The Amtrak Downeaster offers a delightful 145-mile train route through New England, connecting Boston’s North Station to Brunswick, Maine, with 10 convenient stops along the way. Operated by Amtrak and overseen by the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA), this train is named after Maine’s scenic “Down East” region and provides five round trips daily. Popular for both commuters and leisure travelers, the Downeaster carried over 542,000 passengers in fiscal year 2023, highlighting its appeal and growing ridership.
Downeaster at a Glance:
Reliable: Known for its on-time performance.
Frequent Service: Multiple daily train options.
Quick Commute: Boston to Portland in approximately 2.5 hours.
Fast to Maine: Boston to Wells, Maine (first Maine stop) in under 2 hours.
Stress-Free Travel: Enjoy scenic New England views without traffic hassles.
Ticketing and Fares
How to Buy Tickets:
- Online: Amtrak Downeaster Website
- Go to the Amtrak Downeaster website.
- Click “Buy Tickets.”
- Enter trip details.
- Select fare class (including Business Class if desired).
- Amtrak Mobile App:
- Download the Amtrak app.
- Purchase tickets easily within the app.
- Payment Options: Credit cards, Apple Pay®, Google Pay™, PayPal.
Fare Types:
- Value Fares: Budget-friendly, starting from $3 to $36 one-way (depending on distance).
- Business Class: Premium option with extra comfort and legroom (fares vary).
For specific fares, use the Amtrak Downeaster “Schedule & Fares” tool online.
Discounts and Deals:
Amtrak Downeaster often provides discounts, but confirm current offers on their website:
- “Buy One, Get One 50% Off”: Half-price ticket for a companion with a full-fare adult ticket.
- Medical Care Fare: 30% discount for medical travel.
- Disability/Medicare Discount: 50% discount for eligible passengers.
- Children’s Discount: 50% off for children (ages 2-12).
- Senior Discount: 50% off for seniors (65+).
- Student Discount: 15% discount for students.
- Military Discount: 10% discount for military personnel.
- Multi-Ride Passes: Savings for frequent riders.
- Group Travel Discounts: Special rates for groups of 15+.
- Amtrak Guest Rewards: Earn points for free travel and perks – join the loyalty program!
Always check the “Deals and Discounts” page on the Amtrak Downeaster website for the latest offers and discount codes.
Downeaster Stations and Popular Stops
Popular Stops:
- Boston, MA
- Wells, ME
- Old Orchard Beach, ME
- Portland, ME
All Stations:
| Station | Code | City/Town | State |
| Brunswick, ME | BRK | Brunswick | ME |
| Freeport, ME | FRE | Freeport | ME |
| Portland, ME | POR | Portland | ME |
| Old Orchard Beach, ME | ORB | Old Orchard Beach | ME |
| Saco, ME | SAO | Saco | ME |
| Wells, ME | WEM | Wells | ME |
| Dover, NH | DOV | Dover | NH |
| Durham, NH | DHM | Durham | NH |
| Exeter, NH | EXR | Exeter | NH |
| Haverhill, MA | HHL | Haverhill | MA |
| Woburn, MA | WOB | Woburn | MA |
| Boston-North Station, MA | BON | Boston | MA |
Amtrak Downeaster Routes & Network
Extensive Network: 105 routes connecting 12 cities and towns with 12 stops.
Frequent Runs: Approximately 299 train runs daily.
Top Destinations: Brunswick and Portland, ME, are served most frequently.
Top Amtrak Downeaster Routes:
| Route | Daily Trips | Duration | Starting Price* |
| Brunswick to Portland | 5 | 0h 43m | $3 |
| Boston to Portland | 5 | 2h 30m | $32 |
| Brunswick to Boston | 5 | 3h 20m | $25 |
| Durham to Boston | 5 | 1h 25m | $15 |
| Saco to Boston | 5 | 2h 10m | $19 |
| Boston to Exeter | 5 | 1h 9m | $19 |
| Wells to Boston | 5 | 1h 51m | $16 |
| Boston to Dover | 5 | 1h 29m | $23 |
| Old Orchard Beach to Boston | 4 | 2h 17m | $27 |
Starting prices are approximate and Value Fares. Check Amtrak Downeaster website for current fares.
