I am s grateful to the security officer who helped me last Sunday (Jan 18), I only regret I did not ask his name. Immediately upon entering the station I tripped and fell flat on my face. He was there immediately, helped me to a bench, offered to get help which I declined Even so an ambulance arrived, checked me and then left, the security officer stayed with me until it was time for my train, then escorted me to the Amrak train. I am so grateful for his kindness read more

I like South Station - a few shops, open corner and when the Amtrak was there, you entered the open gates (didn't have to scan, they'd handle that on the train itself). A few fast food joints but not nearly enough seating/tables available with some updates given a new Chick-Fil-A was coming. McDonalds, donuts, coffee, a mini bar, alcohol shop, and CVS all inside. Outside taxi and bus stand, though the taxi driver wanted a minimum in charge and would only take cash if it was only $15-20 for the ride to the hotel. Amtrak, buses, subway stop, and regional rail here (MBTA). The building wraps around the corner and doesn't connect to the business tower behind - interesting design, though. They did allow you to board about 10-15 min early. read more

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We have used South Station services for both MBTA and Amtrak trains. The hall has a coffee shop (Cafe Nero), restaurant (Tavern in the Square), a CVS, a snack shop and other items a traveler may wish. The hall also has security presence and an Amtrak lounge. A large digital board overhead lists arrivals, departures, times and tracks. The restrooms are quite old. Last visit the ladies was not very clean or well stocked and some of the doors were broken in one way or another. There is one restroom for all businesses so they do get a lot of use. Close to the Rose Kennedy Greenway, underground metro (The "T"), buses, shopping and much more. read more

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This is an effective station and I love how they have added more routes to my area. It made a trip to and from Boston way easier than driving. While it's not as nice (or warm or as organized) as grand central, it's still a staple in MA. I'll be taking the commuter rail again soon! read more

Nice central transportation station located in Downtown Boston with Red Line, Commuter Rail, and Amtrak service. The station is very big, but the staff are super friendly and helpful in navigation. There is also a large lounge to sit at, and there are lots of cafes (e.g. Dunkin, Starbucks, Gong Cha etc...), restaurants (Tavern in the Square, Auntie Anne's etc...), and a CVS to go to for food or last minute essentials. The tracks here are very easy to navigate and the directory is easy to read. It is also the closest station to Seaport, about a 15 minute walk so it's not too bad. It is kept pretty clean as well. read more

Took Amtrak up from NYC, and really liked arriving at this station. Things were very well organized, and getting out of the station and into an Uber was pretty easy. The next day for my return, I was able to eat lunch at one of the restaurants at the station before boarding my train. It was easy to find the track. read more

This was my first time at South Station I normally take the MBTA at Back Bay so I was pleasantly surprised it's much better and has so many more options for food, drinks I mean a Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts how can you go wrong. They have a wine and spirits. Large TV's and. Large Bulletin to check on your departing train times and gate number. If I had to give a complaint it would be in the bathrooms they could use a remodeling otherwise I would use this stop if I had to... read more

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Good Amtrak station. Assessable by the T. A lot of food options and few places to sit. Only a few homeless people. read more

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This is one of the largest stations in Boston, and if you're looking for the Amtrak station, you've come to the right place. It has a variety of stores, including Dunkin', Starbucks, Gong Cha, and many others. However, there's a lack of information on how to purchase tickets for an onward journey. I had to find and visit the Info desk to inquire further. Public transit stations should prioritize providing passengers with more convenient information and assistance. read more

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This seems to be a pretty decent hub for travelers. It's easy to navigate, with plenty of staff around to help if you have questions. The presence of security made it feel safe, which is always a plus. There are lots of waiting areas and seating, so you're not left standing around with all your bags which was nice. The food court is a decent size, offering a good variety of options like boba and pretzels if you're hungry. There's even a CVS for any last-minute travel needs. Not the worst train station I've been to by far. read more

