Unstaffed Amtrak Stations

Unstaffed Amtrak stations are, as they sound, a train stop without an attendant on duty, and they may or may not have a building. The onboard staff can help you get on and off the train at these stops.

While this article covers the basics of Amtrak’s unstaffed station, it can also apply to many commuter rails and Amtrak connecting services.

I have a lot of experience with these stations!

My first Amtrak adventure started at the Sturtevant Depot, one of many unstaffed Amtrak stations, where I boarded Amtrak’s Hiawatha. These days, all my cross-country train trips begin at the unstaffed Sturtevant Depot, and I use the train to catch flights!

On your first trip, these stations can be intimidating for some, but there is nothing to worry about, and your time at those stations is a short part of your adventure.

What are unstaffed Amtrak stations?

Amtrak has two types of unstaffed stations you might encounter: platform stations and stations with buildings.

Platform stations typically lack a building and may have only a shelter—like a bus stop—or sometimes no shelter.

Stations with buildings usually offer indoor waiting areas, and some may include amenities like bathrooms or ticket machines. However, the features vary significantly by location.

Both types can also be flag stops, meaning the train only stops if a passenger has a reservation to board or get off at that location.

How to Find Out if Your Amtrak Station Is Unstaffed

If you are traveling on an Amtrak long-distance train, the schedule pages I created list all the stations and links to their accommodations.

If you want more information about a station, visit the Amtrak website. In the search box in the upper-right corner, enter the station name, and “Julie” will assist you.

With the Amtrak app, click the “more” button at the bottom right, then click the Amtrak Information button. Slide right and either scroll through for your station or enter it in the search bar.

If your stop is a flag stop, the train only stops if someone has a ticket to board or depart.

Who owns and operates Amtrak’s unstaffed stations?

Local municipalities often own, operate, and maintain unstaffed stations.

Some towns, like Sturtevant, take pride in their stations, while others do not realize that the condition of their stations is the welcome mat for some people entering their community. These communities are responsible for cleaning, locking, unlocking doors, and maintaining the stations, but their staff members do not help passengers.

Amtrak provides informational materials for these stations and, sometimes, ticket machines at busier stations. However, Amtrak is not responsible for their condition or level of service.

What to Expect at Unstaffed Amtrak Stations

As Forrest Gump might say, unstaffed stations are like a box of chocolates: you never know what you’ll get.

As I mentioned, stations can range from beautiful buildings, such as my “home station” in Sturtevant, WI, to small rooms at one end of old stations that could use an update, such as in Kankakee, IL.

My rule of thumb is not to expect every station to be glorious.

If you set your expectations appropriately, you can be ready for anything.

Passengers who expect a sign and a platform and get a quaint station are happier than those who wish every station were Grand Central Terminal.

Do your research and check out the address on Google Street View to see what is around where you want to go.

A Note to the Anxious Traveler.

The biggest takeaway is that no matter what kind of unstaffed station you use, the train will stop, you will board, and the next step of your adventure will begin.

It pays to check out Amtrak’s website or app to see the information offered at each station. When you know what you will face, you can plan accordingly.

Services Available at Unstaffed Amtrak Stations

To avoid a last-minute surprise, read up before your trip if you plan to bring a bike, golf clubs, or a pet.

Baggage Service

Unstaffed stations do not offer checked baggage service.

According to Amtrak’s website, self-serve train-side “checked baggage service” is available to and from the following stations only: Charleston, WV; Cincinnati, OH; Columbus, WI; Crawfordsville, IN; Dyer, IN; Hammond, LA; Lafayette, IN; Meridian, MS; Mount Pleasant, IA; Rensselaer, IN; Texarkana, AR; Tuscaloosa, AL; Winona, MN.

Pets, Bikes, And Golf Clubs

Carry-on or trackside bike service is available at many unstaffed stations. The booking process lets you see if this service is available for your trip.

Golf Clubs and pet services may be available for a fee. As with bikes, this service is booked during the booking process.

If you have a service or comfort animal, check Amtrak’s service animal policy before booking to ensure your animal qualifies and learn how to book your trip correctly.

Purchasing tickets for trips departing from unstaffed Amtrak stations.

There are a few ways to buy tickets for your next Amtrak adventure, including at some unstaffed stations. However, because Amtrak trains sell out so often, it is best to buy them early.

Quik-Trak Ticket Machines

Quik-Trak Machines are at busier, unstaffed stations, but not at all.

