What Amtrak station is closest to Boston Airport?

If you wondered, what Amtrak station is closest to Boston Airport? The answer is South Station, and it is the closest Amtrak station located at 2 South Station, Boston, MA 02110 in just 3.5 miles away. Travelers can reach it quickly and affordably by using the MBTA Silver Line SL1 bus, which provides a direct, free ride from all airport terminals to South Station in about 15 to 21 minutes. While North Station is also nearby, South Station is the better choice for Amtrak riders because it serves major routes like the Acela Express and Northeast Regional. This blog gives you simple, clear information on how to travel between Boston Airport and South Station, helping you save time and avoid confusion​. 

Getting from Boston Logan Airport to South Station

Here are the transportation options to get from Boston Logan Airport to South Station with approximate times and costs:

• Silver Line Free MBTA Bus SL1: Direct bus from all airport terminals to South Station. It takes approximately 20–25 minutes, also it is free of cost when traveling from the airport to South Station.
• Taxi/Rideshare Uber, Lyft: Available at all terminals for direct rides to South Station. It takes around 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. Approximately $15–$30, possibly higher with traffic or surge pricing.
• Airport Shuttle and Subway: Shuttle buses take you to nearby subway stations from the airport. From there, the subway ride on the Blue Line to South Station takes about 30 to 40 minutes with a transfer. The cost for the shuttle varies, and the subway fare is around $3 per person.

Each option varies in convenience and cost, with the Silver Line being the most affordable and direct for most travelers.​

Major Amtrak Routes from Boston South Station

Boston South Station is the starting point for important Amtrak trains, including the fast Acela Express, the popular Northeast Regional, and the long-distance Lake Shore Limited, connecting Boston with cities along the East Coast and beyond.

• Acela Express: The high-speed train that connects Boston to New York City, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and other cities along the Northeast Corridor, offering faster travel times and premium amenities.​
• Northeast Regional: A frequent and slightly slower service than Acela, running from Boston through major cities in the Northeast to Virginia Beach, with coach seating, Wi-Fi, and a cafe car onboard.​
• Lake Shore Limited: A long-distance route that starts at Boston South Station and travels westward to Chicago, passing through cities such as Albany, Buffalo, Cleveland, and Toledo.​

Alternative Train Stations Near the Boston Area

Boston is home to several major train stations that offer convenient alternatives for regional and national travel, each serving different parts of the city and connecting to various transit lines and destinations.

• South Station: The main Amtrak and MBTA commuter rail station in downtown Boston. Serves key Amtrak routes such as Acela Express, Northeast Regional, and Lake Shore Limited. Connected to the Red Line subway and Silver Line bus rapid transit. Located at 2 South Station, Boston, MA 02110.
• North Station: Serves the Amtrak Downeaster route to Maine and New Hampshire. Connected to the Green Line and Orange Line subways. Located near 135 Causeway Street, Boston, MA 02114
• Back Bay Station: Located at 145 Dartmouth Street, Boston, MA 02116-5162. Serves the same Amtrak routes as South Station. Connected to the Orange Line subway, it is also close to Prudential Center, Copley Place, Fenway Park, and Newbury Street. It is smaller than South Station but convenient for western Boston access.

Why Choose South Station After Landing in Boston?

Below is a comprehensive list of reasons why you should choose South Station after landing in Boston:

• Prime Location: South Station is located in downtown Boston near Chinatown, the Financial District, and the Boston waterfront, making it an ideal gateway to the city’s main attractions and business centers.​
• Extensive Transit Connections: It serves as a major hub for Amtrak’s key routes, such as Acela Express, Northeast Regional, Lake Shore Limited, and MBTA commuter rails. It is connected directly to the Red Line subway and Silver Line bus rapid transit. 
• Convenient Airport Access: The Silver Line bus provides a free, direct connection from Logan Airport to South Station, making travel from the airport straightforward and cost-effective.​
• Modern Renovations: Recently upgraded with a stunning vaulted concourse called the Great Space, featuring soaring arches, improved lighting, and passenger-friendly amenities, creating a bright, comfortable environment.​
• Comprehensive Facilities: South Station offers spacious waiting areas, ticket offices, food courts, restrooms, and an Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge, enhancing the travel experience.​
• Accessibility: Fully accessible with elevators, ramps, and assistance for travelers with mobility challenges, ensuring convenience for all passengers.​
• Future Growth: Ongoing expansion projects include a new outdoor concourse, a bigger bus terminal, and a mixed-use tower adding offices and residences, reinforcing South Station’s role as Boston’s transportation and urban hub.​
• Historic and Architectural Significance: The station blends classic neoclassical architecture with modern design upgrades, offering a visually impressive and culturally rich transit experience.​

Note: Choosing South Station ensures easy access, comfort, efficient connections, and a welcoming entry point to Boston for all travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions