Traveling between Lancaster, Pennsylvania and New York City by train is likely the most convenient, scenic, and least stressful way to travel this popular Northeast route. Traveling as a Lancaster resident to Manhattan for work or as a tourist to experience Amish Country before your trip to New York City, or as a New Yorker to travel to Pennsylvania Dutch Country for a weekend vacation, is made easy by Amtrak’s Keystone Service and Pennsylvanian trains.
This guide will cover all the stops, schedules, routes, ticket prices and money-saving tips when you travel from Lancaster, PA, to New York. We’ll cover how long train travel takes, the amenities on the trains themselves, and stops along the way. Then, we’ll give you tips on how to book your travel and vacation plans that will help you travel more affordably. With this guide, you will be ready to travel to New York from Lancaster!
Why Take the Train From Lancaster to New York?
If you are planning to go from Lancaster to New York, the train wins out over driving or flying in numerous ways:
- No traffic stress: A drive down I-78 or the New Jersey Turnpike that usually takes no more than 2.5 hours can easily take 4 to 5 hours due to rush hour traffic. Luckily, the train circumvents traffic.
- Central arrival point: Amtrak drops you right off at Penn Station (Moynihan Train Hall) in the heart of Manhattan. You don’t have to battle airport transfers or the parking garage.
- Comfortable seating: Wide seats, lots of legroom, and the ability to walk freely throughout the train make traveling on the train much less stressful than driving or flying.
- Productive travel time: Amtrak provides free Wi-Fi and power outlets to allow passenger to work, browse the internet, or even watch a show during the 3-hour ride.
- Scenic countryside views: You get to see lots of small towns in New Jersey, rolling farmlands in Pennsylvania, and a variety of landscapes from all the cities and suburbs before you reach NYC.
- Environmentally friendly: You produce much less CO2 by taking the train than if you were to take a flight or drive yourself.
- Affordable pricing: Take the train, and it is much cheaper than the flight and much cheaper than driving (especially considering you have to pay the NY tolls and park!)
- No baggage hassles: Unlike the flight, you get equal amounts of free checked and carry-on luggage.
For many travelers, the train from Lancaster to New York has the most optimal balance of cost, comfort and convenience.
Which Amtrak Trains Run from Lancaster to New York?
There are two Amtrak train routes from Lancaster to New York City.
| Train Service | Route Covered | Frequency | Best For |
| Keystone Service | Harrisburg – Lancaster – Philadelphia – Newark – New York | Multiple daily departures (13 daily round trips on the corridor) | Frequent travelers, day-trippers, commuters |
| Pennsylvanian | Pittsburgh – Harrisburg – Lancaster – Philadelphia – New York | 1 daily round trip | Travelers coming from western PA or connecting long-distance |
The Keystone Service is the primary mode of rail travel on this route, providing many trips of the day between Harrisburg and New York,k with Lancaster as a signal stop. The Pennsylvanian is an option as it also passes through Lancaster once daily in each direction. It is a good alternative to the Keystone Service when flexibility is limited on the schedule.
Both trains are Amtrak-owned, Coach Class seating is offered on both, and they stop at the same important stations on the Northeast Corridor, such as Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station and Newark’s Penn Station before arriving in New York.
Train From Lancaster to New York Train Schedule: Departure Times and Frequency
This route offers many advantages, but one that stands out is frequency. Amtrak runs the Keystone Service on a continuous basis. Because of this, wait times are no longer measured in days, but in hours. During peak morning and evening hours, you will not have to wait more than 2 hours.
Departure times for Lancaster to NY Penn Station (times of departure can vary a bit by day of the week and season of the year, so always double-check Amtrak.com or the Amtrak app before traveling):
| Approximate Departure (Lancaster) | Approximate Arrival (New York Penn) | Train Type | Travel Time |
| 5:35 AM | 8:33 AM | Keystone Service | ~2h 58m |
| 6:34 AM | 9:26 AM | Keystone Service | ~2h 52m |
| 7:16 AM | 10:11 AM | Keystone Service | ~2h 55m |
| 9:00 AM | 12:02 PM | Keystone Service | ~3h 2m |
| 10:36 AM | 1:15 PM | Keystone Service | ~2h 39m |
| 12:41 PM | 3:40 PM | Keystone Service | ~2h 59m |
| 1:45 PM | 4:50 PM | Pennsylvanian | ~3h 5m |
| 3:45 PM | 6:54 PM | Keystone Service | ~3h 9m |
| 5:05 PM | 8:12 PM | Keystone Service | ~3h 7m |
| 7:12 PM | 10:03 PM | Keystone Service | ~2h 51m |
| 8:32 PM | 11:14 PM | Keystone Service | ~2h 42m |
Key scheduling tips:
- Early morning departures (5:30 AM–7:30 AM) most benefit business travelers wishing to be in Manhattan by 10 AM.