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I've been trying to get hired by the MBTA for over two years. I've applied multiple times, been interviewed twice -- once in May 2023 and again in March 2024 -- and both times I was never told why I wasn't selected. No feedback, no next steps, just silence. Meanwhile, the T (and Keolis, who manages the commuter rail) continues to hire people off the street -- many with little to no relevant experience, who treat it like just another job to "pay the bills." I've talked to friends who work there now, and even they admit it's concerning how many new hires have no background or passion for railroading. It's all about who you know -- one friend even admitted he only got hired because his dad already works there. It's incredibly frustrating when you've put in the time, effort, and passion -- attending events, volunteering, learning the industry -- only to be overlooked again and again. I've worked at a theme park with a railroad. I've helped with train operations. I've built my resume. And yet, the MBTA and Keolis seem more interested in filling slots with warm bodies than building a team that actually cares about the job. This isn't just about me -- it's about a deeper flaw in how transit agencies operate. MBTA's problems go far beyond hiring. Just look at the CRRC train debacle: * The T awarded the contract for new Red & Orange Line trains to CRRC, a Chinese state-owned company, not because they were the best, but because they were the cheapest. * As a result, delays, quality issues, derailments, and broken promises have plagued the project for nearly a decade. * SEPTA canceled their order. LA Metro is years behind. Chicago is still waiting. The MBTA has already forgiven $90+ million in penalties just to get trains delivered -- and they're still not all here. All of this stems from a system that rewards the lowest bidder, not the most qualified. And in many ways, MBTA hiring operates the same way: lowest effort, lowest risk, lowest standards. Until we as a society -- or at least our local communities -- decide that transit deserves better, this cycle will continue. Public agencies will keep hiring people who don't care, trains will continue to be less reliable, less safe, and the system will get worse. I'm not asking for special treatment. I'm just asking for a chance -- and for transit agencies to stop settling for mediocrity. read more

It's a train station that functions as such. It is a busy station with tons of activity. Not much more to it. read more

South Station - Train Stations Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Boston south station has significantly improved its layout and is now a truly world class train station. previously I had left a negative review but they have resolved all of the problems I was concerned by read more

I honestly try and avoid southstation to come into and go out of from. It is a big hub for trains( commuter rails, The T , acela, amtrak, and buses). It is not the cleanest and has some food and beverage options. They have a mini food court area but mostly fast food I think. There is a Dunkin Donuts, and a cafe nero. Some other booths to purchase snacks and whatever else you may want for your travels. There is an amtrak lounge at this station which is just ok nothing special. This time around when I was there, there were not many snacks to choose from at all. The first time I was there they had alot more. But there are comfortable chairs and couches that you can wait for your train in if you can get access to it. I try and avoid this station late at night or early in the morning as it can be a bit sketchy. And note that if you travel out of here on a train try not to go at 7-8am its a mad house with people coming off their trains and I was going to mine. Very disorganized system they have if any at all. read more

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Kind of fun from TF Green ---pleasant --whipped right through to Ride Share...lots of quick bite offers...no issues!

How do I rate South Station? Perhaps this is a more accurate rating/ranking: NYC Grand Central Terminal, 5 stars Boston South Station, 4 stars NYC Penn Station, 3 stars If you are not from Boston and need to catch the bus/silver line/Amtrak, I suggest you arrive early as navigation can get confusing. In a nutshell, silver line and red line are downstairs. The main lobby is the waiting room for commuter rail and Amtrak, with some food selections (although if you have extra time, walk 10-15 mins to grab from some fast casual places nearby in Chinatown or downtown). And then the bus terminal (greyhound, etc) is all the way towards the back. The lobby ventilation is generally good, since it has high ceiling (CO 2 around 600-800). Train and buses ventilation are often poor (CO 2 gets as high as 2000!). There is a CVS right by the entrance, which is convenient if you need to grab anything last minute for your travel essentials. However, they are not always well stocked. If you are here to catch a train, they often only post the track information 10 minutes ahead of time. read more

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It seems like South Station's air rights development has been under construction forever, but one can finally begin to see signs of completion, including impressive vaults coming together over the concourse. This will not be a tight and warren-like Penn Station! The Station has also recently added some new tenants, including a new licensed Starbucks location that replaces the pandemic-shuttered kiosk space that is now filled by homegrown coffee chain Cafe Nero. There is also a new bubble tea shop, Gong Cha, and the Au Bon Pain has been replaced by an organic and halal sandwich, pastry, and coffee shop called Melting Sun Diner. read more

South Station - Vault over concourse under construction. - Train Stations Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

A Mecca of tourists, Bostonians, travelers in and out of this iconic location. Extremely busy and many spots to grab coffee or food plus a CVS LOCATED INSIDE! You also have the Boston Transit Subway down stairs to get around Boston plus the Bus Terminal is located there. A very high building is now being constructed on the property. The entrance is very impressive and a must see. read more

