WILMINGTON, DE – In anticipation of the busiest travel period of the year, Amtrak will accommodate the expected surge of Thanksgiving travelers with extra capacity on the Keystone service in the New York – Philadelphia – Harrisburg corridor. All Keystone trains will require reservations Tuesday, November 22, through Monday, November 28.
Elsewhere on the Northeast Corridor, Amtrak Acela Express and Northeast Regional services will operate all-reserved full and extended schedules with additional capacity between Washington, D.C. and Boston on both the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving, as well as the Sunday after the holiday.
Some Amtrak-operated trains between New York and Washington, D.C. on Sunday the 27th, will use railcars and locomotives leased from our commuter partners and will follow regular Amtrak booking and ticketing procedures.
Tickets sell out quickly so customers are encouraged to plan ahead and book as soon as possible for best availability and pricing.
In 2015, more than 751,000 customers traveled to and from holiday gatherings by way of America’s Railroad® and similar demand is expected this year. The following tips will help ensure a hassle-free experience:
Tickets sell out quickly so customers are encouraged to plan ahead and book tickets early for best availability and pricing. Travelers may purchase tickets on com, Amtrak mobile apps, by calling 800-USA-RAIL or visiting an Amtrak ticket window.
- 2+2 = Free: Amtrak has the friendliest baggage allowance in the travel industry. Customers can bring two bags and two carry-ons, collectively weighing up to 150 pounds, for free.
- Avoid the Rush: The busiest travel days are the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after the holiday. Other than Thanksgiving Day, morning trains typically have more available seats than those in the afternoon or evening.
- Arrive Early: Allow plenty of time at stations prior to departure. Arrange for pre-boarding if you need extra time or assistance and use Amtrak Red Cap personnel to help with your baggage.
- Check Train Schedules: Make sure to check holiday train schedules prior to arriving at the station with a helpful, online-only timetable provided by Amtrak.
- Carry Photo ID: Customers are required to show valid photo identification when purchasing tickets. Make sure to carry valid photo ID at all times, as it may be requested aboard trains.
- Be Safe: Be aware of your surroundings, stand back from the edge of the platform, do not leave your bags unattended and watch your step when boarding or leaving the train or when walking between cars when the train is in motion. Additionally, if you see something, say something. Report any suspicious activity or unattended items to an Amtrak employee or member of the Amtrak Police Department at (800) 331-0008, by calling 911, or by sending a text to APD11 from a smartphone, or to 27311 from a standard cell phone.
- All Aboard Pets: Bring Fluffy and Fido to the Thanksgiving festivities. Amtrak welcomes cats and dogs weighing 20 pounds or less for only $25. Make sure to bring the appropriate carrier. Some restrictions apply.
- Bring your Bike: Some places are meant to be explored on two wheels. When you travel, reserve a space for your bike on select Amtrak routes.
