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Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Lancaster to Northampton. Traveling by train from Lancaster to Northampton usually takes 8 hours and 18 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 7 hours and 30 minutes.
| Distance | 248 mi (398 km) |
| Fastest train | 7h 30m |
| Lowest price | $109.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Lancaster to Northampton?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Lancaster to Northampton. However, there are 3 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 3 | 8h 19m | $160.84 |
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 3 Amtrak trains from Lancaster to Northampton every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $109.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Lancaster and Northampton is approximately 248 miles, or 398 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 8 hours and 18 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 7 hours and 30 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.
Wednesday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Lancaster to Northampton. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Wednesday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Friday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
The earliest train departs Lancaster at 7:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 10:00am. 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. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Northampton to Lancaster.
City Information
Lancaster
Lancaster is a city in the Piedmont Region, between Baltimore and Philadelphia, primarily known for being a hub of Pennsylvania's Amish Country. One of Lancaster's most popular attractions is the Central Market, housed in an impressive structure built in 1889. Here, you can shop from over 60 vendors and sample their fresh fruits, cheeses, or baked treats and purchase handmade Amish goods unique to the area.
Lancaster also features a growing art scene, and Gallery Row downtown hosts some of the town's best boutiques, art galleries, and vintage shops. The Demuth Museum and Lancaster Museum of Art offer additional venues for culture vultures to check out. If you're visiting with kids, don't miss Dutch Wonderland just outside of town; this royal theme park includes 32 rides and activities catering to young children.
Lancaster features a vibrant food scene with plenty of selections and cuisines for even the most discerning foodies. Some local favorites include C'est La Vie, The Brasserie Restaurant & Bar, and Shot & Bottle.
Amtrak Pennsylvanian and Keystone Service trains stop in Lancaster and connect the town with Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and New York. OurBus offers intercity bus routes to Lancaster, as well. The nearest airport for passenger flights is in Philadelphia, about 60 miles away or just an hour on the train.
Northampton
Image credit: 6SN7
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Nic McPhee
Link to image attribution
Image credit: 6SN7
Link to image attributionColloquially referred to as "Paradise City," this city situated among mountains, farmlands, and forests is often overlooked but should not be missed. With a rarely-seen combination of rural lifestyle and sophisticated urban charm, Northampton offers culture, academia, and a welcoming small-town feel.
Northampton is the home of one of the country's top-ranked women's liberal arts colleges, Smith College. Wander through Smith College Museum of Art to find works by Picasso, and be sure to take a bathroom break in the museum; even the restrooms are works of art!
Every Saturday morning, the Northampton Farmers' Market offers a spread of all things local and organic, as well as a taste of some of New England's delicacies. With opportunities to hike, bike, eat, drink, read, dance, and explore, you'll be sure to find something you love in this wonderfully diverse city.
Whatever mode of transport you prefer, you can easily reach Northampton. Amtrak's Vermonter line—one of the country's most scenic train routes— connects Northampton south to Washington, D.C., and north to (you guessed it) Vermont. Peter Pan and OurBus also offer bus services to the city. Nearby airports include Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, CT, and Boston Logan International Airport.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Lancaster?
Main departure station: 53 E Mcgovern Ave
There is one train station in Lancaster.
All train stations in Lancaster:
53 E Mcgovern Ave
Where is the train station in Northampton?
Main arrival station: 170 Pleasant St
There's a bus stop on Pleasant Street and a rail depot further along on Railroad Avenue. The rail platform is a quaint wooden structure with a few benches and bike racks. Next to the platform is Union Station, which, despite the name, isn't part of the train station. It's a great restaurant specializing in brunches and events. There are plenty of local restaurants and cafes on Strong Avenue, within easy walking distance of the platform. And if you've got an overnight connection, the Hotel Northampton is only 10 minutes away on foot- plus plenty of other hotels and bed and breakfasts in the vicinity.
All train stations in Northampton:
170 Pleasant St
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