Cheap train tickets from State College to Philadelphia
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Is it better to travel by bus or train from State College to Philadelphia?
There are usually 4 daily bus trips available from State College to Philadelphia.
Bus | Train | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$59.12 | Avg. Price$78.00 |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips4 | Daily Trips1 |
Duration | Duration5h 43m | Duration4h 54m |
Trip Summary
There is one daily train from State College to Philadelphia. Traveling by train from State College to Philadelphia usually takes 4 hours and 52 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 4 hours and 26 minutes.
| Distance | 153 mi (247 km) |
| Fastest train | 4h 26m |
| Lowest price | $78.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from State College to Philadelphia?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from State College to Philadelphia was $78.00. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Philadelphia if you book your train tickets at least 1 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra $1.50.
Average train ticket prices from State College to Philadelphia by travel date
The cost of a one-way train trip from State College to Philadelphia is expected to stay pretty stable over the next four weeks. No matter which day you travel, you can expect to pay about $78 for your ticket.
Monthly avg. prices
Prices as travel date approaches
Planning ahead pays off when it comes to booking your train trip from State College to Philadelphia. By reserving your ticket on Wanderu at least 1 days before departure, you can save around $1.50. Don't miss out on these savings — book in advance!
Which train should you take from State College to Philadelphia?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects State College to Philadelphia. 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 | 4h 52m | $78.15 |
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 State College to Philadelphia every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $78.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from State College to Philadelphia
The distance between State College and Philadelphia is approximately 153 miles, or 247 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 4 hours and 52 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 4 hours and 26 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 State College to Philadelphia on Monday. Tickets for Monday 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.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves State College at 2:00pm and arrives in Philadelphia around 4 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Philadelphia to State College.
City Information
State College
State College is a college town, hence the name. It is home to Penn State University, one of the largest universities in the United States. As expected, most of the businesses in the area are there to serve the academic clientele, particularly the professors and students living in the area (if you’re one of them, you might want to check out our recommended destinations for college students).
One of the most popular events in State College is the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, which draws over a hundred thousand visitors each year. Aside from Penn State University, the city's major attractions are The Arboretum and the Beaver Stadium.
If you're into culture, history, and the arts, you should check out the Palmer Museum of Art, Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania, and Centre County Historical Society.
While at State College, be sure to try out the waffles at The Original Waffle Shop. Other good places to dine are the Berkey Creamery, Allen Street Grill, and Federal Taphouse. Finally, for some good drinks, stop by Otto's Pub and Brewery.
Getting around State College is a breeze. The local airport, University Park Airport, is a mere 5 miles away from campus. In addition, Greyhound, Fullington Trailways, and Amtrak Thruway run regularly scheduled bus services from State College to Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, New York City, and beyond.
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 State College?
Main departure station: Bus Terminal - 152 N Atherton St
The State College Bus Terminal, commonly referred to as the Greyhound station, is on the southern part of the Penn State University campus. The stop has a bit of covering for waiting passengers, but otherwise, you'll want to find most food and amenities elsewhere on campus. Although there is an adorable photo stand-in for anyone wanting a cute family photo while waiting for your bus to Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, or anywhere else in Pennsylvania and beyond.
All train stations in State College:
Bus Terminal - 152 N Atherton St
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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