- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $133 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 12m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $133, while a train costs an average of $133.
Distance: 104 miles (168 km)
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$133 Average price Cheapest | $25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 12m Average total duration Fastest 2h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC:
A bus is $92 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC costing on average $133.
A bus is $629 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC costing on average $670.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 21m.
Flight takes on average 4h 3m.
Tickets start at around $41 compared to roughly $25 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-15.98. The journey takes 3h 21m versus 2h 35m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:30AM | Arrival Time 03:50AM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:15AM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 01:55AM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $28 |
Compare train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Buses from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC run on average 17 times per day, taking around 3h 21m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $27 if you book in advance.
There are 14 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 104 miles (168 km) distance in 2h 40m.
Distance 104 miles (168 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 |
Buses per day 17 |
Direct buses 14 |
Fastest bus 2h 40m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Discover the best of Washington, DC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington, DC trip today.
This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.
Housed in a Beaux-Arts building, this museum explores natural wonders with dinosaurs, gems, fossils, and global biodiversity.
A landmark museum documenting African American history and culture through powerful exhibitions, artifacts, and storytelling.
The National Mall is Washington's grand civic promenade, lined with museums, memorials, and classic views ideal for first-time visitors.
Georgetown charms with historic streets, rowhouses, waterfront paths, and independent shops that make it one of the city's best walking areas.
The Tidal Basin loop offers famous cherry blossoms, water views, and easy access to several of Washington's most iconic memorials.
Half-smoke sausage, usually smoked pork and beef, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is DC's signature street food, strongly tied to Ben's Chili Bowl.
Jumbo slice is an oversized late-night pizza slice popular in Adams Morgan. It is a recognizable DC nightlife food known for its huge foldable portions.
Mumbo sauce is a sweet tangy red sauce commonly served with fried chicken and wings at DC carryouts. It is a beloved local condiment with roots in Black DC food culture.
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant focused on Mid-Atlantic ingredients and refined tasting menus in an elegant, contemporary dining room.
Polished seafood institution at the municipal fish market, best known for regional oysters, crab cakes, and classic Chesapeake flavors.
Historic casual landmark famous for half-smokes, chili, and a classic diner feel. A must for trying DC's best-known street food tradition.
DC is pricier than many US cities. Hotels and dining run high in central areas, but Metro and many free museums help balance daily travel costs.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes: round up or add $1-2.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC buses use the Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park) to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Downingtown, PA and Washington, DC bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Shake Shack (in the station)
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and food court.
Ticket office support is available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station.
Available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Elevators, ramps.
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