Welcome to the world of Amtrak Wi-Fi! Whether traveling on an Acela Express or a regional train, you’ll likely have Wi-Fi access to stay connected. However, Wi-Fi may not be available on long-distance trains. This article lists stations and trains that offer Amtrak Wi-Fi.
While this complimentary service is perfect for browsing the web and staying in touch via email, note that streaming or downloading large files may not be possible.
In this article, we’ll explore alternative ways to stay connected while on the move and what to expect from Wi-Fi on Amtrak trains.
Brief Amtrak Wi-Fi History
Over the years, Amtrak’s Wi-Fi service has improved reliability and speed, driven by rising passenger demand for connectivity and by the availability of newer hardware and software.
My First Experience with Amtrak Wi-Fi
My first encounter with Amtrak Wi-Fi was aboard the Hiawatha during its early implementation. Since then, I’ve noticed significant improvements in service quality, although there are still imperfections.
Amtrak has tested various technologies over the past decade to improve onboard connectivity, including mobile hotspots on several Superliner trains. This trial primarily targeted sleeper car passengers but was discontinued due to technological limitations and inconsistent performance.
As a frequent traveler, I’ve continued to use Amtrak’s Wi-Fi service intermittently, often switching between onboard Wi-Fi and my phone as a hotspot, depending on the circumstances.
This update reflects the expansion of Amtrak’s Wi-Fi service and provides context on past efforts to improve connectivity, offering readers a comprehensive perspective.
Amtrak routes with Wi-Fi.
Here is the list of Amtrak trains with Wi-Fi. Trains shown with an asterisk go to Canada, where Wi-Fi may not be available on the train.
*Wi-Fi may not be available while in Canada
Amtrak stations with Wi-Fi
Some Amtrak stations offer Wi-Fi, but signal strength may vary due to infrastructure and user load.
Other stations may offer Wi-Fi services provided by companies other than Amtrak. For example, the Milwaukee Intermodal Station has internet service through Greyhound. Like any system,
The list below includes Amtrak-provided Wi-Fi stations.
- Baltimore, MD – Penn Station
- Boston, MA – South Station (inside the lounge only)
- Chicago, IL – Union Station (not available in all areas of the station)
- Lorton, VA – Auto Train
- New York, NY – Moynihan Station
- New York, NY – Penn Station (in gate areas and inside the lounge)
- Philadelphia, PA – William H Gray III 30th Street Station (in gate areas and inside the lounge)
- Providence, RI
- Sanford, FL – Auto Train
- Washington, DC – Union Station (in gate areas and inside the lounge)
- Westwood, MA – Route 128
- Wilmington, DE – Wilmington Station
What devices can connect to Amtrak Wi-Fi?
Most modern devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones, can connect to this free service.
How to connect to Amtrak Wi-Fi
The photos in this section are examples; the screens may change at any time. I used an iPhone in these examples. The login process is similar on other devices.
Step one
- Go into your device’s settings and look for Amtrak_Wi-Fi; the photos are from my iPhone.
- Other phones and tablets will look different.
- On Capitol Corridor and San Joaquins trains, look for “YourTrainWiFi” and
- Click Agree on the welcome screen.
Step two
- Wait a few seconds; your web browser should open to the terms and conditions page.
- If not, try opening your browser or try again.
- If all else fails, turn your gear off, turn it back on, and repeat.
Step three – you are in!
- Wait for a few seconds, and this screen should appear.
- From here, click “Done.”
- Check out the latest Travels with Kev article, and enjoy the rest of the interwebs. You don’t need to check my site —why not?
To make things easier, set this network to auto-login. If you no longer want to use Amtrak Wi-Fi, turn off your device’s Wi-Fi or select “Forget Network.”
Can you use a VPN with Amtrak Wi-Fi?
Yes, Amtrak Wi-Fi allows for VPN traffic on its network.
Amtrak Wi-Fi Speeds and Connectivity
Amtrak’s Wi-Fi speeds vary between trains and can fluctuate along the route. Factors such as the number of passengers using the service and signal strength can impact the connection quality.
It is essential to remember Amtrak Wi-Fi’s Golden Rule: the service is intended for general web browsing and may not be suitable for heavy data usage.
