Amtrak Downeaster: 14 Things You Need To Know Before Riding

Is The Amtrak Downeaster Scenic

The Amtrak Downeaster is one of the most scenic routes you can take in the Northeast, and combines those scenic views with plenty of opportunities for shopping and sightseeing. The Downeaster connect the two major cities of Boston and Portland, ME and lets passengers get off to shop at L.L. Bean.

How Fast Does The Amtrak Downeaster Go

The Amtrak Downeaster takes 3 hours and 25 minutes to travel the entire route from Boston North Station to Brunswick, ME. It averages 44 mph on the route and has a top speed of 79 mph. Most of the time the train will be going below the top speed of 79 mph.

Is The Amtrak Downeaster Worth It

Based on the affordable cost and scenic views, the Amtrak Downeaster is worth the money it costs to ride it. The Downeaster is one of the nicest trains to ride if you are just looking for a short day trip, and with tickets starting at just $25 it cannot be beaten. We totally recommend riding the Amtrak Downeaster.

What Stops Does The Amtrak Downeaster Make

• Brunswick, ME (BRK)
• Freeport, ME (FRE)
• Portland, ME (POR)
• Old Orchard Beach, ME (ORB)
• Saco, ME (SAO)
• Wells, ME (WEM)
• Dover, NH (DOV)
• Durham, NH (DHM)
• Exeter, NH (EXR)
• Haverhill, MA (HHL)
• Woburn, MA (WOB)
• Boston, MA – North Station (BON)

Is There A Bathroom On The Amtrak Downeaster

There are ample bathrooms on the Amtrak Downeaster. These bathrooms are usually in good condition and there isn’t much of a wait to get in.

How Long Does The Downeaster Take From Portland To Boston

The Amtrak Downeaster takes 2 hours and 32 minutes to go from Portland, ME to Boston, MA. The same route could be driven in a car in 1 hour 45 minutes without traffic. Riding on Amtrak will allow you to see the beautiful scenery without having to focus on the road.

Does The Downeaster Have WiFi

The Amtrak Downeaster does have free WiFi service on the train available to all passengers. The service will not be faster than your cell phone connection, so if you have unlimited data it won’t be a better option. Amtrak WiFi is best used on computers and devices without a cell connection.

How Much are Tickets on the Downeaster

If bought in advance, tickets on the Amtrak Downeaster are $25 for coach class and $40 for business class. Tickets prices can go up if the train starts to fill up so it is best to buy your tickets as far in advance as possible. Tickets will not go down in price as the trip gets closer.

Best Side Of The Downeaster Train

When riding from Portland to Boston, you’ll want to sit on the left side of the Amtrak Downeaster for the best views. You’ll be captivated by water views and grand vistas much of the trip. The Amtrak Downeaster is one of the most scenic rides on Amtrak in the Northeast.

Is Downeaster Business Class Worth It

It is only a slight upcharge to ride in business class on the Amtrak Downeaster. Business class tickets are $40 compared to $25 for coach class tickets. In business class you’ll get upgraded seats and free drinks. Business class on the Amtrak Downeaster is totally worth the upgrade price.

Can You Bring Food On The Downeaster

Passengers are allowed to bring their own food on the Amtrak Downeaster. There is also food available for purchase in the cafe car which is in the middle of the train.

Where Does The Amtrak Downeaster Go

The Downeaster goes from Boston North Station to Brunswick, ME by way of Portland, ME. You cannot connect to the Downeaster from any other Amtrak train as it is the only train that leaves from Boston North Station. If you are arriving on Amtrak into Boston you’ll have to take a cab or other transportation to get to North Station.

Can I Bring A Pet on the Downeaster

Pets are allowed on the Amtrak Downeaster, but you must purchase a pet ticket and they do sell out.

Can I Bring A Bicycle On The Downeaster

You can bring a bicycle on the Amtrak Downeaster, but space is limited so you need to reserve a space when you buy your ticket.