Train Travel in Massachusetts
Boston is served by Acela, Northeast Regional, Lake Shore Limited, and the Downeaster, with MBTA Commuter Rail covering the metro.
Passenger rail services with at least one stop in Massachusetts.
Regularly served stations in our research index.
U.S. census/transit region for connecting service.
Routes serving Massachusetts
The following passenger rail services call at one or more stations in Massachusetts. Routes range from short-haul commuter rail systems to transcontinental long-distance trains; the table below sorts by service type and distance. A useful supplemental resource is the state-level rail capital plan summary for context on funded improvements.
| Route | Type | Distance | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acela | Acela (High-Speed Rail) | 457 mi | Up to 20 weekday round trips |
| Northeast Regional | Regional Intercity | 728 mi | Up to 50 daily round trips end-to-end and segment service |
| Vermonter | Regional Intercity | 611 mi | Daily |
| Downeaster | State-Supported Corridor | 143 mi | Five daily round trips |
| Lake Shore Limited | Long-Distance | 959 mi | Daily |
| Valley Flyer | State-Supported Corridor | 137 mi | Two daily round trips |
| Hartford Line | Commuter / Regional | 62 mi | Hourly weekday service |
| MBTA Commuter Rail | Commuter Rail | 388 mi | 14 lines plus the new South Coast service |
Stations in Massachusetts
Our station index covers 14 facilities in Massachusetts, from large urban union stations to rural flag stops.
Travel notes
Massachusetts is part of the Northeast region. Riders connecting between routes within the state can use any of the major hubs above for cross-platform or short-walk transfers, depending on the station. For onward travel beyond the rail network, intercity bus and connecting Thruway services often complement the train; consult the operator for current connecting itineraries.
Fare structures, on-board amenities, and ticketing systems differ between Amtrak, state-supported corridors, and individual commuter operators. Long-distance Amtrak trains typically offer reserved sleeping accommodations alongside coach class; corridor services are reserved coach with optional business class; and commuter rail is generally open seating with monthly-pass fare options.
More Massachusetts Rail Resources
- Massachusetts rail advocacy and ridership data
- A weekend rail itinerary across Massachusetts