Train travel between Boston and New London is one of the most efficient and relaxing options to experience New London and the Northeast Corridor. If you’re a regular commuter, or a weekend getaway, or just a visitor to the coastline of New England, Amtrak’s Northeast Regional service can make this trip easy, inexpensive,e and relaxing.
Boston South Station to New London Union Station runs a distance of around 120 miles. This train travels within just two hours. It travels through picturesque stretches along coastline along the New England coastline. This guide provides everything you need to know -including schedules, ticket prices, and onboard facilities stations, details about the station, as well as other travel information so that you’re able to plan your trip confidently.
Why Take the Train From Boston to New London?
Going by train from Boston in the direction of New London by train is the best, most stress-free alternative. It is a great option for those who want to travel. Amtrak train route provides comfort and affordability that is better than the driving experience in all aspects.
No Traffic Stress
- The Boston I-93 and I-95 areas are crowded all day long.
- The drive from New London can take 1.5 to 3 hours based on the traffic.
- With Amtrak, you will have an exact time of arrival and no road stress.
Scenic Coastal Views
- The train runs along it along the New England coastline through Rhode Island and the eastern part of Connecticut.
- The passengers can enjoy views of the coast marshes, harbor towns, and the Atlantic shoreline.
- The beauty of this view is impossible to achieve while driving along the road.
Environmentally Friendly Travel
- Rail travel generates far fewer carbon emissions per mile of travel than flying or driving.
- The choice of Amtrak is a more sustainable choice for travel, with no sacrifice on convenience.
Central Station Locations
- Boston South Station is accessible by Boston South Station is accessible via the MBTA Red Line and multiple bus routes.
- New London Union Station is only a few minutes away from the downtown area, ferry terminal, and the local buses.
- There is no need to go away from the city’s main streets to get on your train.
Productive Travel Time
- Traveling by train lets you study, work, or simply relax while you travel.
- Amtrak has electricity outlets, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating on this train route.
- Two hours of driving go by quickly in the absence of being stuck in traffic.
Which Amtrak Trains Run From Boston to New London?
Two main Amtrak service lines operate along the corridor. Understanding the differences can help in deciding on the correct train to travel on.
Amtrak Northeast Regional
- Most frequently utilized option on this route.
- The train connects Boston South Station to New London Union Station via several daily departures.
- Continues to the south towards New York Penn Station, Philadelphia, as well as Washington, D.C.
- Provides Business Class and Coach seating.
- It also has a cafe car. WiFi, as well as power outlets for most trains.
Amtrak Acela
- Amtrak’s premium, high-speed train doesn’t stop in New London.
- The service is only available to major cities like Boston, Providence, New Haven, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.
- If you are looking to travel to New London specifically, the Northeast Regional is your only Amtrak alternative.
Summary Table: Amtrak Services from Boston to New London
| Train Service | Stops at New London | Travel Time | Classes Available |
| Northeast Regional | Yes | ~2 hours | Coach, Business Class |
| Acela | No | N/A | N/A |
| Vermonter | No | N/A | N/A |
Boston to New London Train Schedule: Departure Times and Frequency
Amtrak operates multiple trains daily departing from Boston South Station to New London Union Station. Trains operate throughout all hours of the day, giving the passengers a lot of flexibility.
Typical Daily Departure Windows from Boston South Station
- Early morning: between 06:30 AM and 8:00 AM
- Mid-morning: around 9:00 AM to 11:15 AM
- Afternoon: around 12:00 pm until 3:00 pm
- Evening time: about 4:00 pm to 7:00 PM
- The late evening hours are approximately 8:30 PM to 9:00 9:00
Sample Schedule Table
| Departure from Boston | Arrival at New London | Service |
| 6:15 AM | 8:20 AM | Ne Regional |
| 9:05 AM | 11:10 AM | Ne Regional |
| 12:30 PM | 2:35 PM | Ne Regional |
| 3:45 PM | 5:50 PM | Ne Regional |
| 6:20 PM | 8:25 PM | Ne Regional |
Note: Make sure to check the current time on Amtrak.com or on the Amtrak application prior to travel because schedules can be susceptible to changes.
Return Trips: New London to Boston
- Return trains are on the same frequency throughout the whole day.
- Day trippers coming from Boston should have no problem getting a comfy evening train to return home.
Weekend and Holiday Schedules
- Amtrak might operate a different schedule on weekends or significant holiday days.
- Make reservations in advance to reserve your tickets for the holidays of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the Fourth of July, because trains sell out fast.
Boston to New London Train Travel Time: How Long Does It Take?
The travel time for a trip between Boston South Statanddn to New London Union Station will range from 1 hour and 55 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Why Travel Times Vary
- It is not the case that all Northeast Regional trains make similar intermediate stops.
