The CSX (former ACL ) Tampa-to-Jacksonville-to Washington D.C mainline runs right through Downtown Orlando. You'll see Amtrak's north and southbound Silver Meteor and Silver Star trains as well as CSX intermodals. Currently there's quite a bit of construction in Downtown but there are parking garages and I believe pay the meter street parking. You can drive about a 1/4 mile north of downtown, parallel to the mainline and find areas of free parking along the street. I've seen the passenger trains run through at about 30 mph.
BTW: The mainline runs through the Church Street Station entertainment complex in Downtown Orlando. There is an admissions charge. (Google it to read more about the shows, etc.) There's also a restored steamer and several restored passenger cars parked on a siding next to the mainline.
If you don't want to spend the money for Church street, a nice spot is just 1/2 mile south of downtown at the restored Orlando Train Station, where Amtrak stops at. Same mainline. Features a Spanish styled architecture similar to some of Santa Fe's stations of the past. You can train watch undisturbed and even chat with friendly Amtrak personnel.
"I like my Pullman Standards & Budds in Stainless Steel flavors, thank you!"
I'm headed down to Orlando next week- is there a good vantage point for getting shots of the Auto Train as it arrives or departs Sanford?
Brian (IA) http://blhanel.rrpicturearchives.net.
Brain,
If you could find a copy of the June 2007 Railfan and Railroad before you go, I'm sure you would find it helpful. It has an 8 page article on railfanning the Orlando area.
Just to the west of the Autotrain Station is the ex Seaboard Station, used by the Silver Meteor and Silver Star until recently.
http://www.trainweb.org/usarail/florida.htm
I just found that site 3 days ago.
Have a great trip !
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