- For leisure travelers and families, midday departures (9 AM–1 PM) tend to be less crowded.
- The evening trains would be the most convenient for travelers looking to spend the day in Lancaster’s Amish Country and come back to NYC in the evening.
- Due to lower demand, weekend departures may have slightly less availability than weekday departures.
- Amtrak makes seasonal changes to timetables and service levels, so check the Amtrak website for the final departure information before purchasing your travel tickets.
Train From Lancaster to New York Train Travel Time: How Long Does It Take?
The average travel time between Lancaster and New York Penn Station is between 2 hours 40 minutes and 3 hours 10 minutes. This depends on the train and how many stops each one makes, as well as the time of day.
Some of the things that influence travel times are:
- Number of Intermediate Stops: Trains that stop at local Coatesville, Parkesburg, and Downingtown stops take a little longer to pass through than their express-style Keystone Service counterparts.
- Time of Day: Some delay can be expected for trains throughout the day for both Newark and Philadelphia areas due to higher overall rail traffic.
- Type of Train: On average, the Keystone Service tends to be faster than the once-daily Pennsylvanian, which stops at more places along its route that stretches from Pittsburgh to New York.
- Weather and Maintenance: There can be modest delays for weather events or track maintenance, but these situations are rare on this well-kept Northeast rail corridor.
It is best to plan for approximately 3 hours door-to-door for the Lancaster-New York train journey. You must consider travel times to and from stations on both ends as well.
Penn Station (Moynihan Train Hall) Amtrak for Passengers
Your Lancaster to New York train journey terminates at either Penn Station or Moynihan Train Hall, two connected amenities in Manhattan. Although it was once the fancier option, Moynihan Train Hall (located on Eighth Avenue) is now the newer, larger option that Penn Station (across the street) lacks.
About Moynihan Train Hall:
- Moynihan Train Hall opened in 2021 and is located inside the former James A. Farley Post Office.
- Amtrak passengers on long-distance and Northeast Corridor services, including Keystone Service and Pennsylvanian, use the train hall.
- With its glass-and-steel skylight restored from the original 1912 post office, Moynihan Train Hall brings an abundance of light to the previously dark and narrow concourses of Penn Station.
The amenities offered include seating areas and dining and retail options, fully equipped digital departure boards and, of course, the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge (accessible with a qualifying ticket).
About Penn Station:
- The original Penn Station is the center of transit for NJ Transit, LIRR, and some Amtrak services.
- It is one of the best stations for travel to Manhattan and the other boroughs, as it connects to NYC Subway lines A, C, E, 1, 2, and 3.
- You can also take multiple street-level exits to get you to Madison Square Garden, Herald Square, and the Empire State Building.
Passenger tips for arrival:
- Check the signs closely because both amenities share the same underground system, and signs will indicate the direction to the Moynihan Train Hall and the Penn Station exits.
- Everything you may need, such as restrooms, charging stations, and an information stand, is located in both halls.
- If you have a lot of luggage, look for the elevators at the main entrances, as some of the connecting passageways will be made up of staircases or escalators.
Key Stops Between Lancaster and New York
The train route between Lancaster and New York passes through many of the major stations in the region. Knowing these stops helps you to best understand how to connect your travel plans, where you are in relation to your final destination, and how to best plan stops to view some of the sites along the way.
| Station | State | Notable For |
| Lancaster | Pennsylvania | Starting point; historic Neoclassical station building |
| Parkesburg | Pennsylvania | Small local stop serving rural Chester County |
| Coatesville | Pennsylvania | Historic steel town, limited local stop |
| Exton | Pennsylvania | Suburban Philadelphia stop with parking facilities |
| Paoli | Pennsylvania | Major SEPTA/Amtrak interchange on the Main Line |
| Philadelphia (30th Street Station) | Pennsylvania | Major hub; connects to SEPTA, other Amtrak lines |
| Trenton | New Jersey | NJ Transit connection point, state capital |
| Princeton Junction | New Jersey | Connects to Princeton University via “Dinky” shuttle |
| Metropark | New Jersey | Park-and-ride suburban station near Edison, NJ |
| Newark Penn Station | New Jersey | Major hub connecting to NJ Transit, PATH, and Newark Airport |
| New York Penn Station / Moynihan Train Hall | New York | Final destination in Manhattan |
Not every Keystone train stops at every station. There are Keystone trains that express between certain stations while other trains make more local stops. Make sure to check the stop pattern of your train when booking.
