepping into the future of Florida travel. As someone used to the grind of I-95 traffic, spending up to two hours in the car, I wasn’t sure what to expect—would it really be as smooth, fast, and comfortable as everyone claimed? Spoiler: it absolutely was.

Premium Brightline Service Reigns Supreme

I started my journey in Fort Lauderdale’s sleek downtown station, which feels more like an upscale airport lounge than a train terminal. Checking in was a breeze: no long lines, no TSA shuffle, just a quick scan of my ticket, my carry-on through their security machine, and I was through. I was lucky enough to be in the Premium cabin on the way up, which meant I was invited into the Premium Lounge, where complimentary snacks, coffee, and even mimosas were waiting. Granted, it was about 8 in the morning, so I wasn't partaking in any libations at the time (my logic faltered later, more on that). The atmosphere was relaxed and refined, with travelers chatting quietly or working on laptops in cushy seating areas. It felt indulgent but not pretentious—a pleasant surprise before boarding. Who would've thought trays of scrambled eggs and hashbrowns, cereal options, and hot sausages were at the ready in this little lounge?

Once aboard, the difference in Premium was immediate. Spacious seats, wide windows framing Florida’s palm-lined scenery, and attentive service offering light bites and drinks throughout the ride. I settled in with a coffee I grabbed in the lounge and watched the cityscape give way to wetlands and farmland, occasionally catching glimpses of small towns along the route. The stewardess came around asking if I'd like anything to eat, and I opted for the overnight oats and a fruit cup, both free and very fresh.

The train glided effortlessly at speeds up to 125 mph, making the three-hour journey feel shorter than most commutes I’ve taken across Broward County. The best part for me here was the fact that I had zero flight anxiety (yes, I hate flying, not advantageous for a travel editor), I was able to read my book, and I was able to text, browse the web, and get some work done, without having to pay for WiFi.

Arriving at Orlando International Airport’s Brightline station was equally seamless. The modern terminal connects directly to the main airport complex, which makes it incredibly convenient for travelers flying in or out. After a few days of Orlando adventures and exploring, I boarded the southbound train back to Fort Lauderdale—this time opting for Smart, the regular cabin, to compare experiences.

Riding Back Smart

It should be said first that I had a later train to Fort Lauderdale, but was at the airport station early enough to try to catch one leaving within half an hour. Thankfully, the customer service at the desks was superb (shoutout to Kiara), and she swiftly changed my ticket to allow me to leave sooner, avoiding waiting at the station for up to 2 hours. I was still in Smart seating, toward the back of the train, but I didn't mind.

While Smart didn’t include the lounge or free in-seat service, it was far from basic. The seats were still comfortable and spacious, with charging ports, Wi-Fi, and a menu offering snacks and drinks for purchase. The vibe felt more casual—families heading home, solo travelers scrolling through photos, the low hum of conversation mixing with the rhythmic sound of the tracks.

By the time we pulled into Fort Lauderdale, I realized I hadn’t once missed my car. The Brightline wasn’t just a convenient alternative—it was a genuinely enjoyable way to travel. Whether you’re in Premium or Smart, the experience offers something Florida’s highways never could: time to relax, recharge, and actually enjoy the ride.

For anyone planning a Florida getaway, this isn’t just a mode of transportation—it’s part of the adventure. The Brightline captures the excitement of modern travel while reminding us that getting there can be just as memorable as the destination itself.

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