New Brunswick To Nyc: Train Travel

Yes, there is a train from New Brunswick, New Jersey to New York City. The journey is approximately 28-30 miles (45-47km) and takes around 41-50 minutes, depending on the service. Amtrak offers direct train services from New Brunswick Station to New York's Moynihan Train Hall, with tickets starting from $5.

Train duration and ticket price

The train from New Brunswick, New Jersey to New York City covers a distance of 28 miles (45 km). The average train duration is 44 minutes, but the journey time can vary depending on the day of the week, weekends, and holidays. The train ride can take between 35 minutes and 47 minutes.

The average train ticket price is $31 (€27), and the cheapest tickets can be found for as low as $6. It is recommended to book tickets in advance to secure the best deals. The number of daily trains between New Brunswick and New York varies, with an average of 3 trains per day. The earliest train usually departs at 4:50 AM, and the latest train typically leaves at 10:06 PM.

Amtrak is the main train company operating this route, with two options per day on their Northeast Regional line. Both options are direct, with no need for passengers to change trains. The first train typically departs just before 8:00 PM, and the second train usually leaves just before 9:00 PM. Passengers can reserve a seat in the coach or business class section. WiFi is usually offered on board, and pets are allowed, but they should be accounted for in advance during the booking process.

Departure and arrival stations

Departure Station: New Brunswick Station

The New Brunswick Train Station, located at French and Albany Streets, was first completed in 1903 and is among the more historic railway hubs in northern New Jersey. The station is within walking distance of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Johnson & Johnson world headquarters, and Rutgers University. The station's platforms, restrooms, and ticket office are all limited-mobility accessible. There are numerous transit options for connections to and from the trains, including New Jersey Transit trains serving the Northeast Corridor, New Jersey Transit buses, buses to and from the Rutgers University campus, and local shuttle services called Brunsquick and DASH. The station is located in downtown New Brunswick, so it is possible to walk to cultural hubs like the New Jersey State Theatre or the Rutgers Geology Museum (which is directly adjacent to the station). There are also plenty of nearby restaurants and cafes, and the station itself offers several on-the-go food and coffee options.

Arrival Station: Penn Station

Penn Station is a large, busy transit hub on the west side of Manhattan in Midtown. Besides Amtrak, travellers headed into Penn Station on trains from New Brunswick can catch several Manhattan buses as well as the 1, 2, 3, A, C, and E subway train lines upon arrival. It is also possible to connect to regional train services at Penn Station, like New Jersey Transit and the Long Island Railroad. There are ample takeout food and coffee options in the station, as well as some limited shopping. Plentiful shopping is available immediately upon leaving the station. Amtrak's platforms, waiting room, restrooms, ticket office, and water fountains are all accessible for limited-mobility passengers.

Upon arrival at Penn Station, it is quite easy to get to the centre of town, given that travellers are already disembarking in the middle of Manhattan. To get to a main attraction like Rockefeller Centre, it's a 1.2-mile (2-kilometre) walk, with plenty to see along the way. For speedier travel to Rockefeller Centre and nearby sights, just hop on the subway to get there in under 15 minutes.

Onboard services

The Amtrak train from New Brunswick, New Jersey, to New York City offers a range of onboard services to ensure a comfortable and convenient journey for both leisure and business travellers. Here is an overview of what you can expect:

Seating Options:

Amtrak offers different class options to suit varying budgets and preferences. The train is typically divided into Coach Class and Business Class sections, with the option to reserve your seat in advance. Coach Class provides a standard level of comfort and amenities, while Business Class offers enhanced features and more legroom.

Quiet Cars:

If you prefer a quieter environment during your journey, you can reserve a seat in one of the designated quiet cars. These areas maintain a peaceful atmosphere with reduced noise levels, making them ideal for those who want to work, relax, or simply enjoy a calm trip.

Cafe and Dining Services:

The train usually features an onboard cafe, providing a variety of food and beverage options for purchase. You can grab a quick snack, a hot meal, or a refreshing drink during your journey, making it convenient to stay fuelled during your travel.

Wi-Fi:

Stay connected during your trip as Amtrak typically offers Wi-Fi access onboard. This service allows you to browse the internet, check emails, or stay entertained throughout your journey. However, it is always a good idea to check the specific amenities offered on your selected train, as Wi-Fi may vary depending on the route or train car.

Pet-Friendly Travel:

Travelling with your furry friend? Amtrak allows you to bring your pet on board, making your journey more enjoyable and convenient. Just be sure to account for your pet during the ticket booking process to ensure a smooth travel experience for you and your four-legged companion.

Accessibility:

Both the departure station in New Brunswick and the arrival station, Penn Station in Manhattan, offer limited-mobility accessibility. Amenities like platforms, restrooms, ticket offices, and water fountains are designed to accommodate passengers with limited mobility, ensuring a seamless travel experience for all.

Convenient Connections:

Upon arrival at Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan, you'll find numerous convenient connections to continue your journey. The station offers easy access to several Manhattan bus routes and the subway train lines 1, 2, 3, A, C, and E. You can also connect to regional train services, such as New Jersey Transit and the Long Island Railroad, making it simple to reach your final destination.

Luggage and seating

Travelling by train from New Brunswick, New Jersey to New York City is a convenient way to avoid the traffic and parking issues associated with driving into the New York metropolitan area. The journey takes around 45 minutes on the Amtrak service, with two direct trains per day, departing in the evening.

Luggage

Because the journey is a short one, it is not possible to check luggage on board. However, you can take your luggage with you on the train, and store it in the overhead bins or the designated luggage areas by the carriage doors.

Seating

The Amtrak trains from New Brunswick to New York offer coach and business class seating. It is possible to reserve a seat in advance, and also to reserve a seat in one of the quiet carriages. The trains usually have a cafe on board, and WiFi is typically available.

Connecting services

There are several connecting services available for those travelling from New Brunswick, New Jersey to New York City. The Amtrak train from New Brunswick to New York is operated on the company's Northeast Regional line, with two direct trains per day departing in the evening. The train takes between 42 and 50 minutes, and costs between $5 and $78 for a one-way ticket.

The departure station in New Brunswick is the New Brunswick Train Station, which was first completed in 1903 and is within walking distance of Rutgers University, the Rutgers Geology Museum, and the Johnson & Johnson world headquarters. The station offers several food and coffee options, and there are plenty of nearby restaurants and cafes.

The arrival station in New York City is Penn Station, a large and busy transit hub in Midtown Manhattan. From here, travellers can connect to several Manhattan buses and the 1, 2, 3, A, C, and E subway train lines. Regional train services, such as New Jersey Transit and the Long Island Railroad, can also be accessed at Penn Station.

For customers travelling from the west, a transfer can be made at Newark Penn Station to the New York service. For those travelling from the north, a transfer can be made at Secaucus Junction.

Other connecting services include the North Jersey Coast Line, which provides direct service from Long Branch to Penn Station New York, and the Raritan Valley Line, which provides weekday service from High Bridge, Raritan, and Plainfield to Newark Penn Station, with extended trains to and from New York during midday and evening hours. On weekends and holidays, the Raritan Valley Line operates between Raritan and Newark Penn Station, with connecting service to New York.

Frequently asked questions