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Train from New York, NY to Philadelphia, PA: Timetable, Prices & Amtrak Tickets

Train from New York (NYC) to Philadelphia – Route Overview

Trains from New York to Philadelphia operate throughout the day, starting shortly after midnight and continuing until late at night. The first train usually departs around 12:10 AM, while the last train leaves close to midnight, ensuring excellent schedule coverage for early and late travelers.

With frequent departures, short travel times, and mostly direct services, the train remains one of the most reliable and convenient transportation options between New York and Philadelphia.

NYC to Philadelphia Route Overview
Verified Feb 14, 2026
Cheapest Ticket
$12
Available for advance bookings
Check Price
Fastest Trip
1h 07m
Amtrak Acela premium service
Average Duration
1h 10m
Includes all service types
First Train Departure
~12:10 AM
Daily early morning service
Average Price
$75 – $80
Typical walk-up / same-day rates
Trains Per Day
~44 Daily
High-frequency Northeast Corridor service
Route Distance
130 km
Approx. 80 miles city-to-city
Direct Trains
Yes
Most services are direct
Verified Status
Active
Feb 14, 2026 update
Book Live Tickets
Train Providers
Amtrak
Regional & Acela services
Next Data Update
Daily
Prices based on availability

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Data last updated: Feb 2026 (Updated Daily)

Traveling from New York (NYC) to Philadelphia by Train

Traveling from New York (NYC) to Philadelphia (PHL) by train is one of the fastest, most reliable, and most comfortable ways to move between these two major East Coast cities. With frequent daily departures and direct connections, train travel is ideal for business travelers, tourists, and anyone looking to avoid traffic congestion or flight delays.

Trains on this route operate along the busy Northeast Corridor, connecting New York, NY and Philadelphia, PA multiple times throughout the day. On average, there are more than 35 to 44 trains running daily, giving travelers excellent flexibility when planning their journey. The distance between the two cities is approximately 80 miles (130 km), and most trains complete the trip in just over an hour.

The average train journey from New York City to Philadelphia takes around 1 hour 12 to 17 minutes, depending on the service and departure time. All major trains on this route are direct, meaning there is no need to change trains along the way, which makes the journey smooth and time-efficient.

Cheapest Train from New York to Philadelphia

Finding a cheap train from New York to Philadelphia is easier when tickets are booked in advance. Train fares on this route vary depending on demand, travel time, and how close the booking date is to departure.

When booked early, the cheapest train tickets from NYC to Philadelphia can start from as low as $13 to $19. However, tickets purchased on the day of travel are usually more expensive, with prices increasing during peak hours and busy travel dates. Travelers looking to save money are advised to choose off-peak departures and secure tickets as early as possible.

Fastest Train from New York (NYC) to Philadelphia

The fastest train from New York to Philadelphia can complete the journey in as little as 1 hour 7 minutes, making it one of the quickest intercity rail routes in the United States. Even the average train services are highly efficient, with most journeys taking only slightly longer than the fastest option.

Typical travel times range between 1 hour 12 minutes and 1 hour 20 minutes, depending on the service type and time of day. Faster trains are ideal for travelers prioritizing speed, while slightly slower services may offer lower fares and more flexible ticket options.

Train Schedules and Timetables from New York (NYC) to Philadelphia

The train schedule from New York City to Philadelphia is designed for maximum flexibility, with frequent departures throughout the day and late into the night. Trains operate on the busy Northeast Corridor, making this one of the most well-connected rail routes in the United States.

On an average day, 35 to 45 direct trains run from New York, NY to Philadelphia, PA, allowing travelers to choose from early-morning, mid-day, evening, and late-night departures. Because all major services on this route are direct, passengers do not need to worry about transfers or connection delays.

The first train from New York to Philadelphia usually departs shortly after midnight, while the last train leaves close to 11:50 PM, making it easy to plan both same-day trips and late-night travel.

