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The 10 Best Train Trips From New York City

Getting there is half the fun on these rail journeys from the Big Apple.

Train travel in the U.S. isn’t exactly as easy as in, say, Europe or Japan, but luckily for New York City residents and visitors, the Big Apple is one of the country's major rail hubs. It’s a snap to get to and from destinations near and far on Amtrak, which offers over a dozen train routes from the city, spanning north to Montreal and south to Miami. Meanwhile, regional services like the Metro-North Railroad and Long Island Rail Road run to places closer to NYC like Connecticut, the Hudson Valley, and Long Island.

If you need a little inspiration on where you should go, here are some of the best train trips from NYC that are worthy of taking the scenic route. 

NYC to Chicago

Train route: Amtrak's Lake Shore Limited Duration: 19 hours

Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited offers daily departures to whisk New Yorkers away to the Windy City. The route takes passengers through some gorgeous upstate New York areas, such as the Hudson Valley and Finger Lakes region, then hugs the shore of Lake Michigan before entering Chicago. According to Amtrak, the best seats in the house are the Viewliner accommodations, including the Viewliner Bedroom Suite , which comes with a foldout bed, ideal for the overnight journey. Once in your destination, set out on an architectural walking tour, explore the best attractions in Chicago like the Art Institute of Chicago and "The Bean" in Millennium Park, and stay at the luxe Pendry Chicago .

NYC to Westerly, Rhode Island

Train route: Amtrak's Northeast Regional Duration: 3 hours

For a quicker getaway, board Amtrak’s Northeast Regional to Westerly, Rhode Island, a quiet little beach town ideal for a refreshing weekend. Though short, the train ride takes you past some idyllic landscapes in Connecticut, over bridges, and past glittering water views and pastoral fields. Once in Westerly, disembark the train and make your way to Ocean House , one of the country's best beach resorts . If you can tear yourself away from the on-site spa and ocean-view saltwater pool, make your way to the charming downtown. Shop for chocolate truffles at Hauser Chocolatier , dine on local bites at The Cooked Goose , or just tuck your toes into the sand for a day at Misquamicut State Beach . 

NYC to Boston

Train route: Amtrak's Northeast Regional or Acela Duration: 5 hours on Regional or 3 hours, 43 minutes on Acela

Keep going north on the Northeast Regional for a few more stops, and you’ll hit Boston. This train trip from NYC takes you through more bucolic landscapes and a sprinkling of city vistas as you pass through Providence. If you want to arrive at your destination sooner, opt for Acela, though you might miss some of the scenery as the train whizzes by at higher speeds with fewer stops. Once in Beantown, fill your itinerary with some of Boston's must-do activities , including walking The Freedom Trail, visiting the Paul Revere House , and enjoying a bit of culture at the Institute of Contemporary Art  and Museum of Fine Arts . And if you happen to be there during baseball season, don't miss a Red Sox game at Fenway Park. Stay at The Langham, Boston , a centrally located hotel built inside the old Federal Reserve Bank.

NYC to Philadelphia

Train route: Amtrak's Northeast Regional Duration: 1 hour, 20 minutes

If the allure of an ooey, gooey, downright delicious cheesesteak is calling your name, then it's time to take the train south to Philadelphia. Though the views during this short ride won't be the best, it's worth it for where the train stops: William H. Gray III 30th Street Station . First opened in 1933, the station is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Original features include 95-foot ceilings and art deco touches. The station is also home to The Porch , an outdoor area connecting the station to Market Street, and a stone's throw from major attractions like The Academy of Natural Sciences and Independence Hall . As for that cheesesteak, it's up for debate on who serves the best, but Dalessandro's , Angelo's Pizzeria , and Jim's South St. are a few local favorites. After you dine, retire to Wm. Mulherin's Sons Hotel , a chic and centrally located boutique property with a timeless design, including exposed brick and beams.

NYC to Wilmington, Delaware

Train route: Amtrak's Northeast Regional Duration: 2 hours

Travel just a smidge past Philadelphia, and you’ll hit Wilmington, a history buff’s dream. The journey will take you past verdant landscapes before entering this city of around 72,000 people. Disembark at ​​Joseph R. Biden Jr. Railroad Station, named after the president thanks to his famed trips back and forth to Washington, D.C., on this very railway. Make your way to places like the Delaware Art Museum , Fort Christina , and Nemours Estate , a stunning 200-acre garden and 77-room mansion that will make you feel like you’re back in the Gilded Age. After seeing the local attractions, check into the Hotel Du Pont , a 12-story Italian Renaissance Revival building that opened in 1913 smack dab in the middle of downtown. 

NYC to Washington, D.C.

Train route: Amtrak's Northeast Regional or Acela Duration: 3 hours, 40 minutes on Regional or 3 hours on Acela

Ride the Northeast Regional a few stops further to the nation’s capital, a journey that takes you through more cityscapes (including Philadelphia and Baltimore), with a smattering of green spaces in between. You can opt for the faster Acela if you're in a rush. Spend a weekend in D.C. exploring the wealth of historical sites and museums, including the National Mall and the National Museum of African American History and Culture . See a hit show at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts , or plan in advance to tour the White House . For a fittingly storied stay, book at The Watergate Hotel, which, yes, is the very one associated with the 1970s political scandal of the same name. 

NYC to New York's Adirondacks

Train route: Amtrak's Adirondacks line Duration: 3.5 hours

Need a big breath of fresh air? Hop aboard this train that travels from New York City all the way to Montreal. But don’t worry, you don’t need to go that far to find wide-open spaces. The journey to Saratoga Springs is one of the most scenic train trips from NYC, winding through pastures and Hudson Valley towns like Rhinecliff and Hudson before coming to rest at the quaint rail station in Saratoga Springs. Nestled in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, the town has a long history as a spa destination due to its mineral-rich waters that first attracted visitors in the 1700s. When you arrive, make your way to the stunning Saratoga Spa State Park , a National Historic Landmark. See if there’s a show playing at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center , and explore the delightful downtown full of shops, restaurants, and landmarks that celebrate the town's horse racing heritage. Spend the night at the Adelphi Hotel , a historic boutique property with modern rooms, complimentary minibars, and spa-like bathrooms.

NYC to Montauk, New York

Train route: Long Island Rail Road Duration: 3 hours

Amtrak isn’t the only train game in town. You can also board the Long Island Rail Road to Montauk for a seaside break. During the ride, the views quickly transform from high rises to small towns as you make your way through Long Island, taking a nearly straight shot down the coast until you hit the very tip of the island. Montauk has long been favored as a summer escape thanks to its idyllic beaches, but don’t skip over it for a fall or even winter escape for a crowd-free scene. Visit the Montauk Point Lighthouse, walk along Ditch Plains Beach, and set out on a horseback ride with Deep Hollow Ranch , the first established cattle ranch in the U.S. Then, rest at Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa , a hotel boasting a private beach, complimentary beach cruisers, and several delicious dining venues. 

