If you’re planning to travel by train and wondering, “Do Amtrak trains have WiFi?”, the good news is: yes, most Amtrak trains offer free onboard WiFi — but with some limitations. In this blog, we’ll break down which routes offer WiFi, what to expect in terms of speed, and how to stay connected while you ride.
Yes, Most Amtrak Trains Offer WiFi
Amtrak provides complimentary WiFi on many of its popular routes. You can browse the internet, check emails, and even stream light content — depending on the connection strength.
WiFi is Available on These Amtrak Services:
- Northeast Regional
- Acela Express
- Amtrak Cascades
- Amtrak Thruway Motorcoach Buses (select routes)
- Midwest Services like Hiawatha, Lincoln Service, and others
- Pacific Surfliner
- Capitol Corridor
- Amtrak California Zephyr (limited areas)
To see if your specific train offers WiFi, check the route details while booking or on your eTicket.
Where Amtrak WiFi May Not Be Available
Not all long-distance trains offer WiFi throughout the entire journey. For example:
- Empire Builder
- Southwest Chief
- Texas Eagle
- Coast Starlight
These long-haul and scenic routes often travel through remote areas where cell signal and WiFi access are limited.
How Fast Is Amtrak WiFi?
Amtrak WiFi is designed for basic browsing, email, and social media. While it’s free, it is not meant for heavy streaming, online gaming, or downloading large files.
Tip: Streaming services and large downloads may be blocked to ensure a fair connection for all passengers.
How to Connect to WiFi on Amtrak
It’s simple to connect once you’re onboard:
- Open your device’s WiFi settings
- Select the “Amtrak_WiFi” network
- Accept the terms of use, and you’re online!
No password is required. Amtrak WiFi Not Working? Here’s What to Do:
If you’re having trouble connecting:
If you’re having trouble connecting:
- Try toggling your device’s WiFi off and on
- Restart your device
- Move to a different car, as some have better signal strength
- Ask an Amtrak crew member for help
Pro Tip: Bring Your Own Hotspot for Important Work
If you need a more stable and high-speed connection, especially on remote routes, consider bringing a mobile hotspotor enabling hotspot on your phone. This gives you more reliable internet for meetings, work, or streaming.Final Thoughts: Do Amtrak Trains Have WiFi?
Yes, Amtrak trains do have WiFi on most regional and short-distance routes, and it’s completely free to use. While the connection may not be ideal for streaming or large downloads, it’s perfect for staying connected during your trip.
If you need a more stable and high-speed connection, especially on remote routes, consider bringing a mobile hotspotor enabling hotspot on your phone. This gives you more reliable internet for meetings, work, or streaming.Final Thoughts: Do Amtrak Trains Have WiFi?
Yes, Amtrak trains do have WiFi on most regional and short-distance routes, and it’s completely free to use. While the connection may not be ideal for streaming or large downloads, it’s perfect for staying connected during your trip.