Is there a direct train from New York to Portland?

No, you must transfer in Chicago from the Lake Shore Limited to the Empire Builder.

How far is Tarrytown from JFK Airport?

It is approximately 55 km, usually taking 60 to 90 minutes by car.

What is the best airport for Portland?

Portland International Airport (PDX) is the primary hub serving the city.

Do I need a car in Portland?

Not necessarily, as the city has an excellent public transit system including streetcars and light rail.

How much is the train fare?

Prices vary significantly based on class of service and booking time, ranging from $400 to over $1,000.

Tarrytown

Portland

Train Flight

Tarrytown to Portland

Updated: 30 May 2026

Traveling from Tarrytown to Portland covers approximately 4,700 km across the continent. The most efficient route involves taking the Metro-North Railroad to Grand Central Terminal, then the subway to JFK or LGA for a flight to Portland International Airport. Alternatively, you can take Amtrak from New York Penn Station to Chicago, transferring to the Empire Builder line. This journey traverses the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. Expect a total travel time of 6 hours by air or 3 days by rail. The route offers diverse landscapes ranging from the Hudson Valley to the Pacific Northwest.

Total Distance: Driving distance 4,750 km, straight-line air distance 4,050 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from JFK or LGA, taking approximately 6.5 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Flight from JFK to PDX, typically costing $350 when booked in advance.

Compare Tarrytown to Portland Routes

	Train Connecting	Flight Connecting
Duration	72 hours	6 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$400 - $1,200	$350 - $700
Operator	Amtrak	Alaska Airlines
Route	Lake Shore Limited to Empire Builder	JFK/LGA to PDX via Chicago or Denver
Tip	Upgrade to a Roomette for included meals and private sleeping space.	Book flights at least 3 weeks in advance to secure lower fares.

Travel Tips

Airport Transit
Use the MAX Light Rail Red Line to travel directly from Portland International Airport to downtown.
Train Booking
Amtrak tickets fluctuate based on demand; use the Rail Fare Finder tool to track price drops.
Packing
Portland weather is unpredictable; always carry a waterproof jacket regardless of the season.
Metro-North
Check the MTA eTix app for real-time train schedules from Tarrytown Station to Grand Central.
Time Zones
Remember that you will cross three time zones when traveling west from New York to Oregon.

Safety Tips

Luggage Security
Keep your valuables in a carry-on bag rather than checked luggage during long-haul flights.
Station Awareness
Stay alert in major transit hubs like Penn Station, especially during late-night arrivals.
Hydration
Drink plenty of water during the long flight or train ride to combat cabin air dryness.
Emergency Contacts
Save local emergency numbers for both Tarrytown and Portland in your phone contacts.