  NYC to Sleepy Hollow, New York

Train route: Metro-North Railroad Duration: 53 minutes

For an easy getaway, head to Grand Central Terminal and take the commuter rail, which snakes north through the city before popping out in greener pastures once you hit stops like Greystone. With about 10,000 permanent residents, the village of Sleepy Hollow has a notable literary pedigree as the setting for Washington Irving's ghostly tale, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow." Visit the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery and see the Headless Horseman Bridge that traverses the Pocantico River. For something a little less spooky, visit Kykuit , the former estate of the Rockefellers. Book a few nights at the Castle Hotel and Spa , a striking Gilded Age estate that now offers 31 luxury rooms and suites.

NYC to Pittsfield, Massachusetts

Train route: Amtrak's Berkshire Flyer Duration: 4 hours, 5 minutes

Operating between late May and early October, the Berkshire Flyer travels along the Hudson River Valley, treating passengers to views of the lush foliage. The train runs on Fridays, Sundays, and select holiday Mondays, making it perfect for a long weekend getaway. Stop in Poughkeepsie, New York, to visit the nearby Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site , one of the Hudson Valley's most notable Gilded Age estates, or ride directly to Massachusetts. Once you're in Pittsfield, explore some of the Berkshires’ top attractions , from the hiking trails at Mount Greylock to the Berkshire Museum’s collection of 40,000 objects spanning art, science, and history.

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The best train trips from NYC for a scenic rail adventure

New York City is just a few hours from historic cities and beautiful communities accessed via train—and with breathtaking views along the way!

Photograph: Shutterstock

As much as the U.S. is heavily car-dependent and the American past time is a good ol’ summer  road trip along historic routes across the states, the Northeast is definitely spoiled with accessible rail connections making it easy for rail aficionados, business travelers, tourists and anyone to sojourn between cities and small towns for quick day trips and weekend getaways in any season. New York City, especially, is within 10 hours of some historic cities and beautiful communities accessed via train—and with breathtaking views along the way!

Even though the region doesn’t have sweeping scenic train rides such as the California Zephyr going into the Rocky Mountains or the Coast Starlight route with Cascade Mountains and Pacific Coast views, the New York/Northeast route can still boast of historic landmarks and ruins along the Hudson Valley, sparkling waters of the Connecticut coastline in summer, and truly spectacular fall foliage in autumn.

Check out these direct train routes that’ll offer up scenic views right outside your window.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best scenic rail trips from NYC

1.  enjoy hudson river and mountainous views to pittsfield, ma.

Use that PTO and hop onto the Berkshire Flyer’s seasonal weekend service route for the long but scenic train ride to Pittsfield—the Heart of the Berkshires . Gaze out the window at the lush Hudson River valley green and its historic ruins as the four-hour train rolls through Poughkeepsie where the Gilded Age Vanderbilt Mansion is a few miles north of the station. The Berkshires is famous for a thriving ecosystem of woodlands, wetlands, and mountains , all of which attract outdoorsy travelers. Pack a bike or hiking boots to enjoy the scenic landscape in Pittsfield, which is visible as the train rolls into town.

What train route? Amtrak Berkshire Flyer How long is the train ride? 4 hours 5 minutes from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Views of the Berkshire Mountains, Hudson River, picturesque towns and Catskills

2.  Take in coastal scenes to Providence, RI for America’s smallest state

America’s smallest state is a direct train ride for city adventures any day of the week as the train station is a walking distance to downtown Providence. This 3.5-hour route hugs the Connecticut coast and riders can see the water and boats bobbing and sailing on it at several points along the train ride. Heading southbound towards New York City? Sit on the left side of the train for even more spectacular coastal views.

What train route? Amtrak Northeast Regional How long is the train ride? 3.5 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Sparkling summer coastal views of sailboats and harbors

3.  See skyline and river views of Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia is a hop, skip, and a jump away from NYC (just an hour and a half) and while the views tend to be industrial, graffiti-decorated, or bland as you pass through New Jersey and Delaware, the left side of the train is where you’ll see the Philadelphia skyline and Boathouse Row along the Schuylkill River before arrival at Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station.

What train route? Amtrak Northeast Regional How long is the train ride? 1 hour 30 minutes from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Nighttime views of Boathouse Row and the Philadelphia skyline, rowers on the river during the day and industrial architectural remnants (for those with a niche interest)

4.  Cruise through the lush Hudson Valley heading to Albany, NY

The NYC to Albany is one of the few train rides in the Northeast with lovely views of verdant foliage and wine country of the Hudson Valley region heading north three hours to Albany. On the return journey from Albany to NYC, sit on the right side for breathtaking views of the Hudson River, the Catskill Mountains, and the Palisades as you approach Penn Station. The Palisades are especially scenic during fall foliage when leaves turn hues of yellow and orange.

What train route? Amtrak Adirondack, Ethan Allen Express How long is the train ride? Approx. 3 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall. Why is this route nice? Views of the historic Hudson Valley, Hudson Valley towns and villages, Palisades, and Catskills

5.  Discover castle ruins and lighthouse views on the way to Hudson, NY

Fondly known as “ Upstate New York’s Downtown , ” Hudson is a favorite among NYC residents for day trips and weekend getaways—it’s just two hours away! The Hudson Valley is one of the most scenic routes in New York State so keep your eyes peeled for the ruins of Bannerman Castle on Pollepel Island, Bear Mountain, and the historic Hudson-Athens lighthouse . In addition, the train speeds by lush forests and marsh that are green in summer but explode with hues of yellow and orange for fall foliage.

What train route? Amtrak Maple Leaf, Adirondack and Ethan Allen Express lines How long is the train ride?  2 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Views of the historic Hudson-Athens lighthouse , Bannerman Castle ruins, West Point, Bear Mountain and lush foliage along the Hudson River.

6.  Ride the Connecticut coast to Mystic for nautical history

Interested in nautical and whaling history but also want a small-town charm with a beautiful downtown? Mystic is it. Enroute to Mystic, swap highway gridlock for stress-free scenic train travel passing through attractive small towns with steeples, historic architecture, and verdant foliage. In New York, the three-hour route goes by the Hudson River where the Hudson-Athens lighthouse is visible if seated at the right side of the train heading southbound into New York City.

