Trains Washington, DC to Philadelphia, PA: Times, Prices and Tickets

The route from Washington, DC to Philadelphia, PA

The Washington to Philadelphia route is a classic Amtrak journey that traverses 123 miles. You can take several services on this line, including the Northeast Regional and Acela. Both undertake identical journeys along the Northeast Corridor, Amtrak’s busiest line. The Acela is slightly faster as a high-speed train taking in fewer stops. It’s a quick and convenient service that’s among the top ways to travel between the two cities. Services continue to New York and then Boston.

This particular west-east journey departs from Washington’s Union Station, the city’s major rail hub. Centrally located and overlooking Lower Senate Park, it’s a grand station that first opened in 1907. Often considered among the most beautiful stations in the country, look out for the six colossal statues on its Attic. With 18 platforms, you must arrive in good time to board your train. The service for Philadelphia takes in several stops, including the following:

• Washington Union Station
• Baltimore Penn Station
• Wilmington Station
• Philadelphia 30th Street Station

Crossing through Maryland

Your train skirts north from Washington, DC, passing the charming United States National Arboretum. It’s a very quick trip over the Anacostia River into Maryland, through leafy suburbs towards Baltimore. The fastest trains manage this section in just under 30 minutes. After leaving Baltimore Penn Station, you’ll pass Green Mount Cemetery to your left. The grave of John Wilkes Booth, among other conspirators, is located here.

Your train heads east across Maryland state, hugging the Chesapeake Bay. Look out for charming scenes as you cross Gunpowder River, Bush River, and Susquehanna River. This latter stretch includes pretty views across the pretty beachside region of Elk Neck State Park.

Traversing the Diamond State

Your Amtrak service cuts through Delaware, stopping at Wilmington, the state’s largest city. You’ll pass through luscious forest and meandering rivers as you cut across this tiny state. Your train then connects alongside the Delaware River, providing spectacular scenery east to New Jersey. It’s a short trip now into Pennsylvania along small waterfront parks and industrial towns.

The journey into Philadelphia follows the Delaware River, passing the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge for the suburbs. Your train passes pretty Penn Park before pulling into 30th Street Station. This impressive stop was built in 1933 and is among the busiest US stations. It's located west of downtown Philadelphia, over the Schuylkill River. Metro lines, buses, and taxis can take you into the heart of Philadelphia from this central hub.

Exploring Philadelphia, PA, the City of Brotherly Love

 Philadelphia boasts a rich historical heritage and vibrant cultural attractions that are a treat to discover. After all, this is where the United States' foundational documents were drawn up. Take a tour of these richly important sites where history was made before venturing off for some beloved gastronomy.

History in the making

Starting in Independence Square, you're surrounded on all sides by historical monuments. Sitting at the center is Independence Hall, an elegant Georgian building where the Declaration of Independence was approved. Just north, you'll be able to gaze at the Liberty Bell in person. Crafted in East London in the 18th century, it was first rung to celebrate the Declaration's original public reading. Other highlights of this area include the Independence Visitor Center, Museum of the American Revolution, and Benjamin Franklin Museum. You can even visit Franklin's old abode and grave.

Heading west towards Dilworth Park, you’ll find another cluster of must-visit attractions. Chief among these is the City Hall. This impressive and ornate working town hall offers spectacular tours and observation areas. Just north of the City Hall, look out for the historic Masonic Temple. The Freemasons had deep roots in Philadelphia, and this temple is an alluring and theatrical center for these endeavors. George Washington was a Master Mason, and you can even view his apron here.

Impressive art and cultural attractions

Philadelphia is bursting with world-class art museums. The impressive Philadelphia Museum of Art is among the finest in the country. Located to the northwest of the city, the museum boasts impressive modern art collections and antiquities. It may, however, be best remembered for its stairs' appearance in the Rocky movies. Another gem is the Barnes Foundation, boasting an excellent collection of French masterworks.

Philadelphia’s Mural Arts Program is a delightful open art display that permeates throughout the city. Began in the early 1980s, you can join many waking tours or app-based guides to find them all. One particularly exciting area for these is Philadelphia's Magic Gardens. Here, you'll find fun and colorful public art displays that make reference to noted artistic masters.

Foodie heaven

Philadelphia is renowned for its food, not least the legendary Philly cheesesteak. These mouth-watering sandwiches can be found across the city, but top spots are found on South Street. Hoagies are another local institution consisting of long sub rolls stuffed with delectable deli meats and cheeses. You can sample the best of these inventions at Reading Terminal Market, a local institution for farm-fresh fare. Other local favorites include pillowy pretzels and artisan cheesesteak pizzas!

While cheap and quick eats flourish in the city, there’s more to Philadelphia than finger food. Philadelphia boasts everything from fine heritage foods to world-inspired diners and haute cuisine. Some of the best eateries can be found bang in the center - in Midtown Village and Chinatown. If you're looking to dine in style, look for highlights like Lacroix, TOWNSEND, and Laurel.