- 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 Paterson, NJ to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 24m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $107.
Distance: 206 miles (332 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$63 Average price | $59 Average price Cheapest | $174 Average price |
5h 27m Average total duration 4h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 0m Average total duration 3h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 24m Average total duration Fastest 1h 24m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Paterson, NJ to Washington, DC:
A train is $4 (€3) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Paterson, NJ to Washington, DC costing on average $63 (€52).
A train is $115 (€94) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Paterson, NJ to Washington, DC costing on average $174 (€142).
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 30m.
Bus takes on average 4h 57m.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:22AM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 4h38 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:50PM | Arrival Time 04:40AM | Duration 7h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 12h30 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
The table below shows live departures for Paterson, NJ to Washington, DC buses for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 8:50 PM Paterson, NJ | 7h50 | 4:40 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, flight, and bus 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 Paterson, NJ to Washington, DC run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 57m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 206 miles (332 km) distance in 4h 38m.
Distance 206 miles (332 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 4h 38m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 21 days |
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
Washington DC, Eastern Market/Pennsylvania Ave SE & 8th St SE, Washington -> Union Station, Washington
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Paterson, 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.

Most Paterson, NJ to Washington, DC buses use the Ridgewood, Route 17 South (Park & Ride) to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station station pair, with some services arriving at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW). Use this guide to compare Paterson, NJ 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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need