Newark Penn Station and New York Penn Station are both major stops on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor and NJ Transit lines. For travelers from New Jersey, Newark Penn is often easier: it’s closer, less congested, has PATH trains to Lower Manhattan, and avoids the Hudson River crossing entirely. New York Penn (with Moynihan Train Hall) is better if you’re starting in Manhattan or connecting to the LIRR and subway lines. Most Amtrak trains stop at both, so choosing the right station can save significant time.

At a glance

Newark Penn Station New York Penn Station
Location Downtown Newark, NJ Midtown Manhattan
Opened 1935 1910 (original); rebuilt underground after 1963
Serves Amtrak, NJ Transit, PATH, Newark Light Rail Amtrak, NJ Transit, LIRR, subway
Best for New Jersey travelers, Lower Manhattan via PATH Manhattan starts, LIRR connections

Newark Penn Station

Opened in 1935, Newark Penn is an Art Deco landmark. It’s a hub for NJ Transit, Amtrak, PATH trains to the World Trade Center, and the Newark Light Rail.

New York Penn Station

The busiest train station in North America, beneath Madison Square Garden. Moynihan Train Hall across Eighth Avenue offers a far better experience for Amtrak and LIRR passengers. Read Moynihan Train Hall.

Choosing a station

  • From North or Central Jersey: Newark Penn (or Metropark, Metuchen or Princeton Junction) is usually faster than crossing into Manhattan.
  • From Manhattan or Queens: New York Penn.
  • Heading to Boston or Washington on Amtrak: both work; pick the one closest to you.

Car pickups

Both stations have busy curbs. Agree on a specific exit with your chauffeur. See our train station transfers and Newark car service.