Running four daily round trips between Raleigh and Charlotte, North Carolina, the Piedmont—also known as the Piedmont Service—operated by Amtrak and the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is a regional passenger train. Run from Charlotte to New York City, this sibling train of the Carolinian Mostly parallelling Interstate 85, the Piedmont route is coextensive with the far southern part of the Carolinian. It operates from Charlotte to Morehead City and follows the far western length of the state-owned North Carolina Railroad. Operations got underway in May 1995.
Unlike the Carolinian, which utilizes Amtrak rolling stock, NCDOT owns the rolling stock used on the Piedmont. NCDOT promotes both trains under the NC By Train name.
Piedmont handled 289,955 passengers in fiscal year 2023, up 36.4% from FY2022. With 214,218 passengers transported in FY2019, this is an increase over pre-COVID-19 pandemic ridership.
Highlights of the schedule
- Raleigh’s morning and afternoon departures number many.
- From Charlotte, morning, midday, and many evening departures abound.
- Three hours separate Raleigh from Charlotte in travel time.
- About thirty minutes separate Raleigh from Durham in travel time.
Visit Amtrak.com and utilize the Find Trains tool on the homepage for current timetables.
Detailed List of Stops and Stations
Here’s the detailed list of stops and stations along the Amtrak Piedmont route in table:
| Station | Amenities and Services | Nearby Attractions and Points of Interest |
| Raleigh, NC | Raleigh Union Station: Spacious waiting area, restrooms, ticketing kiosks, staffed ticket office, Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, accessibility features | North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Pullen Park, State Capitol |
| Cary, NC | Cary Station: Restrooms, ticketing kiosks, vending machines, staffed ticket office, parking, accessibility features | Chatham Hill Winery, Cary Arts Center, Fred G. Bond Metro Park |
| Durham, NC | Durham Station: Restrooms, ticketing kiosks, staffed ticket office, Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, accessibility features | Durham Performing Arts Center, American Tobacco Campus, Duke University |
| Burlington, NC | Burlington Station: Restrooms, ticketing kiosks, staffed ticket office, parking, accessibility features | Alamance Battleground, City Park, Children’s Museum of Alamance County |
| Greensboro, NC | Greensboro Station: Restrooms, ticketing kiosks, staffed ticket office, Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, accessibility features | International Civil Rights Center & Museum, Greensboro Science Center, Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden |
| High Point, NC | High Point Station: Restrooms, ticketing kiosks, staffed ticket office, parking, accessibility features | High Point Museum, All-A-Flutter Farms, City Lake Park |
| Salisbury, NC | Salisbury Station: Restrooms, ticketing kiosks, staffed ticket office, Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, accessibility features | North Carolina Transportation Museum, Historic Downtown Salisbury, Dan Nicholas Park |
| Kannapolis, NC | Kannapolis Station: Restrooms, ticketing kiosks, staffed ticket office, parking, accessibility features | North Carolina Research Campus, Village Park, Gem Theatre |
| Charlotte, NC | Charlotte Station: Restrooms, ticketing kiosks, staffed ticket office, Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, accessibility features | NASCAR Hall of Fame, Discovery Place Science, Uptown Charlotte |
Top Amtrak Piedmont Routes
- Burlington to Charlotte
- Cary to Charlotte
- Cary to Greensboro
- Charlotte to Cary
- Charlotte to Durham
- Charlotte to Greensboro
- Charlotte to Raleigh
- Durham to Charlotte
- Durham to Raleigh
- Greensboro to Cary
- Greensboro to Charlotte
- Greensboro to Raleigh
- Greensboro to Salisbury
- High Point to Charlotte
- Kannapolis to Raleigh
- Raleigh to Charlotte
Tickets and Reservations
Ticket Options
Passengers have two main ticket choices for the Amtrak Piedmont:
- Coach: It’s a standard ticket with comfortable seats, plenty of legroom, and essential amenities like Wi-Fi and power outlets. This is the most budget-friendly option.
- Business Class: For a more luxurious journey, Business Class offers larger seats, extra legroom, and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. Passengers in this class also enjoy priority boarding and a quiet environment.
Booking Your Trip
There are several ways to secure your Amtrak Piedmont ticket:
- Online: Purchase your ticket directly through the Amtrak or NC By Train website for convenience.
- Mobile App: Use the Amtrak mobile app to book, manage, and view your reservation details.
- By Phone: Call Amtrak or NC By Train to make a reservation with a customer service representative.
- At the Station: Buy your ticket in person at staffed stations or use the self-service kiosks available at many locations.
Tips for Saving Money
To get the best deal on your Amtrak Piedmont ticket:
- Book Early: While prices tend to be stable, booking in advance, especially during peak travel times, is recommended.
- Off-Peak Travel: For potential savings, consider traveling on weekdays or during less busy times.
- Group Discounts: Traveling with friends or family? Take advantage of group discounts offered by Amtrak.
- Check for Discounts: Students, seniors, military personnel, and state employees might qualify for reduced fares.
- Loyalty Program: Join the Amtrak Guest Rewards program to earn points and redeem them for future travel.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your Amtrak Piedmont journey while saving money.
Onboard Experience
Seating and Comfort
The Amtrak Piedmont train offers a comfortable travel experience with spacious seating options:
- Coach Class: Large, reclining seats with ample legroom and adjustable footrests are included. Each seat has a tray table and overhead reading lights.
- Business Class: Offers even more comfort with larger seats, extra legroom, and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. Business class passengers also enjoy priority boarding.
Wi-Fi and Electrical Outlets
Stay connected and entertained during your journey with Wi-Fi access available on board the Amtrak Piedmont. Power outlets are also provided at many seats, allowing you to charge your electronic devices conveniently.