Ticket Prices and Best Ways to Save Money on Amtrak
Amtrak uses an algorithm to determine pricing based on demand and how far in advance tickets are purchased. Here are the prices for the Lancaster to New York route at different times of day for different trains.
Here are prices for certain trains for the Lancaster to New York route at different times of the day:
| Fare Type | Approximate Price Range (One-Way) | Notes |
| Standard Coach (off-peak, advance purchase) | $37 – $50 | Best value; book early on weekday off-peak trains |
| Standard Coach (peak hours/weekends) | $60 – $80 | Higher demand times like Friday evenings |
| Business Class (where available) | $80 – $110 | Extra legroom, complimentary snacks/drinks on select trains |
| Multi-ride/monthly commuter passes | Varies | Best for frequent commuters between the two cities |
Tips to save money on your Lancaster to New York Amtrak ticket:
- Book in advance: Save money on fares by booking at least 14-30 days before a trip. Fares tend to go up the closer you get to the travel date.
- Travel during off-peak hours: Fares for later, off-peak hours are usually cheaper than fares for early morning and Friday evening peak hours.
- Be flexible with travel dates: Consider changing your travel dates; sometimes the price is significantly different.
- Join Amtrak Guest Rewards: Points are earned on every trip and can be used to cover the cost of future trips or travel upgrades.
- Look for promotions: Amtrak fares are usually the most affordable during their “flash sales” or promotions.
- Student, senior, military, and AAA discounts: If you are eligible, always use the discount code applicable to you; fares are usually reduced by 10-15%.
- Group travel discounts: Fares for groups of 3 or more can be substantially reduced.
- Avoid same-day walk-up fares: Same-day fares are always the most expensive. Only book late for special circumstances.
Onboard Amenities on the Train From Lancaster to New York Train
Amtrak provides amenities to give you a comfortable experience on your choice of our Pennsylvanian and Keystone Service routes, whether you’re traveling for work or fun.
- Free Wi-Fi: Remote work and streaming all along the trip.
- Power outlets: Charge your laptop and phone.
- Spacious reclining seats: Wider and better bus and plane seats.
- Café car: Snacks, sandwiches and coffee on most Keystone and Pennsylvanian trains.
- Business Class option: Select trains offer upgraded seating space and complimentary drinks.
- Large windows: See the PA farmland, Philly, and the NJ Meadowlands.
- Accessible seating: Priority seating and accessible restrooms.
- Baggage storage: No fees for regular baggage allowance. Overhead and end-of-train storage.
- Quiet Car (Select trains): A low-noise car for a quiet ride for all passengers.
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected throughout most of the journey, ideal for remote work or streaming.
- Power outlets: Available at most seats for charging laptops and phones.
- Spacious reclining seats: Wider seats and more legroom than a typical airplane or bus seat.
- Café car: Grab snacks, sandwiches, coffee, and beverages during the ride (available on most Keystone and Pennsylvanian trains).
- Business Class option: On select trains, upgraded seating with extra space and complimentary refreshments.
- Large windows: Enjoy scenic views of Pennsylvania farmland, the Philadelphia skyline, and the New Jersey Meadowlands.
- Accessible seating: Priority seating and accessible restrooms for passengers with disabilities.
- Baggage storage: Overhead racks and end-of-car storage areas for larger bags, with no extra checked-bag fees for standard allowances.
- Quiet Car (select trains): A designated low-noise car for passengers who prefer a quieter travel experience.
Train From Lancaster to New York Train vs. Other Travel Options
Which of these modes of transport is the most efficient: travel by train, car, airplane, or bus? In this comparison, I will consider the aspects of each travel method, which include travel time, cost, convenience, comfort, and the environment.
| Factor | Amtrak Train | Driving | Flying | Bus |
| Average Travel Time | ~2h 40m – 3h 10m | ~2h 30m – 4h+ (traffic dependent) | ~1h flight + 2-3h airport time | ~3h 30m – 4h 30m |
| Average Cost (one-way) | $37 – $80 | Gas + tolls + NYC parking ($40-$70+) | $150 – $300+ | $25 – $45 |
| Convenience | High – city-center to city-center | Medium – traffic; parking in NYC is difficult | Low – airport transfers add time | Medium – can face traffic delays |
| Comfort | High – spacious seating, freedom to move | Medium – depends on traffic/driver fatigue | Medium – limited legroom | Low to Medium |
| Environmental Impact | Low emissions per passenger | Higher emissions (solo driving) | Highest emissions | Low emissions |
| Productivity While Traveling | High (Wi-Fi, tables, outlets) | None (if driving) | Limited | Limited |
For most vacationers dealing with a direct transfer to the Big Apple, the train’s combination of budget, time, and comfort makes it the clear winner against the other options. In this case, all the added frustrations and costs of parking in NYC should be considered as well.