Closer to Mystic, the train passes right through Sixpenny Island and also hugs the south end of the nearby Haley Farm State Park . The route also goes by the Mystic Seaport harbor area where historic ships like the Charles Morgan whaling ship and other vessels are visible from the train.

What train route? Maple Leaf, Adirondack, and Ethan Allen Express How long is the train ride? Approx. 3 hours from New York Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Views of Hudson-Athens lighthouse in NY, historic ships in Mystic Seaport harbor, small New England towns and scenic state parks in Connecticut.

7.  See Pennsylvania Dutch Country on the way to Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh is a long but direct train ride from NYC. Still, the window scenes as the nine-hour train speeds by make up for this distance. Look out for the historic Horseshoe Curve near Altoona—known as one of the eight engineering marvels of the world—and gaze at the farmlands and barn houses of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The train rounds the Horseshoe Curve once each way daily. Also visible is Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle, where the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio Rivers converge; and the Allegheny Mountains are also visible from the train.

What train route? Amtrak Pennsylvanian How long is the train ride? Approx. 9 hours from New York Why is this route nice? Scenes of Horseshoe Curve as an engineering marvel, Allegheny Mountain Range and the Golden Triangle river convergence point.

8.  Spot the Hudson River and Lake Champlain toward Burlington, VT

If you’re into slow travel, this route is just for you, so board with refreshments and entertainment for the ride to the Green Mountain State. Eight hours northbound to Burlington, sit on the left side for Hudson River views (beautiful in all seasons) and scenic glimpses of New England communities with their architecture and steeples. In Vermont, the views that matter are those of Lake Champlain south of Burlington, and this view would be on the left side of the train northbound. Heading north to Burlington, the Vermont portion will be dark except on long summer days.

What train route? Ethan Allen Express How long is the train ride? Approx. 8 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall Why is this route nice? Lake Champlain and scenic Hudson River Valley views

9.  Marvel at Chesapeake Bay views toward Baltimore, MD

Baltimore doesn’t spring to mind when listing scenic train rides but here’s a tip: southbound from NYC, sit on the left side of the train for Chesapeake Bay views. During the fall, you might even get to see the fiery red, yellow, and orange leaves of the Bay’s fall foliage on the way. This nearly three-hour route might also terminate in Washington D.C. and for brief scenic views en route D.C., sit on the left side for where the train crosses the Susquehanna River.

What train route? Amtrak Northeast Regional and Amtrak Acela How long is the train ride? Approx. 2 hours 50 minutes from New York Why is this route nice? Chesapeake Bay and Baltimore skyline views

10.  See ships and harbors on the coast heading to Boston, MA

The NYC to Boston route is another route in the Northeast with lovely views so ease the four-and-a-half-hourlong ride to Boston by identifying and admiring scenic views from the train window. From NYC, sit on the right side as the train hugs the Connecticut coastline for views of ships, harbors, and bridges. 

What train route? Amtrak Acela and Amtrak Northeast Regional How long is the train ride? Approx. 4 hours 30 minutes from New York Why is this route nice? Scenes of the Connecticut coastline

11.  Peep the Palisades cliffs in Poughkeepsie, NY

The best views here are during fall foliage season where this two-hour train hugs the edge of the Hudson River allowing magnificent views of the Palisades with their bright fall colors. Get your walking shoes on for more bursts of color as you walk or bike Walkway Over the Hudson , an elevated pedestrian bridge beginning at the Poughkeepsie station, for photography-worthy scenes and discovering communities along the way. 

What train route? MTA Metro-North from Grand Central Terminal How long is the train ride? 2 hours  Why is this route nice? Colorful views of the Palisades cliffs and other foliage 

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12 Delightful Day Trips from NYC by Train

Posted on Last updated: January 3, 2024

Home » Destinations » New York City » 12 Delightful Day Trips from NYC by Train

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Are you visiting New York City but might want to add some day trips to your NYC itinerary? Check out these amazing day trips from NYC that are totally worth the effort!

This list of day trips from nyc by train was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Heading to New York City on a return visit or staying for a while and want to explore places beyond the city? 

Taking day trips from NYC by train is the best idea!

New York has a couple of great train stations which make leaving the city super easy. Renting a car to venture on day trips out of NYC is the quickest way to a stress headache but travel nowhere far in the city’s traffic.

Plus, there are lots of fun day trips from NYC you can take. No matter whether you want to hit the beach, enjoy a New England fall, see another East Coast city, or walk around a college town, there are tons of New York day trips to choose from.

Here are lots of NYC day trip ideas you can take by train and easily visit within three hours of the city! 

Don’t have time to read a bunch of New York City blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting NYC with kids.

Popular NYC Tours/Activities

• Summit One Vanderbilt (this is the coolest observation tower in NYC)
• NYC Tour (this one drives around to the highlights and goes to the Statue of Liberty)
• Museum of Ice Cream (perfect for kids who love treats and parents who love taking photos)
• American Museum of Natural History (there are tons of interesting exhibits for kids)
• Flytographer Photo Shoot (this is an easy and affordable NYC photography option)

Kid-Friendly NYC Hotels

• Mint House at 70 Pine (has full kitchens and laundry)
• SIXTY SoHo (super close to the Museum of Ice Cream and the Color Factory)
• EVEN Hotel New York Times Square South (great location near Times Square)

12 of the Best Day Trips from NYC by Train You Should Take

Day trip to hamptons from nyc.

While spending a summer in a luxurious Hamptons villa might be an experience your bank balance can’t stretch to, a day trip to Hamptons from NYC is totally doable.

You’ll leave the city fog and feel refreshed relaxing on the beaches and walking through the tree-lined streets of upmarket Hampton neighborhoods. There are lots of independent coffee shops and casual beachside bars for cheaper eats.

If you have a little more cash to splash, you can rent a boat for an hour or the day too.

How To Get From NYC to the Hamptons by Train

There are multiple places in the Hamptons with train stations including Montauk, East Hampton, Southampton, Westhampton, and Hampton Bays. But one of the closest and best for day trips from NYC is Westhampton.

From New York’s Penn Station , you can take any Long Island Rail Road service to Jamaica Station in Queens which depart every eight minutes. Some examples are the Babylon Branch and Hempstead Branch Services. 

Then, take another Long Island Rail Road Service heading to Montauk but hop off the train after a one hour and 40-minute journey at Westhampton Station . These trains leave around every two hours but there is one direct train from Penn Station to Westhampton Station every day.

Altogether, the journey should take no longer than two hours and 20 minutes and tend to cost no more than $30.50 for a single journey, often much less.

NYC to Hudson Valley Day Trip (for Fall)

Want to enjoy fall day trips from NYC by train to witness the natural gold, crimson, and burnt orange country parks for yourself?

