New York, NY, to Washington, DC, by train
From the Big Apple to the capital
There are about 225 miles from New York to Washington, DC, making it easy to travel between the two cities. Regular train services link these bustling metropolises on the Eastern Seaboard, with departures each day. The first journey leaves New York at , while the last departs at . The journey, which will take you on average, conveniently goes from one city center to another.
Virail's powerful search engine will help you find the best way to travel by train from New York to Washington, DC. On average, this journey will cost , but our tools will show you all the options available. You'll often travel cheaper if you book in advance, or avoid the high season. Certain times of day may also be better for travelers on a budget. Let Virail help you find the ideal journey from New York City to Washington, DC.
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A journey to savour
The Amtrak Northeast Regional train is a popular route, regularly used by both commuters and leisure travelers. Whatever your reason for traveling from New York City to Washington, DC, you'll find it a relaxing and comfortable experience. The train departs from NYC Penn Station, in Midtown Manhattan. This terminal is easy to reach, with connections to the 1, 2, and 3 Subway lines, as well as plenty of city bus stops nearby. When you arrive in the nation's capital, you'll be at Union Station, just 2 miles from the White House. It's easy to continue your journey onward, as Union Station is served by both the Washington Metro and the DC Streetcar. There are also plenty of cabs available if you'd rather make the next leg of your journey in style.
Onboard, you'll be able to sit back and relax in the comfort of an air-conditioned train car. Reclining seats give you the perfect spot to chill out or take a nap. If you feel like stretching your legs, each train is fitted with a Cafe Car, where you can enjoy snacks and refreshments, including beer and wine. WiFi is available on the train, allowing you to get on with some work or watch a movie - whatever you want to do for an enjoyable journey!
Passengers can take two items of baggage with them when traveling on Amtrak trains. An extra two items can be added for a fee. Other services available for a fee include the transit of bicycles, other specialist equipment like sporting goods, or small pets. Be sure to book in advance if you are taking anything out of the ordinary. This way, you can be certain that your needs will be accommodated.
Your trip to Washington, DC
Of course, most visitors to Washington, DC, want to see the capital's iconic buildings and monuments. Here are some of the best:
- The White House. The home of the president is always top of visitors' lists. At times, there are tours available of certain parts of the building - but make sure to book well in advance, as they fill up fast.
- The Capitol building. In the Capitol Visitor Center, you'll be able to see some temporary and permanent exhibits and get a feel for political life.
- The Lincoln Monument. This enormous homage to the sixteenth president is a popular spot for travelers. As well as the famous statue of Lincoln himself, the memorial has chambers in which some of the president's most famous speeches, such as the Gettysburg Address, have been carved into the walls for posterity.
- The Washington Monument. Head up the National Mall and you'll reach this Egyptian-inspired obelisk, instantly recognizable from so many movies. This 500-foot column is a tribute to the nation's first president, George Washington.
- The Jefferson Memorial. Inspired by Roman architecture, this stunning memorial stands on the Tidal Basin. If you get the chance, be sure to visit in the springtime, when the cherry blossom trees are in bloom.
As well as politics, Washington, DC, is known for its museums. The Smithsonian complex comprises some of the nation's best museums. You could easily spend your entire vacation hopping from one to the other, and still leave without seeing everything! It's best to go with a plan of action. Decide in advance what's most important to you. Will it be the epic dinosaur skeletons in the Natural History Museum's Hall of Fossils? How about Julia Child's iconic kitchen, donated by the famous chef herself and preserved in the National Museum of American History? In the National Air and Space Museum you can see the Wright brothers' original airplane and the Command Module of Apollo 11, while the American Indian Museum showcases culture, language, and traditions from native people across the Americas. The newest part of the Smithsonian, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, features moving exhibits such as Harriet Tubman's personal hymn book, a dress made by Rosa Parks, and sports uniforms worn by some of the finest African American athletes of the 20th century.
As well as these famous sights, there's so much to do in Washington, DC. This city has a vibrant downtown area with a great restaurant scene, plenty of nightlife, and thriving shopping zones. The nation's capital is packed with everything from iconic buildings to hidden gems, with something to surprise and delight you around every corner. A metro and streetcar system make it easy to get around, and this is one of the country's most walkable cities. Put on a pair of comfortable shoes and get ready to explore a city where history is made every day!
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