- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
One of the most visited museums in the city, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and major natural science collections.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Garfield, NJ to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 26m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $33, and a flight costs an average of $188.
Distance: 206 miles (333 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$53 Average price Cheapest | $73 Average price | $213 Average price | $46 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 38m Average total duration 11h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 29m Average total duration 2h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 26m Average total duration Fastest 1h 26m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Garfield, NJ to Washington, DC:
A bus is $21 (€17) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Garfield, NJ to Washington, DC costing on average $73 (€60).
A bus is $160 (€131) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Garfield, NJ to Washington, DC costing on average $213 (€174).
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 59m.
Bus takes on average 11h 8m.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator NJ Transit | Departure Time 04:25PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator NJ Transit | Departure Time 05:55PM | Arrival Time 11:45PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator NJ Transit | Departure Time 06:20PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator NJ Transit | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:50PM | Arrival Time 05:15AM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator NJ Transit | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 02:35AM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 12h30 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator NJ Transit | Departure Time 09:53PM | Arrival Time 03:20AM | Duration 5h27 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator NJ Transit | Departure Time 11:03PM | Arrival Time 04:35AM | Duration 5h32 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $67 |
Compare train, bus, and flight 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 Garfield, NJ to Washington, DC run on average 4 times per day, taking around 11h 8m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $33 (€27) but you can travel from only $19 (€16) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:40, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 206 miles (333 km) distance in 8h 25m.
Distance 206 miles (333 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $33 (€27) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 8h 25m |
First bus 12:40 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Discover the best of Washington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington trip today.
One of the most visited museums in the city, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and major natural science collections.
Flagship museum for aviation and space exploration, featuring iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and interactive exhibits.
Powerful museum covering African American history, culture, and achievements through immersive exhibitions.
The city’s central ceremonial landscape, lined with major museums, memorials, and classic Washington views.
Historic neighborhood of cobbled streets, waterfront paths, and Federal-era architecture, ideal for walking and photos.
Scenic waterfront loop famous for cherry blossoms and close-up access to several major memorials.
Washington’s signature sausage, usually smoky and spicy, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is one of the city’s most iconic street foods.
A sweet-tangy sauce strongly associated with Washington carryout culture, commonly paired with fried chicken and fries. It is a distinctive local flavor locals recognize immediately.
Regional blue crab from nearby Chesapeake waters, often served steamed and heavily seasoned. It reflects the Mid-Atlantic seafood traditions closely tied to Washington dining.
An established downtown institution known for oysters, crab cakes, and classic American seafood near the White House, with an elegant old-school atmosphere.
Busy, established French brasserie in Logan Circle known for polished service, a classic dining room, and consistently popular bistro dishes.
Historic casual landmark on U Street, famous for half-smokes, chili dogs, and classic Washington comfort food in a lively, nostalgic setting.
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining near central areas and major attractions.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants. USD 1-2 per drink at bars. Taxis: 10-15% or round up. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Tips are expected for table service.
Official public transport app
L'Enfant Plaza, Washington, DC -> Union Station, Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Garfield, NJ 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.

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