Cheap train tickets from East Lansing to Philadelphia

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Trip Summary

There are usually 5 daily train trips available from East Lansing to Philadelphia. Travelling by train from East Lansing to Philadelphia usually takes 1 day, 1 hour and 17 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 19 hours and 37 minutes.

Distance: 520 mi (837 km)
Fastest train: 19h 37m
Lowest price: CHF 158.68
Trains per day: 5
Most frequent service: Amtrak
Train lines: 1

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East Lansing to Philadelphia Train Schedule

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There are several train options that can take you from East Lansing to Philadelphia:

Amtrak tickets: CHF 133 one-way

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What is the price of a train ticket from East Lansing to Philadelphia?

In the last month, train tickets from East Lansing to Philadelphia cost about CHF 164 when booked at the cheapest time. This is somewhat expensive compared to other train fares, but it makes sense given the route’s long distance. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 6 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around CHF 181.50 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from East Lansing to Philadelphia by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from East Lansing to Philadelphia will cost between CHF 163 and CHF 312. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from East Lansing to Philadelphia by month

Ticket prices for the train from East Lansing to Philadelphia often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only CHF 177. If you're thinking of travelling from East Lansing to Philadelphia during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of CHF 255 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

By booking your train trip from East Lansing to Philadelphia on Wanderu at least 6 days ahead of time, you can save about CHF 181.50 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from East Lansing to Philadelphia?

Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects East Lansing to Philadelphia. However, there are 5 trains per day to choose from.

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak	5	25h 17m	CHF 211.53

Amtrak is the largest passenger railway service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned washroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 5 Amtrak trains from East Lansing to Philadelphia every day, as well as 5 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from CHF 132.79.

Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from East Lansing to Philadelphia

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from East Lansing to Philadelphia. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.

There are 5 scheduled trains on most days. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage. You can also take a train for your return trip from Philadelphia to East Lansing.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between East Lansing and Philadelphia is approximately 837 kilometres. The average train journey between these two cities takes 1 day, 1 hour and 17 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 19 hours and 37 minutes. Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

Distance (mi)

520

Distance (km)

837

The earliest train departs East Lansing at 8:54 a.m. while the last train of the day leaves at 7:00 p.m. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

First train

8:54am

Last train

7:00pm

Trains from East Lansing to Philadelphia are the most crowded on Sunday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider travelling on Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Sunday

Least crowded

Thursday

City Information

East Lansing

East Lansing, a city shockingly located just east of Lansing, is primarily known as the home of Michigan State University. In fact, around half of its population is composed of students, and some of the city's most visited attractions are situated on the college campus. Among them are the historic W. J. Beal Botanical Garden, the 104-foot-tall Beaumont Tower, the contemporary Broad Art Museum, and the renowned Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Aside from its vibrant college life, East Lansing is also known for its yearly events, such as The East Lansing Film Festival, the largest of its kind in the entire state.

Lake Lansing is a go-to for swimming, fishing, or just getting some fresh air, but you'll also find parks and golf courses all around the city. The tree-lined Grand River Avenue divides the MSU campus from the rest of the city; find some of the city's best shopping and dining in the Grand River area, including HopCat, Beggar's Banquet, and Barrio East Lansing.

Public transit buses connect East Lansing to the closest airport, the Capital Region International Airport. However, it's also easy to take an intercity bus to nearby travel hubs, Detroit and Chicago, by booking a ticket with Greyhound, Indian Trails, or Jefferson Lines. East Lansing is a stop on Amtrak's Blue Water line, which makes train travel in and out of the city a breeze.

Philadelphia

We may feel a little bit more than just brotherly love for Philadelphia, a city steeped in history and culture. Where else can you channel your inner Rocky Balboa on his epic run, and later enjoy an authentic Philly cheesesteak as a reward?

Philadelphia’s affordability (especially compared to other East Coast cities) is just one of many reasons it is among Wanderu’s best destinations for college students. Another reason is how much there is to do! Early American history takes precedence at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, while museums abound on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, sometimes called the most artistic mile in the city. Head to Reading Terminal Market to fuel up for a night hitting the bars, clubs, and live music joints that line South Street.

Philadelphia is a major hub for both Greyhound and Amtrak, and its 30th Street Station is one of the busiest stations in the country. The plentitude of ground travel and the nearby Philadelphia International Airport make this exciting city very easily accessible, even on a budget.

Station Information

Where is the train station in East Lansing?

Main departure station: Train Station - 1240 S Harrison Rd E

There is one train station in East Lansing.

All train stations in East Lansing:

Train Station - 1240 S Harrison Rd E

Where is the train station in Philadelphia?

Main arrival station: 30th St Station - 2955 Market St

Philadelphia has one train station.

All train stations in Philadelphia:

30th St Station - 2955 Market St

Need a return trip from Philadelphia to East Lansing?

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