Train vs. Driving
- Time: Less time than driving once you factor in NYC’s notorious rush hour and weekend traffic.
- Cost: More expensive than taking the train, with the cost of gas and tolls as well as pricey NYC parking, which will set you back $40-$70 a day and will easily cost more than a train ticket.
- Stress factor: None, as you will not have to navigate through NYC traffic and find parking, as the train will do the heavy dumping for you.
- When driving wins: You need a car for multiple stops outside of NYC or if you need to bring a large amount of luggage or equipment, and transportation would be easier by car.
Train vs. Flying
- Time: Because there are a lot of little time-consuming steps involved with traveling by air, the train usually takes less time, allowing for a quicker door-to-door trip for this short travel route.
- Cost: It is almost always cheaper by a considerable amount to travel this short distance by train. Especially with the additional fees associated with checked luggage, flying is even more expensive.
- Convenience: The train has much easier steps and eliminates things like the hassle some security checkpoints create with time-consuming lines and no obligation to check in early.
- When flying wins: It rarely makes sense to fly for this short distance, and even then, only if it means you’re flying to a different city and connecting through NYC.
Train vs. Bus
- Time: The train wins the majority of the time, staying faster than the buses thanks to the congestion on the highways and buses slowing down.
- Cost: The bus is the cheapest option, so if you are the traveler who cares the least about the amount of money you spend, the bus is your option.
- Comfort: Since the train can be more flexible with seating and access to amenities, it offers an overall superior and more comfortable travel experience.
- When the bus wins: If the only thing that’s on your mind is money and you are able to fully sacrifice everything else that correlates with the comfort of your travel, then take the bus.
Tips for First-Time Travelers on the Lancaster to New York Route
Things to remember if this is your first time taking this route:
- Come to Lancaster Station 20 to 30 minutes in advance to allow time for parking and boarding. Come even earlier if you are driving and if it is a busy travel time.
- Look on the departure board for the platform number of your specific train. This can change before your train leaves.
- When you are able to, book a seat in advance; seats on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor trains are assigned or filled in the order in which people buy a seat.
- Be prepared but don’t pack too much. Pack a charger, snacks, and a light jacket since trains can run cool.
- Download the Amtrak app to buy mobile tickets, see if the schedule has changed, and get notifications on which gate or platform you are leaving from.
- Figure out where your train stops. Find out if your train stops at Moynihan Train Hall or the Penn Station concourse, so you aren’t caught off guard when you get there.
- Plan how you will get to your final destination. Look up how to get to the other methods of public transportation like the LIRR or NJ Transit if you need to.
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like trains.
- Check weather forecasts and other temporary problems like weather interruptions and holidays.
What to Do When You Arrive at Penn Station (Moynihan Train Hall)
When you alight from the train in New York, you step into the heart of Manhattan. There are various options for your next move:
- Ways to get around: Direct connections to all of New York City using the A, C, E, 1, 2, and 3 subway lines will get you to where you need to be from Penn Station.
- Walkable attractions: In a 10-15 minute stroll, you can see the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden, Times Square, and Herald Square.
- Place to eat: Near the Moynihan Train Hall are several food options, from quick to sit-down restaurants.
- Place to shop: A short distance away is the Macy’s flagship store and other shops in Herald Square.
- Other transportation: NJ Transit and LIRR leave from the same complex in order to continue towards New Jersey and Long Island.
- Taxis and rideshares: Several convenient street-level exits lead to either a taxi stand or a designated pickup zone for ridesharing.
Booking Your Lancaster to New York Amtrak Ticket
Booking your train from Lancaster to New York is easy:
- Best days to travel: Traveling on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays will likely cost less and result in less crowding compared to travel on Fridays and Sundays, which tend to be the most popular days to travel for weekends.
- Best time of day: For train travel, mid-day trains, from 10 AM to 2 PM, will usually be less crowded and cost less than taking the early morning commuter trains or the trains that depart on Fridays in the early evening.
