Driving from Maryland to Pennsylvania means dealing with traffic on I-95 and expensive parking. A better option is taking the train from New Carrollton to Philadelphia. This train has some of the easiest, most comfortable, and most predictable travel options from the Washington, D.C. area to Philadelphia. Amtrak trains run from New Carrollton, Maryland, to 30th Street Station in Philadelphia. The trip takes between 2 and 2.5 hours.
This guide has information on the trains, schedules, travel times, major stops, prices, how to save money, the amenities on the trains, travel options compared, first-time travel tips, what to do when you reach your destination, how to book, the best times to travel, and the most frequently asked questions.
Train From New Carrollton to Philadelphia
- Route: New Carrollton, MD (NCR) to Philadelphia, PA (PHL)
- Operator: Amtrak
- Train Types: Acela and Northeast Regional
- Estimated Distance: 120-130 miles
- Estimated Time: 1 hour 55 minutes (Acela) and 2 hours 45 minutes (Northeast Regional)
- Arrival Station: William H. Gray III 30th Street Station
- Estimated Fares: 25-60 (early-booked Northeast Regional Saver fares) and more for Acela or higher fares for later bookings
- Best for: commuters, students, tourists, business travelers, anyone looking to bypass the I-95 traffic
Note: Schedules and fares change often. Always confirm current details on Amtrak.com or the Amtrak app before you travel.
Why Take the Train From New Carrollton to Philadelphia?
There are many reasons travelers choose the train over driving, bus travel, or flying on this corridor.
- Beat the Traffic. I-95 between Baltimore, Washington and Philadelphia is a parking lot during rush hour—even off-peak hours, construction and accidents back up traffic for miles. Trains travel by a different, more direct and less congested route than cars.
- City Center. Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station is literally across the street from Center City. Cars can’t get any closer to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. Additionally, finding a parking space and paying for parking is not something you have to think about when taking the train.
- Increased Productivity. Take advantage of your travel time by getting work done. Trains provide a more comfortable and less distracting environment to get work done. Unlike driving, trains offer Wi-Fi and electrical outlets.
- More legroom. Seats on trains provide more legroom than seats on airplanes and buses. Unlike on other means of transport, you can get up, go to the Café car and use the restrooms.
- Inexpensive and easy parking at New Carrollton. New Carrollton is a major transport hub for Amtrak and the MARC trains, as well as for the Washington Metro’s Orange Line and many local buses. It has a large parking facility and is convenient for the residents of Prince George’s County, Anne Arundel County and the northeastern region of the Washington, D.C. area.
- Less stress and more predictable travel. Trains on the Northeast Corridor are the most reliable intercity trains. You can plan the other activities on your day with the confidence of an arrival time that you cannot with highway driving.
- More eco-friendly. Compared to individual driving, rail travel is more eco-friendly.
| Traveler Type | Why the Train Works Well |
| Business travelers | Work onboard, arrive downtown, avoid parking |
| Students | Student discounts, easy access to Penn and Drexel |
| Tourists | Direct access to Philadelphia’s historic sites |
| Families | Space to move, kids’ discounts, no driving stress |
| Weekend visitors | Quick trip without car rental or hotel parking |
| Seniors | Comfortable seating, senior discounts, no long drive |
Which Amtrak Trains Run From New Carrollton to Philadelphia?
There are two main Amtrak services that connect New Carrollton and Philadelphia along the Northeast Corridor.
Northeast Regional
The Northeast Regional is Amtrak’s most popular and frequent service on this corridor. It makes more stops than Acela and offers a wide range of fares. Northeast Regional trains offer Coach Class and Business Class seating. There is also a Café Car and Wi-Fi onboard all trains.
Acela
The Acela is Amtrak’s premium high-speed service. It makes fewer stops and offers a more upscale experience. Not every Acela train stops at New Carrollton, so check the timetable before you book. When an Acela does stop at New Carrollton, it may be the quickest option to Philadelphia.
