Winter is the perfect opportunity to harken back to a simpler travel time and hop on the ol’ rail!
So, we’ve gathered five Amtrak train routes that almost guarantee beautiful snowy views throughout the winter that you can take from NYC. They depart right from Penn Station, in the recently renovated Moynihan Train Hall , to be exact!
Remember, most of these offer business class seating with more legroom and complimentary drinks, and either café service or flexible dining, so you can really kick back and relax. Here are 5 gorgeous winter train rides to take from NYC!
1. The Adirondack
Montreal – Albany -New York
Even if you don’t see snow on the New York end, you’re bound to see it at your rail destination: Canada! That’s right, this route heads from Penn Station, up through the frosted Hudson Valley of New York, then hitting the state capital of Albany, and lastly ending in the charming city of Montreal. And yes, it’s often rated in the “Top 10 Most Scenic Train Rides in the World.” Find out more here.
Trip Length: 10 hours
Departures: Daily
2. Lake Shore Limited
New York/Boston – Albany – Chicago
The winter season is perhaps the best time to ride the Lake Shore Limited line, which runs from New York all the way to Chicago, for the countless views of frozen lakes and snowy shores. You’ll pass through South Bend, Cleveland, and Buffalo, along some of the most picturesque shorelines in the country like the south shore of Lake Michigan, the Mohawk River, and the Erie Canal. See more here.
Trip Length: 19 hours
Departures: Daily
3. The Vermonter
St. Albans – Essex Junction (Burlington) – Springfield – New York – Washington, D.C.
Where’s better to be on the East Coast in winter than Vermont? This route actually connects all the way from St. Albans in northern Vermont to Washington, D.C., but you can catch the New York stop on either side. Starting in D.C., it hits NYC then Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and finally, snowy Vermont…the perfect way to make the most of ski season! Head to ski resorts like Killington, Mount Snow, Smugglers’ Notch, Stowe, Sugarbush, and Stratton, or just pack some hiking boots. See more here.
Trip Length: 13 hours 45 minutes
Departures: Daily
4. Empire Service
New York – Albany – Syracuse – Rochester – Buffalo – Niagara Falls
Ever wanted to see the iconic Niagara Falls frozen? Okay, they don’t actually freeze, but they do become an arctic beauty in the cold weather! The Empire Service line departs from NYC and heads straight upstate — through Albany, Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo and lastly to the great falls. Discover details here.
Trip Length: 7 hours 20 minutes
Departures: Multiple daily
5. Ethan Allen Express
Rutland, VT – Albany – New York
This ride is less than half the time of the Vermonter, not going as far north into the state, but still promising quintessential countryside views. Read more on their website here.
Trip Length: 5 hours 30 minutes
Departures: Daily