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Trip Summary
You can pick from 2 daily train trips between Rensselaer and Pittsfield. The average train journey from Rensselaer to Pittsfield takes 5 hours and 21 minutes, but some Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train trips are as short as one hour and 3 minutes.
| Distance | 29 mi (46 km) |
| Fastest train | 1h 3m |
| Lowest price | $12.29 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Lake Shore Limited |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Rensselaer to Pittsfield?
Over the past month, a train ticket between Rensselaer and Pittsfield cost $25.26, on average. This is about as cheap as train fares get on this route. Booking your trip at least 22 days in advance can help you secure tickets at the best price. For same-day bookings, you’ll likely have to pay around $19.12 more.
Monthly average prices
Ticket prices for the train from Rensselaer to Pittsfield often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in July when the average ticket price is only $68,
If you're thinking of traveling from Rensselaer to Pittsfield during September, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $145 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in September, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
Planning ahead pays off when it comes to booking your train trip from Rensselaer to Pittsfield. By reserving your ticket on Wanderu at least 22 days before departure, you can save around $19.12. Don't miss out on these savings — book in advance!
Which train should you take from Rensselaer to Pittsfield?
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is the one and only train line which connects Rensselaer to Pittsfield. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 2 | 5h 22m | $70.89 |
The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is an overnight train that runs along some of the best shorelines in the U.S., connecting New York City and Boston with Chicago. The service provides top-tier amenities to its passengers, including free WiFi and dining onboard. The Lake Shore Limited departs from Albany-Rensselaer Train Station in Rensselaer and arrives at Scelsi Transp Ctr - 1 Columbus Ave in Pittsfield. The route takes about 5 hours and 22 minutes and ticket prices start at $12.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trains departing from Rensselaer to Pittsfield tend to have the most passengers on Saturday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Saturday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Wednesday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
The earliest train departs Rensselaer at 3:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 11:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Rensselaer twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. One of these is a direct train, which will typically get you to Pittsfield faster. While it might still have stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Pittsfield to Rensselaer.
City Information
Rensselaer
Rensselaer is a small town located just across the Hudson River from the New York State capital, Albany. The Amtrak train station that serves Albany is actually located within Rensselaer, so many commuters and vacationers alike will pass through the city when traveling in the Hudson River Valley.
Rensselaer itself boasts a rich industrial tradition, and it was known as a major railway hub in the 19th century. One of the appealing local attractions in town is the Crailo State Historic Site. The site is a manor house, built in 1707, that today serves as a museum dedicated to the culture of Dutch colonists in New York State. More museums, activities, parks, and sights are waiting just across the river in Albany for the curious traveler.
The city of Rensselaer is an important transportation hub for Amtrak trains throughout the region, which include the Amtrak Empire Service, Amtrak Lake Shore Limited, Amtrak Maple Leaf, and Amtrak Ethan Allen Express. Between these services, Amtrak connects Rensselaer to New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, and beyond. The nearest airport to the city is the Albany International Airport.
Pittsfield
Image credit: Unsplash
Pittsfield is the largest city in the Berkshires region, Massachusetts. It is famous for having iconic residents like the author of Moby Dick, Herman Melville, and Rev. Thomas Allen of the Revolutionary War. Pittsfield offers many outdoor activities, like hiking on the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail or skiing on a 750-foot mountain at Bousquet Mountain Ski Area. Campers can check out the Pittsfield State Forest, while Lake Onota offers a scenic view. There are also different areas for history in Pittsfield, like the Hancock Shaker Village, which features living history exhibits, and the Berkshire Museum offers natural history. The city is popular among young families due to its fun activities and green spaces.
Pittsfield's downtown is the cultural center of Massachusetts, boasting an exciting dining scene with bars, cafés, and live music. Local stores also look out for when shopping and fun events like the Pittsfield Photo Challenge and the Berkshire International Film Festival. The latest addition is the Stargaze LGBTQ+ Festival in August.
Six bus routes go to Pittsfield, all powered by Greyhound. There are plenty of train services as well, offered by Amtrak and Amtrak Lake Shore Limited. Within the city, the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority provides public transportation.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Rensselaer?
Main departure station: Albany-Rensselaer Train Station
Because some trains make multiple stops before leaving the city, there are 9 stops and stations in Rensselaer where you can board the train.
All train stations in Rensselaer:
Albany-Rensselaer Train Station
332 Erie Boulevard
2702 W Washington St
Regional Transportation Center - 1 Walsh Cir
321 Main St
Chicago (Union Station), Illinois
Louise M. Slaughter Station
55 Dick Rd
MLK Plaza - 415 Emerald Ave
Where is the train station in Pittsfield?
Main arrival station: Scelsi Transp Ctr - 1 Columbus Ave
Pittsfield has one train station.
Train stations in Pittsfield:
Scelsi Transp Ctr - 1 Columbus Ave
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