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Trip Summary
On most days, there is one scheduled train that travels from Philadelphia to Gainesville. The train trip from Philadelphia to Gainesville is usually about 20 hours and 10 minutes long. However, be prepared just in case your train arrives slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 819 mi (1318 km) |
| Fastest train | 20h 10m |
| Lowest price | £134.69 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Philadelphia to Gainesville?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Philadelphia, PA to Gainesville, FL was £148.32. Tickets for this route are somewhat expensive, given the distance between Philadelphia and Gainesville. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Gainesville if you book your train tickets at least 2 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra £87.39.
Monthly average prices
Ticket prices for the train from Philadelphia to Gainesville 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 £130,
If you're thinking of traveling from Philadelphia to Gainesville during September, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of £267 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in September, is to book your trip well in advance.
Which train should you take from Philadelphia to Gainesville?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Philadelphia to Gainesville. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 20h 10m | £168.50 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad 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 restroom, 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 1 Amtrak trains from Philadelphia to Gainesville every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from £130.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Philadelphia and Gainesville is approximately 819 miles, or 1318 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 20 hours and 10 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.
Trains departing from Philadelphia to Gainesville tend to have the most passengers on Friday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Friday. 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 Thursday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Philadelphia at 12:00 and arrives in Gainesville around 20 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Gainesville to Philadelphia.
City Information
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.
Gainesville
Blessed with amazing natural landmarks and a vibrant cultural life, Gainesville offers a whole new Florida experience that is far from the decadence often associated with the state. If you wish to explore creative works made by local artists, head over to the Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention, which features great exhibitions that dive into the life of many inventors and entrepreneurs. Another great museum to visit is the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art. For those who want to marvel at the city’s natural landmarks, go for a hiking trip along the trails of Alfred A. Ring Park, or the Barr Hammock Preserve.
Gainesville’s local favorite is the 4 Rivers Smokehouse, which offers delicious briskets. For some of the freshest local dishes, head over to Alpin Bistro.
The main bus station in Gainesville is the Greyhound Bus Terminal located on NE 23rd Ave, which welcomes buses from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Houston and beyond. There is no rail service to Gainesville. However, the city is part of Amtrak’s network via the carrier’s Thruway bus service, which operates out of the same station. The main airport is the Gainesville Regional Airport, which lies in the northeast part of the city.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Philadelphia?
Image credit: Ben Schumin
Link to image attributionMain departure station: 30th St Station - 2955 Market St
There is one train station in Philadelphia.
All train stations in Philadelphia:
30th St Station - 2955 Market St
Where is the train station in Gainesville?
Main arrival station: Gainesville Bus Stop
Gainesville’s bus terminal at 101 NE 23rd Ave is located a few miles north of downtown Gainesville, in a retail area including dollar stores and several takeout restaurants. Greyhound and Amtrak Thruway intercity buses operate trips from this station to cities like Orlando, Atlanta, and Miami. The station building has an information desk, restrooms, and vending machines for travelers’ convenience.
Train stations in Gainesville:
Gainesville Bus Stop
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