If you’ve been to Boston then you have likely been to Boston South Station. This stations is the largest railway and bus station in Greater Boston and is the second largest transportation center in Massachusetts, only behind Logan International Airport. If you’re headed to the area, we’ll prepare you with this complete guide.
Boston South Station Overview
Boston South Station is just one of three railway stations in Boston. It is the largest and busiest in the city. The building itself was constructed in 1899 to replace old railway terminals. Today it is an intermodal transportation hub for trains and buses. It is adjacent to the subway station as well as access to the rapid transit Red Line and bus rapid transit Silver Line.
In 2014 the station was officially renamed Michael S. Dukakis Transportation Center (after the former governor) it continues to bear the name “South Station” on the outside. The station is in the heart of the financial district. It is the major hub for Amtrak trains in this area as well as the northmost stop for the Acela.
Renovation projects are on the horizon but Boston South Station also boasts a Metropolitan Lounge with Red Cap Service.
Boston South Station Metropolitan Lounge
The lounge in Boston South Station used to be called Club Acela like the one in Washington Union Station but after the recent renovation it is now just called The Metropolitan Lounge. The have added new seating, power outlets as well as a new check in area.
If you have a Single Day Pass or you are Select Plus or Select Executive you can also access the Metropolitan Lounge. With one of these options you can also bring one family member or non family member with you into the club. The Metropolitan Lounge offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the main terminal area.
The Lounge is located upstairs, you must take the elevators or the steps up to the check in counter. The attendant will verify your access to the lounge. Once you are in, you can store you bags in the storage closet or keep them with you. The lounge is not very large but there is plenty of seating available. There is a snack area with prepackaged snacks like chips, cookies and fruit. You will also have access to the soda, water and juice available at the drink bar area.
Dining Options
There are many options available in the station as well as the surrounding area. You will find sit down restaurants as well as grab and go options. There are also familiar restaurants like McDonalds, AuBon Pain and several coffee stands for those early morning rides.
If you are looking for souvenirs to buy or any last minute purchases you need to make, you can always pop into one of the convenience pharmacy stores. They have all the regular quick grab items as well as refrigerated food items if you are looking to grab something quick and fresh.
There are no other shopping areas in the station outside of the pharmacy areas. You can utilize food delivery services to have items delivered to the station if you want more choices or need to purchase items not found at the station.
Hotels Near Boston South Station
South Station in Boston is near many hotels. It’s near the financial district. You will also find lots of places to eat. The Intercontinental Boston is a good choice that is close to the station. We have also stayed at the Club Quarters Hotel Faneuil Hall.
What Amtrak Trains Leave From Boston South Station
There are several train routes that leave from Boston South Station or pass through Boston area. 3 of the 10 Amtrak Stations in Massachusetts are in Boston. Boston South Station is the main Amtrak Station in Boston that serves major routes. The Boston North Station serves the Downeaster, and is not connected by train to the South Station. To get from one to the other the best thing to do is take a cab. Here is the list, you can click each one to learn more about that route:
To see all of the possible connections from Massachusetts, see our Amtrak Maps page. If you are taking a trip on Amtrak soon don’t miss our list of 20 must have items on your next Amtrak trip. Here is a list of the best Amtrak trips from Boston.
Where Are Boston Amtrak Stations Located
The Greater Boston area has three Amtrak Stations, North Station is used by the Downeaster, Back Bay (next to Copley Place) and South Station which is located in Downtown Boston. You can easily connect to the stations using MBTA. The Orange subway line stops at North Station and Back Bay and the Red line stops at South Station.
Here is the physical address for the station: Boston South Station, 700 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02110