Other Rail Services
There are a couple f other services that may be helpful when thinking about your travel plan. The Keystone Service trains don’t stop at New Carrollton and run between Philadelphia and Harrisburg. The MARC’s Penn Line and SEPTA Regional Rail are other commuter systems that may be part of your travel plan.
| Feature | Northeast Regional | Acela |
| Typical travel time | About 2 hrs 15 min to 2 hrs 45 min | About 1 hr 55 min to 2 hrs 15 min |
| Number of stops | More | Fewer |
| Seat classes | Coach, Business | Business, First |
| Fare level | Lower to moderate | Moderate to high |
| Wi-Fi and outlets | Yes | Yes |
| Café car | Yes | Yes |
| Frequency at New Carrollton | More frequent | Limited |
| Best for | Budget and flexibility | Speed and comfort |
Train From New Carrollton to Philadelphia Train Schedule: Departure Times and Frequency
Amtrak has frequent train service from New Carrollton to Philadelphia. Weekday service is generally more frequent than weekend service, and holiday service can be less or more frequent than the typical service. There are many factors that affect train service, including types of trains and the seasons.
| Time of Day | Typical Availability |
| Early morning (5 AM to 8 AM) | Several Northeast Regional departures, popular with commuters |
| Late morning (8 AM to 12 PM) | Regular Northeast Regional service, limited Acela |
| Afternoon (12 PM to 4 PM) | Good frequency, usually fewer crowds |
| Evening (4 PM to 8 PM) | Busy period with multiple departures |
| Late night (after 8 PM) | Limited departures; check availability early |
There are about a dozen departures a day from New Carrollton to Philadelphia, though this number can change.
How to Check the Current Schedule
- To check the current schedule, go to Amtrak.com or open the Amtrak app.
- Enter “New Carrollton, MD (NCR)” as your departure station.
- Enter “Philadelphia, PA (PHL)” as your destination.
- Enter your travel date.
- Select the trains that work for you and see the times, prices and other info.
- You can use the Amtrak app, Amtrak website or station page to see live departures, arrival times and status.
Schedule Tips
- Weekday morning and afternoon trains are the busiest as people commute to and from work.
- Trains during the day can be less crowded and have cheaper fares.
- Trains on Sunday afternoons and evenings can be very busy as people commute home for the weekend.
- Be sure to arrive at the station at least 20 to 30 minutes before departure. Boarding can be chaotic at peak times.
- Train delays can happen for a number of reasons. Check the status of your train on the day of travel.
Train From New Carrollton to Philadelphia Train Travel Time: How Long Does It Take?
It takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to travel from New Carrollton to Philadelphia. Of course, your travel time will depend on how many stops your train makes, as well as traffic on the tracks.
| Train Type | Approximate Travel Time |
| Acela (when available) | About 1 hr 55 min to 2 hrs 15 min |
| Northeast Regional (fewer stops) | About 2 hrs 15 min to 2 hrs 30 min |
| Northeast Regional (more stops) | About 2 hrs 30 min to 2 hrs 45 min |
What Affects Travel Time?
There are several factors that can impact travel time on the Northeast Corridor.
- The number of stops. Each stop can take a few minutes. Trains that stop at airports and other additional stations can be slower.
- Track conditions. Restrictions and maintenance can slow trains.
- The weather. Extreme weather conditions such as heavy snow and extreme heat can slow down or cause delays.
- Congestion. There are several trains that use the Northeast Corridor. A delay in one area can impact all other areas.
| Mode | Typical Time |
| Train | About 2 to 2.75 hours |
| Car (light traffic) | About 2.25 to 2.5 hours |
| Car (heavy traffic) | 3 to 4 hours or more |
| Bus | About 3 to 4 hours |
William H. Gray III 30th Street Station for Passengers
William H. Gray III 30th Street Station, typically just called 30th Street Station, is the main train station in Philadelphia, PA. It is named after the late U.S. Congressman William H. Gray III. The station code is PHL. It is one of the most beautiful and busiest train stations in the U.S. It has a grand and large main concourse with a very high coffered ceiling.
