Amtrak expects record Thanksgiving ridership as travelers seek alternatives

TAMPA, Fla. — Amtrak is projecting record-breaking ridership and revenue for the 2025 Thanksgiving travel period, and Tampa Union Station is playing a major role in that surge.

Last year, more than 1.2 million passengers traveled by rail over Thanksgiving. Tampa Union Station saw more than 150,000 departures, making it one of Florida’s busiest Amtrak stations.

With early bookings showing double-digit growth, Amtrak expects this year to surpass those numbers.

Why travelers are choosing the rails

Many riders boarding trains in Tampa this week said they were looking for a change — and relief from the holiday travel stress that comes with flying or long drives.

Price was a major factor for rider Bruce Hilsheimer.

“The Greyhound stops more places and costs twice as much — it’s a no-brainer for me,” he said.

For others, safety and comfort drove the decision.

Linda Colon said she’s avoiding the airport this year.

“There are so many concerns people are dealing with right now, and they really don’t feel like getting on an airplane,” she said.

Some passengers chose the train for more productive travel time.

Dana Diaz said train travel allows her to keep working throughout her trip.

“I have to work, and sitting on the train allows me to get my work done,” she said.

And for some, rail travel brings back a sense of nostalgia and calm.

“I saw (trains) a lot in the movies… it’s very romantic,” said rider Susan Roscoe.

Passengers traveling through Tampa Union Station this week were headed everywhere from Chicago to shorter regional trips to Lakeland, West Palm Beach and Miami.

More riders seeking alternatives amid travel uncertainty

Bob O’Malley, senior vice president at the Orlando Economic Partnership, says congestion at airports — and concerns during the recent government shutdown — pushed more people toward rail.

“Some people will always fly or drive, but people are looking for other ways,” O’Malley said.

He added that expanding options like SunRail and Brightline could open more rail alternatives across the state.

Book early, Amtrak warns

With demand climbing quickly, Amtrak is encouraging riders to book tickets early to secure their travel times.

Colon said the ease of boarding is a major plus.

“I took an Uber here — I didn’t have to arrive two hours before departure,” she said.

And for many travelers, the slower pace of train travel is part of the appeal.

“It’s convenient. It’s slower than flying, but sometimes that’s relaxing,” Roscoe said.