Toronto to New York City train travel does not have to begin at a crowded airport. Travellers can reach the Big Apple by rail instead. The route crosses Ontario and New York State, with scenic views along the way.

Toronto to New York City train route guide
Photo: Amtrak.

For anyone planning a visit to the City That Never Sleeps, the trip offers a slower but more scenic alternative to flying.

Amtrak Maple Leaf Train runs daily

Amtrak’s Maple Leaf Train, operated in partnership with VIA Rail, runs daily between Toronto and New York City. It gives passengers another way to travel between the two cities without boarding a plane.

The service leaves Union Station in the morning. It reaches New York’s Penn Station in the evening. Still, this is not a quick ride. The full journey takes 12 hours and 30 minutes.

Along the route, passengers can see the Hudson River Valley. They can also view New York’s wine country and the gorges of the Finger Lakes region.

Toronto to New York City train stops and border crossing

The train also makes several intermediate stops. They include St. Catharines, Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Albany.

Food is available on board, and WiFi is offered as well. Still, the quality of the connection may change during the journey. Passengers can book either economy or business class.

A passport is required because all passengers must clear customs and immigration at the Niagara Falls border crossing. In addition, this stop may add time to the journey. Travellers should consider it when planning the trip.

Tickets are available through the Amtrak and VIA Rail websites.

For travellers organizing a New York City getaway, the Maple Leaf Train provides a way to avoid the airport and reach Manhattan by rail.