Train Services Connecting BWI
The train service at Baltimore Airport (BWI) provides efficient and convenient options for passengers, whether with the MTA MARC Train or AMTRAK for long-distance journeys, or the MTA Light Rail for affordable connections within Baltimore. However, some challenges such as delays on AMTRAK and limited frequency of the Light Rail during off-peak hours can affect the user experience. Security and cleanliness in some areas are also mentioned as points for improvement.
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MTA MARC Train
Shuttle between the station and the terminal
The Amtrak/MARC Shuttle operates between the airport terminal and the Amtrak/MARC station every 10-15 minutes (every 25 minutes from 1:00 am to 5:00 am).
What Passengers Say
Positive Experiences: The MTA MARC Train is valued for its convenience and ability to quickly connect BWI Airport with Washington, D.C., and other areas. Passengers highlight the frequency of trains and the easy access to the train station from the airport via the free shuttle. Users appreciate that this service is punctual in most cases and helpful for avoiding road traffic.
Negative Experiences: However, some users report that the frequency of trains outside peak hours can be insufficient, leading to long waits if a scheduled train is missed. Additionally, complaints about cleanliness at the station and in the restrooms are sometimes mentioned.
Stop Locations
Shuttle buses stop next to the garage directly across from the MARC/Amtrak station. At the main terminal, they drop you off at the check-in counter for each airline and pick you up on the lower level, outside the baggage claim area.
How to Get to the Airport
- From Washington, D.C.: Board the Penn Line at Washington’s Union Station. Check schedules
- From Baltimore: You can board the MARC trains at Baltimore’s Penn Station. Check schedules
- From Prince George’s County: The Penn Line stops at New Carrollton, Seabrook, and Bowie State stations.
- From Anne Arundel County: You can board the train at the Odenton station.
- From Baltimore County: Trains can be boarded at the Martin State Airport station.
- From Harford County: You can board the Penn Line trains at the Edgewood and Aberdeen stations.
- From Cecil County: The Penn Line stops at the Perryville station.
For more information about MARC train service, call Tel +1 866 743 3682 or visit the MTA website.
MTA Light Rail
MTA (Tel +1 410 539 5000) also provides light rail transportation to and from BWI.
What Passengers Say
Positive Experiences: The MTA Light Rail is considered an affordable and accessible option for traveling between the airport and downtown Baltimore. Users highlight that it is one of the cheapest ways to reach the airport, making it attractive for those looking to save on transportation. The comfort of the ride when the service operates smoothly is also mentioned.
Negative Experiences: Despite its popularity, the Light Rail faces frequency issues, especially during off-peak hours, leading to long waits. Some passengers also express concerns about safety in the areas surrounding the stations, as they are not always well-lit or monitored, which raises concerns, particularly at night.
Location
The station is located immediately outside the lower level of the terminal building, next to Concourse E.
Destinations
From BWI, the service runs to downtown Baltimore, Timonium, and Hunt Valley.
NOTE: Passengers needing to reach Penn Station should get off at Mt. Royal Avenue and take the Penn Station Light Rail. In this case, there is a single fare of USD 2.00 for both trains, each way.
Schedules
- Monday to Friday: 4:45 am to 12:40 am
- Saturdays: 5:05 am to 12:45 am
- Sundays and holidays: 10:35 am to 8:40 pm.
For more information, visit the MTA Maryland website.
AMTRAK
Shuttle between the station and the airport terminal
The Amtrak/MARC Shuttle operates between the terminal and the train station every 10-15 minutes (every 25 minutes from 1:00 am to 5:00 am).
What Passengers Say
Positive Experiences: AMTRAK trains at BWI are highly valued for their efficiency in long-distance travel, connecting passengers with major cities such as New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. Users appreciate the comfort of the cars, which often include Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and, in some cases, a dining car. The free shuttle between the train station and the airport is also mentioned as a convenience.
Negative Experiences: However, delays are a common complaint among AMTRAK users. Trains often arrive late, and in some cases, delays can be several hours long. Additionally, passengers mention that information on the station displays is not always accurate, causing confusion when schedules change. The lack of assistance from staff in these situations is also a frequent criticism.
Stops
Shuttle buses stop next to the garage located in front of the train station, and at the main terminal, near the check-in counters for each airline.
For more information, contact Tel +1 800 872 7245 or visit the Amtrak website.
Getting to the Airport
- From Washington, D.C.: Board the train at Union Station.
- From Philadelphia, PA: Board at 30th and Market Streets station.
- From Wilmington, DE: The station is located at Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd and French Street.
- From Alexandria, VA: Board at 110 Callahan Drive.