5.0
Pros: Relaxing! Quiet and efficient. Cons: Healthier food options? 🥺. Tips: Travel business class!
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Trip Summary
2 trains operate daily from Lancaster to Pittsburgh. The train trip from Lancaster to Pittsburgh is usually about 7 hours and 16 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak Pennsylvanian train can get you there in as little as 6 hours and 13 minutes.
| Distance | 197 mi (316 km) |
| Fastest train | 6h 13m |
| Lowest price | US$47.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Pennsylvanian |
| Train lines | 2 |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Overall score for trains from Lancaster to Pittsburgh
(Based on 3 ratings and reviews)
4.7
What is the price of a train ticket from Lancaster to Pittsburgh?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Lancaster to Pittsburgh was US$47.00. At this price, taking the train is the cheap and easy way to go. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Pittsburgh if you book your train tickets at least 16 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra US$34.88.
Monthly average prices
Ticket prices for the train from Lancaster to Pittsburgh often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in December when the average ticket price is only US$59,
If you're thinking of traveling from Lancaster to Pittsburgh during August, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of US$78 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in August, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
If you want to score the best deal, you should plan to book your train trip online on Wanderu at least 16 days ahead of time. If you do that, your train ticket to Pittsburgh from Lancaster will be about US$34.88 cheaper compared to what you would pay if you book at the last minute.
Which train should you take from Lancaster to Pittsburgh?
2 train services operate from Lancaster to Pittsburgh. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 8h 56m | US$119.00 |
| Amtrak Pennsylvanian | 1 | 6h 14m | US$53.96 |
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 2 Amtrak trains from Lancaster to Pittsburgh every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from US$119.
The Amtrak Pennsylvanian runs daily between New York City and Pittsburgh, passing through cities such as Philadelphia and Harrisburg. The trains feature basic amenities such as a cafe car and free onboard WiFi and offer checked baggage service. A trip from Lancaster to Pittsburgh takes about 6 hours and 14 minutes on the Pennsylvanian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Lancaster to Pittsburgh. 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.
The distance between Lancaster and Pittsburgh is approximately 197 miles, or 316 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 7 hours and 16 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 6 hours and 13 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 from Lancaster to Pittsburgh are the most crowded on Saturday. 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 traveling on Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Lancaster at 13:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 13:00. 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 Lancaster 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Lancaster.
City Information
Lancaster
Lancaster is a city in the Piedmont Region, between Baltimore and Philadelphia, primarily known for being a hub of Pennsylvania's Amish Country. One of Lancaster's most popular attractions is the Central Market, housed in an impressive structure built in 1889. Here, you can shop from over 60 vendors and sample their fresh fruits, cheeses, or baked treats and purchase handmade Amish goods unique to the area.
Lancaster also features a growing art scene, and Gallery Row downtown hosts some of the town's best boutiques, art galleries, and vintage shops. The Demuth Museum and Lancaster Museum of Art offer additional venues for culture vultures to check out. If you're visiting with kids, don't miss Dutch Wonderland just outside of town; this royal theme park includes 32 rides and activities catering to young children.
Lancaster features a vibrant food scene with plenty of selections and cuisines for even the most discerning foodies. Some local favorites include C'est La Vie, The Brasserie Restaurant & Bar, and Shot & Bottle.
Amtrak Pennsylvanian and Keystone Service trains stop in Lancaster and connect the town with Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and New York. OurBus offers intercity bus routes to Lancaster, as well. The nearest airport for passenger flights is in Philadelphia, about 60 miles away or just an hour on the train.
Pittsburgh
Once the epitome of American industrial power, Pittsburgh has recently seen new waves of changes that turn it into a vibrant destination for visitors, especially for families. When in Pittsburgh, don’t miss out on the chance to hop on the Duquesne Incline and get to the top of Mount Washington. You will be rewarded with a panoramic view of where the three rivers collide, which offers plenty of excellent photogenic angles. Culturally-inclined travelers will find the Senator John Heinz History Center the perfect place to spend a day in. It does not just offer exhibitions on the city’s history but also on its baseball and football legacies, as well as Heinz products. Whether you are a sports fan or not, it is worthwhile to check out the Heinz Field, which provides a unique waterfront view.
Pittsburgh’s staple is pierogies, and some of the highest-rated eateries that include the dish on their menu are Pierogies Plus and Penn Brewery. These establishments serve other Eastern European dishes for your enjoyment as well. For traditional American eats, Eleven has an excellent selection.
Jefferson Lines, Greyhound, and Fullington Trailways all provide intercity transit service to Pittsburgh, and visitors can catch their buses at the Grant Street Transportation Center. You can also catch Amtrak trains at the nearby Pittsburgh Union Station. The main airport of the city is the Pittsburgh International Airport, which is located 10 miles west of Downtown. Another alternative is the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport, 44 miles east of the city.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Lancaster?
Main departure station: 53 E Mcgovern Ave
There is one train station in Lancaster.
All train stations in Lancaster:
53 E Mcgovern Ave
Where is the train station in Pittsburgh?
Image credit: David Brossard
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Barta IV
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Luke H. Gordon
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: 1100 Liberty Ave
Pittsburgh’s Union Station on Liberty Ave is a historic building that opened in 1903. Enter the station through enormous outdoor arches and pass beneath the spectacular rotunda dome with a central skylight. Once inside, you can catch the Capitol Limited train on its daily service from Chicago to DC or hop aboard the Pennsylvanian as it begins the journey to New York. Located in Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle, the station offers easy access to the nearby bus terminal, parking, restaurants, and the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
Train stations in Pittsburgh:
1100 Liberty Ave
Pittsburgh Intermodal/Grant St Trans Ctr
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