Traveling from Boston to Baltimore by train offers a scenic, comfortable, and efficient way to explore the East Coast. Whether you’re commuting for business or planning a leisure trip, Amtrak Boston to Baltimore services provide multiple options to suit your schedule and budget. In this Page, we’ll cover everything you need to know — from ticket prices and schedules to routes and stops — to make your journey seamless.
Overview of Amtrak Boston to Baltimore
Amtrak Boston to Baltimore offers fast, scenic rail service with daily departures, modern amenities, flexible schedules, and convenient stops in major cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Route Name | Northeast Corridor (Acela Express / Northeast Regional / Vermonter) |
| Operates | Boston (South Station or Back Bay) ↔ Baltimore (Penn Station) |
| Key Stops | Providence (PVD), New York City (NYP), Philadelphia (PHL), Washington, DC (WAS) |
| Travel Time | Acela: ~6.5–7.5 hrs / Regional: ~7.5–9 hrs / Vermonter: ~7 hrs |
| Frequency | Acela: 10+ daily / Regional: 15+ daily / Vermonter: 1 daily |
| Train Numbers | Varies (e.g., Acela #2100s, Regional #140s, Vermonter #54/55) |
| Departures (BOS→BAL) | Acela: 6:00 AM–4:00 PM / Regional: 5:30 AM–9:00 PM / Vermonter: 8:50 AM (Back Bay) |
| Arrivals (BOS→BAL) | Acela: 10:30 AM–8:30 PM / Regional: 12:00 PM–3:30 AM (+1) / Vermonter: 4:05 PM |
| Ticket Prices | Acela: $100–$300+ / Regional: $50–$150 / Vermonter: $40–$120 |
| Amenities | Free WiFi, power outlets, café car (Acela: business class, premium dining) |
| Best Feature | Acela: Fastest (top speed 150 mph) / Regional: Budget-friendly / Vermonter: Scenic Hudson Valley views |
| Official Website | https://www.amtrak.com/home.html |
Routes of Amtrak Boston to Baltimore
The Amtrak route from Boston to Baltimore runs along the busy and scenic Northeast Corridor, connecting major East Coast cities with two primary train services:
| Route | Train Name | Key Stops | Travel Time | Frequency | Departures (BOS→BAL) | Arrivals (BOS→BAL) | Ticket Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acela Express | Premium high-speed | Providence, NYC, Philadelphia, DC | 6.5–7.5 hrs | 10+ daily | 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM | $100–$300+ |
| Northeast Regional | Standard service | Providence, NYC, Philadelphia, DC, more stops | 7.5–9 hrs | 15+ daily | 5:30 AM – 9:00 PM | 12:00 PM – 3:30 AM (+1) | $50–$150 |
| Vermonter | Scenic route | Springfield, New Haven, NYC, DC | 7 hrs | 1 daily (8:50 AM) | 8:50 AM (Back Bay) | 4:05 PM | $40–$120 |
Amtrak Boston to Baltimore Schedule
Amtrak offers frequent daily departures from Boston to Baltimore via two main services: Acela Express and Northeast Regional. Here’s a snapshot of the typical schedule:
| Train Name | Train | Departs (BOS) | Arrives (BAL) | Travel Time | Frequency | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acela Express | 2150 | 6:05 AM | 12:34 PM | 6h 29m | Daily | NYC, Philadelphia, DC |
| Acela Express | 2152 | 7:10 AM | 1:45 PM | 6h 35m | Daily | NYC, Philadelphia, DC |
| Acela Express | 2154 | 9:10 AM | 3:45 PM | 6h 35m | Daily | NYC, Philadelphia, DC |
| Acela Express | 2156 | 12:50 PM | 7:25 PM | 6h 35m | Daily | NYC, Philadelphia, DC |
