- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and broad family-friendly exhibits.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$266
Average price
$390
Fastest journey
11 h 43 m
Average duration
12 h 48 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
470 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC will cost around $390 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $266.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC without transferring at least once.
64 Maple Leaf · 177 Northeast Regional · 6077 AMTRAK12:15 PM14h45Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY3:00 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$2661One-way2 transfers- 64 Maple Leaf · 65 Northeast Regional12:15 PM18h14Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY6:29 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$3021One-way1 transfer
- 280 Empire Service · 97 Silver Meteor4:18 AM14h02Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY6:20 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$3461One-way1 transfer
- 284 Empire Service · 129 Northeast Regional7:12 AM12h49Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY8:01 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$3461One-way1 transfer
- 280 Empire Service+
2159 NextGen Acela4:18 AM11h43Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY4:01 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$3761One-way1 transfer
- 280 Empire Service+2159 NextGen Acela4:18 AM11h43Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY4:01 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$3761One-way1 transfer
- 284 Empire Service · 129 Northeast Regional7:12 AM12h49Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY8:01 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$3461One-way1 transfer
- 284 Empire Service+2167 Acela7:12 AM12h51Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY8:03 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$5491One-way1 transfer
- 280 Empire Service · 93 Northeast Regional4:18 AM13h07Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY5:25 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$4441One-way1 transfer
- 280 Empire Service · 19 Crescent4:18 AM13h29Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY5:47 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$3941One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $66. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $66, and a flight costs an average of $94.
Distance: 292 miles (470 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$188 Average price | $248 Average price | $137 Average price Cheapest | $75 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 52m Average total duration 13h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 35m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 14h 2m Average total duration 13h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.4 - 2.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC is a bus with an average price of $137 (€112).
This is compared to other travel options from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC:
A bus is $51 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC costing on average $188 (€155).
A bus is $111 (€91) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC costing on average $248 (€204).
The fastest way to travel from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 35m.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 13h 22m.
Bus takes on average 13h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Buffalo, NY and Washington, DC including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $188 (€155) compared to roughly $75 (€62) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-113.03 (€-92.78). The journey takes 13h 22m versus 6h 49m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC train times
The table below shows live departures for Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC trains for tomorrow, Friday, July 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 280 Empire Service · 19 Crescent | 4:18 AM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 13h29 | 5:47 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 280 Empire Service+2159 NextGen Acela | 4:18 AM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 11h43 | 4:01 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 280 Empire Service · 93 Northeast Regional | 4:18 AM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 13h07 | 5:25 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 280 Empire Service · 97 Silver Meteor | 4:18 AM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 14h02 | 6:20 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 284 Empire Service+2167 Acela | 7:12 AM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 12h51 | 8:03 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 284 Empire Service · 129 Northeast Regional | 7:12 AM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 12h49 | 8:01 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 284 Empire Service+2255 NextGen Acela | 7:12 AM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 31h12 | 2:24 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 284 Empire Service · 193 Northeast Regional | 7:12 AM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 13h46 | 8:58 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 64 Maple Leaf · 65 Northeast Regional | 12:15 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 18h14 | 6:29 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 64 Maple Leaf · 177 Northeast Regional · 6077 AMTRAK | 12:15 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 14h45 | 3:00 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC by train, bus, or flight
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Trains from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC run on average 7 times per day, taking around 13h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $91 (€75) but you can travel from only $66 (€55) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 292 miles (470 km) distance in 12h 40m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $66 (€55)
Distance 292 miles (470 km) |
Average train duration 13h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $91 (€75) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 12h 40m |
First train 3:20 AM |
Last train 10:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 42 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $66 (€55)
Train companies: Amtrak from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Buffalo, NY and Washington, DC from $66 (€55). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 40m
Cheapest Price
$91 (€75)
Amtrak frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Washington
Things to do in Washington
Discover the best of Washington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington trip today.
- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
Flagship Smithsonian museum covering aviation and spaceflight, with iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and major interactive exhibits.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Art
Premier art museum with strong collections from the Middle Ages to modern art, plus sculpture garden and rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
National Mall
The city’s grand ceremonial park lined with Smithsonian museums, memorials, and iconic government buildings.
- Must visit
Georgetown
Historic neighborhood of cobblestone streets, waterfront walks, rowhouses, and some of Washington’s most photogenic corners.
- Must visit
Tidal Basin
Scenic waterside loop famous for cherry blossoms and views of major memorials, especially popular for sunrise and spring visits.
Half-Smoke
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.
Mumbo Sauce With Fried Chicken Wings
A sweet-tangy sauce closely associated with Washington carryout culture, often paired with fried chicken wings and fries. It is a local comfort-food staple.
- Gluten-free
Chesapeake Blue Crab
Steamed or picked blue crab from the nearby Chesapeake region is deeply tied to local food traditions. It is especially popular in warmer months.
