Cheap train tickets from East Lansing to Philadelphia
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Trip Summary
There are usually 6 daily train trips available from East Lansing to Philadelphia. Traveling by train from East Lansing to Philadelphia usually takes 26 hours and 21 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 19 hours and 59 minutes.
| Distance | 520 mi (837 km) |
| Fastest train | 19h 59m |
| Lowest price | $126.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from East Lansing to Philadelphia?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from East Lansing to Philadelphia was $198.32. Tickets for this route are somewhat expensive, given the distance between East Lansing and Philadelphia. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Philadelphia if you book your train tickets at least 28 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra $111.98.
Monthly avg. prices
Prices as travel date approaches
Planning ahead pays off when it comes to booking your train trip from East Lansing to Philadelphia. By reserving your ticket on Wanderu at least 28 days before departure, you can save around $111.98. Don't miss out on these savings — book in advance!
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 6 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 6 | 1d 2h 22m | $236.08 |
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 6 Amtrak trains from East Lansing to Philadelphia every day, as well as 7 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $126.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from East Lansing to Philadelphia
The distance between East Lansing and Philadelphia is approximately 520 miles, or 837 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 26 hours and 21 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 19 hours and 59 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.
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from East Lansing to Philadelphia on Sunday. Tickets for Sunday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Saturday. Saturday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
The earliest train departs East Lansing at 8:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 7:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
There are 6 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.
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?
Image credit: Ben Schumin
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: 30th St Station - 2955 Market St
Philadelphia has one train station.
All train stations in Philadelphia:
30th St Station - 2955 Market St
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Continue by train from Philadelphia
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- Philadelphia to Houston Train
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- Train from Philadelphia to Newport News
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- Train from Philadelphia to Roanoke
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