New York to Cincinnati by Train

Travel from Moynihan Train Hall in New York, NY to Cincinnati Union Terminal in Cincinnati, OH on the Cardinal. Approximately 918 miles in 18h 32m.

About this trip

The Cardinal connects New York and Cincinnati directly, with no transfer required. The train operates three round trips per week, and the segment between these two stations is one of 86 origin-destination pairs we catalog on this route.

Coverage of approximately 918 rail miles takes about 18h 32m on a typical schedule. Actual travel time varies with the specific train number, time of day, equipment used, and seasonal speed restrictions. Trains may run faster on the daylight schedules and slower at peak demand on shared-use trackage. A more granular schedule comparison can be found in independent corridor timetable reviews updated each season.

Things to look out for: New River Gorge in West Virginia, with cliffs, whitewater, and the New River Gorge Bridge — easily one of the most spectacular stretches of passenger rail anywhere east of the Rockies.

Fares and ticketing

One-way fares between New York and Cincinnati typically run between $86 and $436. The lower end represents Saver-bucket advance-purchase coach fares, while the upper end approximates same-day walk-up fares or premium-class buckets. Sleeping car accommodations on overnight runs of the Cardinal, when offered, are sold separately from rail fare and increase total ticket cost substantially.

RailRover does not sell tickets. To book this trip, visit the operating carrier (Amtrak) directly. Discounted fares are typically available with advance purchase, on midweek departures, and through loyalty programs. Several travelers track historical fare patterns on the corridor fare-watch newsletter to time their bookings.

Stations along the way

Between New York and Cincinnati, the Cardinal calls at the following stations. Some trains may operate as "limited-stop" schedules and skip certain intermediate calls; check the published timetable for your departure.

• Moynihan Train Hall — New York, NY NYP
• Newark Penn Station — Newark, NJ NWK
• William H. Gray III 30th Street Station — Philadelphia, PA PHL
• Joseph R. Biden Jr. Railroad Station — Wilmington, DE WIL
• Baltimore Penn Station — Baltimore, MD BAL
• Washington Union Station — Washington, DC WAS
• Alexandria, VA — Alexandria, VA ALX
• Manassas — Manassas, VA MSS
• Culpeper — Culpeper, VA COP
• Charlottesville Union Station — Charlottesville, VA CVS
• Staunton — Staunton, VA STA
• Clifton Forge — Clifton Forge, VA CLF
• Charleston, WV — Charleston, WV CHW
• Huntington, WV — Huntington, WV HUN
• South Portsmouth — South Portsmouth, KY SPM
• Maysville — Maysville, KY MAY
• Cincinnati Union Terminal — Cincinnati, OH CIN

Getting to Moynihan Train Hall and from Cincinnati Union Terminal

Both stations are accessible by local public transit, taxi, and rideshare. Moynihan Train Hall sits in New York, NY; arrival at Cincinnati Union Terminal places you in Cincinnati, OH. Transfers from the platform to onward bus, light rail, or rideshare are well marked at the major hubs along this route. For specific transit connections at either station, see our station guides linked above.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the train from New York to Cincinnati take?

Approximately 18h 32m on a typical schedule, covering about 918 miles.

Is there a direct train?

Yes — the Cardinal operates three round trips per week with no required transfer for this city pair.

How much does the ticket cost?

Approximately $86 to $436 for a one-way coach ticket. Premium classes and sleeping car accommodations cost more.

Can I bring a bicycle or pet?

Most long-distance and corridor trains accept checked or carry-on bicycles and small pets in carriers, with route-specific rules. Confirm with Amtrak at the time of booking.