- Seasonal considerations: Spring and Fall will have the most scenic views of the Pennsylvania countryside, and travel during the summer months or at Christmas and in December will have the most traffic and higher fares
- Avoid major holidays if possible: Thanksgiving week, the December holidays, and extended weekends will have the most traffic and higher fares. If you must travel during these times, book well in advance.
| Season | Weather Conditions | Crowd Levels | Ticket Prices | Scenic Value | Best For |
| Spring (Mar–May) | Mild, occasional rain | Moderate | Low to Moderate | High – blooming countryside | Sightseeing, weekend trips |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Warm to hot, humid | High | Moderate to High | Moderate – green landscapes | Family vacations, tourist season |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | Cool, crisp, colorful foliage | Moderate | Low to Moderate | Very High – fall foliage | Leaf-peeping, photography trips |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Cold, occasional snow | Low (except holidays) | Low (except holiday weeks) | Moderate – snowy scenery | Budget travelers, holiday shopping trips |
Spring (March to May): Great for Scenic, Budget-Friendly Travel
- Mild temperatures make walking to and from Penn Station a breeze.
- The green fields and orchards around Pennsylvania prove picturesque with the arrival of spring.
- There are fewer travelers, so nights on the train are not as busy.
- Tickets remain reasonably priced outside of Spring Break and the Easter holiday.
- A perfect opportunity for travelers to take advantage of the city before the summer swarms arrive.
Summer (June to August) Peak Travel Season
- The busiest season for travel to Lancaster’s Amish Country and New York City.
- You’ll spend the most on tickets, especially around the 4th of July weekend.
- Crammed trains are a certainty if you don’t purchase early, so plan ahead.
- A nice hot NYC summer adds a lot to outdoor attractions.
- With evenings stretching on and on, it’s a big plus to work both ways on your trip to see the sites.
Fall (September to November): Best for Scenery and Comfort
- This may very well be the best season to take this route.
- As you pass through New Jersey and Pennsylvania, you get to enjoy and appreciate some gorgeous autumnal colors against a picturesque backdrop.
- Expect nice, cool weather without summer and winter extremes.
- Crowds will only be a concern in the weeks surrounding Thanksgiving. Otherwise, plan your Labor Day fall trip knowing that most people will already be back at work and school.
- Fares tend to be reasonable, providing a good amount of value for your money.
Winter (December to February): Best for Budget Travelers
- The best fares during off-peak months (outside the holiday season) are the best during any other time of the year.
- There are fewer passengers, which makes boarding and seating processes easier.
- Cash fares jump, and so do passengers, during the holiday seasons (including Christmas and New Year’s), so book early if you plan to travel during those periods.
- Be prepared for delays caused by snow, but minor. Check the weather to see if there are any travel advisories.
- It is a great time to travel to New York for holiday shopping, ice skating, and other winter activities.
Quick Takeaways
- Best overall season: Fall – would recommend without hesitation for the scenery, economics, and near-perfect weather.
- Best for budget travelers: Winter (as long as you avoid the major holidays)
- Best for a fully immersive NYC Experience: Summer, although it will likely be overcrowded and somewhat expensive.
- Best for a relaxed and comfortable ride: Spring or Fall weekdays
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is the train ride from Lancaster to New York?
It takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to 3 hours and 10 minutes to get there, depending on the train and the number of stops.
2. What Amtrak services go from Lancaster to New York?
The Keystone Service offers several departures per day. The Pennsylvanian stops in Lancaster each day, too.
3. What is the cost of Amtrak from Lancaster to New York?
Tickets start at about $37 for an off-peak ticket purchased in advance. They may cost more than $80 if you buy a ticket a few days before the trip during a peak travel time.
4. Where in New York do trains coming from Lancaster stop?
They get there and drop people off at New York Penn Station. Many people use the Moynihan Train Hall when they get off the train.
5. Do the trains from Lancaster to New York have Wi-Fi?
The Keystone Service and Pennsylvanian trains have Wi-Fi for the whole trip.
6. How many stops will there be between Lancaster and New York?
The number of stops will primarily depend on the train you choose, but most will stop around 6-10 times while passing through Philadelphia, Trenton, and Newark.
7. What is the most cost-effective time to book from Lancaster to New York?
Cheapest fares can be found by booking 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for midweek travel during off-peak hours.
8. Is luggage allowed on Amtrak for Lancaster to New York?
Amtrak allows passengers to bring both carry-ons and checked luggage for free, based on the standard luggage allowance.
9. Can this route be done as a day trip?
Absolutely. Trains with departures in the early morning and returns in the late evening allow for flexible day trips to New York.
10. Does Amtrak provide discounts for seniors, military, or students for this route?
Discounted fares for those groups are available for purchase on Amtrak. The discounts include students, seniors, military, and AAA members.
