Baltimore Penn Station is one of the busiest Amtrak stations in Maryland and a major stop on the Northeast Corridor. Located just north of downtown Baltimore, the station provides convenient rail connections to Washington DC, Philadelphia, New York City, Boston, and destinations throughout the eastern United States.
Originally opened in 1911, Baltimore Penn Station combines historic Beaux-Arts architecture with modern transportation services. The station serves Amtrak, MARC commuter rail, Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) services, and local transportation providers.
Baltimore Penn Station Quick Facts
| Station Name | Baltimore Penn Station |
| Station Code | BAL |
| City | Baltimore |
| State | Maryland |
| Address | 1500 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 |
| Opened | 1911 |
| Parking Available | Yes |
| Checked Baggage | Available |
| Accessibility | Fully Accessible |
| Wi-Fi | Available |
Station Location
Baltimore Penn Station is located in Midtown Baltimore and provides easy access to downtown Baltimore, the Inner Harbor, Johns Hopkins University, sports venues, and major business districts.
About Baltimore Penn Station
Baltimore Penn Station is one of the most important transportation hubs in Maryland and serves as a key stop on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor. The station handles both regional and long-distance train services, making it a convenient gateway for travelers heading throughout the Northeast and beyond.
The station recently underwent significant improvements and modernization projects while preserving its historic architectural character. Today, travelers benefit from improved facilities, expanded passenger services, and enhanced transportation connections.
In addition to Amtrak services, Baltimore Penn Station serves MARC commuter trains, local transit routes, rideshare services, and regional transportation providers.
Amtrak Routes Serving Baltimore Penn Station
Baltimore Penn Station is served by many of Amtrak’s most popular routes.
- Acela
- Northeast Regional
- Cardinal
- Crescent
- Carolinian
- Palmetto
- Silver Meteor
- Silver Star
- Vermonter
- Floridian
Popular Destinations from Baltimore
Baltimore to Washington DC
One of the busiest rail corridors in America, served by Acela and Northeast Regional trains.
Baltimore to New York City
The Acela and Northeast Regional provide frequent daily service.
Baltimore to Philadelphia
Multiple daily departures connect Baltimore with Philadelphia and the Northeast Corridor.
Baltimore to Boston
Passengers can travel directly to Boston using Acela and Northeast Regional services.
Baltimore to Florida
The Silver Meteor, Silver Star, and Floridian connect Baltimore with Florida destinations.
Facilities and Amenities
Baltimore Penn Station offers a variety of services and amenities for both regional commuters and long-distance travelers.
- Amtrak ticket counters
- Self-service ticket kiosks
- Indoor waiting areas
- Free Wi-Fi
- Food and beverage options
- Coffee shops and convenience stores
- Accessible facilities
- Restrooms
- Checked baggage services
- Customer assistance services
The station has undergone significant renovations in recent years, improving passenger facilities while preserving its historic character.
Parking at Baltimore Penn Station
Parking is available through station-operated and nearby parking facilities.
- Hourly parking
- Daily parking
- Overnight parking
- Accessible parking spaces
Travelers should verify current parking rates and availability before arriving, especially during major events and holiday travel periods.
Transportation Connections
Baltimore Penn Station serves as one of Maryland’s most important transportation hubs.
MARC Commuter Rail
MARC Penn Line trains provide frequent service between Baltimore and Washington DC.
MTA Light Rail
Baltimore’s Light Rail system provides connections to downtown Baltimore, Camden Yards, BWI Airport, and other destinations throughout the region.
MTA Bus Services
- Local bus routes
- Regional commuter bus services
- Downtown Baltimore connections
Taxi and Rideshare Services
Taxi, Uber, and Lyft services are available directly outside the station.
Airport Connections
Travelers can conveniently access several airports from Baltimore Penn Station.
- Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI)
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Many passengers use Amtrak or MARC services to connect with BWI Airport Station for airport access.
Nearby Hotels
Several hotels are located near Baltimore Penn Station.
- Hotel Indigo Baltimore Downtown
- The Ivy Hotel
- Lord Baltimore Hotel
- Hotel Revival Baltimore
- Residence Inn Baltimore Downtown
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore
Visitors can find accommodations ranging from boutique hotels to business-focused properties throughout the city.
Nearby Attractions
Baltimore Penn Station provides convenient access to many of Baltimore’s most popular attractions.
- Inner Harbor
- National Aquarium
- Oriole Park at Camden Yards
- M&T Bank Stadium
- American Visionary Art Museum
- Fort McHenry National Monument
- The Walters Art Museum
- Maryland Science Center
- Federal Hill
- Fell’s Point
Most attractions can be reached by Light Rail, rideshare services, taxi, or local transit connections.
Travel Tips for Baltimore Penn Station
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
- Allow additional time during weekday commuter periods.
- Monitor departure boards for track assignments.
- Use MARC trains for affordable travel between Baltimore and Washington DC.
- Check baggage eligibility before traveling.
- Consider BWI Airport Station for airport transfers.
Nearby Amtrak Stations
Travelers on the Northeast Corridor may also use these nearby stations.
- BWI Airport Station
- New Carrollton Station
- Washington Union Station
- Wilmington Station
- Philadelphia 30th Street Station
Helpful Amtrak Travel Guides
- Amtrak Baggage Policy
- Amtrak Seat Types & Classes
- Amtrak Coach vs Sleeper
- Amtrak Food & Dining Guide
- Amtrak Cancellation & Refund Policy
- Amtrak Ticket Booking Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the station code for Baltimore Penn Station?
The Amtrak station code for Baltimore Penn Station is BAL.
Does Baltimore Penn Station have parking?
Yes. Parking is available through station-operated and nearby parking facilities.
What Amtrak routes serve Baltimore Penn Station?
Major routes include Acela, Northeast Regional, Crescent, Cardinal, Carolinian, Palmetto, Silver Meteor, Silver Star, Vermonter, and Floridian.
Can I connect to BWI Airport from Baltimore Penn Station?
Yes. Travelers can connect via Amtrak, MARC, Light Rail, and local transportation services.
Does Baltimore Penn Station offer checked baggage services?
Yes. Checked baggage services are available on eligible routes.
How early should I arrive before departure?
Most travelers should arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
Is Baltimore Penn Station accessible?
Yes. The station is fully accessible and provides services for passengers with disabilities.
Can I travel directly from Baltimore to New York City?
Yes. Acela and Northeast Regional trains provide frequent daily service.
Can I travel from Baltimore to Florida by train?
Yes. The Silver Meteor, Silver Star, and Floridian provide direct service to Florida destinations.
What are the most popular attractions near the station?
The Inner Harbor, National Aquarium, Camden Yards, Fell’s Point, and Fort McHenry are among Baltimore’s most popular attractions.
Final Thoughts
Baltimore Penn Station is one of the most important transportation hubs in Maryland and the Northeast Corridor. With extensive rail connections, convenient airport access, historic architecture, and easy access to Baltimore’s top attractions, the station serves as an excellent gateway for travelers throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
Whether you’re traveling to Washington DC, Philadelphia, New York City, Boston, or Florida, Baltimore Penn Station provides convenient access to Amtrak’s national rail network.