Conshohocken native Mike Avena is on a mission to change how Americans travel overnight, writes Trains.com.
As the founder and CEO of Lunatrain, Avena is steering the startup toward launching a private sleeper-train service connecting major cities in the Midwest and along the East Coast.
Lunatrain envisions a network of sleek, nonstop, overnight trains linking destinations “too far for daytime trains to serve effectively.” The company says operations will be anchored in the New York and Philadelphia areas, with routes reaching as far west as Denver, north to Toronto and Montreal, and south to New Orleans and Florida.
The focus? One-night trips with cozy, modern accommodations for solo travelers, couples, and families. Think full-service and in-room dining, WiFi, lounges, showers—and a vibe that’s comfortable but not over-the-top. Lunatrain emphasizes that it will not be a luxury service, but rather compete with airlines flying the same routes.
Avena, who previously led IT efforts in the biotech world at Ori Biotech and Tmunity Therapeutics, brings his high-tech know-how to the rails. Lunatrain wrapped up a feasibility study in early 2024 and has since mapped out detailed financial plans.
The company hopes to unveil a demo train in late 2026. While there’s no official launch date yet, Lunatrain joins Dreamstar Lines as one of two private U.S. firms chasing the dream of reviving overnight train travel.
Read more about Mike Avena and his Lunatrain in Trains.