New York (NYC) to Philadelphia – Daily Train Schedule

Verified Jan 2026
Train Service Departure (NYC) Arrival (PHL) Duration Direct Est. Price
Amtrak AcelaHigh Speed
05:30 AM
Penn Station, NYC
06:47 AM
30th Street Station
1h 17m Yes $120–$180
AmtrakNortheast Regional
06:00 AM 07:22 AM 1h 22m Yes $70–$120
Amtrak CardinalLong Distance
06:40 AM 08:07 AM 1h 27m Yes $65–$110
Keystone ServiceRegional
07:00 AM 08:24 AM 1h 24m Yes $50–$90
AmtrakNortheast Regional
08:05 AM 09:30 AM 1h 25m Yes $70–$120
Amtrak AcelaHigh Speed
09:20 AM 10:31 AM 1h 11m Yes $130–$200
AmtrakNortheast Regional
10:30 AM 11:52 AM 1h 22m Yes $80–$140
Keystone ServiceRegional
12:00 PM 01:25 PM 1h 25m Yes $55–$100
AmtrakNortheast Regional
01:17 PM 02:41 PM 1h 24m Yes $90–$150
Amtrak CrescentLong Distance
02:00 PM 03:31 PM 1h 31m Yes $100–$160
Amtrak AcelaHigh Speed
03:00 PM 04:17 PM 1h 17m Yes $140–$220
AmtrakNortheast Regional
04:05 PM 05:30 PM 1h 25m Yes $90–$150
AmtrakNortheast Regional
05:04 PM 06:32 PM 1h 28m Yes $110–$180
AmtrakNortheast Regional
06:05 PM 07:32 PM 1h 27m Yes $100–$170
Keystone ServiceRegional
07:53 PM 09:16 PM 1h 23m Yes $70–$120
AmtrakNortheast Regional
09:22 PM 10:45 PM 1h 23m Yes $80–$140
AmtrakNortheast Regional
11:23 PM 12:51 AM 1h 28m Yes $60–$100

Fastest and Slowest Trains from New York to Philadelphia

The fastest train from NYC to Philadelphia completes the journey in approximately 1 hour 7 minutes, making rail travel faster than driving during peak traffic hours. These faster services are ideal for business travelers or anyone looking to minimize travel time.

Most trains complete the journey in around 1 hour 12 to 1 hour 25 minutes, which represents the average travel time on this route. Slower services may take slightly longer, usually due to additional stops or lower-priority scheduling, but they still offer a reliable and comfortable journey.

Train vs Bus: Best Way to Travel from New York (NYC) to Philadelphia

When planning travel from New York, NY to Philadelphia, PA, the two most common options are train and bus. While both modes connect the cities directly, they differ significantly in terms of travel time, comfort, price, and environmental impact.

For most travelers, taking the train from New York to Philadelphia is the preferred option due to its speed, frequency, and reliability. Trains on this route operate along the Northeast Corridor and can reach Philadelphia in as little as 1 hour 17 minutes, making rail travel the fastest way to get between the two cities. Buses, while generally cheaper, take considerably longer and are more affected by road traffic and congestion.

The distance between New York and Philadelphia is approximately 80 miles (130 km). Trains cover this distance efficiently with minimal delays, while buses often require additional travel time due to highway conditions and city traffic at both ends of the journey.

Comparison: Train vs Bus from New York to Philadelphia

Compare journey duration, ticket pricing, and environmental impact for travel from NYC to Philadelphia.

Train

Travel Time ~1h 47m total Fastest: 1h 17m
Average Price Mid-range fares
CO₂ Emissions 0.0 – 0.1 kg Very Low Impact
Direct Services Yes
Popular Operator
Amtrak

Bus

Travel Time ~2h 30m total Fastest: 2h 02m
Average Price Usually cheaper
CO₂ Emissions 0.1 – 0.3 kg Moderate Impact
Direct Services Yes
Popular Operator
FlixBus

Train Ticket Prices from New York (NYC) to Philadelphia

Train ticket prices from New York City to Philadelphia vary depending on the type of train, travel time, demand, and how far in advance tickets are booked. Because this is a busy Northeast Corridor route, prices can change frequently, especially during peak hours, weekends, and holidays.

When booked early, cheap train tickets from NYC to Philadelphia can start as low as $13 to $19 on select services. Tickets purchased closer to departure are usually more expensive, particularly for high-speed and peak-time trains. Premium services such as Acela tend to have the highest fares, while regional and Keystone services often provide better value for money.

