Baltimore Penn Station Travel Guide 2026

Key Highlights

• Baltimore’s historic Penn Station is an important place on the Northeast Corridor. More than three million people use it every year.

• Right now, there is a big update happening. Penn Station Partners is leading the work. They want to keep the history and make the station better for the future.

• People can take the well-known Amtrak Northeast Regional or the MARC Penn Line commuter trains here.

• There is a brand new part of the station being built. This will give more space and help make trips for passengers better.

• The station connects to the Baltimore Light RailLink, so you can get around the city easily.

• In the future, the plans have new stores, restaurants, and office spaces. This will make the station a lively place to visit and use.

Introduction

Welcome to your 2026 travel guide for Baltimore’s Penn Station! This train station was built in 1911 by the Pennsylvania Railroad. It has long been an important part of travel in the city and for people along the whole East Coast. Today, it is the eighth busiest train station in the nation. It is a big part of the northeast corridor and helps connect millions of people every year. Be ready to see a place where old history meets the new, exciting future.

Overview of Baltimore Penn Station

Baltimore Penn Station, or Pennsylvania Station, is not just a train station. It is a historic place that is ready for a big change. Each year, over three million people come through this busy train station. It is an important spot for both Amtrak and MARC riders.

The penn station area is getting an update because of the hard work of the people who run it. Soon, you will see new shops, homes, and stores around the station. This will help make penn station a great place to visit, not just for catching a train. Up next, I will share about where the train station is and why it is so important for the whole country’s train system.

Location, Directions, and How to Get There

Finding the train station is easy. Penn Station is at 1500 North Charles Street. It sits in the middle of busy neighborhoods and is just north of the Jones Falls Expressway. This spot is great for people who come by car, on public transit, or by walking.

Do you want to know how to get there with public transport? The Maryland Transit Administration gives you many ways to reach Penn Station. The Baltimore Light RailLink stops right at the station. This means you can get there fast from many parts of the city or the suburbs. You do not have to stress about missing your train.

There are also many local buses that go by North Charles Street. You can get off close to the main entrance of the train station. Using public transit is a good choice when you start your trip from Penn Station. It can be easier and better for the planet.

Importance in the U.S. Rail Network

Baltimore Penn Station is an important stop in the U.S. rail system. It sits on the Northeast Corridor, the busiest railroad line in North America. This train line runs from Washington, D.C. to other big cities like Philadelphia, New York, and Boston. Penn Station helps people move up and down the East Coast, whether it is for work or fun.

Many well-known train lines go through Penn Station. You can catch Northeast Regional trains here, which are one of Amtrak’s top choices for their steady and frequent rides. It is simple to get on a train in Baltimore and reach places like Washington Union Station or other spots on the northeast corridor.

The role of Penn Station keeps Baltimore as a must-have stop for traveling. Thanks to how smoothly people can get from city to city, this station helps regional workers and those going a long way. It remains important for both local and long trip travelers on their trips up and down the East Coast.

Train Services and Operators

The train station has two main operators. One is Amtrak and the other is the Maryland Transit Administration’s MARC Train Service. These two offer many ways to get where you need to go. The station is good for people who travel far and for people who go to work every day.

You can use the Amtrak Northeast Regional to go to another state. You can also take the MARC Penn Line to travel each day to Washington, D.C. Both Amtrak and MARC trains give you service that is on time and comes often. Let’s take a look at the lines and what each operator gives you.

Amtrak Lines at Baltimore Penn Station

Amtrak runs many trains from Baltimore Penn Station. These trains travel along the northeast corridor. This rail line was first built by the Pennsylvania Railroad. Penn Station is the main stop for many well-known routes in the United States. If you have a trip planned on the east coast, you will probably begin your journey here.

The best-known service is the Northeast Regional. This train has many trips each day between Washington, D.C., and Boston. Besides this service, Baltimore Penn Station is also part of Amtrak’s long routes. You can catch trains like the Silver Meteor here, which heads down to Florida. Other long-distance routes from this station connect you with many places across the United States.

Amtrak is now using new Acela trains, making travel at Penn Station even better. These trains offer more comfort and the latest technology. They also make your ride safer. This helps make Penn Station a modern travel center on the east coast and in the United States.

MARC Train Service Details

For people who travel in the area, the MARC Train Service is something many use every day. The Maryland Transit Administration runs this train. The MARC Penn Line is a service that connects Baltimore and Washington, D.C. It stops at many places on the way, like West Baltimore, BWI Rail Station, and New Carrollton. The MARC Penn Line is a good, easy, and low-cost way to go from one big city to the other.