Location
It is located on the west side of the Schuylkill River. It is adjacent to Center City, and the campuses of the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, as well as the University City district. It is a 20- to 30-minute walk to Center City, or a quick transit by bus, trolley, or rideshare.
| Facility | Details |
| Ticket office and kiosks | Buy or collect tickets, ask staff for help |
| Waiting areas | Large main concourse seating |
| Food and shops | Restaurants, cafés, and convenience stores |
| Restrooms | Available in the main building |
| Baggage assistance | Redcap services may be available for eligible travelers |
| Accessibility | Elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms |
| Wi-Fi | Free Wi-Fi in the station |
| ATMs | Available in the concourse |
Connections From the Station
- SEPTA Regional Rail trains provide service from 30th Street Station to Pennsylvania and New Jersey suburbs and Philadelphia International Airport.
- Connections with SEPTA subways, trolleys, and buses are also available.
- NJ Transit Atlantic City Line trains provide access to and from the Station.
- Taxis and rideshares are available at designated pickup locations.
- Bike share stations are nearby.
Tips for Using the Station
- As tracks are usually announced just prior to departure, watch the departure boards for track announcements.
- The main concourse can get very crowded, especially during peak hours. Allow extra time.
- When changing to another train, use the station map and signs to help you locate your platform.
Key Stops Between New Carrollton and Philadelphia
The train travels north through Maryland, Delaware and Pennsylvania. Not all trains stop at all stations, so check your train specifically. These are the major stops along this corridor that are usually served.
| Station | State | Why It Matters |
| New Carrollton | Maryland | Starting point, with Metro, MARC, and parking |
| BWI Airport (BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport) | Maryland | Connects directly to Baltimore/Washington International Airport |
| Baltimore Penn Station | Maryland | Historic station serving downtown Baltimore |
| Aberdeen or Perryville | Maryland | Occasional stops for northeastern Maryland |
| Newark | Delaware | Serves the University of Delaware area on some trains |
| Wilmington | Delaware | Largest city in Delaware, a major business stop |
| Philadelphia (30th Street) | Pennsylvania | Final stop for this journey |
About The Main Stops
- BWI Airport. This station has a shuttle that connects travelers to the airport terminals for free. It’s a great station for travelers connecting to the train and a flight.
- Baltimore Penn Station. This station is located in the Station North historic district of Baltimore. There are other connections to MARC trains and Baltimore’s Light Rail here.
- Wilmington Station. Located in downtown Wilmington, Delaware, this station is Delaware’s busiest train station and is located near the Riverfront and business districts.
Scenery Along The Way
Trains on this route go through marshland and the Chesapeake Bay region, river crossings, and historic towns. You can also see the urban areas of Baltimore and Wilmington from the train. Sit on the right side of the train if you want to see the water when the train is in Maryland.
Ticket Prices and Best Ways to Save Money on Amtrak
Amtrak ticket prices are based on several factors and tend to change dramatically, so the price ranges given here are rough estimates.
| Ticket Type | Approximate Price Range |
| Northeast Regional, Saver (booked early) | About $25 to $60 |
| Northeast Regional, Coach (mid-range) | About $50 to $100 |
| Northeast Regional, Business | About $70 to $150 |
| Acela, Business | About $90 to $200 or more |
| Acela, First | Higher, often $150 to $300 or more |
How to Save Money
- Save money by booking early. Prices usually go up as the train fills up. Booking two to four weeks ahead usually leads to lower prices.
- Go at off-peak hours. Midday and Saturday fares are often lower than weekday rush hour fares.
- Take the Northeast Regional over the Acela. The Regional is usually cheaper.
- Try to find Saver fares. They are often the cheapest, but have strict rules about changes.
- Try to find discounts. Amtrak provides discounts for different groups.
- Be flexible with dates. Use the fare calendar on Amtrak’s website to compare fares for different days.
- Sign up for Amtrak Guest Rewards. It provides points for trips that are redeemable for travel.
- Look for seasonal sales. Amtrak often runs sales for different times of the year.
| Discount | Typical Offer |
| Children ages 2 to 12 | About 50% off an adult fare with a paying adult, on eligible fares |
| Children under 2 | Usually free on a lap |
| Seniors (65 and older) | Around 10% off on eligible fares |
| Students (with eligible membership or ID) | Around 15% off on eligible fares |
| Military and veterans | Discounts may be available |
| Disabled travelers | Discounts may apply |
Keep in mind that the rules for discounts can change. Always confirm the terms at Amtrak.com when you are about to book.
