Planning a train trip through Pennsylvania? You’re in for a treat. The state has 30 Amtrak stations connecting major cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to smaller towns across the commonwealth. Whether you’re commuting to work, visiting family, or exploring historic sites, Pennsylvania’s rail network makes travel convenient and scenic.
Quick Answer: How Many Amtrak Stations Are in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has 30 Amtrak stations, making it one of the most connected states in the Northeast Corridor. Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station is the busiest, serving over 4 million passengers annually.
Major Amtrak Stations in Pennsylvania
Philadelphia 30th Street Station
Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station isn’t just Pennsylvania’s busiest station—it’s an architectural landmark. This Art Deco masterpiece opened in 1933 and handles trains on the Northeast Corridor, Keystone Service, and long-distance routes like the Cardinal and Crescent.
What you’ll find here:
- Full-service waiting area open 24/7
- Metropolitan Lounge for Business Class and First Class passengers
- Multiple dining options and shops
- Direct connection to SEPTA regional rail
Address: 2955 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Harrisburg Transportation Center
Harrisburg serves as the western terminus for many Keystone Service trains. The station underwent major renovations and now offers modern amenities for both Amtrak and local transit riders.
Services available:
- Daily Keystone Service to Philadelphia and New York
- Pennsylvanian line to Pittsburgh
- CAT Bus connections throughout the capital region
- Free parking for Amtrak passengers
Pittsburgh Union Station
Located in the historic Grant Street Transportation Center, Pittsburgh’s station connects western Pennsylvania to the eastern corridor via the Pennsylvanian route.
Notable features:
- One daily round-trip to Philadelphia and New York
- Indoor waiting area with climate control
- Nearby access to Pittsburgh’s T light rail system
Complete List of Amtrak Stations in Pennsylvania
| Station Name | City | Lines Served | Parking Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30th Street Station | Philadelphia | Northeast Corridor, Keystone, Long-distance | Limited paid parking |
| Harrisburg | Harrisburg | Keystone, Pennsylvanian | Free parking |
| Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh | Pennsylvanian | Street parking |
| Lancaster | Lancaster | Keystone, Pennsylvanian | Free parking lot |
| Paoli | Paoli | Keystone | Park & Ride lot |
| Ardmore | Ardmore | Keystone | Limited street parking |
| Cornwells Heights | Bensalem | Northeast Corridor | Free parking |
| Exton | Exton | Keystone | Large parking lot |
| Parkesburg | Parkesburg | Keystone | Free parking |
| Coatesville | Coatesville | Keystone | Free parking |
| Downingtown | Downingtown | Keystone | Free parking |
| Elizabethtown | Elizabethtown | Keystone, Pennsylvanian | Free parking |
| Mount Joy | Mount Joy | Keystone, Pennsylvanian | Free parking |
| Middletown | Middletown | Keystone, Pennsylvanian | Free parking |
| Lewistown | Lewistown | Pennsylvanian | Limited parking |
| Huntingdon | Huntingdon | Pennsylvanian | Free parking |
| Tyrone | Tyrone | Pennsylvanian | Free parking |
| Altoona | Altoona | Pennsylvanian | Free parking |
| Johnstown | Johnstown | Pennsylvanian | Street parking |
| Latrobe | Latrobe | Pennsylvanian | Free parking |
| Greensburg | Greensburg | Pennsylvanian | Free parking |
| North Philadelphia | Philadelphia | Northeast Corridor, Keystone | Limited parking |
| Cornwells Heights | Bensalem | Northeast Corridor | Free parking |
| Bristol | Bristol | Northeast Corridor | Limited parking |
Pennsylvania Amtrak Routes Explained
Keystone Service: The Commuter’s Choice
The Keystone Service runs multiple times daily between New York City and Harrisburg, stopping at major Pennsylvania stations along the way. This is the most frequent service in the state.
Popular stations on this route:
- Philadelphia 30th Street
- Paoli
- Exton
- Lancaster
- Harrisburg
Travel times:
- Philadelphia to Harrisburg: 1 hour 45 minutes
- New York to Harrisburg: 3 hours 30 minutes
Pennsylvanian: Coast-to-Coast Connection
The Pennsylvanian offers one daily departure connecting New York City to Pittsburgh, passing through the scenic Allegheny Mountains. This route showcases Pennsylvania’s diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to rural farmland.
