Booking Amtrak In Maine..!!
Maine isn’t just about rocky coastlines, fresh lobster, and charming lighthouses – it’s also a fantastic destination to explore by rail! The Amtrak Downeaster service offers a scenic, relaxing, and convenient way to experience the Pine Tree State, stretching from Brunswick down to Boston, Massachusetts.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a foodie tour, or an outdoor adventure, the Downeaster connects you to some of Maine’s most beloved towns and cities. So, ditch the car and let’s explore each of Maine’s Amtrak stations, complete with distances to key cities and airports to help you plan your perfect trip.
The Amtrak Downeaster: A Brief Overview
The Downeaster line, operated by Amtrak in partnership with the Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority (NNEPRA), runs multiple times a day, seven days a week. It offers a comfortable journey with amenities like free Wi-Fi, a café car, and spacious seating, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers.
Let’s dive into the Maine stops, starting from the northernmost station.
1. Brunswick, Maine (BNC)
The End of the Line & Gateway to Mid-Coast Charm
Brunswick is the northernmost terminus of the Downeaster, a vibrant college town home to Bowdoin College. It’s a fantastic starting point for exploring Maine’s mid-coast region, including picturesque towns like Bath, Boothbay Harbor, and Popham Beach State Park. The town itself boasts a lively Maine Street with diverse shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance from Brunswick Station | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Portland, ME | 30 miles (48 km) | Easy drive or continue by Downeaster |
| Augusta, ME | 35 miles (56 km) | State Capital |
| Kennebunkport, ME | 50 miles (80 km) | Popular coastal tourist town |
| Bangor, ME | 100 miles (161 km) | Northern Maine’s largest city |
| Portland Jetport (PWM) | 32 miles (51 km) | Major regional airport |
| Boston Logan (BOS) | 135 miles (217 km) | Direct Downeaster service available |
2. Freeport, Maine (FRE)
The Shopping Mecca with Outdoor Appeal
Freeport is world-famous as the home of the L.L.Bean flagship store, which is open 24/7. But beyond the outlets and boutique shops, Freeport offers stunning natural beauty, with nearby Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park and Winslow Park providing opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and coastal exploration. The station is conveniently located within walking distance of the main shopping village.
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance from Freeport Station | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Portland, ME | 20 miles (32 km) | Quick drive or short train ride |
| Brunswick, ME | 11 miles (18 km) | One stop north on the Downeaster |
| Augusta, ME | 45 miles (72 km) | Accessible via scenic drives |
| Kennebunkport, ME | 40 miles (64 km) | South along the coast |
| Portland Jetport (PWM) | 22 miles (35 km) | Easy access to regional flights |
| Boston Logan (BOS) | 125 miles (201 km) | Direct Downeaster service available |
3. Portland, Maine (POR)
Maine’s Culinary & Cultural Heartbeat
Portland is often hailed as one of America’s best food cities, but its charm extends far beyond its award-winning restaurants and breweries. The historic Old Port district, vibrant arts scene, charming streets, and working waterfront make it an irresistible destination. The Downeaster station is located a short drive or bus ride from downtown and the Old Port.
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance from Portland Station | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Freeport, ME | 20 miles (32 km) | North via Downeaster or car |
| Kennebunkport, ME | 30 miles (48 km) | Popular coastal town to the south |
| Augusta, ME | 60 miles (97 km) | State Capital |
| Bangor, ME | 130 miles (209 km) | Drive north on I-95 |
| Portland Jetport (PWM) | 3 miles (5 km) | Very close, easy taxi/rideshare |
| Boston Logan (BOS) | 115 miles (185 km) | Direct Downeaster service available |
4. Old Orchard Beach, Maine (ORB)
Classic Beach Town Fun (Seasonal Stop)
Old Orchard Beach is a classic New England seaside resort known for its seven miles of sandy beach, historic pier, and family-friendly amusement park, Palace Playland. This station is a seasonal stop, typically operating from May through October, making it perfect for summer vacations and fall foliage trips. The station is steps from the beach and pier.
