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Trip Summary
There is usually just one train option from Elmira to Rochester per day. The average train journey from Elmira to Rochester takes 3 hours and 5 minutes, though some trains might be a few minutes slower or faster.
| Distance | 85 mi (136 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 5m |
| Lowest price | $39.50 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Elmira to Rochester?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Elmira to Rochester. 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 | 3h 5m | $39.50 |
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 Elmira to Rochester every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $40.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Elmira and Rochester is approximately 85 miles, or 136 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 5 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 Elmira to Rochester tend to have the most passengers on Thursday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Thursday. 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 Elmira at 3:00pm and arrives in Rochester around 3 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Rochester with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Rochester to Elmira.
City Information
Rochester
Perched on the shore on Lake Ontario, Rochester is an idyllic city with a small-town vibe, making it the perfect destination for those looking for some family-friendly fun. Rochester’s pride is Highland Park, which is one of the oldest arboretums in the U.S. Designed by the famous landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, the park features idyllic paths cutting through treelines and fragrant lilac bushes. If you wish to marvel at the beauty of the Genesee River’s Gorge, go on a hiking trip on the Genesee Riverway Trail. For more cultural activities, George Eastman Museum, the world’s oldest photography museum, would be a great choice.
Rochester’s food scene features many quirky dishes, including the famous local garbage plate, which features your choice of meat along with decadent sides. For the best garbage plates, you might want to check out Nick Tahou Hots.
The city’s busiest bus station is the Trailways Terminal downtown. The station serves several bus carriers, including New York Trailways, Greyhound and OurBus, among others. The principal Amtrak train station is Louis M. Slaughter Station, which is located just across the street from the bus station. Rochester is served by Amtrak’s Empire Service, Lake Shore Limited and Maple Leaf lines. The city’s commercial air services are served by the Greater Rochester International Airport, located 3 miles southwest of downtown.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Elmira?
Main departure station: Chemung County Transportation Center
There is one train station in Elmira.
All train stations in Elmira:
Chemung County Transportation Center
Where is the train station in Rochester?
Main arrival station: Rochester Bus Stop
The intercity Trailways Terminal at 186 Cumberland St is the main bus station in Rochester, NY, and offers convenient travel right from the city's Central Business District. Both New York Trailways and Greyhound operate from the Trailways Terminal. The station offers a small indoor waiting area. Charles Carroll Plaza, Genesee Crossroads Park, and Aqueduct Park are among the popular places near the bus station. You can catch a bus from the Trailways Terminal to various destinations like New York City, Toronto, Niagara Falls, and Ithaca. Locally, you can easily catch a public transit bus from Rochester Trailways Terminal to the Frederick Douglass - Greater Rochester International Airport. In addition, the bus station is a short walk away from Amtrak's Louise M. Slaughter Station.
All train stations in Rochester:
Rochester Bus Stop
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