Burbank, now officially known as Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) (formerly Burbank-Bob Hope Airport), is a hidden gem for travelers seeking convenience and accessibility. Not only does it offer a smoother, less stressful airport experience than its larger LAX counterpart, but it also boasts a unique advantage: direct train access via Amtrak, making it a fantastic multimodal hub for exploring Southern California and beyond.
If you’re looking to combine air travel with the relaxed pace of train journeys, BUR’s Amtrak connections are a game-changer. Let’s delve into a complete guide to navigating Amtrak from Hollywood Burbank Airport.
The Amtrak Stations Serving Hollywood Burbank Airport
This is where it gets interesting, as there isn’t just one “Amtrak station” directly inside the airport terminal. Instead, BUR is uniquely served by two closely located Metrolink stations, both of which are also stops for Amtrak’s renowned Pacific Surfliner service:
- Hollywood Burbank Airport-Bob Hope Airport (BUR) Station:
- Location: This is the most convenient option, located directly across from the airport’s main terminal building.
- Walkability: Yes! It’s a short, easy walk (approximately 5-10 minutes) from the terminal baggage claim directly to the train platform. Look for clear signage.
- Services: Primarily serves Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner trains and Metrolink’s Ventura County Line.
- Downtown Burbank Station:
- Location: Located a little further south, approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) from the airport terminal.
- Access: While not walkable with luggage, the airport offers a free shuttle service that connects directly to the Downtown Burbank Metrolink Station. Taxis and ride-shares are also readily available.
- Services: Also serves Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner and Metrolink’s Ventura County and Antelope Valley Lines. Some Surfliner trains might only stop here, not the immediate airport station, so always check your specific ticket.
Which station should you use? For ultimate convenience when flying into or out of BUR, the Hollywood Burbank Airport-Bob Hope Airport (BUR) Station is usually your best bet. However, always double-check your Amtrak ticket to confirm your specific departure/arrival station.
Amtrak Services Available: The Pacific Surfliner
The primary Amtrak service you’ll utilize from Hollywood Burbank Airport is the Pacific Surfliner. This scenic route traverses Southern California’s stunning coast, offering a relaxing alternative to traffic-clogged freeways.
From BUR, you can travel:
- Northbound: Towards destinations like Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo.
- Southbound: Towards Los Angeles, Anaheim, San Diego, and all points in between.
For longer journeys, you can connect to other major Amtrak routes (like the Coast Starlight or Southwest Chief) at Los Angeles Union Station.
Key Destinations & Distances from Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)
Here’s a breakdown of popular destinations accessible by Amtrak from BUR, including approximate travel times and distances.
A. Southbound Destinations:
- Glendale Station (GLN):
- Distance: ~5 miles (8 km)
- Train Time: ~10-15 minutes
- Notes: A very quick hop to a neighboring city, useful for local connections or to explore Glendale’s Americana at Brand.
- Los Angeles Union Station (LAX):
- Distance: ~14 miles (22.5 km)
- Train Time: ~25-35 minutes
- Notes: The major hub for Southern California Amtrak and Metrolink. From here, you can connect to the LAX FlyAway bus service, other long-distance Amtrak trains, downtown LA attractions, and various public transit options.
- Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) (ANA) – For Disneyland!
- Distance: ~45 miles (72 km)
- Train Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes
- Notes: Your direct link to Disneyland Park. ARTIC is a modern hub with connections to local buses and shuttles to the theme park.
- San Juan Capistrano (SNC):
- Distance: ~70 miles (113 km)
- Train Time: ~2 hours – 2 hours 15 minutes
- Notes: A charming historic town known for its mission and swallows.
- San Diego – Santa Fe Depot (SAN):
- Distance: ~125 miles (201 km)
- Train Time: ~3 hours 30 minutes – 4 hours
- Notes: The southernmost stop on the Pacific Surfliner, dropping you right in downtown San Diego, close to the waterfront and Gaslamp Quarter.
B. Northbound Destinations:
- Van Nuys (VNC):
- Distance: ~10 miles (16 km)
- Train Time: ~20-25 minutes
- Notes: Another local stop within the San Fernando Valley.
- Chatsworth (CWT):
- Distance: ~15 miles (24 km)
- Train Time: ~30-35 minutes
- Notes: Further into the western San Fernando Valley.
- Simi Valley (SIM):
- Distance: ~25 miles (40 km)
- Train Time: ~45-55 minutes
- Notes: Home to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.
- Ventura (VNT):
- Distance: ~55 miles (88.5 km)
- Train Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes – 1 hour 45 minutes
- Notes: A laid-back coastal city, great for beach access and exploring.
- Santa Barbara (SBA):
- Distance: ~90 miles (145 km)
- Train Time: ~2 hours 30 minutes – 2 hours 45 minutes
- Notes: Known as the “American Riviera,” offering beautiful beaches, Spanish colonial architecture, and wineries. The station is conveniently located near downtown and the Funk Zone.
- San Luis Obispo (SLO):
- Distance: ~170 miles (274 km)
- Train Time: ~5 hours – 5 hours 15 minutes
- Notes: The northern terminus of the Pacific Surfliner, a vibrant college town amidst wine country.
(Please note: All train times are approximate and can vary due to schedule, track conditions, and specific train stops. Always check the official Amtrak website for the most current schedules and fares.)
Connecting to Other Airports
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX):
- From BUR by Amtrak: Take the Pacific Surfliner from Hollywood Burbank Airport Station approximately 25-35 minutes to Los Angeles Union Station (LAX).
- From Union Station to LAX: From Union Station, you can easily catch the LAX FlyAway bus service. These dedicated buses run frequently (every 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the time of day) directly to LAX terminals. The total travel time from BUR to LAX (including train and bus) is usually around 1.5-2 hours, depending on connections and traffic.
- Long Beach Airport (LGB):
- From BUR by Amtrak: Take the Pacific Surfliner to Los Angeles Union Station (LAX). From Union Station, public transit options (Metrolink + Metro Rail/Bus) or ride-shares are available to Long Beach. This is a longer, multi-modal journey.
Why Choose Amtrak from Hollywood Burbank Airport?
- Avoid Traffic: Southern California traffic is legendary. The train offers a stress-free alternative, allowing you to relax, work, or enjoy the scenery.
- Scenic Views: Especially along the coastal stretches, the Pacific Surfliner offers breathtaking ocean views that you simply can’t get from the freeway.
- Comfort & Space: More legroom, comfortable seats, and the ability to get up and walk around, visit the Café Car, or simply stretch out.
- Sustainability: Train travel is generally more environmentally friendly than car or air travel for shorter distances.
- Direct Airport Access: The unique advantage of walking from your plane to a train at BUR is unmatched in the region.
Tips for Amtrak Travelers from BUR
- Book in Advance: Especially for popular routes or during peak travel times, booking your tickets ahead of time on the Amtrak website or app can save you money and secure your seat.
- Check Schedules: Always verify train schedules for your specific date and time, as they can change.
- Arrive Early: Although not as stringent as airport security, arrive at least 15-20 minutes before departure to find your platform and get settled.
- Baggage: Amtrak has generous baggage policies compared to airlines, but always check their official website for current limits.
- Seat Selection: On the Pacific Surfliner, seating is generally open, but you can often choose a window seat for the best views.
Hollywood Burbank Airport’s direct Amtrak connection truly sets it apart, offering a fantastic blend of air and rail travel that makes exploring Southern California incredibly convenient and enjoyable. So next time you’re planning a trip, consider flying into BUR and letting Amtrak whisk you away to your next adventure!
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