Does Amtrak go to Canada?
If you are looking forward to traveling to Canada from the U.S by train, you will be glad to know that yes, Amtrak offers cross-border rail service connecting major U.S. and Canadian cities. Traveling by Amtrak offers a scenic, comfortable, and environmentally friendly travel experience. To know more, this guide will provide you with all the essential information you need, including the route, services, and facilities, to make your journey stress-free and comfortable.
Amtrak currently runs three main international routes that cross into Canada. These routes provide direct service between key cities in the United States and across Canada. Each route offers a unique experience, comfortable seating, and travel options across the U.S.-Canada border.
| Route | U.S. Start Point | Canadian Endpoint | Frequency | Approximate Duration |
| Maple Leaf | New York City | Toronto | Daily | 12.5 hours |
| Adirondack | New York City | Montreal | Daily | 11 hours |
| Cascades | Seattle / Portland | Vancouver, BC | Daily | 4–8 hours |
Contact Information
For those passengers seeking information or assistance related to Canadian government services, travel, or immigration, it is important to know the key contact points both within Canada and the United States. Below is a summary of essential contact details.
| Country | Canada |
| Phone number | 1-800-O-CANADA (1-800-622-6232) |
| Embassies/Consulates (USA) | Canadian Embassy in Washington, DC; consulates in major US cities |
| Citizenship Offices (Canada) | Various offices across Canada are managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Locations can be found on the IRCC website. |
| Country | United states |
| Phone details | 1-800-FED-INFO (1-800-333-4636) |
| Embassy/Consulates (Canada) | U.S. Embassy in Ottawa; consulates in major Canadian cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Halifax, Quebec City |
Must-Know Details Before Crossing the US–Canada Border
Traveling by Amtrak train across the US-Canada border requires following the identification and customs procedures to ensure a smooth trip.
- While booking your ticket, you must provide your birthdate, gender, nationality, and ID details while booking. Incorrect information can cause delays and extra questions. To avoid delays and unnecessary procedures, make sure to provide accurate information and prepare your documents wisely.
- Arrive 60 minutes early to complete all the procedures smoothly and ensure an efficient travel experience, as the gate closes 15 minutes before, so avoid arriving at the station.
- Custom inspection by US and canadian authorities might take time and can cause delays. Inspection takes place at the Nigerian fall where all passengers have to disembark with luggage and board after the inspection has been done.
- Minors under 18 can not cross the border alone. If traveling without parents, notarized consent letters are required. Children aged 15 or younger cannot travel unaccompanied under any circumstances.
- Entry is solely dependent on the customer officer at the border. Having the right documents and providing accurate information can not guarantee admission. Amtrak will not be responsible for delays to denied entry. And the train will not wait for passengers held in custody.
- All trains have comfortable seating, restrooms, and a café or bistro car. Wi-Fi and checked baggage are available on some routes, such as Maple Leaf and Cascades, but not all. Bring snacks and entertainment, especially for longer rides. Power outlets are usually available at your seat, and most trains are accessible for passengers with disabilities.
- Seats are reserved by class (Coach or Business), but not assigned by number. Arrive early for the best window views, especially on scenic routes. Business Class passengers may receive perks like extra legroom or complimentary beverages, depending on the route.
- Canada uses Canadian dollars, and French is spoken in Montreal. Most places accept credit cards, but having a small amount of cash is helpful. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but knowing a few French phrases can improve your experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Amtrak does go to Canada. Amtrak offers two routes that cross the US-Canada border: the Amtrak Cascades to Vancouver, British Columbia, and the Maple Leaf to Toronto, Ontario.
A trip from New York to Toronto takes about 12 hours and 27 minutes on this line, and the average ticket price depends on the seats, class, and services.
A train trip across Canada, specifically using VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” route between Toronto and Vancouver, can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $10,000+ per person..
Passengers traveling on Amtrak rail into Canada must provide their date of birth, citizenship, and passport information at the time of reservation.
No. While some routes like the Maple Leaf and Cascades offer Wi-Fi, not all trains are equipped with it. It’s a good idea to bring your offline entertainment just in case.
Yes, Amtrak allows passengers to bring their food and drinks. There’s also a café or bistro car on most trains if you prefer to purchase meals or snacks onboard.
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