Average Ticket Prices by Train Type

Amtrak operates the entire NYC-PHL corridor with multiple service tiers tailored to your budget and speed requirements.

Premium Tier Amtrak Acela
Speed Efficiency 1h 05m
Top Advance Saver $120 – $150 Premium business class fares
Standard Tier Amtrak Regional
Standard Rail 1h 20m
Best Value Advance $13 – $19 Mid-range standard fares
Budget Tier Keystone Service
Commuter Link 1h 22m
Lowest Daily Rate $13 – $19 Budget-friendly options
Intercity Pennsylvanian
Scenic Route 1h 24m
Fixed Advance $90+ Variable daily pricing
Long Distance Amtrak Cardinal
Limited Stops 1h 25m
Availability Rare $90+ Limited weekly departures
Ticket prices increase significantly when booking on the same day or during busy periods. Travelers looking for the cheapest train from New York to Philadelphia should prioritize early booking (21+ days) and flexible travel times.

Train Companies Operating from New York (NYC) to Philadelphia

The train from New York, NY to Philadelphia, PA is operated exclusively by Amtrak, the national passenger rail provider in the United States. On this busy Northeast Corridor route, travelers can choose between standard intercity services and high-speed options depending on their budget, comfort preferences, and travel time requirements.

Amtrak operates frequent daily trains between New York City and Philadelphia, with services designed for both everyday commuters and long-distance travelers. The two main train services available on this route are Amtrak Northeast Regional and Amtrak Acela.

The primary passenger rail operator, offering frequent services that balance affordability and comfort. Ideal for regular departures and lower ticket prices.

Avg Duration~1h 15m
Fastest1h 12m
Fare Start$13 – $19
Trips/Day15 – 20

Train Types

Northeast Regional, Keystone, Pennsylvanian, Cardinal

Route Type

Direct: NY Penn → Philly 30th St

Luggage

2 Personal + 2 Carry-on Bags included

Amenities

Wi-Fi, Outlets, Restrooms, Café Service

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces, station assistance

Pets

Small pets allowed for an additional fee

The fastest service from NYC to Philadelphia, designed for speed, quieter cabins, and premium comfort. Offers fewer departures but significantly shorter journey times.

Avg Duration~1h 08m
Fastest1h 06m
Price TierPremium
Trips/Day5 – 7

Seating Classes

Business Class & First Class Only

Reservations

Included in all classes

Environment

Quieter cabins, premium workspace

Amenities

Café Service, Power Outlets, High-Speed Wi-Fi

Availability

Cheapest fares have limited availability

Luggage

2 Personal + 2 Carry-on Bags included

Which Train Service Is Better for NYC to Philadelphia?

Travelers looking for cheap train tickets from New York to Philadelphia and flexible departure times usually choose standard Amtrak regional services. Those who need the fastest train from NYC to Philadelphia and prefer premium seating often opt for Amtrak Acela, despite higher fares. Both options provide direct, efficient rail travel between the two cities.

Train Stations for Trains from New York (NYC) to Philadelphia

Trains traveling from New York, NY to Philadelphia, PA depart primarily from New York Penn Station and arrive at Philadelphia 30th Street Station. Both stations are major transportation hubs offering extensive passenger amenities, accessibility services, and direct connections to local transit systems, making train travel between NYC and Philadelphia smooth and efficient.

Main Departure Hub

New York Penn Station (NYC)

New York Penn Station is the main departure station for trains from New York City to Philadelphia. Located in Midtown Manhattan, it serves Amtrak, regional rail, and subway lines.