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During my trip out to Boston for the marathon, this was one of the larger and better stations that I took to get back to my hotel out in Quincy and to get to the airport. From here, I was able to catch a red line train headed down towards Braintree. I was so able to catch a silver line SL1 bus for the airport. I waited with my friend here as she was taking a commuter train back to Hopkinton. There were several food options conveniently available at this station. read more

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WHY IS IT SO CONFUSING TO NAVIGATE? All we wanted to do was find the Amtrak Lounge and get back to our train. We asked many people in uniform to help guide us and no one was able to assist...just kept saying they work for the train, or the bus but no knowledge of the layout. No guidance signage, tons of construction everywhere that made it even worse to navigate. I have traveled the globe alone in places I didn't read or speak the language and had an easier time than here. read more

If you come from Providence to Boston on the MBTA, South Station is one of the most likely places you will get off in Boston. That could be to get out into the city to visit Chinatown, Quincy Market, downtown, Financial Center, the Commons, etc. Or....to transfer to the subway lines or to get to Logan airport. The terminal is always busy with people getting on or off ... changing modes of transportation or lines....It does have a small food court section, and it does have some homeless people laying around sometimes. The Boston Terminal Company (which was comprised of The New Haven Railroad, The Boston and Albany Railroad Company, The New England Railroad Company, The Boston and Providence Railroad Corporation and the Old Colony Railroad Company) was formed to develop South Union Station. Due to railroad industry consolidation, by the time of the station's dedication, there would only be two players left out of the original group of five. Boston's South Station is located in the heart of the city's Financial District. It opened for passenger service on New Year's Day 1899. Designed in the Neoclassical Revival style, its head house features arched entryways, ionic columns, a central pediment and balustrades along the roof line. The monumental exterior clock, surrounded by carved decoration, is topped by an eight-foot high eagle. Like many large passenger rail facilities, South Station suffered deferred maintenance in the mid-20th century, a time when the future of passenger trains seemed uncertain. In 1965 the Boston Redevelopment Authority purchased the building with the intention of redeveloping the site. Concerned citizens succeeded in listing South Station on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975, halting demolition. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority bought the facility in 1978 and undertook a multimillion dollar rehabilitation that also included construction of a new bus terminal and parking garage over the tracks. read more

South Station - South Station from across the street. - Train Stations Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Pros - there's a CVS inside the station! Definitely needed that to grab cough drops before heading to Gillette to see the Patriots lose. Also, the architecture is quite lovely. It has that feel of a Union Station or some other old-timey major city train depot. They have a ton of coffee/food options as well, so you can grab a bite or some caffeine before your travels. Cons - it's full of Bostonians. Ha ha, I kid, I kid! You guys are all right. Actually, the only major cons are how it seems like constructions is always going on, and there was a HUGE walk to the front of the train that takes you to the stadium. Seemed like we could have gotten on the train far earlier, but whatever, it is what it is. It's a neat station, I'm sure full of history. Very scenic and very convenient. I'd be fine traveling through here again! read more

This place is a dump and a shame for Boston. In the winter, you'll freeze your butt off INSIDE Boston Station. It's run-down, dirty, no climate control, doors constantly opening closing and letting in freezing air, homeless (bless them) people everywhere and desperately screaming for a renovation. read more

I had to catch an Amtrak at the South Station as part of my trip to the East coast, and happened to come by during the morning rush on a Monday. Getting to the station from Boston airport via car was pretty easy, even with some traffic in the tunnel, took about 15-20mins at most. Dropping off, especially if you have multiple or large bags, may be difficult for some as there didn't seem to be a clear passenger drop off/pick up area? There's quite a bit of construction, which could be a bit chaotic for anyone who's there for the first time and trying to figure out where to go. When you walk in, there is an information desk near the entrance. For the Amtrak sales and information area, go left and it'll be on the left side. If you're hungry and have time, there are a few food vendors inside but only a few were open when I was there at 9am. There's also a CVS inside. When you walk into the Amtrak office, there's a few boards that will show the current trains (boarding, to arrive, and TBD). The staff did try to make announcements as the board updated, some announced before the update, but at times it wasn't the loudest or consistent. So be sure you're keeping an eye on the board, especially if you're choosing to wait in that area (there's a few seats). Some of the platforms can be a bit of a walk from the Amtrak office (5-15 mins depending on walking speed, crowds, and baggage) so keep in mind. I saw a few people running for their Amtrak trains, and the Acela train seemed the quickest to leave. Signage could also be better. Giving 2 stars as the staff working at the Amtrak office weren't the most helpful. Even with no lines, they were too invested in their personal conversation vs helping anyone who came up to the window. Myself and another customer waited for 5mins for the employees to finish their conversation. read more