You absolutely can! Just head up the Hudson Valley.

The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Croton-on-Hudson is an annual fall event where thousands of carved pumpkins are lit up. It’s a great day trip option with kids. 

How To Get From NYC to the Hudson Valley by Train

From Grand Central Terminal , get a direct Hudson Line/Metro-North Railroad train to Croton-Harmon Station . It’s a 20-minute walk or short car ride to The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze.

This journey takes around 70-80 minutes and departs very frequently. Train tickets for single journeys start from around $13.

Day Trip to Long Branch, NJ from NYC (for the Beach)

Most people with some spare time in their NYC itinerary for a beach day head to Coney Island.

But it can get a little crowded on the weekends!

One of the best beach day trips from NYC by train is to Long Branch in New Jersey. This boardwalk beach with soft, yellow sand is almost two miles long (living up to its name!) with lots of restaurants and amenities within easy reach.

How To Get From NYC to Long Branch by Train

From Penn Station , take a direct NJCL service to Long Branch Station . These services depart approximately every 50 minutes, take just over 90 minutes and cost around $10 – $16.

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Nyc to philadelphia day trip.

Injecting some educational (yet fun!) time into your NYC trip might be a little tricky, but not if you take a day trip to Philadelphia.

It’s one of the best places to visit outside of New York with your school-age kids. And they have a TON of cool Boston tours for families .

See the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Eastern State Penitentiary Museum. Oh, and try a cheesesteak for lunch washed down with an ice cream soda, of course!

How To Get From NYC to Philadelphia by Train

Whereas a historical day trip to Boston from NYC by train would be an eight-hour round trip, Amtrak day trips from NYC to Philadelphia are less than three.

From Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station , take a direct Amtrak service to William H. Gray III 30th Street station in Philadelphia. This journey takes no more than 90 minutes, departs roughly every 30 minutes, and costs as little as $10.

Day Trip to Washington DC from NYC

One of the other great options for day trips from NYC by train if you want to visit another big city is Washington DC .

Book your timed tickets for the Washington Monument in advance. Find a bike or scooter rental so you can whiz around the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and all the other cool sights on the National Mall in one day.

Take advantage of the free Smithsonian museums too! You can pack so much into a one-day DC trip if you’re savvy.

How To Get From NYC to Washington DC by Train

Although a one-day trip from NYC to DC isn’t much time, it’s a great way to get a taster of another East Coast city and you couldn’t choose anywhere better than the capital.

From Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station , take a direct Acela Amtrak service to Washington Union Station . These trains depart every hour and take less than three hours. Ticket prices are usually $20 or less for cabin seats.

NYC to Greenwich, CT Day Trip

If you’re looking for Connecticut day trips from NYC, you’d be hard-pressed to find one better than Greenwich.

This delightful coastal town is super close to New York by train and has a beautiful harbor with lots of nice parks like Greenwich Point Park.

It also has great restaurants and makes for a relaxing day out for couples or families with babies or younger kids.

How To Get From NYC to Greenwich by Train

From Grand Central Terminal , get a direct Metro-North Railroad service to Greenwich station. This is one of the best and quickest day trips near NYC as the journey takes less than one hour.

The service departs every 30 minutes and tickets cost between $10 – $22.

Day Trip to Princeton, NJ from NYC

Some of the best day trips from NYC by train are to historic college towns. 

Many of the great things to do in the city of Princeton are on campus. Visit the Gothic University Chapel and the Princeton University Art Museum.

The Princeton Battlefield is a Revolutionary War site too, so there are tons to do here for history buffs.

How To Get From NYC to Princeton by Train

From Penn Station , hop on a direct NJ Transit train to Princeton Junction . These services depart every 30 minutes and only take anywhere from 45 to 80 minutes, so they are short trips from NYC. Ticket prices are, on average, $31 for this journey.

NYC to Poughkeepsie, NY Day Trip

Also one of the best fall New York City day trips, Poughkeepsie is a beautiful city to visit to escape the skyscrapers of the big city.

Take the Walkway Over the Hudson over the Hudson River from Poughkeepsie or kayak along it. There are tons of great restaurants overlooking the river where you’ll either see a lush green landscape in summer or a multicolored marvel in fall.

How To Get From NYC to Poughkeepsie by Train

While a day trip to Niagara Falls from NYC by train is almost impossible, Poughkeepsie is one of the next best day trips from NYC if you want to visit upstate New York.

From Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station , get a direct Amtrak train to Poughkeepsie station. These services depart every hour and the journey takes around 90 minutes.

Or, from Grand Central Terminal , get a Hudson Line train to Poughkeepsie station which also departs frequently but takes two hours. Tickets cost around $30 – $40.

Day Trip to New Haven, CT Day Trip

Another of the best NYC day trips by train is to New Haven, Connecticut which is the home of Yale University.

Visit the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History with kids or the New Haven Museum to learn more about the city’s local history.

Like any shore city, it has a beautiful harbor and lots of city parks like the West River Memorial Park.

How To Get From NYC to New Haven by Train

From Grand Central Terminal , get a direct Metro-North Railroad service to New Haven . This service departs every 30 minutes and takes roughly two hours. Tickets can cost as little as €17.

NYC to Baltimore, MD Day Trip

With seafood restaurants selling fresh local crab and historic harbor neighborhoods, Baltimore in Maryland is one of the best day trips from New York.

Fort McHenry is the birthplace of the US national anthem and the National Aquarium is in Baltimore too.

How To Get From NYC to Baltimore by Train

From Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station , get a direct Acela Amtrak train to Baltimore Penn Station . This service departs every 30 minutes and lasts anywhere from two hours and 20 minutes to two hours and 45 minutes.

Tickets for this journey can cost as little as $15.

Day Trip to Wilmington, DE from NYC

One of the best NYC day trips is visiting Wilmington, Delaware. It’s perfect if you want to tick off a new state and check out somewhere a little underrated.

Wilmington was home to the powerful DuPont family. You can visit their former Georgian house and the Hagley Museum which has exhibits dedicated to their legacy. 

Neighborhoods around Brandywine Creek are beautiful, including the creek’s namesake park and zoo.

How To Get From NYC to Wilmington by Train

From Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station , hop on a direct Acela Amtrak train to Wilmington station. This service leaves every 30 minutes and only takes around 90 minutes. Tickets cost as little as $10 for this journey.

NYC to Harriman State Park Day Trip

If you’re looking for good day trips from NYC for outdoor activities, the Harriman State Park is super close to the city in upstate New York.

