Is there a direct train?

No, you must transfer from LIRR to Amtrak at New York Penn Station.

How much is the toll?

Expect to pay roughly $30 in tolls one-way depending on the route.

Stick to tourist-heavy areas like the Inner Harbor and Fells Point.

Flying is not practical due to the short distance and airport security time.

Where to park in Smithtown?

Parking is available at the station but fills up early on weekdays.

Smithtown

Baltimore

Train Driving

Smithtown to Baltimore

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Smithtown to Baltimore covers approximately 220 miles. You can take the LIRR from Smithtown Station to Penn Station, then transfer to an Amtrak Northeast Regional train. Driving involves taking the Long Island Expressway to the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and following I-95 South. Expect heavy traffic near the George Washington Bridge and through New Jersey. The train offers a more relaxing experience, bypassing the congestion of the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel.

Total Distance: 354 km driving, 305 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is fastest during off-peak hours, but train is more reliable during rush hour.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheaper if traveling with more than one person due to fuel sharing.

Compare Smithtown to Baltimore Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	4 hours 15 mins
Avg Price	$80 - $180	$50 - $70 (fuel + tolls)
Operator	Amtrak	Personal Vehicle
Route	LIRR to Penn Station, then Amtrak Northeast Regional to Baltimore Penn Station.	I-495 W, I-95 S through New Jersey and Delaware.
Tip	Book your Amtrak ticket at least two weeks in advance to secure lower fares.	Use the E-ZPass to navigate the numerous tolls on the New Jersey Turnpike.

Travel Tips

LIRR Timing
Check the MTA TrainTime app for real-time LIRR schedules to ensure you make your Amtrak connection.
Toll Prep
Ensure your E-ZPass is mounted correctly to avoid fines on the Delaware Memorial Bridge.
Parking
Use parking apps like SpotHero to find discounted garage rates near Baltimore Penn Station.
Traffic Avoidance
Avoid the I-95 corridor between 7 AM and 9 AM to bypass heavy commuter traffic.
Station Access
Smithtown Station has limited parking; consider a rideshare if you are traveling for more than a day.

Safety Tips

Vehicle Check
Check tire pressure before the long drive on I-95.
Personal Belongings
Keep your luggage in sight at all times while in Penn Station.
Night Driving
Be cautious of construction zones on the New Jersey Turnpike at night.
Emergency Contacts
Save the number for Maryland State Police if traveling by car.