Is there a direct train from Lewiston to Jersey City?

No, you must transfer in Boston to reach the Northeast Regional line.

How much is the toll on I-95?

Tolls vary by state, but expect to pay approximately 30 to 50 dollars for a one-way trip.

What is the best time to leave Lewiston?

Departing before 6 AM helps you clear the Boston traffic before it peaks.

Are there buses available?

Yes, Greyhound and Concord Coach Lines offer service from Maine to New York City.

Can I take a pet on the train?

Amtrak allows small pets on most routes, but you must book a pet-friendly ticket in advance.

Lewiston

Jersey City

Train Driving

Lewiston to Jersey City

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Lewiston to Jersey City spans approximately 320 miles along the I-95 corridor. You can drive via I-95 South, passing through Massachusetts and Connecticut. Alternatively, take the Amtrak Downeaster from nearby Brunswick to Boston, then transfer to the Northeast Regional. This route offers scenic views of the New England coastline. Expect heavy traffic near the New Haven and New York City metropolitan areas. The trip typically takes 6 to 8 hours depending on your chosen mode.

Total Distance: 515 km driving distance, 450 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest method, taking approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes without heavy traffic.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option if traveling with more than one person, costing roughly 70 dollars in fuel.

Compare Lewiston to Jersey City Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours 15 mins	6 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	120-200 USD	60-90 USD
Operator	Amtrak	Personal Vehicle
Route	Downeaster to Boston South Station, then Northeast Regional to Newark/Jersey City.	I-95 South through Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York.
Tip	Book tickets at least two weeks in advance for lower fares.	Avoid the George Washington Bridge during rush hour to save time.

Travel Tips

Traffic Alert
The I-95 corridor through Connecticut is notorious for congestion; plan your departure to avoid peak morning and evening hours.
Train Transfers
When transferring in Boston, allow at least 90 minutes between the Downeaster arrival and the Northeast Regional departure.
Parking
Parking in Jersey City is expensive; look for hotels that offer dedicated guest parking to save money.
Tolls
Carry an E-ZPass to navigate the numerous toll plazas on the I-95 route efficiently.
Booking
Use the Amtrak mobile app to track your train status in real-time during your journey.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Keep your headlights on during rain or fog, which is common along the New England coast.
Personal Belongings
Keep your luggage in sight at all times when navigating busy transit hubs like Boston South Station.
Emergency Prep
Ensure your vehicle has a spare tire and basic emergency kit before starting the long drive.
Navigation
Download offline maps for your GPS to avoid losing signal in rural stretches of Maine.