Journey highlights:
- Views of the Susquehanna River
- Horseshoe Curve near Altoona
- Allegheny Mountain tunnels
Northeast Regional: The Express Option
While primarily focused on the I-95 corridor, several Northeast Regional trains stop at Pennsylvania stations, offering faster service between major cities.
Finding Your Nearest Amtrak Station in Pennsylvania
Eastern Pennsylvania Stations
If you’re in the Philadelphia metro area, you have several convenient options. Suburban stations like Paoli, Exton, and Ardmore offer easier parking than center city and still provide frequent service.
Central Pennsylvania Access
Harrisburg serves as the hub for central Pennsylvania. Nearby stations in Lancaster, Mount Joy, and Elizabethtown give residents throughout the Susquehanna Valley easy access to rail travel.
Western Pennsylvania Connections
Pittsburgh’s station is your gateway if you’re traveling from western Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvanian provides daily service, though frequencies are lower than eastern routes.
Ticket Prices and Booking Tips
Average Fares Between Major Cities
| Route | Coach Price Range | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia – Harrisburg | $18 – $35 | 1h 45m |
| Philadelphia – Pittsburgh | $45 – $85 | 7h 30m |
| Philadelphia – Lancaster | $12 – $25 | 1h 10m |
| Harrisburg – Pittsburgh | $35 – $65 | 5h 45m |
| New York – Philadelphia | $29 – $95 | 1h 15m |
Prices vary based on time of day, day of week, and how far in advance you book.
How to Save Money on Pennsylvania Train Travel
Book early: Amtrak releases tickets 11 months in advance, and prices increase as departure dates approach.
Travel off-peak: Mid-week trains and mid-day departures often cost less than Monday morning or Friday evening trains.
Consider a rail pass: If you’re making multiple trips, the USA Rail Pass might save you money.
Senior, military, and student discounts: Don’t forget to check if you qualify for any discounts—they can save you 10-15%.
Station Amenities: What to Expect
Full-Service Stations
Larger stations like Philadelphia 30th Street and Harrisburg offer comprehensive amenities including waiting rooms, restrooms, ticketing counters, and food service.
Unstaffed Stations
Many smaller Pennsylvania stations are unstaffed. You’ll find:
- Covered platforms
- Basic shelters
- Parking areas
- Ticket vending machines (at some locations)
Pro tip: Purchase your tickets online or via the Amtrak app before arriving at unstaffed stations.
Connecting to Local Transportation
Philadelphia Area
Philadelphia’s extensive SEPTA network connects seamlessly with Amtrak. At 30th Street Station, you can transfer to:
- SEPTA regional rail lines
- Market-Frankford Line (subway)
- Trolley routes
- Bus service
Harrisburg Region
The Capital Area Transit (CAT) bus system serves Harrisburg Transportation Center with multiple routes throughout the city and surrounding suburbs.
Pittsburgh Connections
Pittsburgh’s station sits downtown near:
- T light rail system
- Multiple bus routes
- Rideshare pickup zones
Planning Your Pennsylvania Train Journey
Best Times to Travel
Weekday mornings and evenings see the highest ridership due to business travelers and commuters. If you prefer a quieter trip, consider midday or weekend departures.
Fall foliage season (October-November) makes Pennsylvania train travel especially beautiful, but book early as seats fill up fast.
Accessibility Services
All Pennsylvania Amtrak stations provide services for passengers with disabilities:
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Priority boarding
- Station assistance available by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL (24 hours in advance recommended)
- Accessible restrooms at staffed stations
Travel Documentation
For domestic travel within Pennsylvania, you only need a valid ticket. Government-issued ID is required for ticket pickup at staffing stations and may be checked by conductors.
Why Choose Train Travel in Pennsylvania?