Refunds and Changes
Many fares allow changes/cancellations with various conditions. Flexible fares usually cost more but allow more changes. Saver fares can have stricter conditions. Read the fare conditions before you purchase your ticket.
Onboard Amenities on the Train From New Carrollton to Philadelphia
These Amtrak routes are designed for comfort and ease within a 2-3 hour journey.
Seating
- Coach Class: Seating is more spacious than airline and intercity buses and includes soft seats and adjustable tray tables.
- Business Class: Seating is even more spacious than coach and offers a quieter environment. Other perks include food and beverage service.
- First Class (Acela): Seating offers a wider and more spacious surface as well as a variety of other perks and services,s including complimentary drink and meal service and access to priority lounges in select stations.
| Amenity | Availability |
| Wi-Fi | Available on most trains, though speeds can vary |
| Power outlets | At or near most seats |
| Café car | Snacks, hot and cold drinks, sandwiches |
| Restrooms | Available on every train |
| Luggage racks | Overhead racks and baggage areas |
| Quiet Car | Designated car for people who want silence |
| Accessible seating | Available for passengers with disabilities |
Quiet Car
There are designated Quiet Cars on many trains along the corridor. Passengers on these cars are asked to keep conversations to a minimum. For travelers looking to read, work or rest, these cars are a good option.
Luggage Rules
Amtrak allows more carry-ons per passenger than many airlines. Passengers can bring on two personal items (a purse or a briefcase) and two carry-on bags (a roller bag and an oversized bag) for no additional charge. Passengers should always check Amtrak’s current baggage policy for potential changes.
Food and Drinks
Amtrak allows travelers to bring food and drinks on board. The Café Car sells meals, but the prices are comparable to meals at the grocery store. Travelers can also save money by bringing a sandwich and drink on board.
Train From New Carrollton to Philadelphia Train vs. Other Travel Options
There are four main ways to get from New Carrollton to Philadelphia: by train, by car, by bus, and by plane. Let’s take a look at each.
| Factor | Train | Car | Bus | Plane |
| Typical time | 2 to 2.75 hrs | 2.25 to 4 hrs | 3 to 4 hrs | Not practical |
| Typical cost | $25 to $150+ | Fuel, tolls, parking | $15 to $40 | High and impractical |
| Comfort | High | Medium | Medium to low | Medium |
| Traffic risk | Low | High | High | Low |
| Arrives downtown | Yes | Yes, but parking is costly | Yes | No |
| Work onboard | Easy | No | Possible | Limited |
Train vs. Car
Driving can be convenient if you need to make frequent stops or carry a lot of luggage. You will lose time in heavy traffic and pay for tolls, parking and fuel in Philadelphia. Resting and working on the train can be a better alternative.
Train vs. Bus
Train tickets can be more expensive than intercity bus tickets if you do not make your reservations well in advance. The train takes less time and is more comfortable and convenient. If your main concern is price, the bus may be a better option.
Train vs. Flying
Flying between these two nearby regions is not practical. By the time you reach your airport, clear security and board a flight, the train would have taken you there.
Verdict
The train provides the best convenience, comfort, reliability and price for most travelers on this route.
Tips for First-Time Travelers on the Train From New Carrollton to Philadelphia Route
Make your first Amtrak experience easier with these tips.
- Book your tickets in advance to get lower prices and to make sure you can get on your preferred train.
- Get to the station early. We recommend you arrive at New Carrollton 20-30 minutes before your train time to find your platform and park without a hassle.
- Know your train number and platform. Signs around the station show you where to go. It is important to make sure you are on the northbound platform at New Carrollton.
- Have your ticket ready. Make sure you have your ID to show the conductor if they ask.
- Try to sit in a seat that fits your needs. Seats can be assigned on Acela and other classes, but on Northeast Regional, seating is unassigned in coach.