The schedule for the MARC Penn Line works for most people who have a normal job. There are many trips during busy morning and evening hours. For instance, trains going to Washington start to leave Penn Station as early as 4:30 AM. There are a lot of round trips all through the day. This kind of schedule helps people be flexible about when they need to travel.

You can get the full schedules on the Maryland Transit Administration’s website. The timetables show when each train stops and when it will leave. This helps you plan your trip the right way. Always check if there are any changes to the schedule, like in bad weather. This way, your trip on the MARC Penn Line will go well.

Station Amenities and Facilities

Baltimore Penn Station has everything you need to make your trip easy and comfortable. When you go inside this old building, you can sit in the main waiting room, get help at the ticket office, and use clean restrooms. These things help you take care of your main needs while you wait for your train.

The station is getting better too. The upper floors will turn into office space that is new and modern. Soon, the main area will have new places to shop and eat. Now, let’s talk about the waiting room you see now and what you can expect if you need the station to be easy to use.

Waiting Areas, Food, and Restrooms

When you get to Baltimore Penn Station, you will see a large and old waiting room. It is a good place to sit and relax before the train goes. There is a lot of seating and the style of the room shows the station’s long history. The main ticket office is also close by if you need to buy a ticket or talk to someone who works there.

Right now, work is happening to change and improve the concourse level of Penn Station. All the updates are being made to help people who travel today. Soon, you will have many new places to eat and shop, and you won’t even have to leave the station. There are some amenities ready and some that are coming soon, like:

• A big waiting room with a lot of seats.

• New shops and places to eat will be on the concourse level.

• Restrooms that are clean and easy for all travelers to use.

All these new things at penn station are meant to make it more than just a place to wait for the train. The hope is for it to be a great spot where you can eat, shop, or just relax and take in the lovely look of the waiting room while you wait for your train.

Accessibility and Assistance Services

Baltimore Penn Station puts a big focus on making sure all passengers can use the station easily. The staff are trained to help travelers with disabilities. If you need help to board the train, with your bags, or moving around the station, you can ask for help from the station team.

The development team and station partners made sure to include accessibility in every part of the new updates. When there is new building or repairs, like expanding the station or working on platforms, everything is done to meet high standards to help all people. This makes travel better for everyone.

If you or someone you are traveling with need extra help, you should contact Amtrak or MARC before your trip. This lets the station staff know you are coming so they can get everything ready. With a little planning, your visit to penn station will be smooth and easy.

Parking and Transportation Options

Getting to and from Baltimore Penn Station is easy. The station has many ways for you to travel. If you drive yourself, you can park at the station. There is a daily parking fee that you should know about. The station is also close to taxis and rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft. You can use public transit here too.

With these choices, you can pick what works best for you. Think about your needs and your budget. In the sections below, you will find info about the parking garage at penn station. You will also see how to connect with other types of transportation.

On-site Parking Availability and Fees

Yes, there are parking options at Baltimore Penn Station. An on-site parking garage is available for travelers, providing a convenient place to leave your car while you travel. The garage is located adjacent to the station, making it just a short walk from your vehicle to the train platforms. This is ideal for both short-term and long-term parking needs.

Parking fees are charged for using the garage, and rates typically vary based on the duration of your stay. As the station and surrounding area are under active redevelopment by the development group, details about parking, including capacity and fee structures, may be updated. It is always best to check for the most current information upon arrival.

The revitalization project, which includes adding new uses to the upper floors of nearby buildings, aims to integrate all aspects of the travel experience, including parking. Below is a general overview of what you might expect, but please note that rates are subject to change.

Parking Duration	Example Rate
Daily Maximum	Varies
Long-Term	Varies

Taxi, Rideshare, and Public Transit Connections

Getting from Baltimore Penn Station to where you want to go is simple. There are many ground transportation choices. You will find spaces just outside the main entrance on Charles Street for both taxi pickups and rideshare cars. This lets you leave the train and get on your way fast.

If you want to ride on public transit, this station is a busy spot. The Baltimore Light RailLink has a stop at Penn Station. You do not need to go far; it is right there at the station. The light rail takes you to downtown Baltimore, to the Inner Harbor, and to many other places across the city and the suburbs. It is good for your wallet and helps you see the city with ease.

Here are your key options for getting around:

• Taxis and Rideshares: Quickly found in front of the station.

• Baltimore Light RailLink: The stop is right on-site for city trips.

• MTA Bus Service: Many lines go by the station on North Charles Street.

