Ride the Rails: Experience New York Aboard Amtrak Trains (2024)

Last revised: January 1, 2024

New York State, with its bustling cities, scenic landscapes, and rich history, boasts an extensive network of passenger rail services. From the iconic Grand Central Terminal to the picturesque Hudson Valley, the state offers various options for travelers seeking efficient and comfortable transportation.

The information presented here briefly highlights the current level of services, both regional and long-distance, available across the state. Please note that you will need to visit each agency's individual website for complete scheduling information.

Photos

Amtrak's train #64, the eastbound "Maple Leaf," passes under the Peace Bridge which spans the Niagara River between the U.S. and Canada at Buffalo, New York on March 4, 2018. Doug Kroll photo.

Amtrak

Amtrak, the national passenger rail service, plays a vital role in connecting New York State with other parts of the country. The state hosts several routes, including:

Northeast Regional

This popular route connects major cities such as New York City, Albany, and Buffalo with destinations along the East Coast, including Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. The Northeast Regional provides frequent service and offers a range of seating options, onboard amenities, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Empire Service

Operating between New York City and Niagara Falls, the Empire Service offers a scenic journey through the Hudson Valley, stopping at cities such as Yonkers, Poughkeepsie, and Syracuse. With its panoramic windows, comfortable seating, and café cars, the service allows passengers to enjoy the natural beauty of upstate New York.

Adirondack

This route connects New York City with Montreal, Canada, taking passengers on a breathtaking journey through the Hudson Valley and the Adirondack Mountains. The Adirondack showcases stunning vistas, including Lake Champlain and the Saranac Lakes, while providing comfortable seating and dining options.

Maple Leaf

The Maple Leaf embarks from New York City's historic Penn Station, traversing the picturesque landscapes of upstate New York. The train passes through scenic areas like the Hudson River Valley and the Finger Lakes region before crossing the border at Niagara Falls, New York. It then continues into Canada, making stops in Niagara Falls, Ontario, and St. Catharines, before reaching its final destination, Toronto.

The Maple Leaf route offers passengers breathtaking views of the natural beauty that spans both the United States and Canada. The journey treats travelers to picturesque vistas of rolling hills, meandering rivers, and charming small towns. As the train crosses into Canada, it follows the shores of Lake Ontario, presenting passengers with panoramic views of the lake's azure waters and scenic landscapes.

One of the significant advantages of the Maple Leaf is its ability to foster cultural connections between the United States and Canada.

Toronto, a vibrant and diverse city, welcomes visitors with its multicultural ambiance, offering a wide array of attractions, world-class dining, and thriving arts and entertainment scenes.

Passengers have the opportunity to explore the city's iconic landmarks, museums, and diverse neighborhoods, immersing themselves in the vibrant Canadian culture.

A major highlight of the journey is witnessing the awe-inspiring beauty of Niagara Falls. The train stops at both Niagara Falls, New York, and Niagara Falls, Ontario, allowing passengers to disembark and explore this natural wonder.

From boat tours that take visitors close to the thunderous cascades to walking trails that offer spectacular viewpoints, the Niagara Falls experience adds a touch of grandeur to the trip.

Amtrak places great emphasis on passenger comfort, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable travel experience on the Maple Leaf. The train offers a range of seating options, including comfortable coach seats and Business Class accommodations.

Passengers can stay connected with onboard Wi-Fi, charge their electronic devices using available power outlets, and relax in the spacious and well-appointed cars. Dining options are also available, providing a variety of freshly prepared meals and snacks to satisfy passengers' culinary preferences.

Since the Maple Leaf is an international route, passengers should be aware of the border crossing process. The train makes a stop at Niagara Falls, New York, where customs and immigration procedures are conducted. It is essential for passengers to carry valid travel documents and allow sufficient time for the border crossing formalities.

Lake Shore Limited

The Lake Shore Limited embarks from Chicago's historic Union Station, traversing the heart of the Midwest before reaching New York State. The train passes through the picturesque countryside of Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, finally entering New York at Buffalo. From there, it continues eastward, making stops in Rochester, Syracuse, Utica, and Schenectady before arriving at its final destination, Boston's South Station.

As the train meanders through the Midwest, passengers are treated to breathtaking vistas of vast prairies, gently rolling hills, and charming small towns. The journey takes on a particularly scenic character as the train hugs the shores of the Great Lakes, offering passengers stunning views of Lake Michigan and Lake Erie.

Throughout its route, the Lake Shore Limited makes stops at various cities with rich historical significance. In New York State, passengers have the chance to explore vibrant destinations like Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Utica, and Schenectady.

These cities offer a wealth of cultural attractions, including architectural landmarks, museums, and local cuisine, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the unique character of each location.

Amtrak prioritizes passenger comfort and provides a range of amenities to enhance the travel experience on the Lake Shore Limited. The train offers spacious seating options, including coach seats, Business Class, and private sleeping accommodations.

Passengers can relax and enjoy the journey while taking advantage of Wi-Fi connectivity, power outlets, and ample legroom. Dining cars provide freshly prepared meals, and observation lounges offer panoramic views of the passing scenery.

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority extensively serves the New York City metropolitan area and its surrounding suburbs through its commuter rail lines, both regional and local in nature (passenger trains and subways).

Metro-North Railroad

Metro-North operates three main lines: Hudson Line, Harlem Line, and New Haven Line. These lines connect New York City's Grand Central Terminal with destinations such as Poughkeepsie, White Plains, Stamford, and New Haven. Metro-North trains provide frequent service, comfortable seating, and convenient schedules for both commuters and leisure travelers.

Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)

Serving Long Island and connecting with New York City's Penn Station, LIRR offers an extensive network of routes. Passengers can explore popular destinations such as Montauk, the Hamptons, and Jones Beach, as well as travel to Queens and Brooklyn. LIRR trains provide both peak and off-peak services, comfortable seating, and amenities like onboard Wi-Fi.

Other Regional Services

New York State offers additional regional train services that cater to specific areas and communities:

a. Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA): Operating in the Buffalo-Niagara region, NFTA's Metro Rail offers light rail service with stops at various points of interest, including downtown Buffalo, Canalside, and the University at Buffalo.

b. Port Jervis Line: This line, operated by NJ Transit, extends from Port Jervis in New York to Hoboken, New Jersey, providing connectivity between these regions.

c. Albany-Rensselaer Station: Located just across the Hudson River from Albany, this station serves as a regional hub connecting multiple Amtrak routes and providing a gateway to the Capital Region.

Amtrak's train #48, the eastbound "Lake Shore Limited," passes through Lancaster, New York on August 14, 2021. Doug Kroll photo.

Passenger train services in New York State provide a comprehensive transportation network, connecting residents and visitors with destinations across the Empire State and beyond. From Amtrak's Northeast Regional and Empire Service to MTA's Metro-North Railroad and Long Island Rail Road, these services offer convenience, comfort, and efficient travel options.

Tourist Trains

Finally, if you are just after a leisurely train ride outing for the day, there are many popular excursions available throughout the state, from the Arcade & Attica and the very popular Adirondack Railroad to the Catskill Mountain Railroad and Delaware & Ulster Railroad.

The state of New York is home to some fabulous natural scenery, some of which can be viewed by train at this railroad museums/tourist railroads.