Train Travel in Virginia
Virginia operates the largest state-supported network in the South, with Northeast Regional service to Norfolk, Newport News, Richmond, and Roanoke.
Passenger rail services with at least one stop in Virginia.
Regularly served stations in our research index.
U.S. census/transit region for connecting service.
Routes serving Virginia
The following passenger rail services call at one or more stations in Virginia. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast Regional | Regional Intercity | 728 mi | Up to 50 daily round trips end-to-end and segment service |
| Cardinal | Long-Distance | 1,147 mi | Three round trips per week |
| Crescent | Long-Distance | 1,377 mi | Daily |
| Silver Star | Long-Distance | 1,522 mi | Daily |
| Silver Meteor | Long-Distance | 1,389 mi | Daily (status varies; check Amtrak) |
| Palmetto | Regional Intercity | 829 mi | Daily |
| Carolinian | Regional Intercity | 704 mi | Daily |
| Auto Train | Long-Distance (Vehicle Carry) | 855 mi | Daily |
| Floridian | Long-Distance | 1,929 mi | Daily |
| Virginia Railway Express | Commuter Rail | 89 mi | Weekday peak service on two lines |
Stations in Virginia
Our station index covers 17 facilities in Virginia, from large urban union stations to rural flag stops.
Travel notes
Virginia is part of the Mid-Atlantic 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 Virginia Rail Resources
- Virginia rail advocacy and ridership data
- A weekend rail itinerary across Virginia