Rose's Luxury
Celebrated upscale restaurant with creative small plates and a warm, energetic atmosphere. It is one of Washington’s best-known modern dining destinations.
Old Ebbitt Grill
A classic, long-running Washington institution known for oysters, crab cakes, and traditional American fare in an elegant historic atmosphere.
Le Diplomate
Bustling brasserie known for polished French classics, strong brunch, and a stylish dining room that is popular with both locals and visitors.
United States Dollar
Prices are high for hotels and dining, especially downtown. Free museums help balance daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
DC Metro and Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- USD 2.25
- Day pass
- USD 13.00
To the city center
Union Station, Washington, DC -> Metro Center, Washington, DC
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- SmarTrip mobile wallet and cards are accepted across Metrorail and Metrobus for easy transfers and fare payment.
- You can pay by card at Metrorail station fare machines, but Metrobus does not accept direct card tap payment onboard.
Traveling by train from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC
Traveling between Buffalo, NY and Washington, DC is a convenient journey made easy by Amtrak. The train service offers comfortable seating and scenic views as you traverse the distance of approximately 400 miles. With multiple daily departures, passengers can enjoy a smooth ride while taking in the changing landscapes from New York's picturesque countryside to the vibrant urban scenery of our nation's capital. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, Amtrak ensures a pleasant travel experience on this popular route.
Train Connection: Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC
The train journey from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC takes approximately 12 hours and 55 minutes. There are no direct connections available; travelers will need to make at least one transfer during the trip. The average number of connections per day is 2.
Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC
The first daily train journey departs from Buffalo at 9:28 AM and arrives in Washington, DC at 5:25 PM. This connection offers travelers a convenient option for exploring the vibrant culture and attractions of both cities throughout the day.
Train Tickets Price from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC
The cheapest ticket price for a train journey between Buffalo and Washington is $87 (78.3€). The average ticket price tends to be around $181 (162.9€), making the lower-priced option an attractive choice for travelers looking to save on transportation costs while exploring these two cities.
Exploring the Icons of American Democracy
The White House, completed in 1800, has served as the official residence and workplace of every U.S. president since John Adams, symbolizing the heart of American democracy. Its significance extends beyond politics; it represents a rich tapestry of history where pivotal decisions have shaped our nation’s future. Unique features include its neoclassical architecture and iconic rooms like the Oval Office and the East Room, each steeped in stories that reflect both triumphs and challenges faced by leaders throughout time.
The Lincoln Memorial was dedicated in 1922 to honor President Abraham Lincoln's legacy as a champion for unity and equality during one of America's most tumultuous periods—the Civil War. This monumental structure is significant not only for its architectural beauty but also as a site for civil rights movements, including Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous "I Have a Dream" speech delivered from its steps in 1963. The memorial’s unique design includes 36 columns representing each state at the time of Lincoln's death, along with an imposing seated statue that captures his enduring spirit.
The United States Capitol stands proudly on Capitol Hill as both an architectural marvel and a symbol of legislative power within our government system since its completion in 1800. It holds great significance as the meeting place for Congress where laws are debated and enacted—shaping policies that affect millions across America today. One unique feature is its stunning dome topped with Lady Freedom—a beacon overlooking Washington D.C.—and inside you’ll find exquisite artwork depicting key moments from American history adorning its halls.
FAQs: Trains from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $91 (€75), while the average price is around $188 (€155).
The train from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC takes 12h 40m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC is 292 miles (470 km).
The first train from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC leaves at 3:20 AM.
The last train from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC leaves at 10:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC.
There is no direct train service currently available from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC.
The train station in Buffalo, NY that goes to Washington, DC is Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY, which connects to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC is by bus, with a cost of around $66 (€55).
The train journey from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC offers a scenic experience, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of upstate New York, the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, and along parts of the Susquehanna River, providing passengers with a view of diverse natural beauty and iconic landmarks.
A day trip from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC is not feasible as the journey duration is 12h 40m, which exceeds the 120-minute threshold. The distance is 292 miles (470 km), and the frequency is 7 trips per day for trains.
In Washington, DC, you can discover the National Gallery of Art, stroll through the historic Georgetown neighborhood, visit the world's largest library at the Library of Congress, explore the vibrant Eastern Market, and enjoy a performance at the Kennedy Center. Key sights include the National Mall, the White House, the United States Capitol, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Lincoln Memorial.
To explore Washington, DC's main attractions such as the National Mall, museums, and monuments, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC.
Since neither Buffalo, NY nor Washington, DC are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Washington, DC include Baltimore, MD, Wilmington, DE, Fredericksburg, VA, Newark, DE, Quantico, VA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Washington, DC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the National Mall and Metro stations. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and unofficial tour operators. It's advisable to use licensed transportation services and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night or in less busy neighborhoods.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
Most popular train connections from Buffalo, NY
More options for your journey from Buffalo, NY to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Washington, DC and Buffalo, NY
Most popular train connections to Washington, DC
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