Onboard Amenities for a Comfortable Ride
Coach Class:
- Wide, reclining seats
- Ample legroom
- No middle seats
- Tray tables, reading lights, power outlets
- Restrooms in each car
- Amtrak Guest Rewards points earned
Business Class:
- Premium seating with extra legroom
- Complimentary non-alcoholic beverage
- Seat selection on many routes
- Earn bonus Amtrak Guest Rewards points
Downeaster Café:
- Snacks, light meals, beverages (including alcoholic) for purchase
- Features Maine-made products
Accessibility:
- Wheelchair accessible trains and stations
- Service animals welcome
- Assistance available
- Information in alternative formats upon request
Free WiFi: Available on most trains (connection may vary).
Travel Tips for the Downeaster
- Best Travel Times: Fall for foliage views; weekdays or off-peak for fewer crowds.
- Arrive Early: 30 minutes before departure recommended.
- Bring Entertainment: Books, podcasts, downloaded movies (WiFi can be variable).
- Business Class for Quiet: Consider Business Class for a more tranquil workspace.
- Day Trip Ideas: Old Orchard Beach, Freeport (shopping), Brunswick (Androscoggin River Bike Path, Bowdoin College), Portland waterfront & museums.
Connecting Services
- Thruway Connections: Extend your journey beyond Brunswick via Amtrak Thruway buses, vans, taxis, commuter trains, and ferries.
- Explore New England & Beyond: Connect to destinations like Bangor, ME (American Folk Festival), and other points of interest via connecting services.
Why Choose Amtrak Downeaster?
- Skip driving hassles (gas, tolls, car wear).
- Relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Earn Amtrak Guest Rewards points for future travel.
Visit the Amtrak Downeaster website for detailed Thruway connection information.
FAQs:
Is there WiFi on the Amtrak Downeaster?
Yes, free WiFi is available on most Downeaster trains. However, connection reliability can vary, especially in rural areas. For guaranteed entertainment, download movies or bring a book as a backup. WiFi is best for basic Browse, email, and social media, not for streaming.
Are there power outlets for charging devices?
Yes, power outlets and USB ports are generally located at each seat row for charging electronics. Availability can vary by train, so it’s always a good idea to bring a portable charger for longer trips, just in case. Consider sharing outlets with seatmates if needed.
What is the Amtrak Downeaster schedule like?
The Amtrak Downeaster typically operates around 299 train runs daily, offering frequent service. For specific departure and arrival times, always check the official Amtrak website or app, as schedules can change based on the day and route.
Can I pick up tickets at the station (Will-Call)?
No, Will-Call ticket pickup is not available for the Amtrak Downeaster. Purchase your tickets online or via the app before arriving at the station. E-tickets on your smartphone are accepted for boarding.
Do I need to show ID to board the train?
Yes, you must present a valid, government-issued photo ID to board the Amtrak Downeaster. The name on your ID must match the name on your ticket. Student IDs or other non-government IDs are not accepted.
Are there restrooms on board?
Yes, restrooms are available on all Amtrak Downeaster trains. They are basic facilities, typically including a toilet, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer. Running water for handwashing is usually not provided, so consider bringing hand wipes for added convenience.
Can I buy food and drinks on the train?
Yes, the Downeaster Café car offers a variety of snacks, light meals, and beverages for purchase, including both soft drinks and alcoholic options. The café features some Maine-made products, offering a taste of the local region.
Do I have to print my ticket?
No, printing your ticket is not necessary. Amtrak Downeaster accepts e-tickets. When you book online or via the app, you’ll receive an e-ticket by email that you can show on your smartphone to the conductor for boarding.
Does the Downeaster offer any premium amenities?
Yes, Business Class seating is available and provides premium amenities like extra legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. Seat selection is often available in Business Class as well.
Sources:
Amtrak Official Website: https://www.amtrak.com/downeaster-train
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Downeaster_(train)
Amtrak Downeaster Website: https://amtrakdowneaster.com/