Amtrak · Intercity
Carolinian
The daytime through-train from New York to Charlotte via Washington, Richmond and Raleigh — a single-seat ride down the Piedmont corridor.
Train numbers
79 / 80
End-to-end
13h 10m · 1,133 km
Frequency
Daily
On-time
~71%
Route & indicative timetable
Outbound departure 07:00 · return departs 07:00
- New York Moynihan Train Hall NYP
New York, New York
dep 07:00
- Philadelphia 30th Street Station PHL
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
arr 08:25 dep 08:25
- Washington Union Station WAS
Washington DC, District of Columbia
arr 10:35 dep 10:50
- Richmond Staples Mill Road RVR
Richmond, Virginia
arr 12:35 dep 12:35
- Raleigh Union Station RGH
Raleigh, North Carolina
arr 16:50 dep 16:55
- Charlotte Gateway Station CLT
Charlotte, North Carolina
arr 20:10
Classes & indicative end-to-end fares
Coach
Reserved reclining seat
indicative
Business Class
Extra legroom
indicative
- Coach: Reserved reclining seat · Power outlets · Big luggage allowance
- Business Class: Extra legroom · Complimentary non-alcoholic drinks · Flexible fare
Onboard amenities
Amtrak policies
- Baggage:
- Two personal items + two carry-on bags free (25 lb / 50 lb limits); up to four checked bags (two free) on routes with checked-baggage service.
- Pets:
- Dogs and cats up to 20 lb (pet + carrier) allowed on most routes up to 7 hours in a carrier, $29–$39 fee, book in advance — not on Auto Train or in sleepers.
- Bikes:
- Trainside or checked bike service on most routes for $10–$20; folding bikes ride free as carry-on. Reserve a bike space when booking.
- Refunds:
- Fully refundable up to 24h after purchase; after that, refundability depends on fare family (Flex fully refundable, Value 75% or eCredit, Saver 50% eCredit within window).
- Accessibility:
- Accessible seating/bedrooms on every train, wheelchair assistance at staffed stations, 10% rail-fare discount for passengers with a disability.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Carolinian take?
The full run from New York Moynihan Train Hall to Charlotte Gateway Station is scheduled at about 13h 10m. It operates daily.
How much is a ticket on the Carolinian?
Indicative end-to-end fares start at $89 in Coach, rising through Business Class. Fares are dynamic — we confirm exact pricing at booking.
Does the Carolinian have Wi-Fi?
Yes — complimentary onboard Wi-Fi is provided (coverage can drop in remote stretches and tunnels).
Is food available on the Carolinian?
Yes — a café car sells drinks, snacks and light meals.
Can I take luggage on the Carolinian?
Two personal items + two carry-on bags free (25 lb / 50 lb limits); up to four checked bags (two free) on routes with checked-baggage service.
Are pets allowed on the Carolinian?
Dogs and cats up to 20 lb (pet + carrier) allowed on most routes up to 7 hours in a carrier, $29–$39 fee, book in advance — not on Auto Train or in sleepers.
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Schedules and fares shown are indicative, compiled from official operator timetables. Rail operators adjust timings, fares and running days without notice — our rail desk confirms live availability and exact pricing before any booking is ticketed.