Lake Shore limited (bos -alb and back)

[teddysdad]

Anyone use the LSL to go to and from Albany? I've a meeting there and am considering this as an option rather than driving or flying.

Is the LSL from Albany to Boston typically crowded? Also - are the restrooms gross because it is a long distance train and they've been traveling a good while by the time they get to Alb?

Thanks

 

[B&Ofan]

I don't think the times of 448 /449 would make it practical for a meeting. The train returning to Boston is subject to large swings in time. Also because it is not a very high speed railroad, if you make good connections, it can take just about the same amount of time as taking the Acela express to NYC and changing to the Empire service. Granted the only way this is quicker would involve a connection time that no-one would feel comfortable scheduling. I just bring it up to let you know that Boston to Albany does not take much longer going through New York then it does going direct. Also there are substantially more choices of departure times.

 

[AlanB]

I've never done a round trip like that, since I live in NYC, but I have gone on the LSL from Boston to Albany, before catching an Empire Service train home to NYC. If the schedule works for you, it is a nice and interesting ride.

The train won't be packed, but I'm sure that there will be people onboard. Going west there should be no issues with the bathrooms. Coming east however is another matter. A lot will depend on just how crowded the train was and how good the attendant is; good attendant equals cleaner bathrooms. One way to avoid the bathroom issue however would be to consider buying a sleeper for that ride. They aren't all that pricey for the daytime ride and include a meal. You're also guaranteed a table if you want to do work, a power outlet, and privacy if you want it.