- Download the Amtrak app to view your e-ticket and see the status of your train. The app also displays the track your train is departing from and arriving on.
- Be sure to pack light, but bring essential items to make your train trip more comfortable. Bring headphones to cancel out outside noise, and a snack. Trains don’t always have food for sale and can be long.
- Find the Quiet Car if you need peace. Be respectful of the rules. Other passengers want the car to remain quiet.
- Keep your important items with you. Items of value should not be left on the overhead racks, as they can be lost or stolen when passengers get off at different stops.
- Know your arrival stop. There will be a platform announcement, and you can also see your progress in the Amtrak app. Large numbers of passengers often get off in Philadelphia.
- Delays happen. Keep your schedule flexible if you have connections.
- If you need assistance boarding, contact Amtrak to request assistance, and it will be provided to you at your boarding location.
Parking at New Carrollton
The New Carrollton Station multi-level parking garage provides parking for Amtrak and MARC riders as well as those using the Metrorail. Parking rates and rules may change. Check with the station operator for the latest rates and rules if you plan to park for an extended period of time. Long-term and daily parking is usually available.
Getting to New Carrollton Without Driving
- Metro: You can take the Metro Orange Line and get off at New Carrollton, which is at the end of the line.
- MARC: The MARC Penn Line has commuter train service to/from this station on weekdays.
- Local buses: There are several bus routes that service this station.
- Taxis/rideshare: There are drop off/pick up zones at the bus zone on the service road near the station.
What to Do When You Arrive at William H. Gray III 30th Street Station
Philadelphia is a city that contains many things like history, food, art and more. Check out some of these amazing places to explore once you get off the train.
| Attraction | Why Visit | Getting There From 30th Street |
| Independence Hall | Where the Declaration of Independence was signed | Short transit ride or about a 35-minute walk |
| Liberty Bell Center | Iconic symbol of American freedom | Near Independence Hall |
| Elfreth’s Alley | One of the oldest residential streets in the country | Short ride from Center City |
| Betsy Ross House | Historic flag-making site | Old City neighborhood |
Museums and Culture
- Philadelphia Museum of Art: Home to many famous art pieces, and a set of steps made famous by the movie ‘Rocky’.
- Barnes Foundation: Post-Impressionist art.
- Rodin Museum: Rodin sculptures.
- The Franklin Institute: Popular Science museum.
- Penn Museum: Has mummies!
Food and Drink
- The Reading Terminal Market: 100+ Amish, Mennonite and local PA vendors. Home of the Philly cheesesteak, roast pork and pretzels.
- Italian Market: Large Italian and other international food market.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces
- The Schuylkill River Trail: Bike path and trail that runs by the river.
- Rittenhouse Square: Popular square with lots of restaurants.
- Fairmount Park: The largest park system in the world!
- Bok Building (seasonal): Former school turned park with a rooftop pool and other amenities. Great views of the city.
- Fairmount Water Works (seasonal): Interpretive center about the first water works in the US that supply Philadelphia with clean drinking water.
| Option | Best For |
| Walking | Short trips in Center City and Old City |
| SEPTA bus, subway, trolley | Affordable city-wide travel |
| Rideshare and taxis | Convenience and late-night trips |
| Bike share | Short rides in good weather |
| Regional Rail | Reaching the airport and suburbs |
Booking Your Train From New Carrollton to Philadelphia Amtrak Ticket
You can purchase Amtrak tickets online, by phone, at ticket offices, and from some travel agents. To purchase tickets online:
Step-by-Step Booking Guide
- Visit the Amtrak website or use the Amtrak app to book your reservation. You can search for schedules and fares on both the website and app.
- Enter New Carrollton, MD (NCR) for your departure and Philadelphia, PA (PHL) for your arrival.
- Enter the date you wish to travel. To see the best fares, you can view the fare calendar.
- Indicate the number of passengers traveling (adults, children, or seniors). Fares may differ for passengers based on age.
- Evaluate your options based on departure and arrival time, travel time, and fare for each train.
- Select the train based on your needs and fare class (coach, business, or first).
- Enter passenger information and make payment. You can pay with a credit or debit card.
