Trains from Merced to Riverside
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Trip Summary
There are 5 daily trains from Merced to Riverside. Traveling by train from Merced to Riverside usually takes around 7 hours and 18 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 6 hours and 55 minutes.
| Distance | 289 mi (465 km) |
| Fastest train | 6h 55m |
| Lowest price | $40.50 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Merced to Riverside?
In the last month, $40.50 was the average price of a train ticket from Merced to Riverside. This is a great price, especially considering the length of the route. You can expect to find tickets at that price or lower if you book your trip at least 14 days in advance. Otherwise, expect to pay around $10.00 more than that for a same-day booking.
Monthly average prices
If you are trying to decide when to travel from Merced to Riverside by train so you can score the best possible deal, your best bet would be to plan your trip for October. That’s when the average price for a train ticket is expected to be just $43 – the lowest of the year.
Alternatively, if you plan to travel from Merced to Riverside in November, expect to spend more on your train trip, as the average ticket price usually surges to $56 at that time of year. However, if you book your trip ahead of time, you have a high chance of scoring a ticket at a lower price.
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 14 days ahead of time. If you do that, your train ticket to Riverside from Merced will be about $10.00 cheaper compared to what you would pay if you book at the last minute.
Which train should you take from Merced to Riverside?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Merced to Riverside. However, there are 5 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 5 | 7h 19m | $44.16 |
Amtrak
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 5 Amtrak trains from Merced to Riverside every day, as well as 6 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $41.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel by train from Merced to Riverside during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.
Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the train or in stations.
Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.
Can you take a train all the way from Merced to Riverside?
How long is the train journey from Merced to Riverside?
The distance between Merced and Riverside is approximately 289 miles, or 465 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 7 hours and 18 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 6 hours and 55 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.
When are trains the most crowded?
Trains from Merced to Riverside are the most crowded on Thursday. 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
When are the first and last trains of the day?
The earliest train departs Merced at 8:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Is there a direct train from Merced to Riverside?
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 Riverside to Merced.
City Information
Riverside
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Riverside is the most populous city in the Inland Empire and the birthplace of the local citrus industry. One of the most popular buildings in the city is the Mission Inn, a historic landmark that is also the largest Mission Revival Style building in the country. The building is now a popular local hotel and spa, offering top-notch hospitality services. While nearby, don't forget to check out the Mission Inn Museum as well. If you are looking to enjoy a great panoramic view of the entire city, take a short hike to the top of Mount Rubidoux, and you will not be disappointed!
Riverside boasts a generally vibrant food scene with plenty of establishments to choose from. The Mission Inn itself offers incredible traditional Spanish dishes and a fabulous open-air patio dining spot. For seasonal produce and local dishes, check out Salted Pig!
Riverside is served by Amtrak trains and several bus companies that operate routes throughout Southern California and beyond. In addition, there are three major airports in Riverside's general area: Ontario International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, and John Wayne Orange County Airport.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Merced?
Main departure station: 324 W 24th St
There is one train station in Merced.
All train stations in Merced:
324 W 24th St
Where is the train station in Riverside?
Image credit: Juan Enrique Gilardi
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: Downtown Metrolink Station - 4066 Vine St
On June 14, 1993, the Riverside station on Vine Street opened as a transportation facility. It comprises a platform with modest shelters to shield visitors from the sun and adverse weather. On April 29, 2002, the station was added as a stop on the Southwest Chief route, putting an end to Amtrak trains just passing through Riverside without making a scheduled stop. In addition to Amtrak, the station now primarily operates as a Metrolink commuter rail and transit bus terminal.
All train stations in Riverside:
Downtown Metrolink Station - 4066 Vine St
Need a return trip from Riverside to Merced?
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