Amtrak’s Wi-Fi uses a cellular network, so during your journey, you may encounter areas with weak signal or dead spots, resulting in intermittent connectivity or slower speeds.
When the train is full of passengers using the internet, the Wi-Fi system may experience slowdowns. Unforeseen circumstances, such as last-minute equipment changes or technical glitches, could also affect Wi-Fi availability, potentially leading to no internet service on the train.
The Wi-Fi service may restrict access to ensure a smoother experience for passengers. Activities such as downloading large files or streaming mature-content videos may be limited or blocked.
The Wi-Fi signal typically originates from receivers mounted on the roofs of passenger or café cars, which can cause connectivity issues in tunnels or in areas with limited cellular coverage.
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What can you and cannot do with Amtrak Wi-Fi?
What Can You Do with Amtrak Wi-Fi?
- General web browsing
- Such as visiting Travels with Kev
- Checking and sending emails
- Social media updates
What Can You Not Do with Amtrak Wi-Fi?
- Streaming videos (e.g., Netflix, YouTube)
- Personal Tip: I have tried streaming videos while traveling. Sometimes, it works, but buffering interrupts the experience.
- Downloading large files
- Using data-intensive applications (e.g., online gaming)
Amtrak’s Wi-Fi is designed for basic internet usage. To prevent frustration, please download large files before your trip.
Reasons to Use Amtrak Wi-Fi
One convenient benefit of using Amtrak Wi-Fi is that it’s free.
However, please manage your expectations, as the service may have limitations or varying quality due to its free status. Additionally, note that Amtrak Wi-Fi is unsecured; use it at your own risk.
Using Amtrak Wi-Fi can be advantageous in areas with unreliable cellular service. It may provide connectivity when your carrier cannot.
Alternatives to Amtrak Wi-Fi
Some of these suggestions are based on my experience, and others come from Amtrak.
Download before you go!
A great travel tip is downloading large files and entertainment before you leave. Once you get used to it, it becomes second nature. I learned a helpful trick early on: a tablet, such as an iPad, can provide entertainment while traveling on Amtrak, especially if you download the necessary apps before departure.
For Work:
- Download Excel and PowerPoint files you’ll need to work on before your trip.
For Relaxation:
- Download shows and movies from streaming services such as Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and Disney+ for offline viewing.
Remember, downloaded videos may expire after around 48 hours, so plan accordingly. The amount you can download depends on the storage space available on your device. Connecting your device to the internet can sometimes renew your downloads.
If you have a layover, use Wi-Fi to update your entertainment options. Services like Netflix can automatically delete shows you’ve watched and download new ones, which is convenient if you have Wi-Fi access during your journey. Another way to do this is to follow the next section and set up Wi-Fi.
Bring your Wi-Fi with you.
If you need Wi-Fi or faster speeds, consider using a personal hotspot or tethering your device to your phone for a more reliable connection.
Many cell phone plans offer these options with varying data allowances and pricing. Compare plans to find the best coverage and value, especially if you travel frequently.
Monitor your data usage, particularly if you stream videos or use your phone as a hotspot without an unlimited plan. Pay-as-you-go plans can be cost-effective for occasional connectivity.
Remember, as with Amtrak Wi-Fi, cellular service may be unavailable or weak in some areas, regardless of the carrier.
My Experience With Amtrak Wi-Fi
Over time, I’ve learned to adapt to Wi-Fi availability (and reliability) when traveling by train, plane, or bus. I go into every trip expecting that I might not have service, and I’m pleasantly surprised when it’s there—and even happier when it works well.
Since I often work while traveling, I use my phone as a hotspot when needed. Of course, hotspots can be hit-or-miss too, and it always seems like I hit a dead spot right when I need to send something important. Patience and flexibility are key.
Preparation helps a lot. I download what I’ll need before leaving for the station. For example, Chicago Union Station has Wi-Fi, but it can be slow. Additionally, when there are many cell phones in the area, service tends to slow down. So, if I am downloading that last-minute movie, I know that it may not finish by boarding time.
On a recent ride on the Hiawatha, the Wi-Fi worked well enough for me to post on Instagram, update apps, and even work on Travels with Kev articles. But there is a dead spot on that route.
Thanks for exploring Amtrak Wi-Fi with me and for reading my work.
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Safe Travels & Happy Planning!
Kev
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