Amtrak · Regional
Downeaster
New England’s coastal corridor from Boston’s North Station up to Portland and Brunswick, Maine — the gateway to Casco Bay and the Maine coast.
Train numbers
680–697 series
End-to-end
3h 10m · 233 km
Frequency
5× daily
On-time
~79%
Route & indicative timetable
Outbound departure 06:10 · return departs 07:45
- Boston North Station BON
Boston, Massachusetts
dep 06:10
- Portland Transportation Center POR
Portland (Maine), Maine
arr 08:40 dep 08:45
- Brunswick Maine Street Station BRK
Brunswick, Maine
arr 09:20
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 Downeaster take?
The full run from Boston North Station to Brunswick Maine Street Station is scheduled at about 3h 10m. It operates 5× daily.
How much is a ticket on the Downeaster?
Indicative end-to-end fares start at $24 in Coach, rising through Business Class. Fares are dynamic — we confirm exact pricing at booking.
Does the Downeaster have Wi-Fi?
Yes — complimentary onboard Wi-Fi is provided (coverage can drop in remote stretches and tunnels).
Is food available on the Downeaster?
Yes — a café car sells drinks, snacks and light meals.
Can I take luggage on the Downeaster?
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 Downeaster?
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.