Station guide · CT, USA
New Haven Union Station guide
New Haven Union Station serves as a major transit hub in Connecticut, linking travelers to regional commuter services and long-distance Amtrak routes across the Northeast.
- Station
- New Haven Union Station
- City
- New Haven, CT
- Code
- NHV
- Routes
- 4
At a glance
- New Haven Union Station opened in 1920
- Metro-North and CTrail trains connect; Hartford Line trains start here
- Served by Acela, Northeast Regional and the Vermonter
Opened in 1920, New Haven Union Station is a historic and vital transportation center in Connecticut. The building handles a steady flow of daily passengers traveling within the state and along the busy Northeast Corridor. It acts as a primary transfer point for those moving between local commuter networks and interstate services. You will find a busy atmosphere here, with travelers heading to major cities or commuting to nearby towns. The station links the local community to destinations across New England and the Mid-Atlantic. Whether you are a student, a commuter or a visitor, the facility offers straightforward access to the wider rail network.
Trains from New Haven
| Train | Between | Runs |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Hartford Line and Valley Flyer | New Haven to Greenfield | Many trains a day on the Hartford Line, fewer on the Valley Flyer |
Several major services call at New Haven Union Station. The Acela and the Northeast Regional provide frequent daily connections between Boston and Washington, DC. Acela trains stop next at New London or Stamford, while Northeast Regional services call at Old Saybrook and Bridgeport. The Vermonter runs daily in each direction between St. Albans and Washington, DC, stopping at Meriden or Stamford. Additionally, the Hartford Line and Valley Flyer trains start here. These services travel north to Greenfield, with the Hartford Line offering many trains a day and the Valley Flyer running less frequently. Next stops on this route include Meriden. All services operate during the day or evening, with no dedicated overnight sleeper trains calling at this location.
Getting to and from the station
New Haven Union Station is highly connected to local and regional transit. Metro-North trains stop here, providing regular commuter service toward New York. CTrail trains also connect at the station, making it easy to reach other parts of Connecticut. Because multiple agencies operate out of this facility, you should allow plenty of time to navigate the platforms and find your connection. Always check local transit websites for the most current schedules and service alerts before you travel. If you are arriving by car or local bus, plan to arrive early during peak commuter hours.
Around the station
The station is located near the center of New Haven, a city widely known as the home of Yale University. Visitors can easily reach the downtown area, which features historic architecture, museums and a variety of dining options. New Haven is famous for its local style of pizza, and several well-known pizzerias are a short distance from the transit hub. The waterfront and local parks are also situated within the broader city limits. If you have a long layover, taking a brief taxi or rideshare into the city center provides a good way to pass the time.
Station tips
- Review Amtrak and VIA booking tips early to secure the best fares on the busy Northeast Corridor.
- Check the luggage rules on Amtrak and VIA before packing, as commuter trains may have different storage limits.
- Verify your platform on the departure boards, since Metro-North and Amtrak share the station.
- Read our guide if it is your first time on Amtrak to understand the boarding process.
Questions travellers ask
How long does the train take from Boston to Washington, DC?
Travel times vary depending on the service you choose. The Acela takes about 6 hours 30 minutes to 7 hours from Boston to Washington. The Northeast Regional takes slightly longer, requiring about 7 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours for the same journey.
Are there local commuter trains at New Haven Union Station?
Yes, the station is a major hub for regional transit. Metro-North and CTrail trains connect here, offering frequent services across Connecticut and toward New York. The Hartford Line also starts at this station, providing regular trips north to Greenfield.