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Trip Summary
On most days, there is one scheduled train that travels from Rensselaer to Elkhart. The train trip from Rensselaer to Elkhart is usually about 18 hours and 27 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train can get you there in as little as 13 hours and 38 minutes.
| Distance | 630 mi (1013 km) |
| Fastest train | 13h 38m |
| Lowest price | $124.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Lake Shore Limited |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Rensselaer to Elkhart?
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is the one and only train line which connects Rensselaer to Elkhart. 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 Lake Shore Limited | 1 | 18h 27m | $159.78 |
The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is an overnight train that runs along some of the best shorelines in the U.S., connecting New York City and Boston with Chicago. The service provides top-tier amenities to its passengers, including free WiFi and dining onboard. The Lake Shore Limited departs from Back Bay Station - 145 Dartmouth St in Rensselaer and arrives at 131 Tyler Ave in Elkhart. The route takes about 18 hours and 27 minutes and ticket prices start at $124.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Rensselaer and Elkhart is approximately 630 miles, or 1013 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 18 hours and 27 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 13 hours and 38 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 Rensselaer to Elkhart on Friday. Tickets for Friday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Wednesday. Wednesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Rensselaer at 12:00pm and arrives in Elkhart around 13 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Elkhart 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 Elkhart to Rensselaer.
City Information
Rensselaer
Rensselaer is a small town located just across the Hudson River from the New York State capital, Albany. The Amtrak train station that serves Albany is actually located within Rensselaer, so many commuters and vacationers alike will pass through the city when traveling in the Hudson River Valley.
Rensselaer itself boasts a rich industrial tradition, and it was known as a major railway hub in the 19th century. One of the appealing local attractions in town is the Crailo State Historic Site. The site is a manor house, built in 1707, that today serves as a museum dedicated to the culture of Dutch colonists in New York State. More museums, activities, parks, and sights are waiting just across the river in Albany for the curious traveler.
The city of Rensselaer is an important transportation hub for Amtrak trains throughout the region, which include the Amtrak Empire Service, Amtrak Lake Shore Limited, Amtrak Maple Leaf, and Amtrak Ethan Allen Express. Between these services, Amtrak connects Rensselaer to New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, and beyond. The nearest airport to the city is the Albany International Airport.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Rensselaer?
Image credit: Tony Hisgett
Link to image attribution
Main departure station: South Station
South Station is the largest and busiest train station in Boston, and a major transportation hub for the greater New England area. South Station's 13 tracks are used by Amtrak, Acela, the MBTA commuter rail, and the MBTA subway system (a.k.a. the "T") with connections to the Boston Logan International Airport. You can also access intercity bus service in the adjacent South Station Bus Terminal. South Station's historic train terminal opened in 1899 right in downtown Boston, and is close to many points of interest like the Boston Common, the Freedom Trail, and the hip Seaport district. At the terminal, you'll find free WiFi, luggage storage, a 24-hour information booth, and 14 dining options, including that New England favorite, Dunkin'.
All train stations in Rensselaer:
South Station
Back Bay Station - 145 Dartmouth St
Albany-Rensselaer Train Station
Where is the train station in Elkhart?
Main arrival station: 131 Tyler Ave
Elkhart has one train station.
All train stations in Elkhart:
131 Tyler Ave
Get around town with Moovit
Need a return trip from Elkhart to Rensselaer?
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