Food and Beverage Options
Amtrak offers a variety of food and beverage options to satisfy your appetite. Enjoy freshly prepared meals, snacks, and drinks from the café car. For those who prefer to bring their own food, there are designated areas where you can consume your meals.
Accessibility Features
Amtrak is committed to providing a comfortable and accessible travel experience for all passengers. The Piedmont train features accessibility features such as wheelchair-accessible restrooms, priority seating, and assistance for passengers with disabilities.
Travel Tips and Recommendations
Best Times to Travel
- Weekdays: Traveling on weekdays, especially mid-week, tends to be less crowded than weekends. This can make for a more comfortable and relaxing journey.
- Off-Peak Hours: Early morning or late evening trains are often less busy, providing a quieter travel experience.
- Seasonal Considerations: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery along the way. Avoiding peak holiday seasons can also help you avoid crowds.
Packing Tips for a Comfortable Journey
- Entertainment: Bring books, and magazines, or download movies and music ahead of time. Scenic views are great, but additional entertainment can enhance your trip.
- Comfort Items: Pack a travel pillow, blanket, and eye mask for added comfort, especially if you plan to nap during the trip.
- Snacks and Drinks: While the train offers vending machines, bringing your own snacks and drinks can ensure you have your favorites on hand.
- Chargers and Adapters: Be sure to bring chargers for your devices, with electrical outlets at each seat. A multiport adapter can be useful if you have multiple devices.
- Personal Essentials: Don’t forget items like headphones, earplugs, and a reusable water bottle. These can make your trip more enjoyable and eco-friendly.
Safety and Security Tips
- Stay Aware: Keep track of your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. If you notice anything unusual, report it to the train staff immediately.
- Secure Your Valuables: Use a small bag or backpack to keep your valuables close to you. Avoid leaving them unattended.
- Boarding and Exiting: Be cautious when boarding and exiting the train. Watch your step and use handrails for support.
- Follow Instructions: Pay attention to the announcements and follow the instructions given by the train staff. They are there to ensure your safety.
- Use Authorized Services: Only use authorized Amtrak services, such as Red Cap assistance, to help with your luggage.
These tips can help you have a smooth and enjoyable trip on the Amtrak Piedmont train.
What is the difference between the Piedmont and Carolinian trains?
While the Carolinian train runs between Charlotte and New York City, the Piedmont train only passes through North Carolina. Furthermore, the Piedmont only has coach seats; the Carolinian has business and coach seats.
Costs
The price of Amtrak Piedmont train tickets depends on several factors, including the time of booking and any applicable discounts. Here are some general rental limits:
- Standard Coach Class: Approximately $10 to $30 for a one-way trip between Raleigh and Charlotte.
- Business Class: Typically higher than Coach Class, offering additional amenities like larger seats and complimentary beverages.
To find specific pricing and the best deals, it’s recommended to book early and check the Amtrak website or Wanderu.
Additional Resources
Links to Official Amtrak Resources
- Amtrak Home Page: Amtrak – Find tickets, schedules, and route information.
- Tickets & Reservations: Amtrak Tickets & Reservations – Learn how to book tickets and manage reservations.
- Contact Us: Amtrak Contact Us – Get in touch with Amtrak for any inquiries or assistance.
Recommended Travel Blogs and Guides
- Amtrak Vacations Blog: 15 Best Tips for First-Time Amtrak Train Travelers – Useful tips for first-time Amtrak travelers.
- Grounded Life Travel: Riding Amtrak For The First Time: 12 Things You Need To Know – A comprehensive guide for first-time Amtrak riders.
- Never Too Old To Travel: The Best 15 Train Travel Tips for Amtrak Travelers – Tips to make your train travel experience enjoyable.
- Amtrak Travel Inspiration: Train Travel Inspiration – Discover travel ideas and destinations across the Amtrak network.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The average travel time between Raleigh and Charlotte on the Amtrak Piedmont train is approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes.
Yes, the Piedmont train stops at Cary between Raleigh and Durham.
Yes, you can bring your bike on the Piedmont train. Amtrak offers bike racks on the train, but reservations are required, and a small fee may apply.
Yes, small pets are allowed on the Piedmont train. Reservations are required, and there are specific guidelines to follow, including a pet fee.
Amtrak’s refund policy varies depending on the type of ticket purchased. Generally, tickets can be refunded or exchanged before departure, but fees may apply. It’s best to check the specific terms and conditions on the Amtrak website.
Yes, the Piedmont train has a lounge car with vending machines offering snacks and beverages. Passengers can also bring their own food and drinks.
Yes, electrical outlets are available at every seat on the Piedmont train, allowing passengers to charge their devices during the journey.
Yes, there are power outlets at every seat, but USB plugs are not specifically mentioned. It’s advisable to bring your own USB adapter if needed.
The Piedmont train operates multiple daily departures between Raleigh and Charlotte. For the most current schedule, visit the Amtrak website or the NC By Train website.
Yes, passengers are required to show a valid ID when boarding the train.
Yes, there are bathrooms available on the Piedmont train for passenger convenience.
While the Piedmont train does not have a full café car, it does offer vending machines with snacks and beverages. Passengers can also bring their own food and drinks.
No, you do not have to print your ticket. Amtrak offers eTickets that can be displayed on your mobile device.
The Piedmont train offers Business Class, which includes larger seats with extra legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. However, there are no in-seat movies.
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available on the Piedmont train.
Yes, small pets are allowed on the Piedmont train, but reservations are required, and there are specific guidelines to follow.
You can check the status of your train online through the Amtrak website, the mobile app, or by calling Amtrak customer service.