| Acela Express | 2158 | 3:50 PM | 10:25 PM | 6h 35m | Daily | NYC, Philadelphia, DC |
| Northeast Regional | 154 | 5:40 AM | 1:17 PM | 7h 37m | Daily | NYC, Philadelphia, DC |
| Northeast Regional | 142 | 7:25 AM | 3:17 PM | 7h 52m | Daily | NYC, Philadelphia, DC |
| Northeast Regional | 134 | 9:25 AM | 5:17 PM | 7h 52m | Daily | NYC, Philadelphia, DC |
| Northeast Regional | 150 | 12:50 PM | 8:47 PM | 7h 57m | Daily | NYC, Philadelphia, DC |
| Northeast Regional | 94 | 3:55 PM | 11:17 PM | 7h 22m | Daily | NYC, Philadelphia, DC |
| Northeast Regional | 172 | 7:30 PM | 3:30 AM (+1) | 8h 00m | Daily | NYC, Philadelphia, DC |
| Vermonter | 54 | 8:50 AM (Back Bay) | 4:05 PM | 7h 15m | Daily | Springfield, NYC, DC |
Amtrak Boston to Baltimore Ticket Prices
Ticket prices for Amtrak trains between Boston and Baltimore vary based on the service type, travel date, and how early you book. Here’s a breakdown:
| Category | Acela Express | Northeast Regional | Vermonter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Coach | $110-$210 | $49-$129 | $39-$89 |
| Business Class | $190-$340 | $99-$199 | N/A |
| First Class | $290-$450+ | N/A | N/A |
| Saver Fare | $99-$179 (limited) | $39-$99 (limited) | $29-$69 (limited) |
| Flexible Fare | +30% standard price | +25% standard price | +20% standard price |
| Last-Minute Fare | $220-$400+ | $130-$220+ | $90-$150+ |
| Discounts Available | Senior (10%), AAA (10%) | Student, Military, Rail Pass | Senior, Children (50%) |
Amtrak Comfort: Boston to Baltimore
Traveling from Boston to Baltimore with Amtrak isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about enjoying the journey. Whether you choose the high-speed Acela Express or the more budget-friendly Northeast Regional, Amtrak ensures a comfortable, relaxing, and scenic ride through the Northeast Corridor.
Seating & Space
- Wide, reclining seats with extra legroom—no middle seats!
- Quiet Car available for peaceful travel
- Business Class & First Class options on Acela for added luxury
- Tray tables and footrests for added convenience
Connectivity & Productivity
- Free Wi-Fi on both Acela and Northeast Regional trains
- Power outlets at every seat for charging devices
- Work-friendly environment with quiet zones and table seating
Onboard Dining
- Café Car with snacks, beverages, and light meals
- Acela Express offers premium food and drink options
- Alcoholic beverages available for purchase
Baggage & Accessibility
- Generous baggage allowance: 2 carry-ons and 2 personal items per passenger
- No hidden fees for luggage—unlike airlines
- Accessible seating and restrooms for passengers with disabilities
Cleanliness & Safety
- Regular sanitation of seats, restrooms, and common areas
- Touchless ticketing via Amtrak app
- Onboard staff available for assistance throughout the journey
Scenic Views & Relaxation
- Large windows for panoramic views of the East Coast
- Opportunity to walk around and stretch during the ride
- A more relaxed atmosphere compared to air or car travel
Amtrak Boston to Baltimore vs. Other Travel Options
Planning a trip from Boston to Baltimore? Let’s compare Amtrak with other popular travel methods—bus, air, and car—to help you choose the best option for your needs.