Nearby Attractions and Things to Do

Your trip does not have to stop at the station. Baltimore Penn Station is close to some of the city’s most fun neighborhoods and cool places. You can walk or take a quick ride to see the artsy Mount Vernon neighborhood. You can also visit the busy Inner Harbor, the well-known National Aquarium, the Walters Art Museum, or even go to Camden Yards to watch a baseball game.

There is a lot to see and do, so the station is a great place to start when you want to see the best of Baltimore. Let’s look at some of the interesting spots nearby and other great places you can reach easily from Penn Station.

Mt. Vernon Cultural Highlights

Just south of Penn Station, you will find the Mount Vernon neighborhood. This place is the cultural heart of Baltimore, known for its beautiful buildings from the 1800s. You will see nice parks, many museums, and places to see shows. When you walk from the station, you step into one of the city’s most pretty areas.

One of the main spots in Mount Vernon is the Walters Art Museum. This museum has lots of art that covers thousands of years. You can see pieces from ancient Egypt and big works from Europe. The best part is that everyone can get in for free, so it is a good experience for all.

In addition to the museum, there is more to see. The area has the first Washington Monument, the Peabody Library, and many galleries and theaters. If you have a few hours or a whole day, Mount Vernon’s culture and history add something special to your trip plan.

Destinations Accessible from Penn Station

Baltimore Penn Station is in a great spot on the Northeast Corridor. It is the perfect place to start your trip if you want to see some of the best cities on the East Coast. Have you ever wanted to take a last-minute day trip or a weekend break? From here, it is very easy to do that. There are many trains that run all the time. They can get you to many fun places in just a few hours.

One of the best places to go from Penn Station is New York City. There are many round trips every day. So, you can catch a train to New York City for a show, some shopping, or a work visit and still make it back to Baltimore that same day. In the same way, Washington, D.C.’s Union Station is less than an hour away. This is perfect if you want to see museums or monuments.

Here are a few top spots you can get to from Penn Station:

• Washington, D.C.: Take a short ride for politics, history, and culture.

• Philadelphia, PA: Visit America’s birthplace in close to an hour.

• New York City, NY: Get to the middle of Manhattan in under three hours.

Ticketing and Schedules

Getting ready for your trip from Baltimore Penn Station starts with getting your tickets and checking the train schedules. You may travel a lot or this might be your first time. Either way, the process is made to be easy. You can handle your ticket for rides like the Amtrak Northeast Regional in many simple ways.

You can use an app on your phone, or you can go to the ticket office if you like things done in person. It helps to know your train times before your trip. This will make your travel day easier and help things go well. Below, we will show you how you can buy tickets and use the train timetables when using penn station and services like the northeast regional.

Purchasing Tickets: Online, In Person, and Apps

Buying train tickets is now very easy. Many people like to buy tickets online because it is simple and quick. You can go to the Amtrak or MARC websites. There, you can look at train times, compare prices, and get your tickets without leaving home. Your e-ticket will come to your email, and you can show it on your phone.

If you want to talk to someone, there is a ticket office at the station. The staff there will help you buy your ticket. They can answer your questions and help with special needs. You can also use the self-service kiosks at the station. These kiosks are fast and simple for buying a ticket.

If you travel a lot, you may like to use station apps on your phone. Both Amtrak and the MTA have apps that let you buy tickets, see train times, and keep track of your travel plans. You can get updates right away. These apps help you stay in control of your trip.

Understanding Train Timetables and Departures

Understanding train timetables helps you plan your trip and avoid problems. At the train station, you will see big digital boards that show all the next trains. You can get the train number, where it goes, what time it leaves, and which track it will be on from these boards. Always look at these boards again before you get on your train, because the track your train is on can change at any time.

If you want to use MARC trains, you will see their schedule is usually set up by which way the train is going, such as “Outbound -> Washington.” The timetable tells you every stop along the route and what time the train gets there or leaves. For example, one morning, a MARC train may leave Penn Station at 7:20 AM and get to Union Station at 8:19 AM. It is a good idea to look at and plan with the full timetable online before your trip starts.

Departure times are strict, so you need to get to the train station early. This helps you find your platform, get some coffee, and sit down before your train comes. If you always watch the information boards and listen for announcements, you will get on the right train at the right time.

Recent Renovations and Future Developments

Baltimore Penn Station is going through big changes right now. The team working on this, called Penn Station Partners, is leading the charge to update the station and the area around it. Their goal is to make things better for everyone who uses Penn Station, but to also keep the historic look of the building.

This renovation work is important for the Northeast Corridor Improvement Project. It also shows that Amtrak wants to make rail travel better for all of us. Now, let’s see what new features are coming and what we can expect at Penn Station in 2026.