- Further stops at Providence, Westerly, or Mystic will add minutes to the trip.
- Express-pattern trains that have fewer stops can be slightly more efficient.
Comparison Table: Boston to New London by Travel Mode
| Travel Mode | Average Time | Notes |
| Amtrak Train | ~2 hours | Predictable, no traffic |
| Driving (car) | 1.5 – 3 hours | Highly traffic-dependent |
| Bus (Greyhound/FlixBus) | 2.5 – 3.5 hours | Multiple stops, slower |
| Flight | Not practical | No direct air service |
It is the train that offers the longest-running and most efficient travel time out of the options available.
Train From New York to Providence: Key Context for Through Travelers
The majority of those who take this route, the Boston route, from the New London route, are part of a more extensive journey through the Northeast Corridor. Being aware that the New York to Providence segment can help travelers make more efficient connections.
Key Distance and Time Breakdown
- New York Penn Station to New London: approximately 2 1.5 hours
- New London to Providence: about 45 minutes
- Providence from Boston South Station: approximately 1 hour
Why This Route Matters
- New London sits directly in the middle of the New York to Boston rail corridor.
- No matter if you’re traveling south or north, New London offers excellent connections.
- Around 10-14 trains make stops in New London daily in each direction during weekdays.
Connecting Options at New London
- Northbound travelers are able to connect with Providence as well as Boston.
- Travelers traveling south can go on to New Haven, New York,k and further.
- Cross Sound Ferry connections to Long Island are also available within a short distance from the station.
Terminal Station Guide for Passengers
Boston South Station
- MBTA access: Red Line, Silver Lin,e and a variety of bus routes
- Parking is provided within the garage for parking that is paid
- Services: Waiting area, food vendors,s and restrooms. Baggage storage at the Amtrak ticket counter
Tips for Boston South Station:
- The Amtrak waiting area is located on the first floor and is separated from the commuter platform trains.
- There are fast food establishments, coffee shops, and a restaurant that requires sitting down.
- The storage of bags can be arranged for an additional cost if you want storage for your belongings prior to or following your travel.
New London Union Station
- The location is directly at the water’s edge, just steps from the downtown and ferry terminal.
- Parking: Parking on the street and close public lot options are readily available.
- Services: Waiting room and restrooms, Amtrak ticket counter,r Taxi stand
Tips for New London Union Station:
- The Cross Sound Ferry terminal is only a couple of steps away from the station’s entry point.
- Downtown New London, with restaurants, shops, and other historic landmarks, can be reached easily on foot.
- Taxis, rideshare, and taxi services like Uber and Lyft can be found at the exits of stations.
Key Stops Between Boston and New London
The Northeast Regional includes a number of important interludes along this route. This information can assist you in planning your routes or determining the most suitable location to board your train.
| Station | State | Notes |
| Boston South Station | Massachusetts | Starting point |
| Route 128 Station | Massachusetts | Suburban Boston stop |
| Providence Station | Rhode Island | Major connecting hub |
| Westerly Station | Rhode Island | Small coastal town, select trains only |
| Mystic Station | Connecticut | Tourist stop, select trains only |
| New London Union Station | Connecticut | Final destination on this segment |
Providence Station
- The major stop between Boston and New London is Boston.
- A major hub for Amtrak as well as local Rhode Island transit connections.
- The time to travel between Providence and New London is approximately 40 to 50 minutes.
Westerly Station
- A small, coastal Rhode Island town with a beautiful old-fashioned downtown.
- The majority of Northeast Regional trains don’t stop here. Make sure that your train’s stop is Westerly prior to booking.
Mystic Station
- World-famous Mystic Seaport Museum and Mystic Aquarium.
- Certain trains stop in Mystic prior to heading towards New London, convenient for those who visit both towns.
Ticket Prices and Best Ways to Save Money on Amtrak
Amtrak tickets between Boston and New London vary based on the type of service offered, the timing of booking, and travel time. Knowing the structure of pricing can help to find the most affordable cost.
Typical Price Ranges
| Ticket Type | Price Range |
| Coach (advance purchase) | $18 – $35 |
| Coach (last-minute) | $35 – $65 |
| Business Class | $45 – $85 |
| Rail Pass (multi-trip) | Varies by pass type |
Best Ways to Save Money
- Pre-book using Amtrak’s Saver Fare to get the lowest prices.
- Take a midweek flight on Wednesdays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays to get a lower price than on weekends.
- Register for Amtrak Guest Rewards and get points to redeem for upgrades to your travel or free upgrades.
- Utilize AAA memberships or senior discounts (age 65plus) to get a 10% reduction in the price of tickets.
- With a valid ID, students are eligible for a 15% discount under the program called Student Advantage.
