Station guide · MD, USA
Baltimore Penn Station Guide
Baltimore Penn Station serves as a major hub for rail travel in Maryland, offering frequent services along the busy Northeast Corridor and connections to several long distance routes.
- Station
- Baltimore Penn Station
- City
- Baltimore, MD
- Code
- BAL
- Routes
- 9
At a glance
- Baltimore Penn Station, a 1911 Beaux Arts building north of downtown
- Light rail and MARC commuter trains connect
- Served by Acela, Northeast Regional and several long distance trains
Baltimore Penn Station is a striking 1911 Beaux Arts building situated north of downtown Baltimore. It operates as a vital transit point for passengers traveling through Maryland and along the East Coast. The grand architecture of the facility reflects an era of classic rail travel, providing a handsome gateway to the city. Visitors will find a busy atmosphere with regular departures and arrivals throughout the day. The station handles a mix of high speed services, regional trains and commuter networks. This variety makes it a practical stop for both daily workers and long distance passengers exploring the country.
Trains from Baltimore
| Train | Between | Runs |
|---|---|---|
| Silver Star | New York to Miami | Suspended as a separate train since November 2024 |
| Cardinal | New York to Chicago | Three times a week in each direction |
| Crescent | New York to New Orleans | Daily in each direction |
| Silver Meteor | New York to Miami | Daily in each direction |
| Palmetto | New York to Savannah | Daily in each direction, daytime |
| Carolinian | New York to Charlotte | Daily in each direction |
| Acela | Boston to Washington, DC | Frequent trains every day |
| Northeast Regional | Boston to Richmond and Norfolk and Newport News and Roanoke | Many trains a day |
| Vermonter | St. Albans to Washington, DC | Daily in each direction |
A wide array of Amtrak services call at Baltimore Penn Station. The high speed Acela and the Northeast Regional provide frequent daily connections between Boston and Washington, DC. Several long distance trains also stop here. The Crescent, Silver Meteor and Palmetto run daily, linking New York to southern destinations like New Orleans, Miami and Savannah. The Cardinal departs three times a week for Chicago. The Carolinian offers daily service to Charlotte, while the Vermonter runs daily up to St. Albans. The Silver Star has been suspended as a separate train since November 2024, with its route south of Washington covered by the Floridian as of 2026.
Getting to and from the station
Getting to and from Baltimore Penn Station is straightforward thanks to its integration with local transit. The facility sits just north of downtown Baltimore. Passengers can easily transfer to the local light rail system or board MARC commuter trains for regional travel. These connections provide practical links to surrounding neighborhoods and nearby employment centers. If you are catching a train during peak hours, allow extra time to navigate the busy concourse and find your platform. Travelers should check local transit websites for the most current schedules and service updates before planning their journey to the station.
Around the station
The station is located just north of downtown Baltimore. This position places it near several central neighborhoods and cultural institutions. Visitors arriving by train are a short transit ride away from the Inner Harbor, which serves as a major focal point for the city. The surrounding Mount Vernon neighborhood features historic architecture, museums and dining options. While the immediate area offers a few conveniences, passengers with a long layover might prefer to take the light rail into the city center to explore more substantial attractions and restaurants.
Station tips
- Book your tickets well in advance for the best fares on the Acela and Northeast Regional.
- Review our Amtrak and VIA booking tips before securing your long distance travel.
- Check the Luggage rules on Amtrak and VIA to ensure your bags meet the current size requirements.
- Arrive early during morning and evening rush hours when commuter traffic is heaviest.
Popular trips from Baltimore
Questions travellers ask
How long does the train take from New York to Baltimore?
The journey from New York to Baltimore takes about 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes on direct Amtrak services. Travel times vary depending on whether you choose the high speed Acela or the standard Northeast Regional trains.
Can I catch a direct train from Chicago to Baltimore?
Yes, you can travel directly from Chicago to Baltimore on the Cardinal. This train operates three times a week in each direction. The journey takes about 26 to 28 hours end to end, though the specific Chicago to Baltimore segment takes about 20 to 25 hours.
How fast is the trip from Washington, DC to Baltimore?
The ride from Washington, DC to Baltimore is very quick. Direct trains typically take about 30 minutes to 45 minutes. This route is served frequently every day by multiple Amtrak lines and local MARC commuter trains.