Amtrak operates the Palmetto, a passenger train that travels 829 miles (1,334 kilometers) between New York City and Savannah, Georgia, via the Northeast Corridor, Washington, D.C., Richmond, Virginia, Fayetteville, North Carolina, and Charleston, South Carolina. The Palmetto is a shorter Silver Meteor variant extending south to Miami, Florida. From 1996 until 2002, this service was known as the Silver Palm. Although the Palmetto is presently a day train, Amtrak considers it a long-distance train and has historically given overnight sleeper service to Florida.
In fiscal year 2019, the Palmetto transported 345,342 passengers, an 11% reduction from FY2018. The train generated a total income of $27,208,372 in FY2016, a 61.4% increase over FY2015.
Schedule Highlights
- Every day, one train travels in each way.
- Trains leave New York City in the early morning.
- Trains leave Savannah in the morning.
- Amtrak takes around 16 hours to traverse the full journey (12 hours by vehicle).
- The travel time between New York City and Charleston is 13.5 hours.
- The travel duration between Savannah and Charleston is around 1.5 hours (faster than driving).
Visit Amtrak.com to get the most recent schedules and timetables.
How to Book Amtrak Palmetto Tickets
Booking Online
- Go to Amtrak’s official website.
- Input your departure city, arrival city, and desired travel dates.
- Select the Amtrak Palmetto from the available options.
- Choose your preferred seat type (coach, business class) and seat location.
- Enter information for all passengers traveling.
- Double-check your itinerary and passenger details. Proceed to payment to complete your booking.
Booking by Phone
- Call Amtrak Reservations: Dial Amtrak’s reservation number.
- Provide Travel Details: Inform the agent of your desired departure and arrival cities, travel dates, and number of passengers.
- Select Your Train: Specify that you want to book a ticket for the Amtrak Palmetto.
- Choose Your Seats: Request your preferred seat type and seat location.
- Provide Passenger Information: Supply the necessary details for each passenger.
- Make Payment: Provide your payment information to complete the booking.
Booking In Person
- Visit an Amtrak Ticket Office or Station: Locate the nearest Amtrak ticket office or station.
- Request a Palmetto Ticket: Inform the agent that you want to book a ticket for the Amtrak Palmetto.
- Provide Travel Details: Specify your departure and arrival cities, travel dates, and number of passengers.
- Choose Your Seats: Select your preferred seat type and seat location.
- Complete Purchase: Pay for your ticket and collect the confirmation.
Fare Types and Discounts on Amtrak Palmetto
Fare Types
Amtrak offers various fare types to cater to different travel needs and budgets. Here are some common options:
- Economy Fare: This is typically the most affordable option, often with restrictions on changes or refunds.
- Flexible Fare: Offers more flexibility for changes or cancellations, but generally comes with a higher price tag.
- Business Class: Provides enhanced amenities and services, including larger seats, complimentary meals, and priority boarding.
Note: Fare types and availability may vary depending on the specific route and travel dates.
Discounts
Amtrak offers several discounts to eligible passengers:
Student Discounts
- Amtrak provides discounts for students aged 13 to 25.
- To qualify, you may need to provide valid student identification.
- Discount amounts and eligibility criteria can vary.
Senior Discounts
- Amtrak offers discounts for passengers aged 65 and older.
- The discount typically applies to the base fare.
- Specific discount amounts may vary depending on the fare type.
Military Discounts
- Amtrak provides discounts for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their dependents.
- You may need to present a valid military ID to qualify.
- Discount amounts and eligibility criteria can vary.
Popular Stops and Stations along the route
Popular Stops
- New York City
- Philadelphia
- Wilmington, DE
- Baltimore
- Washington D.C.
- Richmond
- Charleston, SC
- Savannah
Stations
- New York, NY – Penn Station (NYP)
- Newark, NJ – Penn Station (NWK)
- Metropark, NJ (MET)
- New Brunswick, NJ (NBK)
- Princeton Junction, NJ (PJC)
- Trenton, NJ (TRE)
- Philadelphia, PA – 30th Street Station (PHL)
- Wilmington, DE (WIL)
- Baltimore, MD – Penn Station (BAL)
- Baltimore, MD – BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
- New Carrollton, MD (NCR)
- Washington, DC – Union Station (WAS)
- Alexandria, VA (ALX)
- Richmond, VA – Staples Mill Road Station (RVR)
- Petersburg, VA (PTB)
- Rocky Mount, NC (RMT)
- Wilson, NC (WLN)
- Selma-Smithfield, NC (SSM)
- Fayetteville, NC (FAY)
- Dillon, SC (DIL)
- Florence, SC (FLO)
- Kingstree, SC (KTR)
- Charleston, SC (CHS)
- Yemassee, SC (YEM)
- Savannah, GA (SAV)
Most popular Amtrak Palmetto routes
Amtrak Palmetto’s most popular train route is from Baltimore to New York. Trips from Savannah to North Charleston and Washington to Richmond are also quite popular.