- Children between the ages of 2 and 12 years old travel for 50% less than the adult price when they are accompanied by an adult paying.
Flexible vs. Saver Fares
- The cheapest Saver tickets, however, cannot be exchanged or refunded following purchase.
- Value and Flexible rates cost less, but permit modifications and cancellations.
- If your travel plans are not certain, the cost of paying to be able to change your travel plans is an excellent option.
Onboard Amenities on the Boston to New London Train
Amtrak’s Northeast Regional trains offer a relaxing onboard experience, which allows for a two-hour trip that is truly pleasurable.
Seating
- The coach seats are comfortable and spacious, and come with adjustable headrests, plenty of legroom, and large windows that are large.
- Seats are set up in a 2-2 arrangement along with overhead luggage racks.
- Business Class provides a larger seating space as well as more legroom. The best travel conditions.
- Business Class passengers are entitled to free non-alcoholic drinks on the majority of trains.
Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi is accessible in all Northeast Regional trains.
- Quality of connection is variable along the way, but is adequate to use for browsing, email, and light-duty tasks.
Power Outlets
- Each place inside Coach and Business Class includes at minimum one outlet of 110 volts.
- It is possible to charge your laptop, phone, or tablet during the trip at no additional charge.
Cafe Car
- A majority of trains come with cafe cars with food items, lunches, hot meals, hot drinks, and drinks.
- Wine, beer, coffee, and soft drinks are available to buy.
- The cafe car is equipped with small tables, as well as counter seating for those who wish to dine onboard.
Quiet Car
- Many Northeast Regional trains label one coach as a Quiet Car.
- Conversations that involve loud phone calls are not allowed inside The Quiet Car.
- It is ideal for people who wish to read, work, or just relax without interruption.
Luggage Policy
- Two bags for carry-on and two personal items can be carried for free.
- The check-in baggage service is offered at certain stations to carry bigger objects.
- Bike bags that contain bicycles are able to be carried on the majority of Northeast Regional trains.
Boston to New London Train vs. Other Travel Options
The comparison of the train with other travel options can help you make the best, well-informed decision regarding your trip.
Train vs. Car
| Factor | Train | Car |
| Average Time | ~2 hours | 1.5 – 3 hours |
| Cost (one person) | $18 – $65 | $25 – $50 (gas + tolls) |
| Parking Needed | No | Yes (paid in New London) |
| Stress Level | Low | High (I-95 traffic) |
| Productivity | High | Low |
Train Vs. Bus
- Greyhound and FlixBus have lower prices, but the journeys can take 2.5 or 3.5 hours.
- Buses stop more frequently and run more slowly because of road traffic.
- The comforts and amenities on board are much smaller than those on an Amtrak train
Train Vs. Flying
- There is no commercial airline service connecting Boston and New London. New London.
- If it were to happen, it did, the logistics of airports would render flying impractical over the distance.
- The train is the fastest and most convenient choice to choose from.
Verdict
- The train is a winner for its security, comfort, and a predictable time of travel.
- It is only sensible to drive when you require a private vehicle to reach your destination.
- To take a day trip or just for leisure, Amtrak is the clear ideal choice for this particular travel route.
Tips for First-Time Travelers on the Boston to New London Route
If you’ve never been on Amtrak previously or are not familiar with the route, the following tips can ensure that your trip is smooth and easy.
- Make reservations online through Amtrak.com or via the Amtrak mobile app for access to the most competitive rates.
- Choose your seat at the time of booking. The Northeast Regional allows advance seat choice.
- Select a window seat on the left of the train when travelling to the south for views of the coast.
- Get to Boston South Station at least 30 minutes prior to the time of your planned departure.
- Make sure you check the departure board in the station for confirmation of the track number and platform.
- Make sure you have your ticket handy on your mobile via the Amtrak application. A conductor will inspect it on the ride.
- Place carry-on bags on the overhead rack on top of your seat in order to ensure that the aisle is free of obstructions.
- Make use of the Quiet Car for those who need to concentrate on their task or need uninterrupted rest.
- Make sure to check the Amtrak app for alerts to service before departure, as slight delays are not uncommon.
- Wear a jacket that is light; the air conditioning in Amtrak trains can be very hot during the summer.
What to Do When You Arrive at New London Union Station
New London is a city filled with history, with a gorgeous waterfront as well as plenty of things to do. This is how you can get the most out of your time in New London.
Explore Downtown New London
- Downtown is only a couple of minutes from Union Station along the waterfront.
- Bank Street is the main commercial area with restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques.
- The region is full of old and new restaurants worth seeking out.
Visit the Waterfront
- New London sits at the end of the Thames River where it meets the Long Island Sound.
- The waterway close to the station has stunning views, as well as easy access to the ferry terminal.