I KNOW I wrote and published my review here, back in August. So, where did it go???? Anyways, this place seems to constantly be under construction, or something gets moved around. Many improvements happening. The food services have changed quite a lot. At the time, it was sort of that half-way out of the Pandemic thingy within the place, but most people were more than half-way OUT of that.... so, i still had to socially distance myself since many people still seemed traumatized over the pandemic, but clearly NOT EVERYONE was, and it was obvious. Plus, I didn't want someone finger wagging and posting some fit online about this person did THIS THINGY... So, I was constantly putting the mask on, and taking it off, over & over. Either way SOMEBODY is gonna be irate over it whether you DON'T wear it, or whether you DO. It looks and SMELLS way batter than before. I hope it's finally finished by now. But, it's defiantly DIFFERENT NOW. I actually liked the food choices, and the new restrooms. read more

South Station - Au Bon Pain sandwich is really good - Train Stations Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

South Station is the epitome of a Boston Landmark. Not only is it a landmark, but it is a hub that connects downtown, Boston, businesses and shops with the rest of the state and more. It houses trains buses and now they are building a tower which I believe will be offices possibly residences I am curious to see but they're going up at least 15 floors maybe 30?? Parking almost impossible here, but it does connect everyone to work, so during commuting times the streets of filled with pedestrians coming in and out of South Station. The history of this building goes back for years and years and must've been fantastic back in the day. The exterior of the building has fantastic architectural design now with the new building going up on top and behind the original structure it's gonna be a clash of the new in the old, which is going to be fantastic and will keep old Boston alive anyone that comes to Boston should visit this location at least one time while you're there, don't forget to pop over to Chinatown which is across the street and up a block for some great food read more

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So, if you're not from here, you will get lost. We were advised to take the bus from the station to the airport to get a car rental. So, there's a bus terminal and a city bus terminal. Getting off the Amtrak train, we followed signs to the bus terminals thinking this would put us on the city bus route...oh no, that would be too easy. The city buses are located underground through a maze of tunnels, passing the metro station turnstiles, down the elevator or stairs on a platform with two silver lines. Next time, we'll do a ride share instead of listening to locals. I will say the station staff was great in helping us navigate through the maze. read more

South Station is the first and last thing I see every time I travel to Boston. It is the primary hub for Amtrak, buses, and the local metro. It is an iconic historical building in Boston filled with places to eat and relax before your travels. I enjoy walking around South Station and checking out the new bars and restaurants. I have never eaten here but there are your usual fast food and sit-down eateries. The main negative I have is how spread out everything is. Plan to give yourself about 15-20 mins from arriving here to boarding your train. There were several times where I took the red line into south station and had to run through a large maze of twists and turns to find my bus or train. I missed my bus twice due to a delay on the red line. Other than that it is a typical area for wandering around before your next train. read more

Very clean. Less confusing than other places. People are friendlier. Less homeless people. Much better than NYC. Absolutely beautiful.

Lots of construction right now, so super noisy and messy, but it was still a decent place to arrive and depart from in Boston. Inside they have a few places where you can grab something to eat, but it feels crowded and COVIDEY. Convenient to the bus station located behind the train terminal for connections throughout the area. read more

Meh, yeah, just meh. Small station and nothing to write home about. 12 tracks of trains leading into and out of the city. Did not feel anything special inside unlike 30th Street and Grand Central. The exterior is beautiful but once you are inside there is a few places to eat and a waiting area with uncomfortable benches and nowhere for you to charge your phone. At least the staff was nice and let me out onto the platforms to let me railfan for a time until it was time for me to board my train. I guess I am too jaded from other beautiful train stations, but this one just did not do it for me. Easy to navigate? Yes. T friendly? Absolutely. But when it comes to everything else it falls just short of being a station to remember. read more

South Station - Big board - Train Stations Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Not to be confused with South Sensations which are what Barbie feels when I visit her South Station. South Station is of course the place where the Greyhound station is located and it's a beautiful old facade right in the heart of the City of Boston and definitely one of my favourite train stations in the country and a rival for Grand Central Station in NYC in terms of how pretty it is, if a little smaller. read more

South Station - I want to put my train in your south station - Train Stations Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

