Newark Penn Station is one of the busiest transportation hubs in New Jersey, serving Amtrak, NJ Transit, PATH trains, and buses. Its central location makes it a key stop for commuters traveling to New York City, Philadelphia, and other major destinations. The station’s architecture has a historic charm, with its grand facade and Art Deco design, but inside, the experience can be hit or miss.
On the positive side, the station is well-connected, with frequent trains to NYC (just 20-25 minutes to Manhattan) and easy transfers to other transit lines. The waiting area is spacious, and there are plenty of ticket kiosks, though lines can get long during peak hours. The food options are decent, with a mix of fast food, coffee shops, and small vendors, though more variety would be welcome.
However, cleanliness and safety can be concerns, especially late at night. The restrooms are often in poor condition, and the station feels overcrowded during rush hours. Homelessness and loitering are noticeable issues, which can make some travelers uncomfortable. Security is present but not always highly visible.
Overall, Newark Penn Station gets the job done for commuters, but it could use upgrades in maintenance, safety, and amenities. If you’re passing through, it’s functional—just be prepared for a no-frills...
Read moreThe heart of New Jersey's transportation hub with connections that service Newark local and metro area,as well as the state. From Amtrak trains to Greyhound busses to the city subway to the Airport sky rail to city cabs to city trolleys. I Have used the PATH trains from Newark Penn Station to Penn Station New York. I have used Greyhound from here to go to North Carolina and back. As always, there are plenty of shops to buy any and everything. Plenty of seating for any and all delays. Safety is provided by Newark's finest police 24/7. Penn Station is Within walking distance of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, the Prudential Arena and business complex, the Newark Museum, several colleges and universities, city and federal government agencies, and the center of Newark's downtown shopping and entertainment activities. For years Newark Penn Station has been ground zero for my transportation, and I'm far from being alone. Let me also mention the abundance of parking available in garages above, below, and...
Read moreThe foulest place in all of New Jersey. It’s a shame this is the only Amtrak station here. Never in my life have I ever encountered ruder, more dismissive, and more passive aggressive staff inside the station, on the platforms, and even inside the cars upon boarding. Absolutely horrible place and horrible people, and extremely unfriendly for tourists, inexperienced travelers, and the disabled. Staff on the train will not help those physically in need of bag assistance, and instead will continuously yell at said passengers to simply do it themselves while walking away, leaving passengers helpless and shamed. Absolutely degrading, low class, and selfish behavior that should never be acceptable. Passengers’ questions are dismissed on the platform by condescending looks- not even words- and this is something that I’ve never seen at such a hot spot transit station. Words cannot explain my embarrassment for the operations...
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