How to Do a NYC to Philadelphia Day Trip in 5 Easy Steps

One of the perks of riding the Northeast Regional is that it gives you the freedom of hopping on in one city center and arriving in another a couple of hours later.

Gliding down the Northeast Corridor wrapped up in cozy comfort, the convenience of the train ride makes you want to explore more. One city pair on the corridor that deserves your travel attention for a day or weekend trip is New York City to Philadelphia (or the reverse).

With their history, eclectic music scenes, mouthwatering food and enthusiastic sports fans, it’s clear that both cities have distinct and fun personalities of their own. Whether you’re looking to travel to NYC or Philly for the first or thirtieth time, here are our top steps for optimizing your adventure.

Step 1: Let the planning BEGIN! Over in Philadelphia you can eat your way through Reading Terminal, take the kiddies to the Philadelphia Zoo or do a little shopping at The Shops at Liberty Place. Further north in NYC, get cozy and unwind at the Bowery Hotel, catch an event at the Barclays Center, and grab a slice at Pier 76 and some desert at Junior’s. We’ve chatted with locals from both cities, so you don’t have to do all of the research on your own. Head here, here and here to get the 411 straight from the locals.

Step 2: Start your travel countdown. Book your tickets, reserve your accommodations, and pin down who will be watching Fluffy or Fido while you’re gone (or bring your furry friend along for the ride!).

Step 3: Brush up on your train manners and take a peak at our baggage policy. Over-packers are welcome with us, since you can bring two free pieces of luggage.

Step 4: Sit back, enjoy the journey and build some new travel memories. If you capture some of those #AmtrakViews on Instagram, tag us @amtrak or via #Amtrak and your trip could be reposted in our feed!

Step 5: Repeat – there’s always more to experience!