There are tons of hiking trails like the Reeves Brook Trail and lakes like Lake Sebago where you can sail or kayak. 

Harriman State Park even has vineyards, waterfalls, and you can visit part of the Appalachian Trail too!

How To Get From NYC to Harriman State Park by Train

From Penn Station , take an NJ Transit service to Secaucus Junction which takes around ten minutes. Then, hop on a connecting train to Sloatsburg station at the southern entrance to the state park which lasts around one hour.

Only a handful of these services leave every day, so check timetables in advance to avoid disappointment. Tickets usually cost no more than $13.

Day Trips from NYC by Train Wrap Up

While NYC skiing day trips and short trips to faraway cities like Boston might be impossible by train, there are a dozen more day trips from NYC by train that are.

All of these one-day trips from New York City are fun, nearby, and easy to reach by rail.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or not, you’re sure to find day trips from New York are the best way to shake up your big city vacation so that it’s an even bigger adventure.

Looking for more NYC travel resources? Check out my 4-day NYC itinerary , best NYC hotels for families , how to save money in New York City , New York City travel tips , NYC tours for families , and kid-friendly 7-day NYC itinerary !

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These Are All Of The Overnight Train Trips You Can Take From New York City

The idea of taking an overnight train ride is usually met with “I’ve always wanted to do that!”…without actually planning a time to do it. But it’s much easier than you might think.

Did you know there are four different train routes you can take from NYC Penn Station on Amtrak that have sleeper and dining cars? The railway adventure of a lifetime doesn’t have to wait until you’re in another country, or even state!

You’ll have to look on the web pages (which you’ll see linked in each number) to see specific features of the routes, but most sleeper cars include the choice of a Viewliner Roomette (two beds, one toilet), a Viewliner Bedroom (two beds, one toilet, one shower, and chair) or a Viewliner Bedroom Suite (two rooms combined with two toilets, showers, four beds, and two chairs).

The dining car and meal options vary as well, but most include a Flexible Dining plan, which features:

• A menu with hot, ready-to-serve choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner
• A wide selection wine, beer and spirits (the first one is on them), plus unlimited soft drinks throughout the journey
• Complimentary room service provided by the Sleeping Car attendant
• Exclusive onboard lounge space for Sleeping Car customers to dine and socialize 24/7
• Flexible dining times without the need for reservations

Time to get planning! Here are all your options:

1. The Cardinal Line : New York to Chicago (or Charleston, Cincinnati)

The Cardinal Line travels from New York to Chicago, through D.C. to Charlottesville, Charleston, Cincinnati and Indianapolis, operating three days a week. The trip from one end to the other is 26 hours. You’ll pass through the breathtaking the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, the Shenandoah Valley, and the white-water rivers of West Virginia.

Then, you’ll go west past the Ohio River and see the skyline of Cincinnati, then head through Indianapolis and north to Chicago.

2. Silver Service/Palmetto Lines : New York to Tampa/Miami (or Charleston, Savannah)

The Silver Service/Palmetto Line travels from New York to Miami, by way of D.C., Charleston, Savannah, Jacksonville and Orlando. The full trip takes over 28 hours. In May 2020 the services are getting really fancy: on the Silver Star train, each room will offer linens, towels, pillows, temperature controls, electrical outlets and access to a private restroom and shower. And you’ll also have a dedicated sleeping car attendant on hand to “assist with meals and luggage, provide turndown service, and share great stories of life on the rails.”

3. The Crescent Line : New York to New Orleans (or Atlanta)

The Crescent Line travels from New York to New Orleans, with a mid-journey stop in Atlanta. It offers a chance to see the beauty of the South, with highlights being Charlottesville, Virginia and Greenville, South Carolina.

4. Lake Shore Limited: New York to Chicago, Alongside Bodies of Water

The Cardinal Line travels from New York or Boston to Albany to Chicago daily. The full trip takes 19 hours. It will pass some of the most gorgeous shorelines in the country: from the south shore of Lake Michigan, past the Mohawk River and the Erie Canal, following a famous Native American Highway.

featured image source: Instagram / @amtrak

See also: 6 Beautiful New York Day-Cations For A Quick Winter Getaway

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

Heavy delays for NJ Transit, Amtrak at NY-Penn Station due to power issues

Amtrak said a brush fire in secaucus also had caused issues for train travel between new york and philadelphia, by brad luck • published june 20, 2024 • updated on june 20, 2024 at 7:25 pm.

NJ Transit and Amtrak service into and out of New York Penn Station was facing massive delays Thursday evening after a power issue caused a lengthy disruption heading into rush hour.

All power had been restored around 5:30 p.m., according to Amtrak, with all rail service between New Haven and Philadelphia resuming — but "significant delays" could be expected due to backed up rail traffic and single-tracking, the transit agency said.

24/7 New York news stream: Watch NBC 4 free wherever you are

Amtrak had previously said the service suspension, which lasted hours Thursday afternoon, was caused to do a "malfunctioning circuit breaker" which caused a loss of power on the tracks between Newark Penn Station and Newark Union Station. Amtrak and NJ Transit later said a brush fire in Secaucus had also caused issues for trains.

NJ Transit said service service had resumed just before 6 p.m., with trains on the Trenton and Long Branch lines seen leaving NY-Penn Station by 5:50 p.m. There were still delays up to 60 minutes expected through the evening.

1 of 3: Rail service into and out of Penn Station New York has resumed and is subject to up to 1 hour and 30-minute delays due to AMTRAK overhead wire issues in Penn Station New York. — Northeast Corridor (@NJTRANSIT_NEC) June 20, 2024

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NJ Transit said its tickets and passes were being cross honored by NJ Transit, private buses, and PATH at Newark Penn, Hoboken, and 33rd Street.

Man loses hand and fingers in fireworks mishap on Long Island

Parties and protests mark the culmination of LGBTQ+ Pride month in NYC and beyond

NJ Transit said there are trains running from Newark to Trenton and encouraged passengers heading south to take the PATH to Newark. Dover and Montclair commuters were told to take the PATH to Hoboken to access their trains.

Some Amtrak trains were terminating at Philadelphia or Newark due to the power issues.

PATH was also reporting "network connection" issues Thursday afternoon at Newark Penn Station leading to delays on the World Trade Center - Newark line, but those were resolved before 5 p.m. and service was reported to be resuming to normal.

04:14 PM: NWK-WTC resuming normal service. The earlier network communication problem has been resolved at NWK. We apologize for the inconvenience this may have caused. https://t.co/JjSUlpkZYL — PATH Train (@PATHTrain) June 20, 2024

Earlier in the week, Amtrak warned the high temperatures the region is facing this could require trains to operate at lower speeds and results in afternoon delays of up to 60 minutes.

