All aboard: How to ride Amtrak in Greenville

Taking the train isn’t just for commuters — it’s also a method of leisure travel that’s growing in popularity.

GVL_Amtrak_NOV2024

How to ride Amtrak in Greenville was our most-clicked article to round out the year.
Photo by Amtrak

Train travel is booming. A 2025 study found that 31% of 11,000 people worldwide anticipate relying more on rail transportation in the future.

In the last year, the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) has set an all-time ridership record, serving 32.8 million customers, and in 2024, Greenville’s station served 9,013.

The more sustainable, often scenic, and middle seat-less cousin to flying, train travel could play a part in your next vacation — here’s how to do it locally.

Meet the Crescent

If you’re leaving from Greenville’s station, you’ll be riding on the Crescent with service from New York to New Orleans:

  • WiFi | There is free WiFi, and you are allowed to use your phone the entire ride. Pro tip: Outlets are more accessible in first or business class + sleeper cars.
  • Food + Drink | This train offers flexible dining (complimentary meals for private room travelers) and cafe service (snacks and drinks for purchase).
  • Accommodations | The Crescent features coach seats and various private roomettes and bedrooms.

Where it takes you

Maybe you’ll take the midnight train, but you don’t wanna go just anywhere. Check out a few places you can get from Greenville. Prices may vary.

  • Atlanta | ~3-hour trip | Coach: $37+ | Private rooms: $341+
  • Washington, DC | ~11.5-hour trip | Coach: $94+ | Private rooms: $538+
  • Philadelphia | ~14-hour trip | Coach: $140+ | Private rooms: $596+

First stop: The ticket counter

Purchase one-way tickets online or buy a pass. The $499 USA Rail Pass, for instance, gets you 10 rides over 30 days.

Next — getting to the station. Greenville’s includes daily and overnight parking.

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