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Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Poughkeepsie to Erie. Traveling by train from Poughkeepsie to Erie usually takes 9 hours and 39 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Lake Shore Limited train can make the trip in 9 hours.
| Distance | 318 mi (512 km) |
| Fastest train | 9h 0m |
| Lowest price | $73.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
Which train should you take from Poughkeepsie to Erie?
2 train services operate from Poughkeepsie to Erie. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 9h 58m | $87.00 |
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 1 | 9h 0m | $73.00 |
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 2 Amtrak trains from Poughkeepsie to Erie every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $84.
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 41 Main St in Poughkeepsie and arrives at 125 W 14th St in Erie. The route takes about 9 hours and 0 minutes and ticket prices start at $73.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Poughkeepsie and Erie is approximately 318 miles, or 512 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 9 hours and 39 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 9 hours,
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 Poughkeepsie to Erie on Tuesday. Tickets for Tuesday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Tuesday. Tuesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
The earliest train departs Poughkeepsie at 3:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 5:00pm. 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 3 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Poughkeepsie to Erie. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Erie to Poughkeepsie.
City Information
Poughkeepsie
Poughkeepsie is nicknamed the second capital of New York for a good reason – the bustling city has breathtaking views of the Hudson River and is a quick weekend destination for New Yorkers. Art buffs can visit the Barrett Art Center and Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center, while history lovers will enjoy the National Register of Historic Places. Poughkeepsie is a true university town with campuses for the Culinary Institute of America, Vassar College, and Marist College. If music is your thing, you can check what's playing at the iconic Barvadon Opera House. The city is also an excellent place for picnics and outdoor activities, especially on the riverfront.
Poughkeepsie is known for its wide range of restaurants, ranging from farm-to-table establishments to breweries and brewpubs. The craft beer scene is upcoming, with beer gardens and pubs to check out. Nightlife keeps the fun going with comedy clubs, champagne bars, and lounges.
Poughkeepsie is easily accessible via Amtrak. The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited, Maple Leaf, Empire Service, and Ethan Allen Express stop in Poughkeepsie en route to New York City, Philadelphia, Rensselaer, Newark, and other cities. The central and busiest station is 41 Main St, and many other trains make stops in and around Poughkeepsie. Poughkeepsie is also accessible by Greyhound buses. Most visitors and locals use the Newburgh Airport, only about 15 miles away, for air travel.
Erie
Image credit: Unsplash
Named for the Great Lake it sits upon, Erie is one of Pennsylvania's most picturesque cities. Erie is about halfway between Buffalo and Cleveland and about two hours north of Pittsburgh.
One of the most popular spots to visit, Presque Isle State Park, is a curved peninsula that extends into Lake Erie and creates 11 miles of beaches. Swim on the beaches, birdwatch near some of its lagoons, or tour the Presque Isle Lighthouse for a full day of lakeside exploring. Then, head up to the Port Erie Bicentennial Tower on the bayfront for epic panoramic views of the park and lake beyond.
Discover the city's buzzing nightlife by visiting downtown Erie, where you'll find numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs. Go big with a concert at Erie Insurance Arena, or watch a horse race at the Presque Isle Downs & Casino.
Barons Bus Lines and Jefferson Lines provide affordable bus transportation from Erie to Cleveland, Columbus, Buffalo, and beyond. The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited runs from Chicago through Erie, onward to Boston and New York City. Erie International Airport has a handful of flights to Charlotte and Chicago, but if you're flying from Erie, you'll find more destinations available from Buffalo or Cleveland's airports.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Poughkeepsie?
Main departure station: 41 Main St
There is one train station in Poughkeepsie.
All train stations in Poughkeepsie:
41 Main St
Where is the train station in Erie?
Main arrival station: 125 W 14th St
Erie has one train station.
All train stations in Erie:
125 W 14th St
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