This article tagged under:

Amtrak NYC to DC: Why Taking the Train is the Best Way to Go

U nlock the advantages of traveling by train from the bustling Big Apple to the nation’s capital Washington DC with Amtrak. Say goodbye to airport security lines and traffic congestion as you embark on a relaxing journey from New York’s new Moynihan Train Hall.

With frequent departures, a generous baggage policy and the ability to move around during the under four-hour trip, Amtrak offers flexibility and convenience. Sit back and enjoy the ever-changing scenery while enjoying the onboard amenities that make your trip comfortable and enjoyable.

Amtrak Advantages: Travel Time

Anyone who has ever tried to drive out of New York City on a summer weekend, holiday or random gridlock alert day knows that the soul-crushing traffic can put a damper on the trip.

A journey from New York City to Washington DC by car can take anywhere from four to seven hours.

There are two Amtrak options:

• Amtrak Acela  takes 2 hours and 46 (to 54) minutes. It stops at Newark Penn Station; Metropark, NJ; Philadelphia, Wilmington and Baltimore Penn Station, and the train can speed along at 150 miles an hour in some spots.
• Northeast Regional  takes three hours and 20-40 minutes. It makes all of the stops the Acela makes, plus stops at the Newark and Baltimore airports, and it travels at slower speeds.

You can save almost an hour on the high-speed train, and up to four hours of hair-tearing hysteria by taking the train rather than your car.

Plus, the Acela has a First Class option, with free meals and drinks served to you at your seat. Philadelphia celebrity chef Stephen Starr curated the menu. The food in the Acela cafe car also has more interesting options than the cafe car on the Northeast Regional.

Read More: 15 Fun Things to Do in Alexandria VA: More Than Just a DC ‘Burb

Price: Amtrak vs Car

On a recent summer weekend, we paid about $40 for our roundtrip Amtrak tickets, bought well in advance. Had we waited to buy our tickets at the last minute, or planned to travel during the holidays, it would have been far more expensive.

When we realized we could take a morning train, getting us into Washington DC much earlier in the day than our ticketed departure, we learned that we would have to pay the difference in price. The morning train would have cost us more than five times the price we originally paid.

Driving to DC, the tolls can be $40, depending on route. And the gas? Let’s say you have a car that gets 25 miles per gallon. Gas will cost about $30 for the trip.

This is, of course, just one way, so you’ll spend another $70 to get back to NYC from Washington DC. But if 2 of you are in the car, the price per person drops. And three or four along for the ride? Even less.

But you have to weigh your sanity versus potential road rage. You do you.

Comfort in Coach

This is not your average airplace seat! Even in coach class on the slower Northeast Regional trains, there is plenty of legroom. You can put your bags up above, or in luggage areas at the end of cars.

Business class seats have the advantage of being assigned, so you don’t have to worry about dragging your suitcases through the train, looking for an available seat.

There is something weird with Amtrak train seats: If you have an aisle seat and don’t know the person sitting next to you, you have to run a cord across their seat to reach the power outlets.

And the free wifi isn’t really strong enough to do work on the train.

Quiet Car vs Other Seats on Amtrak Train

Now that my children are out of the house, I am a fan of the quiet car on Amtrak. Phone calls aren’t allowed and you have to use headphones if you use electronic devices, with the volume turned low.

But don’t take the quiet car with young children. Although you are allowed to talk in the quiet car, no one appreciates a loud child here. We once took this car because there were no other seats on the train. We were glared at until Philadelphia, when we escaped to the boisterous regular car.

Amtrak Pet and Baggage Policies

If you are bringing a dog, you might have to drive. Amtrak charges $26 for a dog, and it has to weigh under 20 pounds. My Labrador Retriever has plumped up to 70 pounds, so she is banned from the train, even though she works as a comfort dog. [Therapy dogs of any size are allowed].

Driving can also be the perfect option if you are schlepping a lot of stuff. Amtrak allows you to bring two pieces of luggage, and charges for oversized items like bicycles. On the Northeast Corridor, it costs $20 to bring a bicycle.

Though when I brought my daughter a folding bike, I didn’t have to pay extra.

Moynihan Train Hall, New York City

One of the best things about taking Amtrak anywhere from NYC is the new Moynihan Train Hall.

This glorious transformation of the historic Farley Post Office has transformed the former Amtrak area in Penn Station, which is across the street, to one of beauty and wonder.  You also have access to great food.

If you take the subway to Moynihan Train Hall, the walk from the filth of the MTA to the shiny new Amtrak station is like the change from black and white to color in the Wizard of Oz . Light streams in from above, brass gleams and the air is – or at least seems – fresher.

Moynihan Food Hall

The centerpiece of Moynihan Food Hall, the Bar at Moynihan, has lots of local craft beer on tap and classic cocktails. Sit at the wood bar while you wait for an evening train.

The food hall has easy to eat or carry out food, like sushi, chopped salad, pizza and burgers. Alidoro makes Italian sandwiches that travel well and Naya has Mediterranean inspired bowls, wraps and salads. A ramen shop is coming, but ramen is best slurped up before the train.

If you are visiting someone – say, your daughter – in Washington DC, and you’ve forgotten to bring her bagels, you can pick some up at H & H, along with a few cupcakes at Magnolia or chocolates at Maison du Chocolat.

Exclusive Access: Metropolitan Lounge

If you have treated yourself to an Acela train ticket, or you have elite Amtrak status, you get access to Metropolitan Lounge. Business class passengers can also buy a day pass to the lounge.

This expansive sanctuary has lots of clean, comfortable places to sit, and free (non-alcoholic) drinks and food. There is also a bar, but you have to pay for drinks.

Even if you don’t have access to the Metropolitan Lounge, The Amtrak waiting area at Moynihan, for ticketed passengers only, has very clean bathrooms and power outlets at every seat.

Getting to Your Amtrak Train

One issue the fabulous Moynihan Train Hall hasn’t addressed is the chaos that ensues when a train track is announced. There is only one escalator to the track and it’s a bloodsport to get on the line before it resembles a Black Friday queue.

But there are 2 semi-secret ways to avoid the line.

• When the train is announced, go to the elevator and take it to the track. Very few people do this.
• Passengers in the Metropolitan Lounge get an early announcement of the track number and can take the elevator before the line even forms.

Union Station Washington DC

When you walk into Union Station in Washington DC, you are in a beautiful historic train station. Unfortunately, the Amtrak area, while not as grim as Penn Station in Manhattan was, is still pretty dismal.

