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Philadelphia to State College train

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Philadelphia - State College Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

2 trains operate daily from Philadelphia to State College. The train trip from Philadelphia to State College is usually about 4 hours and 39 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 4 hours and 9 minutes.

Distance153 mi (247 km)
Fastest train4h 9m
Lowest price$61.00
Most frequent serviceAmtrak
Train lines1

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Philadelphia to State College

(Based on 5 ratings and reviews)

4.6

5.0

Marie-Jeanne A

April 16, 2022- Visiting friends

Amtrak

Pros: The train is nice and efficient, and the employees are generally very helpful. I love trains. Cons: I'm not sure how, but I think the seats could be a bit more comfortable. Tips: I can't think of anything, other than make sure you're on time?

5.0

Gary

March 13, 2022- Solo travel

Amtrak

Pros: change of pace from air travel, cheaper and easier than renting a car, cool stations. Cons: sell snacks/drinks on the train. Tips: sit back and enjoy.

4.0

Eliana

November 30, 2019- Visiting family

Amtrak

Pros: The driver was friendly. Cons: The bus from Harrisburg did not arrive on time. We were queued in the cold for over 40minutes before boarding. Meaning the bus took off about 40Minutes late than schedule.

Price trends for trains from Philadelphia to State College

Monthly avg. prices

$100$80$60$40$20MJJASONDJFMA

Prices as travel date approaches

$75$60$45$30$153020100

Which train should you take from Philadelphia to State College?

Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Philadelphia to State College. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak24h 39m$61.00
  • 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 Philadelphia to State College every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $61.

Frequently Asked Questions

While the train is the main method of transportation from Philadelphia to State College, it will only take you part of the way there. Please note that part of your trip will be on a different vehicle, most commonly a bus or express shuttle.

The distance between Philadelphia and State College is approximately 153 miles, or 247 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 4 hours and 39 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 4 hours and 9 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 Philadelphia to State College on Saturday. Tickets for Saturday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Thursday. Thursday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

The earliest train departs Philadelphia at 8:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 8:00am. 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 Philadelphia twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. However, there are no direct trains. 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 change 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 State College to Philadelphia.

City Information

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.

State College

State College, PA - SCL-0

Image credit: emilee rader

Link to image attribution
State College, PA - SCL-1

Image credit: Unsplash

State College, PA - SCL-2

Image credit: Unsplash

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.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Philadelphia?

PHLTTH-0 - PHLTTH-0.jpg

Image credit: Ben Schumin

Link to image attribution

Main departure station: 30th St Station - 2955 Market St

There is one train station in Philadelphia.

All train stations in Philadelphia:

  • 30th St Station - 2955 Market St

Where is the train station in State College?

Main arrival 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

Get around town with Moovit

Find the best way to get to and from any station in State College by public transit, courtesy of Moovit. Search now

Need a return trip from State College to Philadelphia?

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