TOP AMTRAK PALMETTO ROUTES
| Route | Price | Daily Trips | Duration |
| Baltimore to New York | $22 | 2 | 2h 51m |
| Savannah to North Charleston | $18 | 1 | 1h 33m |
| Washington to Richmond | $18 | 1 | 2h 12m |
| Washington to New York | $28 | 1 | 3h 26m |
| Philadelphia to New York | $17 | 1 | 1h 28m |
| Baltimore to Washington | $26 | 2 | 0h 40m |
| Richmond to Alexandria | $18 | 1 | 1h 50m |
| Washington to Philadelphia | $73 | 1 | 1h 54m |
| Washington to Newark | $22 | 1 | 3h 6m |
Cost Comparison: Amtrak Palmetto vs. Other Transportation Options
Comparing the cost of Amtrak Palmetto to other transportation options can be complex due to various factors such as distance, fuel prices, and additional expenses. However,
Here’s the table with estimated cost ranges:
| Transportation Options | Estimated Cost Range | Additional Fees | Time | Convenience |
| Amtrak Palmetto | $50 – $200 | $ (optional) | Moderate | High |
| Driving | $0.25 – $0.35/mile | $$ (parking, tolls) | Moderate (traffic dependent) | High (flexible) |
| Flying | $100 – $500+ | $$ (baggage, seat selection) | Fastest | Moderate (airport hassles) |
| Bus Travel | $20 – $100 | $ (optional baggage) | Slowest | Moderate (limited amenities) |
| Rideshare | $10 – $50+ | $ (tip) | Moderate (traffic dependent) | High (door-to-door) |
Amtrak Palmetto Luggage Policy
Carry-On Baggage
Amtrak allows passengers to bring two carry-on bags per person, free of charge. Each carry-on bag must be 50 pounds (23 kg) and dimensions of 28 x 22 x 14 inches. Additionally, you can bring one personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag, or briefcase, with a maximum weight of 25 pounds (12 kg) and dimensions of 14 x 11 x 7 inches.
- Carry-on bags should be stored in the overhead racks or under the seat.
- Personal items can be placed under the seat in front of you.
Checked Baggage
You can check up to two bags for free. Each checked bag must be at most 50 pounds (23 kg). For additional bags, you may be charged a fee.
Oversized Luggage
For items larger than the standard checked baggage size but not exceeding 75 linear inches, you can check one oversized item for a fee of $20.
Amtrak Palmetto Pet Policy
Amtrak allows small pets on board some of its trains, including Palmetto’s select routes. However, there are specific guidelines and restrictions:
- Pet Type: Only dogs and cats are permitted.
- Pet Size: The combined weight of the pet and its carrier must not exceed 20 pounds.
- Pet Age: Pets must be at least eight weeks old.
- Pet Carrier: The pet must be in a leak-proof, well-ventilated carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
- Travel Time: Pets cannot travel for more than seven hours, including layovers.
- Fee: There is a fee to bring a pet on board.
Important: Not all Palmetto trains allow pets. Be sure to check the specific train you are taking before traveling with your pet.
Additional Considerations:
- Your pet must be well-behaved, quiet, and clean.
- You will need to sign a pet release document at check-in.
- Pets are not allowed in dining cars or lounges.
It’s highly recommended to contact Amtrak directly to verify the pet policy for your specific Palmetto train journey.
Train Amenities
Accommodations
Coach Class Seat
Coach class seats on the Palmetto are comfortable, with plenty of legroom, reclining seats, and no middle seats. You will also find amenities like trays, reading lamps and power outlets. Every vehicle has toilets. If you’re an Amtrak Guest Rewards member, you’ll earn points for your coach class travel.