There is an Acela Lounge at Union Station. For ‘regular’ passengers, there is a dim seating area and the usual scrum when the track is announced. One advantage here over Moynihan Train Hall is that the trains are on the same level as the waiting area. No crowded escalators, stairs or elevators to navigate.

Picking a Train

Some trains originate in NYC, which means finding a seat on the train going to DC is pretty easy. It also means that the train is cleaner. If the Amtrak is coming from Boston, people might be getting off in NYC. But they are not taking their garbage with them and no one is cleaning the train.

On our recent Amtrak ride, someone did come around collecting trash, but the guy next to me left a mess in his seat and no one addressed that.

And don’t even get me started on the bathrooms. I can’t imagine what the bathrooms look like on the trains going all the way to Miami or Chicago.

Before Going to DC, Ask Yourself…

A lot of considerations go into a trip from New York City to Washington DC.

Q: Do you want to see the cherry blossoms ?

A: Go mid-March to mid-April

Q: Do you want to take long walks around the National Mall?

A: Go late September to November or March to May

Q: Do you want to avoid tourists?

A: Don’t go to Washington DC

What to Do in Washington DC

Tour the us capitol.

The  US Capitol visitors center has an interactive gallery. There are also tours of the Capitol building, including the Crypt, the Rotunda and National Statuary Hall. Tours and exhibits are all free.

The rest of the National Mall includes the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument,  the White House and Smithsonian museums. Again, everything is free.

Stop and See the Flowers

See the green side of Washington DC at Tregaron Conservancy. It has walking trails, gardens, fields, meadows and a lily pond. The conservancy, between the Woodley Park and Cleveland Park, is free. You can also see the free  National Zoo, near the conservancy

Read here for more things to do in and around Washington DC.

The post Amtrak NYC to DC: Why Taking the Train is the Best Way to Go appeared first on She Buys Travel .

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NJ Transit, Amtrak service suspended again at Penn Station

Rail service was disrupted for a second day on Friday, with Amtrak trains into and out of New York City delayed or canceled and service on the commuter line NJ Transit suspended during the morning rush.

Several Amtrak trains scheduled to run between New York City and upstate New York were canceled,  the railroad said on X , and trains from Pennsylvania to New York were terminating in Philadelphia.

What You Need To Know

Rail service was disrupted for a second day on friday, with amtrak trains into and out of new york city delayed or canceled and service on the commuter line nj transit suspended during the morning rush widespread train delays and sweltering heat made for a nightmarish commute thursday evening amtrak warned commuters thursday afternoon that high temperatures may require trains to operate at lower speeds.

As of 4:30 p.m., there are still 30-minute delays due to "Amtrak overhead wire issues," according to the NJ Transit website.

Midtown direct trains were being diverted to Hoboken, New Jersey. Raritan Valley Line service will originate from Newark Penn Station. NJ Transit rail tickets and passes are being cross honored by NJ Transit, private carrier buses and the PATH at Newark Penn Station, Hoboken and 33rd Street in New York.

It comes after Amtrak delayed or canceled trains in and out of the city.

NJ Transit, meanwhile, appeared to blame Amtrak for the fact that its own service in and out of Penn Station was suspended during Friday's morning rush hour.

“Rail service is suspended into and out of Penn Station New York due to AMTRAK overhead wire issues in Penn Station New York,” the commuter line, which shares tracks with Amtrak, said on its website.

Service resumed around 11 a.m. with 45-minute delays, NJ Transit said.

Widespread train delays and sweltering heat made for a nightmarish commute Thursday evening.

"I'm disgusted because it's always something different,” said Denise Wooten, who commutes from Montclair, New Jersey, to Penn Station for work. “Delays. This has been going on for too long now. Every time you turn around. I just want to get home.”

NJ Transit and Amtrak users arrived at Penn Station Thursday only to learn that power outages were causing delays from New Haven all the way to Philadelphia.

An Amtrak spokesperson said two things were to blame for the service disruptions: brush fires in Secaucus, New Jersey and a malfunctioning circuit breaker which caused a loss in power on the tracks between New York, and Newark Penn stations.

"I take the train every day, but over the last couple of weeks, NJ Transit has really sucked. I mean we have had very poor services,” said Thurston Green, who takes Amtrak five days a week.

To make matters more unconformable, temperatures climbed well into the 90s Thursday, marking the hottest day of the year so far. And below ground, there wasn’t much relief.

"Look at me. I'm sweating, it's hot. It's too much,” said Wooten.

Amtrak warned commuters Thursday afternoon that high temperatures may require trains to operate at lower speeds, resulting in delays of up to 60 minutes between noon and 7:30 p.m. for the remainder of the week.

Power was restored at 5:30 p.m., but Amtrak warned riders to expect congestion along the rails.

Commuters said they’d like to see more accountability from transit leaders both in New York and New Jersey.

“They have to fix the trains. We keep spending all this money, $5 a fare. There are 365 days in a year, how much money are you spending here? Where's that money going to?” said Shawn Mendez, who was traveling to an event in Newark.

A heat advisory has been issued for the city beginning noon Friday with feels-like temperatures expected to reach 97 degrees.

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Amtrak service into and out of New York City disrupted for a second day

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NEW YORK (AP) — Rail service in the Northeast was disrupted for a second day on Friday, with Amtrak trains into and out of New York City delayed or canceled and service on the commuter line NJ Transit suspended during the morning rush.

Several Amtrak trains scheduled to run between New York City and upstate New York were canceled, the railroad said on X , and trains from Pennsylvania to New York were terminating in Philadelphia.

By the start of the afternoon rush, the rail announced service had been restored along the busy transit corridor.

Crews cleared the tracks of a disabled NJ Transit train and completed all necessary infrastructure repairs at New York’s Penn Station, Amtrak said.

“Customers traveling through New York Penn Station should expect residual delays,” the rail service said in a statement posted on X . “We appreciate everyone’s patience as we worked through the unexpected service disruption.

NJ Transit, meanwhile, appeared to blame Amtrak for the fact that its own service in and out of Penn Station was suspended during Friday’s morning rush hour.

“Rail service is suspended into and out of Penn Station New York due to AMTRAK overhead wire issues in Penn Station New York,” the commuter line, which shares tracks with Amtrak, said on its website.

Service resumed around 11 a.m. with 45-minute delays, NJ Transit said.

The disruptions came one day after Amtrak service between Philadelphia and New Haven, Connecticut, was suspended for several hours.

Amtrak said a circuit breaker malfunction caused Thursday’s disruptions.

2 new long-distance rail lines proposed for Cincinnati

Imagine hopping on a train at Union Terminal headed to New Orleans for jazz and gumbo, or taking in the sights on a winding route past the Smoky Mountains on your way to Nashville for hot chicken and country music at a honky-tonk.