Take the Cross Sound Ferry to Long Island
- The Cross Sound Ferry is a short distance away from Union Station to Orient Point, Long Island.
- This is what makes New London an excellent starting location for a day trip to Long Island’s North Fork wine country.
explore the Historic Sites
- The Ye Ancient Burial Place is one of the most ancient cemeteries in Connecticut.
- Hempsted Houses 17th-century historical homes that are open to excursions.
- New London Custom House is a Federal-style house dating back to 1833.
- Monte Cristo Cottage the birthplace of the playwright Eugene O’Neill.
Day Trip to Mystic
- Mystic is only 10 minutes by car or rideshare service from New London.
- Mystic Seaport Museums, as well as Mystic Aquarium, are world-class attractions to visit.
Getting Around New London
- Taxis, as well as Rideshares Uber and Lyft, are accessible in Union Station.
- The Estuary Transit District operates local bus services throughout the district.
- Many of the city’s tourist attractions are within walking distance of the train station.
- There are seasonal bike rentals close to the water for exploration on your own time.
Booking Your Boston to New London Amtrak Ticket
It is easy to book your tickets and simple through various options.
How to Book
- Amtrak.com Find routes and compare prices, choose seats, and make payments online in just a few only a few seconds. The The
- Amtrak Mobile App is available on iOS as well as Android to book, manage reservationsan d show tickets on mobile devices.
- To call 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245), a charge for reservations may be imposed.
- The Station: Ticket counters in the stations of Boston South Station and New London Union Station are accessible; however, prices may be higher than rates on the internet.
What You Need to Book
- The date of your travel and the preferred timing for departure.
- The number of passengers and discounts applicable.
- An acceptable payment method, such as a debit card or Amtrak Points from Guest Rewards.
Cancellation and Changes
- Saver fares cannot be refunded; however, they can be exchanged for Amtrak electronic vouchers for travel in the future.
- Value and flexible fares permit the cancellation and changes of flights with different fees.
- Make sure you read all the terms and conditions for your flight when you make your reservation so that you are aware of alternatives before booking.
Best Time to Travel From Boston to New London by Train
The right time to travel could significantly enhance the overall experience you get when traveling this way.
Best Time of Day
- Trains that depart before 9 am are more crowded and start with a whole day in front of them.
- Midday trains running between 10:00 AM and 2:00 pm generally the least crowded and also the most comfortable.
- Trains that run after noon and in the evening, following 4:00 PM, are very popular among commuters. They are also more crowded.
Best Day of the Week
- Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday provide the highest available and most affordable fares.
- Saturdays and Fridays are the busiest days due to the weekends and weekend visitors.
- Mondays can be quite busy, with people returning from work after the weekend.
Best Season
- Spring (April until mid-June): Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and low fares make this the perfect time to travel.
- Summer (June through August) is the season of peak demand with increased prices and busier trains. Book your tickets before the time of travel.
- Autumn (September through November): Gorgeous leaves along the way as well as comfortable temperatures. smaller crowds than during the summer.
- Winter (December through February): There are fewer crowds and lower prices; however, the weather may delay travel.
Holiday Travel Tips
- Holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, Fourth of July, and Memorial Day are the busiest times for travel.
- Make reservations at least three or four weeks ahead of the holidays to guarantee your seats and receive the best price.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long will the journey on a train last?
It takes between 1 hour and 55 mins to 2 hours and 15 minutes. The travel time is a bit different based on the schedule of trains and the stops.
2. What does a train ticket cost?
Tickets for coach fares typically cost between $18 to $65, while Business Class prices range from $45 to $85. Early booking often means the lowest rates.
3. What Amtrak train runs on this route?
This train, the Amtrak Northeast Regional, runs from Boston as well as New London. Multiple departures are available daily.
4. Where can I get the train from Boston?
Trains start at Boston South Station,n located in the center of Boston. It is simple to get to via subway and buses.
5. Are Wi-Fi connections available on the train?
Yes, many Northeast Regional trains offer free Wi-Fi. This is ideal for emailing, browsing, nd for light-duty work.
6. Do I have to bring my bike with me on the train?
Bicycles can be brought on most trains with reservations in advance. There is a limited amount of space, so it is best to book your tickets early.
7. Are there food options available on the train ride?
A majority of trains come with cafe cars that sell food, drinks, as well as sandwiches and other small food items. The cafe also has seating within the cafe.
8. When should I get there on time?
A 30-minute arrival before departure time is suggested. This allows you time to get your board and platform easily.
9. Are there luggage storage facilities within New London?
There is no storage available. New London Union Station does have lockers for luggage. Hotels nearby may offer storage solutions.
10. Do I have the ability to connect with Long Island by ferry?
Yes, the Cross Sound Ferry terminal is close to the terminal. It provides convenient transportation to Long Island.