Key Information

Address351 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001
Phone+1 212 630 6401
Ticket Office05:00 – 22:00 (daily)
From CenterApproximately 4 km
Main departure services Amtrak Acela, Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, Pennsylvanian and others

Amenities at Station

Free Wi-Fi (Moynihan Hall)
Parking nearby
Multiple restaurants & cafés
ATM available
Taxis outside
Elevators & ramps
Hotels within walking distance
Ticket office on-site
Info desk (Tracks 18–19)
Red Cap baggage assistance

Public Transportation Connections

Transport TypeLines & Services
Subway1, 2, 3, A, C, E
BusM7, M20
RailPATH, NJ Transit, LIRR, AirTrain Newark, AirTrain JFK
Primary Arrival Hub

Philadelphia 30th Street Station (PHL)

Philadelphia 30th Street Station is the primary arrival station for trains from New York. It is a historic and spacious major interchange for Amtrak and SEPTA services.

Key Information

Address2955 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone+1 215 349 2135
Ticket Office05:15 – 22:30 (daily)
From CenterApproximately 1 km
Platforms16 total

Amenities at Station

Free Wi-Fi
24/7 Parking
Restaurants, cafés & bars
ATM available
Taxis outside main entrance
Elevators & ramps
Restrooms (paid access)
Lounge in main hall
Lost and found
Bike parking & rental
Car rental (Enterprise, Hertz)
Free luggage carts
Info desk in main hall

Station Layout

LevelDescription
Main hallEntrance, ticketing, waiting areas
Upper levelAmtrak platforms
Lower levelSEPTA Regional Rail platforms

Public Transportation Connections

Transport TypeLines & Services
MetroSEPTA Market–Frankford Line
TrolleyRoutes 10, 11, 13, 34, 36
BusMultiple city bus routes
Best Time to Travel: NYC to Philadelphia

Best Time to Travel from New York (NYC) to Philadelphia by Train

Choosing the right time to travel by train from New York to Philadelphia can significantly affect ticket prices, crowd levels, and overall comfort. This route is popular with both business and leisure travelers, so demand varies by day, time, and season.

In general, off-peak travel offers the best balance of lower prices and a quieter onboard experience, while peak business hours tend to be more crowded and expensive.

Peak and Off-Peak Travel Times on the NYC–Philadelphia Route

Trains between NYC and Philadelphia are busiest during weekday business travel windows, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons. Midweek days often see higher demand due to corporate and commuter travel.

Crowding is typically lowest on Sundays and during mid-day hours, when fewer business travelers are on board. Early morning and late evening departures also tend to be less crowded and more affordable.

Seasonal Ticket Price Trends

Ticket prices on the train from New York to Philadelphia fluctuate throughout the year based on seasonal demand. Summer and major holidays usually bring higher fares, while winter months often provide the best value.

Travel Period Average Fare Range What to Expect
January–February $60–$75 Lowest demand, cheaper tickets, quieter trains
March–May $70–$85 Moderate prices, comfortable travel conditions
June–August $85–$110 Peak season, higher prices, book early
September–November $65–$90 Good balance of price and availability
December $75–$95 Holiday demand, advance booking recommended

Travelers looking for cheap train tickets from NYC to Philadelphia should prioritize winter months or shoulder seasons and avoid major holidays when possible.

Best Days and Times to Book NYC to Philadelphia Train Tickets

Booking strategy plays a major role in pricing. Tickets are generally cheapest when purchased three to four weeks in advance, especially for regional services.

Traveling during early mornings before 7 AM, mid-day hours between 10 AM and 3 PM, or late evenings after 8 PM often results in lower fares and fewer passengers. Peak pricing is most common during weekday rush hours.

Practical Travel Tips for a Smooth Train Journey

Arriving early at New York Penn Station or Philadelphia 30th Street Station helps avoid last-minute stress, especially during busy periods. Checking live departure boards and mobile apps before boarding ensures you’re aware of any platform or schedule changes.

Packing light makes boarding and luggage storage easier, and keeping essentials such as chargers and identification accessible improves comfort during the journey. Frequent travelers may benefit from loyalty programs, which can reduce long-term travel costs.

Travel Documentation and Ticket Requirements

Train travel between New York and Philadelphia requires minimal documentation compared to air travel. Passengers must carry a valid ticket, either in electronic or printed form. While photo identification is not always mandatory, it may be required when using discounted fares such as senior, military, or student tickets.

Tickets can be scanned directly from a mobile device or printed and presented to the conductor during the journey.