| Category | Amtrak (Acela/Northeast Regional) | Flights (BOS→BWI) | Bus (Greyhound/Peter Pan) | Driving (Personal Car) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | 6.5–9 hours | 1.5–3 hours (with airport time) | 8–10 hours | 7–8 hours (450 miles) |
| Avg. Price | $50–$400 (varies by class) | $100–$300 | $30–$80 | $90–$150 (gas + tolls) |
| Departures/Day | 15+ (Acela + Regional) | 20+ flights | 5–10 buses | Flexible |
| Comfort | Spacious seats, WiFi, power outlets | Cramped seats, baggage fees | Basic seats, limited legroom | Personal space, stops as needed |
| Baggage | 2 free carry-ons + 2 checked bags | Fees for checked bags | 1 carry-on + fee for large bags | Unlimited (car capacity) |
| Best For | Stress-free travel, city-center to city-center | Speed (shortest total time) | Budget travel | Flexibility, multiple stops |
| Downtown Access | Arrives at Baltimore Penn Station (central) | BWI Airport (30 min to downtown) | Downtown drop-off | Direct to destination |
| Food Options | Café car or included meals (Acela) | Paid snacks on board | Limited stops for food | Full control over stops |
| Eco-Friendliness | Low carbon footprint | High emissions | Moderate emissions | Depends on car type |
| Reliability | Moderate (potential delays) | Weather-dependent | Traffic-dependent | Traffic-dependent |
Amtrak Boston to Baltimore Travel Tips
Planning a smooth and enjoyable train journey from Boston to Baltimore? Here are some practical tips to make your Amtrak experience even better:
| Category | Tips & Tricks |
|---|---|
| Booking | Book 3-6 weeks in advance for lowest “Saver Fares” Use Amtrak’s “Low Price Calendar” for deals Consider multi-ride passes if traveling frequently |
| Best Trains | Acela Express for speed (6.5 hrs) Northeast Regional for value (7.5+ hrs) Avoid late-night Regionals (often delayed) |
| Seat Selection | Left side seats (facing Hudson River views in NY section) Quiet Car available on Regionals (Coach #2 or #7) Upper level seats offer better views |
| Boarding | Arrive 30 mins early (South Station has quick boarding) Check track # on boards (changes last minute) Priority boarding for Business/First Class |
| Baggage | 2 free carry-ons + 2 checked bags Tag bags clearly (overhead space fills fast) Small suitcases fit better than large ones |
| Food | Acela: Free meals in First Class Regional: Café car (cash/card) Pack snacks (limited healthy options) |
| WiFi/Work | Acela has reliable WiFi Regional WiFi often spotty – download work offline Power outlets at every seat |
| Baltimore Arrival | Penn Station is downtown (walk to hotels/Inner Harbor) Free shuttle to Camden Yards Taxis/Uber readily available |
| Discounts | Student Advantage: 15% off Seniors (60+): 10% off AAA Members: 10% off Acela/Regional |
| Delay Prep | Track trains on Amtrak app Bring charger + entertainment Flexible tickets allow changes |
Check Other Route: Train Station Near Me
Conclusion
Amtrak’s Boston to Baltimore route offers a fast, scenic, and comfortable way to travel along the Northeast Corridor. With multiple daily departures, modern amenities, competitive ticket prices, and stops, Amtrak’s Acela and Northeast Regional trains offer a top-tier experience for both leisure and business travelers. Skip the stress of flying or driving—Amtrak delivers a smarter way to travel between two of the East Coast’s most iconic cities.
FAQs on Amtrak Boston to Baltimore
Amtrak offers Northeast Regional and Acela Express services between Boston (South Station) and Baltimore (Penn Station).
The trip takes about 6.5 to 8 hours on the Northeast Regional and 5.5 to 6.5 hours on the faster Acela Express.
Prices vary, but standard fares start at $50-$80 (Northeast Regional) and $120-$250 (Acela Express), depending on booking time and class.
Trains depart from Boston South Station and sometimes Back Bay Station, heading to Baltimore Penn Station.
Major stops include Providence, New Haven, Stamford, New York Penn Station, and Philadelphia.
Amenities include Wi-Fi, power outlets, café cars (Northeast Regional), and premium seating (Acela First Class).
Booking 2-4 weeks ahead usually offers the lowest fares, especially for Acela Express.
Yes, discounts are available for seniors (10% off), students (through Student Advantage), military, and AAA members.
Passengers can bring 2 carry-ons (50 lbs each) + 2 personal items for free; checked baggage is not available on these routes.
Yes, the USA Rail Pass includes this route, but each segment counts as a travel day.
