Boston RT128 Railway

Route 128 Station is a major and strategically important transport hub serving the Greater Boston region. Located on the border of Westwood and Dedham, this station is a popular departure point for those who prefer to avoid traffic jams in the city centre, offering a convenient transfer from private cars to Amtrak trains and MBTA commuter rail. The modern station complex combines functionality with a high level of comfort for thousands of daily passengers.

The station is known for its spacious multi-level car park and excellent connectivity to high-speed highways. For tourists and business travellers, this is often the optimal choice to get to New York or Washington, bypassing the busy centre of Boston.

It is important for passengers to know that the station is fully covered and equipped with lifts to access the platforms located on the lower level. High-speed Acela trains and regional Northeast Regional trains stop here. Navigation inside is simple and intuitive, and real-time electronic displays provide information on train arrival tracks.

To plan your trip and check the current schedule, we recommend using the following contacts for Route 128 Station:

• Official website: Station pages are available on the Amtrak and MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) websites.
• Information phone: Unified Amtrak support line 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245).
• Address: 50 University Avenue, Westwood, MA 02090, USA.
• Opening hours: The waiting area is open daily from 05:15 to 23:45 (times may change on public holidays).
• Luggage storage information: Luggage storage services may be limited; it is recommended to check in advance for specific trips.
• Accessibility: The station is fully adapted for passengers with disabilities (ramps, lifts, accessible toilets).

There are several ways to get to Route 128 Station, depending on your starting point. The most popular option is by private car, as the station is located directly off the I-95/Route 128 interstate highway. There is a huge multi-level garage here, making the station ideal for the "Park and Ride" format.

If you are travelling from central Boston by public transport, use the MBTA Commuter Rail (Providence/Stoughton Line). Trains depart from South Station and Back Bay Station. The journey time is only 15–20 minutes.

Taxi and ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) are also available. Walking from central Boston is not possible due to the significant distance and the station's suburban location, however, you can walk from the nearest Westwood shopping centres in 10–15 minutes.

Route 128 Station offers a range of services necessary for waiting for a train in comfort. In the spacious waiting hall, passengers can relax before their journey; the premises are air-conditioned and clean. Tickets can be purchased at staffed counters (open during the day) or at 24-hour Quik-Trak kiosks.

Other amenities include:

• Free Wi-Fi (provided by the Amtrak network).
• Clean public toilets, equipped for people with reduced mobility.
• ATMs for cash withdrawal.
• Lifts and escalators to descend to the platforms.

Please note that full luggage storage facilities may not be available, but Red Cap baggage assistance is available for certain categories of passengers.

Dining options directly within the Route 128 Station building are quite limited. Inside the main hall, you will find a small kiosk or cafeteria where you can buy fresh coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and soft drinks. Vending machines for quick snacks (crisps, chocolate, water) are also installed.

If you have time before your train departs (more than 40 minutes), we advise visiting the nearby University Station shopping complex. It is within walking distance or a couple of minutes' drive. There is a wide selection of restaurants: from fast food to full-service establishments featuring American and Asian cuisine. The average bill in a café at the station will be around 10–15 dollars.

The history of Route 128 Station is inextricably linked to the development of Boston's suburban infrastructure. The original station was opened in 1953 and became one of the first in the USA specifically designed for motorists living in the suburbs (the park-and-ride concept). It quickly gained popularity, relieving traffic flows in the city centre.

A key stage was the major reconstruction completed in 2000. The old building was replaced by a modern complex with improved passenger infrastructure, new platforms, and an expanded garage. Today, the station plays a critical role in the Northeast Corridor transport system, being an important stop for high-speed Amtrak trains and local commuter trains.

To ensure your journey runs smoothly, we recommend arriving at the station at least 30 minutes before train departure, especially if you need to park your car and buy a ticket. Parking at the station is paid; payment can be made via a mobile app or at the garage terminals.

Security and Boarding:

• Always keep your ID with you, as Amtrak staff may ask to see it upon boarding.
• Pay close attention to announcements: Amtrak and MBTA trains may arrive on the same track.
• If you are travelling with large luggage, use the lifts at the end of the waiting hall.

The station is considered safe for waiting at night as it is well-lit and patrolled, but remember that the waiting hall closes for a short break during the night.