Most transactions and ticket printing are available only by card. To avoid frustration, verify the availability of machines at the station.

• The machines only accept cards.
• Please verify that the station has a machine to prevent frustration or a wasted trip if you want to use it.

By Phone

To book by phone, call 1-800-USA-RAIL, and an agent will guide you through the process.

Online and App

• You can also book through Amtrak.com or the Amtrak app, which allows you to book anytime.
• Some travel agents may be able to help you.

After completing your reservation, Amtrak will email you your receipt and a PDF file containing your ticket. Conductors can scan tickets from your electronic devices, or you can use paper tickets.

Buying Tickets Onboard the Train – Not Recommended.

• This option is not available on all trains.
  • Space may be limited, and you could get turned away due to a lack of space.
• Cash only; there is an onboard fee.

If you have accessibility needs, it is best to call Amtrak; they can anticipate and help accommodate you.

Parking at unstaffed Amtrak stations

Each community determines the parking rules and the length of time for its station, so there is no blanket answer.

For example, my area has two unstaffed stations: Milwaukee Airport Station (MKA) and the Sturtevant Depot (SVT). MKA offers a daily parking rate, but thirteen miles down the tracks, SVT offers one price for parking for up to 30 days.

If you are unclear about the parking rules, contact the municipality or the police department. Communities often post signs with a phone number; you may need to obtain that information from the community’s website.

A dry run to the station could help you familiarize yourself with the services and parking. You don’t want your trip to end with a parking ticket or a towed car.

Packing Suggestions for Unstaffed Amtrak Stations

Pack as lightly as possible since checked baggage service is unavailable at most of these stations. You also often have to navigate stairs to board the train or get to the upper level; some stairways are narrow.

Conductors and other staff can help you get your bags onto the train, but you may need to take them to your room or seat. There are places in the coach class cars to store your luggage, and there is some storage for sleeping accommodations as well.

Amtrak has a generous carry-on policy, and like other carriers, all bags must be under 50 pounds for the safety of the staff. If you exceed the 50-pound limit, you may have to pay a fee for overweight luggage.

From my experience, 25″ or smaller luggage is more manageable, and travel backpacks are great for train travel.

How early should you arrive at an unstaffed Amtrak station?

Unlike airports, you do not need to arrive two hours beforehand, but you should arrive early. Amtrak suggests you give yourself a 30-minute buffer, and I agree.

This time cushion allows you to grab everything from the car, check that you turned your headlights off, ensure the vehicle is secure, get to your spot, and take a deep breath before your adventure starts.

I became overconfident in my “time management skills” a few times and parked my car in time for a great view of the train rolling away without me. I needed to remember to allow time for unexpected traffic, detours, and paying for parking.

Preparing for Your Adventure

Check Amtrak’s page for service alerts and notices. It shares information on service alerts, such as passenger and station advisories.

You can track Amtrak trains through several methods, including Amtrak’s app, website, and third-party sites.

If you did not sign up for text or email alerts when you booked your tickets, you can sign up afterward. These alerts send you updates about your train.

Boarding trains at unstaffed Amtrak stations

As the train approaches, stand behind the yellow line or at least six feet from the tracks for your safety. Once the train stops, look for the open doors and the conductors.

The conductors and attendants will help you get to where you belong.

If you have a Business Class reservation, let the conductor know; they want to get you to the right car. It doesn’t hurt to watch for the Business Class car as the train approaches and heads toward the conductor nearest to that car.

If you have a boarding question, ask a conductor or other staff members while on the platform. If you have non-boarding or more in-depth questions, wait until you are on board and ask once the train starts moving.

Trains can arrive early, but will not leave before their scheduled time. The only exception is a flag stop.

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Unstaffed Amtrak Stations Wrap-Up

• You cannot check bags at most stations (the exceptions are in the baggage section).
• Pets, golf clubs, or bike services are available at selected, unstaffed stations and trains.
• The station may or may not have restrooms.
• Many stations have ticket machines; however, not all do.
• At some stations, conductors can make announcements from approaching trains.
• There is no staff available to answer questions.
• The onboard staff will assist you on and off the train.
• When booking
  • Use a cell phone number and an email address to which you will have access during your trip.
  • If you have a disability, indicate that when booking.

I hope this article helps you understand what you need to know and expect if your plans include unstaffed stations. The main issues I have experienced at these stations have come from fellow passengers who did not prepare themselves by reading Travels with Kev or listening to the announcements.

Safe travels and happy planning!

Kev

05182021