Is it better to fly or train?

Flying is significantly faster, but the train is more relaxing.

How do I get to St. Louis?

You must drive or take a regional bus from Alton to St. Louis.

Are there direct flights?

No, all flights from Springfield require at least one connection.

What is the best train station?

New York Penn Station is the primary hub for Amtrak.

Do I need a car in NYC?

No, a car is a liability due to expensive parking and heavy traffic.

Alton

New York

Train Flight

Alton to New York

Updated: 28 May 2026

Reaching New York City from Alton requires a combination of local driving and long-distance transit. You should drive to Springfield for a flight or to St. Louis for an Amtrak connection. The journey covers over 1,100 miles. Flying is the most efficient method, while the train offers a scenic, albeit slower, alternative. Expect to spend at least 6 hours in transit.

Total Distance: Driving distance 1,850 km, straight-line air distance 1,600 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from Springfield (SGF) to Newark (EWR) takes about 6 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Amtrak is often cheaper if booked at least three weeks in advance.

Compare Alton to New York Routes

	Train Connecting	Flight Connecting
Duration	30 hours	6 hours
Avg Price	$200 - $450	$300 - $600
Operator	Amtrak	United Airlines
Route	St. Louis Gateway Station to Penn Station via Chicago.	SGF to EWR or LGA via Chicago or Charlotte.
Tip	Book a roomette on the Lake Shore Limited for a comfortable overnight experience.	Fly into Newark (EWR) for easier train access to Manhattan.

Travel Tips

Subway Access
Use the OMNY system for contactless payment on all subways and buses.
Airport Choice
Newark (EWR) is often more convenient for reaching Midtown Manhattan via NJ Transit.
Walking
Wear comfortable shoes as you will likely walk several miles per day.
Dining
Avoid eating in Times Square to save money and find better quality food.
Museum Passes
Check if your museum has 'pay what you wish' hours for residents or visitors.

Safety Tips

Subway Safety
Stay in the middle cars of the train where the conductor is located.
Crowd Awareness
Keep your bag in front of you in crowded tourist areas.
Emergency Services
Dial 911 for any emergency, but use 311 for non-emergency city information.
Navigation
Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty in some subway tunnels.