Skip the Traffic
Anyone who’s driven on I-76 or I-95 knows Pennsylvania’s highways can be challenging. Trains let you avoid traffic jams, tolls, and parking headaches while getting work done or simply relaxing.
Environmental Benefits
Trains produce significantly lower carbon emissions per passenger than cars or planes. Choosing rail travel helps reduce your environmental impact.
See Pennsylvania Differently
The view from a train window shows you Pennsylvania most drivers never see—river valleys, small towns, farmland, and mountain passes that highways bypass.
Cost-Effective for Groups
When traveling with family or friends, train tickets often cost less than gas, tolls, and parking combined—especially to expensive-to-park destinations like Philadelphia or Pittsburgh.
Connecting Beyond Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s Amtrak network isn’t isolated. From Philadelphia, you can reach:
- New York City in 75-90 minutes
- Washington, D.C. in 90-120 minutes
- Boston in 5-6 hours
From Pittsburgh, the Pennsylvanian connects to Cleveland, Chicago, and other Midwest destinations.
Tips for First-Time Pennsylvania Train Travelers
Download the Amtrak app: It’s the easiest way to book tickets, check train status, and receive platform notifications.
Bring entertainment: While Keystone Service offers reliable WiFi, cellular service can be spotty in rural areas. Download movies or books in advance.
Dress in layers: Train temperatures vary. Bringing a light jacket ensures you’ll be comfortable regardless of the air conditioning.
Keep essentials handy: Store larger bags overhead but keep valuables, medications, and snacks within reach.
Chat with the conductor: Pennsylvania conductors often know great local tips for your destination.
The Future of Pennsylvania Rail Travel
Pennsylvania continues investing in rail infrastructure. Recent and upcoming improvements include:
- Platform upgrades at multiple stations
- Increased Keystone Service frequencies
- Station parking expansions
- Enhanced accessibility features
These developments make Pennsylvania train travel more convenient than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station is the largest Amtrak station in Pennsylvania and the third-busiest in the country. It serves over 4 million passengers each year with service to destinations throughout the Northeast Corridor and beyond.
Yes, most Amtrak trains in Pennsylvania accept bicycles. Keystone Service trains offer roll-on bike service for $20. Northeast Regional trains require advance reservations for bikes. Always check specific train policies when booking.
Most Pennsylvania stations offer free parking, especially smaller stations along the Keystone and Pennsylvanian routes. Philadelphia 30th Street has limited paid parking, but you’re better off using SEPTA to reach the station. Always arrive early during peak travel times as parking fills up quickly.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure at major stations like Philadelphia or Harrisburg. For smaller, unstaffed stations, arriving 15 minutes early is usually sufficient. If you need to check baggage or have mobility assistance needs, allow extra time.
The Pennsylvanian between Harrisburg and Pittsburgh offers stunning views of Pennsylvania’s mountains and forests. The route passes through Horseshoe Curve near Altoona, a National Historic Landmark where trains navigate a dramatic mountain curve. Fall foliage season makes this journey particularly spectacular.
Keystone Service and the Pennsylvanian operate with coach and business class seating only—no sleeper cars. For overnight accommodations, you’d need to book long-distance trains like the Cardinal or Lake Shore Limited that pass through Pennsylvania.
Philadelphia 30th Street Station has multiple restaurants, cafes, and grab-and-go options. Harrisburg has vending machines and a small café. Smaller stations typically don’t have food service, so plan accordingly. Most trains offer café cars with snacks and beverages.
Philadelphia 30th Street Station sees over 100 trains daily, including Amtrak, SEPTA regional rail, and NJ Transit services. It’s the busiest station in Pennsylvania by a wide margin.
Start Your Pennsylvania Train Adventure
With 30 stations spanning from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania’s Amtrak network offers something for everyone—daily commuters, weekend adventurers, and visitors exploring the Keystone State’s rich history and natural beauty.
Ready to book your trip? Visit Amtrak.com or download the mobile app to check schedules, compare fares, and reserve your seats. Pennsylvania’s trains are waiting to take you where you want to go.
Looking for specific route information? Check out our detailed guides on individual Pennsylvania Amtrak routes and station profiles for more planning tips and local insights.