Station Upgrades and Modernization

Yes, penn station is going through big upgrades and changes right now. The last big change there happened back in 1984. Now, penn station partners and beatty development group are leading work to make penn station a place ready for today. The aim is to bring back the building’s old look and to also make things work better for millions of people who go through the station.

The center of the project is all about important updates to the old building. Things being fixed or put in are: repairs on masonry, making the old windows like new, installing a brand new roof, and swapping out the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. These changes are meant to keep the station in good shape and help it last many more years.

Beside caring for the old parts, the plan for modernization will also add some new looks and ways to use the station. The idea is to make the old and new come together well. That way, penn station keeps its special old touch but will also be ready for how people travel by train now and in the future.

Vision for Baltimore Penn Station in 2026

The plan for Baltimore’s Penn Station by 2026 is to make it a busy place where you can do many things. One big part of this is to build a new, modern station across the tracks. Most of Amtrak’s services, like ticketing and baggage, will be in this new building.

With this move, the main part of Penn Station can be used for new stores and restaurants. The development team, Cross Street Partners, wants to bring in shopping and places to eat so that the area feels full of life for both travelers and the people who live there. The upper floors of the old building will be used as office space that is fresh and modern.

In the end, the goal is to make the station a place where people want to go, not just where they catch a train. By keeping the old building nice and adding new features and places to shop and dine, Baltimore’s Penn Station will stand out in the area and become a top spot for everyone.

Essential Tips for First-Time Travelers

Traveling through Penn Station for the first time can be a lot. There are many people, and it can feel big and busy. A little preparation helps a lot here. If you know the basics about security, what to do with your things, and some tips from the locals, you will have an easier time. It also helps to know about the station’s services.

If you follow some easy tips, you can move through Penn Station with confidence. You will start your trip in a good way. Here’s what you need to know about safety, picking your travel time, and other useful tips.

Security, Safety, and Luggage Guidance

Your safety is very important. At any big station, you should watch what is going on around you. Always keep your things close to you. Do not leave your bags alone. If you see something strange, tell the station staff or the police right away.

It is a good idea to pack your bags in a smart and simple way. Porters can help you carry your bags if you need it. There is a small fee for this. Make sure to look at the luggage rules for your train company, like Amtrak or MARC. They tell you how many bags you can bring and how big they can be.

Here are some quick tips to help keep you safe:

• Keep your important things in a safe place and out of sight.

• Stay where it is bright and there are people around, especially at night.

• Check your train and track number on the boards so you are not confused.

Best Times to Travel and Local Advice

If you want your trip at Penn Station to be less busy, try to travel when it’s not rush hour. The busiest times are during weekday mornings and evenings and on holiday weekends. If you can change your plans, try going in the middle of a weekday or on a Saturday. You will see fewer people and feel more relaxed.

Here’s some advice: try to be at Penn Station at least 30 minutes before your train leaves. This gives you enough time to read the departure screen, find out which track you need, and get to your spot without being in a hurry. If you have to buy tickets or check bags, try to come 45 to 60 minutes before your train.

Don’t worry about asking for help. The people who work at Penn Station—like the ticket sellers and train workers—are there to help you. If you are not sure about your train or need to find your way, just ask. A simple question can save you a lot of time and help make your time at Penn Station smooth and easy.

Conclusion

To sum up, Baltimore Penn Station is not just a place to catch a train. It is the place to start when you want to see the city and areas near it. The station has all the things you need, easy train connections, and new changes to make travel better. This makes it easy for both new and regular travelers to use. You can learn how to get around the station, or find interesting places close to it with this guide, so you get the most out of your visit.

When you plan your trip, keep in mind that knowing what to do and where to go can make your travel better. If you want help for your personal travel needs, or want to know more about travel choices, feel free to ask. Enjoy your day at penn station and have a safe trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Baltimore Penn Station accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, Baltimore Penn Station works hard to help everyone who uses the train station. There are many services and places in the station made to help people with disabilities. The staff at the station can help you get on or off the train, and they can also help you move around inside. Work is happening now to fix up the station. The people working on it want to make the whole place better, especially to help with getting around if you have any challenges.

What parking options are available at Baltimore Penn Station?

There is on-site parking in a garage next to Penn Station. This parking is handy for short stays and long stays. You should know that there are parking fees. The group is working on the station and the upper floors of the buildings around it. So, details about parking may change in the future.

How early should I arrive before my train’s departure?

It’s best to get to the train station at least 30 minutes before your train is set to leave. If you want to buy tickets from the ticket office or check bags, you should get there around 45 to 60 minutes early. This will give you enough time to reach the waiting room and find your platform.