Meriden, Connecticut, often called the “Silver City,” sits strategically in the heart of the state, making it a surprisingly excellent hub for Amtrak travelers. If you’re looking to explore the bustling cities of the Northeast, commute efficiently, or simply avoid the hassle of bigger city stations, Meriden’s modern Amtrak station (MDN) is your gateway.
This guide will give you a complete overview of the MDN station and, most importantly, show you just how connected Meriden is to key cities and airports via Amtrak.
Meriden’s Modern Amtrak Station (MDN)
The Meriden station, located at 60 State Street, is a shining example of modern rail infrastructure. Opened in 2017 as part of the CTrail Hartford Line service, it replaced an older station and offers a vastly improved traveler experience:
- Accessibility: High-level platforms make boarding and alighting trains seamless for all passengers, including those with mobility challenges.
- Shelter: Covered platforms provide protection from the elements.
- Waiting Area: A small, clean waiting area with seating is available.
- Ticketing: While a full-service ticket counter isn’t always staffed, self-service kiosks are available, and tickets can always be purchased online or via the Amtrak app.
- Parking: Ample paid parking is available adjacent to the station, a major perk compared to crowded city garages.
- Local Connections: The station is centrally located in downtown Meriden, a short walk from local businesses and CTtransit bus stops.
Why Choose Meriden (MDN)?
- Central Location: Perfectly situated between New Haven and Hartford, Meriden offers easy access to both major corridors.
- Less Crowded: Enjoy a more relaxed and less stressful boarding experience compared to larger metropolitan stations.
- Convenient Parking: Affordable and readily available parking makes Meriden an ideal “park and ride” option for longer trips.
- Modern Facilities: A clean, accessible, and comfortable environment for waiting and boarding.
Amtrak Services from Meriden
Meriden is served by several vital Amtrak routes:
- CTrail Hartford Line: This commuter service (operated by Amtrak on behalf of CTDOT) connects New Haven, Hartford, and Springfield, MA, with frequent daily trains. Many tickets are interchangeable with Amtrak’s Northeast Regional.
- Northeast Regional: Amtrak’s most popular service, offering connections up and down the busy Northeast Corridor from Boston to Virginia.
- Vermonter: This scenic route connects Washington D.C. to St. Albans, Vermont, passing through New York City, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and northern New England.
Key Destinations & Distances from Meriden (MDN)
Here’s a breakdown of approximate train travel times and distances to popular cities and major airports from Meriden, CT:
Major Cities:
- New Haven, CT (Union Station – NHV):
- Distance: Approx. 18 miles
- Train Time: 15-20 minutes
- Why go: Gateway to Metro-North for NYC, vibrant downtown, Yale University.
- Hartford, CT (Union Station – HFD):
- Distance: Approx. 18 miles
- Train Time: 20-25 minutes
- Why go: State capital, museums, Bushnell Park, business district.
- Springfield, MA (Union Station – SPG):
- Distance: Approx. 40 miles
- Train Time: 50-60 minutes
- Why go: Union Station revitalization, MGM Casino, Dr. Seuss Museum, Basketball Hall of Fame.
- New York City, NY (Penn Station – NYP):
- Distance: Approx. 100 miles
- Train Time: ~2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes (direct on Northeast Regional/Vermonter)
- Why go: Global epicenter of finance, culture, entertainment, and tourism.
- Boston, MA (South Station – BOS):
- Distance: Approx. 130 miles
- Train Time: ~3 hours to 3 hours 45 minutes (some direct, others with quick transfer in New Haven or New London)
- Why go: Historic sites, world-class universities, vibrant neighborhoods, sports.
- Philadelphia, PA (30th Street Station – PHL):
- Distance: Approx. 190 miles
- Train Time: ~4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours 30 minutes
- Why go: Historical landmarks, food scene, arts and culture.
- Washington D.C. (Union Station – WAS):
- Distance: Approx. 290 miles
- Train Time: ~6 hours 30 minutes to 7 hours 30 minutes
- Why go: Nation’s capital, museums, monuments, government.
Major Airports:
- Bradley International Airport (BDL – Windsor Locks, CT):
- Distance (Driving): ~25-30 miles
- Approx. Driving Time: 30-45 minutes
- Amtrak Connection: No direct train to BDL. You can take Amtrak/CTrail to Hartford Union Station, and then arrange for a taxi, ride-share, or CTtransit bus connection to BDL (bus connection can add significant travel time). For convenience, driving directly from Meriden to BDL is often preferred.
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR – Newark, NJ):
- Distance (Train to airport station): Approx. 90 miles
- Train Time: ~3 hours to 3 hours 45 minutes (direct on Northeast Regional/Vermonter)
- Amtrak Connection: Amtrak trains often stop directly at the Newark Liberty International Airport Station (EWR). From there, connect to the AirTrain for quick access to airline terminals.
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS – Boston, MA):
- Distance (Train to downtown, then transfer): Approx. 130 miles
- Train Time: ~3 hours to 3 hours 45 minutes to Boston South Station (BOS)
- Amtrak Connection: Take Amtrak to Boston South Station. From South Station, you can easily connect to Logan Airport via the MBTA Silver Line (SL1 bus) which departs directly from the station, or via taxi/ride-share.
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK – Queens, NYC):
- Distance (Train to downtown, then transfer): Approx. 100 miles
- Train Time: ~2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes to New York Penn Station (NYP)
- Amtrak Connection: Take Amtrak to New York Penn Station. From Penn Station, transfer to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Jamaica Station, then take the AirTrain JFK directly to the airport terminals. This is typically the fastest public transit route.
Getting To & From Meriden Station
- Parking: Paid parking lot available at the station. Payment typically via kiosk or app.
- Local Bus: CTtransit provides local bus service within Meriden with stops near the station.
- Ride-shares & Taxis: Services like Uber and Lyft are available, as are local taxi companies.
- Walking: The station is a short walk from Meriden’s downtown area.
Whether you’re commuting to Hartford, visiting family in New York, or embarking on a grand adventure further south or north, Meriden’s Amtrak station provides a convenient, comfortable, and efficient starting point. Next time you plan a trip, consider the ease of traveling from MDN – your central Connecticut gateway to the Northeast!
Ready to explore? Book your Amtrak tickets from Meriden (MDN) today!
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