Boarding Process for Trains from NYC to Philadelphia

Boarding typically begins shortly before departure at New York Penn Station, with platforms announced on station displays and mobile apps. Conductors scan tickets onboard rather than at security checkpoints, allowing for a smoother boarding experience.

Most standard services use open seating in Coach Class, while premium services may include reserved seating depending on the ticket type. Conductors verify tickets during the journey rather than at the gate.

Security and Luggage Policies on NYC–Philadelphia Trains

Train travel on this route does not involve airport-style security screening. Passengers are allowed to carry luggage onboard, subject to size and weight limits.

Policy Area Details
Carry-on allowance2 bags per passenger
Maximum weightUp to 50 lbs per bag
Storage locationsOverhead racks and luggage areas
Security screeningLimited, station-dependent
Prohibited itemsWeapons, illegal substances, oversized items
PetsSmall pets allowed in carriers, service animals free

Security staff and station personnel are present at major stations to assist passengers and maintain safety throughout the journey.

Boarding and Seating Comparison by Train Service

Feature Amtrak Acela Northeast Regional Keystone Service
Ticket format Electronic or paper Electronic or paper Electronic or paper
Seating Reserved in premium classes Open seating in Coach Open seating in Coach
Luggage policy Same across all services Same Same
Ticket checks Conducted onboard Conducted onboard Conducted onboard

Making the Most of Your NYC to Philadelphia Train Trip

Planning ahead, choosing off-peak travel times, and staying informed with real-time updates are the best ways to ensure a comfortable and cost-effective journey. Whether traveling for business, leisure, or a short day trip, the train from New York to Philadelphia remains one of the fastest and most reliable transportation options on the East Coast.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Trains from New York (NYC) to Philadelphia (PA)

Traveling from New York to Philadelphia by train is straightforward, but travelers often have common questions regarding the journey. Below, we address the most frequently asked questions to help you better plan your trip.

Train ticket prices from New York, NY to Philadelphia, PA start from around $13–$19 when booked in advance on regional services. Average ticket prices usually range between $25–$40, while high-speed Amtrak Acela tickets are more expensive, especially during peak hours or last-minute bookings.
The average train journey from New York to Philadelphia takes around 1 hour 15 to 25 minutes. The fastest trains, operated by Amtrak Acela, can complete the journey in as little as 1 hour 5–7 minutes, while most regional trains take slightly longer.
The distance between New York, NY and Philadelphia, PA by train is approximately 80 miles (130 kilometers) along the Northeast Corridor.
The first train from New York Penn Station to Philadelphia typically departs shortly after midnight, making early-morning travel possible on this route.
The last train from New York to Philadelphia usually departs close to 11:50 PM, offering late-night travel options for passengers.
Yes, Amtrak Acela operates high-speed trains between New York City and Philadelphia. Acela is the fastest option on this route and is ideal for travelers prioritizing speed and premium comfort.
Yes, all major trains from New York to Philadelphia are direct. No transfers or train changes are required for this journey.
No, there are no sleeper trains on the NYC to Philadelphia route. The journey is short, so all services operate with standard seating only.
Trains from New York to Philadelphia depart from New York Penn Station, located in Midtown Manhattan. Most trains arrive at Philadelphia 30th Street Station.
The cheapest way to travel from New York to Philadelphia is usually by train booked in advance on regional services, with fares starting from around $13–$19. Buses may sometimes be cheaper, but trains are significantly faster and more reliable.
The NYC to Philadelphia train route is moderately scenic, especially when passing through parts of New Jersey. While it is not considered a scenic railway, the route offers urban and suburban views along the Northeast Corridor.
Yes, a day trip from New York to Philadelphia by train is very easy. With frequent departures and travel times just over one hour, you can comfortably travel to Philadelphia in the morning and return to New York the same day.
Philadelphia offers many attractions, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Reading Terminal Market, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and historic neighborhoods like Old City.
Most visitors spend 1 to 2 days in Philadelphia to see the main attractions. A longer stay of 3 days allows time to explore museums, neighborhoods, and nearby areas at a relaxed pace.
Yes, taking the train from New York to Philadelphia is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between the two cities, with frequent daily departures and direct connections.

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