Summer travel just got a major upgrade.
Amtrak, in a glowing partnership with MassDOT and NYSDOT, has officially announced the return of the beloved Berkshire Flyer. Starting Friday, June 12th, this seasonal favorite is back to rescue travelers from bumper-to-bumper summer traffic, offering a seamless, scenic escape between New York City and the cultural heart of Pittsfield, Massachusetts.
But this year comes with an exciting twist. Due to overwhelming demand, Amtrak is doubling down on your weekend wanderlust.
More flexibility, more weekend wonders
For the 2026 season, Amtrak is introducing a second round-trip, making it easier than ever to customize your summer getaway. Now, travelers can effortlessly escape the city on Friday and head back Sunday, or—for the first time—New Englanders can easily jet down to NYC for a weekend of Broadway and world-class dining before returning home on Sunday.
The service will run every Friday and Sunday through September 19th, gliding between Manhattan's stunning Moynihan Train Hall and the Joseph Scelsi Intermodal Transportation Center in Pittsfield. Along the way, the train will slice through the breathtaking Hudson Valley, making convenient stops at Yonkers, Croton-Harmon, Poughkeepsie, Rhinecliff, Hudson, and Albany-Rensselaer.
"The Berkshire Flyer has become an important connection between Western Massachusetts and New York City, helping support local businesses, bring more visitors to the Berkshires, and give travelers a reliable alternative to driving during the busy summer season"
The ultimate way to travel
Why spend your Friday afternoon staring at brake lights when you could be sipping a drink and watching the Hudson River roll past? Amtrak is leaning into its signature stress-free experience, reminding travelers that the journey can be just as joyful as the destination.
"Before enjoying the culture and charm of the local towns, Amtrak travelers can relax from our spacious seats and experience the scenery from our picturesque windows while skipping traffic along the way," said Nicole Bucich, Amtrak Vice President of Planning and State Partnerships.
Passengers on the Berkshire Flyer can look forward to the premium, unconfined comfort that defines modern rail travel:
Spacious Seating: Large, plush seats with ample legroom and—blessedly—absolutely no middle seats.
Stay Connected: Free onboard Wi-Fi and zero restrictions on device usage (you can leave "airplane mode" behind).
Pet-Friendly: Opportunities to bring your small four-legged co-pilots along for the ride.
Part of a bigger, brighter rail future
The return and expansion of the Berkshire Flyer is a sparkling example of the region's commitment to public transit. MassDOT Rail and Transit Administrator Meredith Slesinger noted that ridership on Massachusetts Amtrak services has incredibly doubled since 2018.
This summer's expansion is just one piece of a grander vision for the Northeast. Thanks to federal grants, track partnerships with CSX, and robust state collaboration, exciting future projects are already on track—including the highly anticipated Inland Route connecting Boston, Springfield, and New Haven by 2030.
Book your summer escape
Whether you’re heading to the Berkshires for world-class farm-to-table dining, hiking, and Tanglewood concerts, or heading south for a glittering weekend in Manhattan, the Berkshire Flyer is your ticket to a perfect summer.
Tickets are officially on sale now. To secure your spacious window seat, head to Amtrak.com, download the Amtrak app, or call 1-800-USA-RAIL.