It could happen if the Federal Railroad Administration's latest plan for Cincinnati comes to fruition.

The railroad administration is studying adding two new long-distance lines to Amtrak's intercity rail service that would run through Cincinnati's Union Terminal with destinations including Nashville, New Orleans and Dallas.

The two new lines would join Amtrak's Cardinal line , which runs from Chicago to New York City and stops in Cincinnati twice a day, three days a week.

Railroad administration officials proposed the new lines earlier this month during the final round of regional stakeholder meetings for the administration's ongoing Amtrak Daily Long-Distance Service Study .

The study is evaluating the cost and feasibility of restoring or adding new long-distance Amtrak train service over routes 750 miles or longer.

New rail lines would link Cincinnati to Nashville, other hot spots

The proposed new rail lines through Cincinnati would run from the Dallas–Fort Worth metro area to New York City and from Detroit to New Orleans with a stop in Nashville.

The new lines would be bankrolled with money from the $1.2 trillion bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed under the Biden administration in 2021.

The railroad administration expects to complete the study and report its findings to Congress later this year.

At this point, however, the proposed new routes through Cincinnati are "conceptual'' and "are not proposals for service,'' a railroad administration spokesperson said in an email to The Enquirer.

"The study is meant to set forth a set of potential options for what could occur in the future, not necessarily what will happen,'' the email read.

Government would pay for new Amtrak service through Cincinnati

Still, passenger rail advocates are excited by the prospect of Amtrak expanding service through the Queen City on the government's dime.

"These two new routes would create connectivity that is desperately needed and desired ... and would be entirely funded at the federal level,'' said John Esterly, executive director of the Columbus-based rail advocacy organization All Aboard Ohio.

Esterly said new rail lines through Cincinnati would "restore some of the connections that used to be there a generation or two ago'' and create opportunities for business owners catering to rail passengers stopping in Cincinnati.

Latest proposal would restore rail service from by-gone era

As many as seven passenger rail lines ran through Union Terminal until the early 1970s, before the nation's rail service was consolidated under the National Railroad Passenger Corp., later known as Amtrak.

Ohio already has several other proposals for new rail service on the table under the railroad administration's Corridor ID program , which provided $500,000 grants to governments and other groups to explore the expansion of passenger rail service.

Unlike the new lines proposed in the long-distance study, development of new rail lines proposed under the Corridor ID program would also require state funding.

4 new Ohio train routes were proposed last year

Ohio, which was one of 69 applicants accepted into the Corridor ID program in December last year, submitted four new proposals, according to the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission :

• The Cincinnati-Columbus-Cleveland-Dayton corridor, known as 3C+D, which would connect Ohio’s four largest metropolitan areas with three to five daily round trips.
• Train service from Cleveland to Detroit, passing through Toledo.
• The Midwest Connect line, which would connect Pittsburgh to Chicago, through Columbus and Fort Wayne, Indiana, with six daily round trips.
• Expansion of Amtrak's Cardinal line service from three to seven days a week.

All of the proposals for expanded rail service through Cincinnati are in the early stages of planning and will require substantial involvement by numerous stakeholders as well as significant public investment.

"As these studies come to fruition, we're still looking at 10, 15 years out before we would see actual service on those routes,'' All Aboard Ohio's Esterly said.

Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, amtrak to nyc.

New York City is one of the easiest destinations to reach on Amtrak. Many East Coast routes , and some that originate in the Midwest and Southeast, travel to the Big Apple. Trains stop at New York Penn Station , a bustling transportation hub with connections to the subway and commuter trains.

If you are traveling from any location west of the Mississippi River, you’ll need to change trains in Chicago or New Orleans in order to continue your trip to New York City.

Explore the Amtrak routes that stop in New York City below, and use the Find Trains feature on the Amtrak.com homepage to find the options from your starting location.

This website is reader supported and not affiliated with Amtrak. We may earn a small commission from links on this page.

NYC Amtrak Routes

The following Amtrak routes stop at New York Penn Station:

• Acela  (East Coast)
• Adirondack  (Upstate New York)
• Cardinal  (Midwest)
• Carolinian (South)
• Crescent  (South)
• Empire Service  (Upstate New York)
• Ethan Allen Express  (Vermont, New York)
• Keystone Service  (Pennsylvania)
• Lake Shore Limited  (Midwest)
• Maple Leaf  (Upstate New York, Canada)
• Northeast Regional  (East Coast)
• Pennsylvanian  (PA)
• Piedmont  (South)
• Silver Star / Silver Meteor / Palmetto  (South)
• Vermonter  (Vermont)

Things to Know

• Get a discount on New York City attractions with CityPass .
• It’s easy to transfer to multiple forms of transit once in Manhattan. Subway lines A, C, E and 1, 2 3 stop at the station as well as New Jersey Transit and Long Island Railroad
• Acela stops at many of the same stations as the Northeast Regional, but is faster if you have a choice between the two.

More Information

• Best things to do in NYC
• Holiday activities in NYC
• New York City Trip Planner
• 15 best Amtrak day trips from NYC

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Amtrak Service Into and Out of New York City Disrupted for a Second Day

Rail service in the Northeast has been disrupted for a second day

NEW YORK (AP) — Rail service in the Northeast was disrupted for a second day on Friday, with Amtrak trains into and out of New York City delayed or canceled and service on the commuter line NJ Transit suspended during the morning rush.

Several Amtrak trains scheduled to run between New York City and upstate New York were canceled, the railroad said on X , and trains from Pennsylvania to New York were terminating in Philadelphia.

By the start of the afternoon rush, the rail announced service had been restored along the busy transit corridor.

Crews cleared the tracks of a disabled NJ Transit train and completed all necessary infrastructure repairs at New York's Penn Station, Amtrak said.

“Customers traveling through New York Penn Station should expect residual delays,” the rail service said in a statement posted on X . "We appreciate everyone’s patience as we worked through the unexpected service disruption.

NJ Transit, meanwhile, appeared to blame Amtrak for the fact that its own service in and out of Penn Station was suspended during Friday's morning rush hour.

“Rail service is suspended into and out of Penn Station New York due to AMTRAK overhead wire issues in Penn Station New York,” the commuter line, which shares tracks with Amtrak, said on its website.

Service resumed around 11 a.m. with 45-minute delays, NJ Transit said.

The disruptions came one day after Amtrak service between Philadelphia and New Haven, Connecticut , was suspended for several hours.

Amtrak said a circuit breaker malfunction caused Thursday's disruptions.

Copyright 2024 The  Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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