Baltimore Railway

Baltimore Railway Station (known as Penn Station) is a key transport hub on the Northeast Corridor, providing a vital link between Baltimore and the US capital. The station building, designed in the majestic Beaux-Arts style, is not only a departure point but also an architectural landmark. High-speed Acela trains and regional expresses depart regularly from here, connecting the city with Washington and other major coastal metropolises.

Passengers should note that the station has a compact and clear layout. The main hall with its high dome serves as the primary waiting area, from where stairs and lifts lead down to the platforms. Information boards are located in the centre of the hall, and exits to trains are clearly marked, making navigation easy even during heavy passenger flow.

• Official Website: Current schedules and tickets are available on the Amtrak website.
• Helpline: +1 800-872-7245 (Amtrak General Support Line).
• Address: 1500 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
• Opening Hours: The station is open 24 hours a day; ticket counters operate from 05:30 to 22:00 (times may vary).
• Luggage Storage: Baggage storage is available for passengers with Amtrak tickets (for a fee; please consult Red Cap staff).
• Accessibility: The station is fully accessible for people of determination and those with reduced mobility, equipped with lifts and ramps.

There are several convenient ways to get to Baltimore Railway Station. The station is located in the Mount Vernon district and is easily accessible via Light Rail, with a stop located directly next to the building. City buses and the free Charm City Circulator route also operate here.

If you are travelling from central Washington, the fastest way is to use MARC trains (Penn Line) or Amtrak; the journey time will take between 40 and 60 minutes. For those who prefer a taxi or ridesharing, a drop-off zone is organised at the main entrance on the Charles Street side. A walk from nearby landmarks in the Mount Vernon district will take just 5–10 minutes.

The station provides all necessary services for a comfortable journey. The central hall features general waiting areas with wooden benches, while a separate lounge is provided for business class passengers. Tickets can be purchased both at ticket counters and through 24-hour Quik-Trak self-service terminals.

Free AmtrakConnect Wi-Fi is available on the premises. For the convenience of travellers, there are ATMs, clean restrooms, and a mailbox. Special attention is paid to passengers with reduced mobility: lifts to platforms are operational, and escort services (Red Cap assistance) are provided.

Dining options within the station grounds are limited but sufficient for a quick snack. Inside, there is a coffee shop (such as Dunkin') and a kiosk selling press and snacks, where you can buy coffee, pastries, or a sandwich for the road. This is an excellent option if there is little time left before your train departs.

The average bill for a light breakfast will be 10–15 USD. If you have an hour or more to spare, it is recommended to step out of the station building: in the Mount Vernon district, just a couple of blocks away, there are many excellent restaurants and cafes offering diverse cuisine.

The history of Baltimore Railway Station (Penn Station) dates back to 1911. The building was constructed by the Pennsylvania Railroad company according to a design by architect Kenneth Murchison in the Beaux-Arts style. It became the eighth station on this site and quickly turned into a symbol of the region's transport power.

Over more than a century of history, the station has preserved its unique elements, including the stained-glass dome and Rookwood ceramic tiles. Today, it remains one of the busiest transport hubs in the Amtrak network, linking the city with Washington and New York, and continues to be modernised to accommodate increasing passenger flow.

It is recommended to arrive at the station 30–45 minutes before departure. If you are travelling by MARC train during rush hour, be prepared for a large number of passengers. Boarding for Amtrak trains is usually announced 10–15 minutes prior, and you will need to proceed to the platform in advance.

Keep an eye on your belongings and do not leave luggage unattended. If you have an overnight transfer or wait, remain in the main hall where security is present. Always check the platform number on the electronic boards, as it may change shortly before the train's arrival.