I was helped by a woman at a desk that seemed like she was placed there to help ppl that need it but when I approached her desk - me being from south Florida and having 2 young children with me (one in a stroller!) and she was very rude acting as though I should have already known where to go and what times trains ran ended up missing my train home and having to wait for the last train home which wasn't till very late ! it ended up really messing up my night and my childrens nights !!! But besides that one lady everyone else was helpful and I and the children really enjoyed our tour of Boston ! Just wish that the desk worker was alittle nicer regardless of if I'm from out of state !!! read more

The south station is getting busy now, and the Redline trains seem to be almost full this weekend. Stepping out of the station, almost every place I pay attention to is opened and has a line. The city is waking up as spring arrives. I am not sure but maybe one day, when the station is jammed again, I may miss the days where the station was completely empty. I wonder how people felt a hundred years ago when passing this station during the 1918 pandemic. read more

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I'm at home with a cold - and Im rolling up my sleeves and writing a bunch of reviews for all the usual spots in Boston. First stop, South station. From the outside, the building looks run down and sad, very different from the shiny, newer construction that has taken over the downtown area. The sidewalks around here are smelly, there's questionable puddles, garbage flying around, and tented construction sites (so watch where youre walking and be sure to not fall into a sinkhole or something). But really who cares. THIS is the place that will take you to OTHER PLACES, such as New York City, DC, Philly, etc... and if you know the comfort of taking a train (vs standing in line at TSA for a short flight and doing the whole airport thing).. then you know this place is worth it. There's a CVS right inside (that closes early), a McDonalds, and a bunch of other newsstands/shops/eateries in here that are sure to fill (some, not ALL) of your needs as you prepare to get away from Boston in search of something a little more exciting and fun. That's right, join the weekend crowd going to NYC which will take you straight into Penn Station, walk to Bryant Park and explore all that the city has to offer! read more

Easy to find your rain, old building but they are working on renovations, train was on schedule to NYC. Homeless people do have a certain spot they gather here but mind business and do not appear to be problematic. The Tavern pub was out of business but equipment still intact more of a eyesore. Loved the Acela, the seats in business class and first class are spacious! Enjoyable ride! read more

South Station - First class from NYC to South Station on Acela - Train Stations Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

They cleaned up South Station somewhat. It's not as horrifying as it was in recent years. If you're hungry, Regina pizza is great. There is a diner for made-to-order food. Primitive seating, but it's something. There is a CVS there in case you need a pharmacy. I like the police presence, and they were polite about giving directions. MBTA trains are disorganized. You can't predict which track they arrive to/leave from. The trains are not marked with route number nor destination. If you change carriages while in operation, you can be cut in half. Like someone else said, it's a Franz Kafka novel. If you want to continue Northbound on Amtrak, you have to travel one mile to North Station. I choose to walk. The Orange Line is finally open, so you can take the subway to North Station. The newcomer must talk with strangers for directions...a novelty these days. The system is decaying and sporadic. Bring your sense of humor with you. read more

It's strange to write a review for a station stop, but why not? A historic building, to be sure. I do like that they finally did something with that waste of a second floor - they put in a CVS. Sure, it's stupid expensive because this is boston, and they charge you for using a plastic bag, but hey, I got my shaving cream. The overall floor plan of the station has been in a constant change of flux. They have a rotating mix of stores that come and go. There's a tiny BAR there now. Remember when grilled cheeses were in and we had that here too? The food court is ok - still expensive for Boston, but hey it's there if ya need it. It still gets crowded when waiting for a train, but the signage is ok and not difficult to get around. Lot of interesting people to maneuver around when getting through here. I'm grateful it's here because I need it. read more

A bigger version of the Providence train station. There's a bigger selection of food stands there. It's way busier especially during rush hour. There's three train stations in Boston; this is the one I mainly use. The other two stations are Back Bay and North Station. There are many amenities available: - ATM - Elevator - pay phones (yes they still exist! Lol) - restrooms - vending machines - ticket sales office and many more. There are lots of parking but not sure of how quickly that fills up. The hours for the train station are 5 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Monday through Sunday. You could take the train anywhere in the United States. My usual routes are Providence to Boston. There are plenty of seats but during peak hours, it gets super busy and you may have to share seats with strangers. Overall, a good train station and it's very convenient for commuters. read more

This station is under construction! You need to know that before you judge it too harshly. It's a rather large station and will be lovely when it's done. Until then, hold on and get there early read more