Business Class Seat
Business Class offers a more luxurious experience on Amtrak trains. You’ll enjoy features like extra legroom, comfortable seats and complimentary beverages. A choice of seats is available on many routes, making it easy to board the train. In addition, business class passengers earn more points in the Amtrak Guest Rewards program.
Viewliner Roomette
For consumers wanting both privacy and savings in First Class, Roomettes offers:
- Two comfy chairs by day changed into higher and lower beds at night.
- Recently renovated bedding, pillows, towels, and linens
- Access to a bathroom and shower in your vehicle.
- A dedicated first-class attendant
- Complimentary Lounge access
- Priority Boarding
- Complimentary food.
Viewliner Roomette
For consumers wanting both privacy and savings in First Class, Roomettes offers:
- Two comfy chairs by day changed into higher and lower beds at night.
- Recently renovated bedding, pillows, towels, and linens
- Access to a bathroom and shower in your vehicle.
- A dedicated first-class attendant
- Complimentary Lounge access
- Priority Boarding
- Complimentary food.
Viewliner Bedroom
For passengers wanting lots of luxury and spaciousness in First Class, Bedrooms include:
- 2 times the space of a roomette
- A couch and separate chair by day, changed into higher and lower beds at night.
- Recently renovated bedding, pillows, towels, and linens
- In-room sink, toilet, and shower
- A dedicated first-class attendant
- Complimentary Lounge access
- Priority Boarding
- Complimentary food.
Viewliner Bedroom Suite
For clients wanting the greatest First Class experience, Bedroom Suites combine two adjoining bedrooms and include:
- 2 times the area of a bedroom.
- The room has enhanced bedding, pillows, towels, and linens, as well as two couches and chairs during the day that convert to higher and lower beds at night.
- Two in-room sinks, bathrooms, and showers.
- A dedicated first-class attendant
- Complimentary Lounge access
- Priority Boarding
- Complimentary food.
Viewliner Accessible Bedroom
Accessible Bedrooms are placed on the train’s entrance level and can accommodate a wheelchair. Each room includes the following:
- Seating during the day becomes higher and lower beds at night.
- On single-level Viewliner trains: in-room restrooms with sink, toilet, and shower
- On the bi-level Superliner trains: in-room restroom with sink and toilet; access to a private shower in your car.
- Upgraded bedding, pillows, towels, and linens
- A devoted First Class attendant
- Access to the lounge is complimentary
- Priority boarding,
- Meals are complimentary (including room service).
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, most Amtrak Palmetto trains offer Wi-Fi. However, there may be times when the Wi-Fi connection is weak or unavailable, especially in remote areas. It’s a good idea to have a backup plan, such as downloading movies or books. The Wi-Fi in Palmetto is great for basic tasks like browsing the web, checking email, or chatting with friends. Don’t expect to stream movies or TV shows.
Yes, Amtrak Palmetto trains do have plugs for power outlets. There are usually one or two plugs in each row of seats, so be a good traveler and ask your friend if they might also want to charge theirs. You can charge both a computer and USB devices with the built-in power outlets. Most phones and tablets come with a USB power charger.
Not all trips with Amtrak Palmetto are sure to have power points because the company may use repair rolling stock. Just in case, you should bring a power bank with you on trips that last more than two hours.
Amtrak Palmetto typically operates 202 scheduled train runs each day. However, the actual departure and arrival hours vary according to the day and route. To get the precise timetable for your journey, utilize the search function on this page.
No, Amtrak Palmetto does not provide will-call tickets. Purchase your tickets online and ensure that you have everything you need to board before arriving at the station.
Yes, you will need to show the conductor a valid government-issued ID before boarding Amtrak Palmetto. College ID or other forms of identification will not be accepted.
Yes, Amtrak Palmetto trains have restrooms. They are basic, with toilet, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer. Most toilets do not have running water. Be careful and hold onto something when using the toilet while the train is moving.
Amtrak Palmetto offers food to keep you satisfied throughout your journey. Make sure to have a credit card and some cash in case you get hungry.
A paper ticket is not required to board Amtrak Palmetto. Once you book your trip online, you will receive an electronic ticket (e-ticket) by email. Just show this e-ticket on your phone to the conductor when you board the train.
Yes, Amtrak Palmetto offers premium amenities like extra legroom and entertainment options. If you prefer more room to stretch out, you’ll be happy to know that they have seats with extra legroom. The amount of extra space can vary between trains, but it’s always a nice perk.