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance from OOB Station | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Portland, ME | 17 miles (27 km) | North via Downeaster or car |
| Saco, ME | 4 miles (6 km) | Very close, one stop south |
| Kennebunkport, ME | 20 miles (32 km) | Popular coastal town to the south |
| Ogunquit, ME | 30 miles (48 km) | Charming beach town |
| Portland Jetport (PWM) | 18 miles (29 km) | Convenient access from OOB |
| Boston Logan (BOS) | 100 miles (161 km) | Direct Downeaster service available |
5. Saco, Maine (SAO)
Historic Charm & Family Adventures
Saco offers a blend of historic architecture, natural beauty, and family-friendly attractions. Located on the Saco River, it’s home to Ferry Beach State Park and is a short drive from Aquaboggan Water Park and Funtown Splashtown USA. It’s often paired with its twin city, Biddeford, just across the river.
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance from Saco Station | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Portland, ME | 18 miles (29 km) | North via Downeaster or car |
| Old Orchard Beach, ME | 4 miles (6 km) | One stop north |
| Kennebunkport, ME | 15 miles (24 km) | Short drive to renowned coastal town |
| Wells, ME | 16 miles (26 km) | South along the Downeaster route |
| Portland Jetport (PWM) | 19 miles (31 km) | Regional airport access |
| Boston Logan (BOS) | 98 miles (158 km) | Direct Downeaster service available |
6. Wells, Maine (WLS)
Beaches, Antiques & Nature Preserves
Wells is a quintessential southern Maine beach town, boasting miles of sandy shores, including Wells Beach, Drake’s Island Beach, and Crescent Beach. It’s also known for its numerous antique shops and several nature preserves, such as the Wells Reserve at Laudholm, offering beautiful walking trails and wildlife viewing.
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance from Wells Station | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kennebunkport, ME | 10 miles (16 km) | Quintessential Maine coastal town |
| Ogunquit, ME | 6 miles (10 km) | Famous for its Marginal Way cliff walk |
| The Yorks, ME | 15 miles (24 km) | Charming towns like York Beach and York Harbor |
| Portsmouth, NH | 25 miles (40 km) | Vibrant city across the border |
| Portland Jetport (PWM) | 35 miles (56 km) | Access to regional flights |
| Boston Logan (BOS) | 80 miles (129 km) | Direct Downeaster service available |
7. North Berwick, Maine (NBK)
Rural Charm & Southern Maine Connections
North Berwick is the southernmost Amtrak stop in Maine, offering a taste of rural New England charm. While the town itself is smaller, its station provides convenient access to other southern Maine communities and is a key connection point for those traveling into or out of New Hampshire and points south. It’s close to the scenic farming communities and historic towns of the region.
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance from North Berwick Station | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kennebunkport, ME | 20 miles (32 km) | Access to coastal attractions |
| York, ME | 18 miles (29 km) | Coastal towns to the east |
| Portsmouth, NH | 18 miles (29 km) | Major city in southern New Hampshire |
| Kittery, ME | 20 miles (32 km) | Outlet shopping and historic fort |
| Portland Jetport (PWM) | 45 miles (72 km) | Furthest from PWM of the Maine stops |
| Boston Logan (BOS) | 70 miles (113 km) | Direct Downeaster service available |
Why Choose the Downeaster for Your Maine Adventure?
- Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning views of rivers, forests, and coastal landscapes you can’t get from the highway.
- Relaxation: Avoid traffic, parking hassles, and stress. Sit back, relax, and let someone else do the driving.
- Convenience: Stations are often centrally located or have easy connections to local transport, getting you closer to where you want to be.
- Sustainability: Train travel is a more environmentally friendly way to explore.
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and a café car make the journey enjoyable.
Plan Your Trip!
Ready to explore Maine by rail? Visit Amtrak.com or the Downeaster’s dedicated site to check schedules, fares, and book your tickets. Whether you’re a long-time Mainer or a first-time visitor, the Amtrak Downeaster offers a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty and charm of Vacationland.
Please note: All driving distances are approximate and can vary depending on traffic and specific starting/ending points within each town. Always check real-time maps for the most accurate travel times.