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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Erie to Waterloo. Traveling by train from Erie to Waterloo usually takes 5 hours and 35 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 259 mi (416 km) |
| Fastest train | 5h 35m |
| Lowest price | $25.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Lake Shore Limited |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Erie to Waterloo?
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is the one and only train line which connects Erie to Waterloo. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 2 | 5h 35m | $25.00 |
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 125 W 14th St in Erie and arrives at 485 West Van Vleek Street in Waterloo. The route takes about 5 hours and 35 minutes and ticket prices start at $25.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Erie and Waterloo is approximately 259 miles, or 416 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 5 hours and 35 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 Erie to Waterloo tend to have the most passengers on Friday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Friday. 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 Friday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
The earliest train departs Erie at 2:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 2:00am. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Erie twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Waterloo with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Waterloo to Erie.
City Information
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.
Waterloo
Image credit: Unsplash
Waterloo is a town in Indiana, getting its unique name from the city of the same name in Belgium. Despite being a small town, it offers a wide range of activities for families and sports lovers. You can take golf classes at the Bridgewater Golf Club or go skating with the family at the Skatin' Station. The family-friendly town is home to the Ft Wayne Children's Zoo and Potawatomi Zoo. During your visit, some historical markers to check out include the Immaculate Conception Church and St. Paul's Episcopal Church.
Shopping enthusiasts will be pleased in Waterloo, as the town is home to different specialty shops and boutiques. You can also visit when the De Kalb County Fair is in town, offering special events and auctions. The Summer Parade and Festival is an annual highlight in Waterloo, offering delicious food, activities for all ages, and fun presentations.
Waterloo is known as the crossroads of Northeastern Indiana, as it connects several major transportation routes. The travel hub has routes like I-69, US G, and IN 427 and is the only Amtrak passenger train stop in northeast Indiana.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Erie?
Main departure station: 125 W 14th St
There is one train station in Erie.
All train stations in Erie:
125 W 14th St
Where is the train station in Waterloo?
Main arrival station: 485 West Van Vleek Street
Waterloo has one train station.
All train stations in Waterloo:
485 West Van Vleek Street
Get around town with Moovit
Need a return trip from Waterloo to Erie?
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