- Save your e-ticket in the Amtrak app or print a copy for your trip.
Other Ways to Book
- Station ticket office or kiosks: Ticket kiosks and offices are available at larger stations (i.e., New Carrollton). Staffing may vary.
- Phone Booking: The customer service center can assist you with making reservations.
- Travel Agencies: Some travel agencies may sell Amtrak tickets.
Booking Tips
- Book your tickets with Amtrak directly for the best fares and to support their business.
- Familiarize yourself with fare rules. Understand what happens to your fares if you have to make any changes or cancellations.
- Add your Guest Rewards number when booking to earn points.
- For group travel, see what group booking options are available.
- Watch for your travel confirmation emails. Keep your itinerary for your trip.
Best Time to Travel From New Carrollton to Philadelphia by Train
What’s most important to you will help decide the ideal time to take the train from New Carrollton to Philadelphia. Is it the fare? Seat? Weather? Delays? Some seasons, days, and hours on the Northeast Corridor are considerably better than others.
| Season | Pros | Cons |
| Spring (March to May) | Pleasant weather, blooming parks, good city events | Can be busy with school trips |
| Summer (June to August) | Long days, outdoor festivals, waterfront activities | Hot, humid, and busier with tourists |
| Fall (September to November) | Mild weather, colorful foliage, comfortable walking | Weekends can be busy |
| Winter (December to February) | Holiday lights, fewer crowds outside holidays | Cold weather and some weather delays |
Best Days and Times
- Cheapest: Midday weekdays, Saturdays, late night
- Most Crowded: Fridays, Sundays, days before/after holidays
- Most Relaxed: Tues/Weds mornings/afternoons
Holidays and Special Events
During holiday periods like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year and the 4th of July, trains can be more expensive and more crowded. So can trains to/from Philadelphia for big events or activities like sports or concerts. Plan for travel during these times.
Best Time for Scenery
The best scenery is offered in the spring and fall when there is greenery, and in the fall when leaves are changing colors. Daytime trains offer the best opportunity for viewing.
Times to Avoid or Plan Carefully
- The days before/after Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, and 4th of July are especially bad for delays.
- Big sporting events or concerts in Philadelphia
- Big university move-in/move-out weekends
- Winter storm days, when there will be many delays or cancellations
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is the train ride from New Carrollton to Philadelphia?
About 2-2.5 hours. Acela trains are faster than Northeast Regional Trains.
2. What station do I arrive at in Philadelphia?
PHL (William H. Gray III 30th Street Station), which is in Center City, University City, West Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania and other West Philadelphia areas.
3. How much does a ticket from New Carrollton to Philadelphia cost?
Tickets are generally more expensive when bought later. A Northeast Regional Saver ticket, if bought early enough, can cost from $ 25 to $ 60. Cela tickets are always more expensive. Check Amtrak.com for prices.
4. Is there a direct train from New Carrollton to Philadelphia?
There are Amtrak Northeast Regional trains that have direct service from New Carrollton to Philadelphia. There are also Acela trains that have direct service from New Carrollton to Philadelphia.
5. How many trains run each day on this route?
There are many different trains each day. There are even more during the week. Check Amtrak for more info.
6. Is the Acela or Northeast Regional better for this trip?
The Acela is faster and more expensive. The Northeast Regional is cheaper and more frequent. The choice is up to you.
7. Can I bring luggage on the train?
Yes. Amtrak allows two personal items and two carry-on bags per passenger for free, as long as they meet the size and weight limits. Policies are subject to change, so you’ll want to confirm Amtrak’s baggage rules before your trip.
8. Is Wi-Fi available on the train?
Yes. Most Northeast Regional and Acela trains offer Wi-Fi. Speeds can be slow, so don’t expect to use it for large files or video calls.
9. Is parking available at New Carrollton Station?
Yes. New Carrollton Station has a large parking facility that offers parking for Amtrak, MARC, and Metro customers. Rates and availability can change, so check before you go.
10. When should I book to get the lowest fare?
Booking two to four weeks in advance often gets you the lowest fare. Midday,late-night and Saturday trains are usually cheaper than peak weekday trains.
