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Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for California, PA to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from California, PA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $60, and a flight costs an average of $80.
Distance: 172 miles (277 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$82 Average price Cheapest | $195 Average price | $168 Average price |
6h 36m Average total duration 6h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 12m Average total duration Fastest 1h 12m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 12m Average total duration 10h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from California, PA to Washington, DC is a train with an average price of $82 (€66).
This is compared to other travel options from California, PA to Washington, DC:
A train is $86 (€70) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from California, PA to Washington, DC costing on average $168 (€136).
A train is $113 (€91) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from California, PA to Washington, DC costing on average $195 (€157).
The fastest way to travel from California, PA to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 12m.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 6m.
Bus takes on average 10h 42m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between California, PA and Washington, DC including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from California, PA to Washington, DC among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets California, PA to Washington, DC by train, flight, or bus
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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from California, PA to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Trains from California, PA to Washington, DC run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $60 (€49) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:04, the last at 16:05. The fastest train covers the 172 miles (277 km) distance in 6h 6m.
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
Distance 172 miles (277 km) |
Average train duration 6h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $60 (€49) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 6h 6m |
First train 7:04 AM |
Last train 4:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Train companies: Amtrak from California, PA to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between California, PA and Washington, DC from $60 (€49). 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
6h 6m
Cheapest Price
$60 (€49)
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
FAQs: Trains from California, PA to Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from California, PA 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 California, PA to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $60 (€49), while the average price is around $82 (€66).
The train from California, PA to Washington, DC takes 6h 6m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from California, PA to Washington, DC leaves at 7:04 AM.
The distance by train from California, PA to Washington, DC is 172 miles (277 km).
The last train from California, PA to Washington, DC leaves at 4:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from California, PA to Washington, DC.
There is no direct train service currently available from California, PA to Washington, DC.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from California, PA to Washington, DC.
The train station in California, PA that goes to Washington, DC is Greensburg Amtrak Station, Greensburg, PA, which connects to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from California, PA to Washington, DC is by train, with a cost of around $60 (€49).
The train journey from California, PA to Washington, DC offers scenic views, particularly as it traverses the rolling hills and lush landscapes of Pennsylvania. Passengers can enjoy picturesque countryside and glimpses of historic towns along the route.
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 California, PA to Washington, DC.
Since neither California, PA 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 California, PA 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from California, PA to Washington, DC
California
Washington
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
Distance to city center
2 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak.
Lockers
- Amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Dining
- Shake Shack
- McDonald’s
- Starbucks
- Potbelly Sandwich Shop
- Chopt Creative Salad Co.
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
- Thunder Grill
- Johnny Rockets
- Jamba Juice
- Ladurée Union Station
- & many more
Accessibility
- Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Hotel
- Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill
- Phoenix Park Hotel
- Kimpton George Hotel
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
Information Desk
- Located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Public transit options for Union Station
- Metro lines: Red
- Bus lines: D6, D8, 80, 96,
- Train lines: Acela, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Fredericksburg Line, MARC Brunswick, MARC Camden, MARC Penn, Manassas Line, Northeast Regional, Palmetto, Silver Service/Palmetto, Vermonter
More options for your journey from California, PA to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Washington, DC and California, PA
Most popular train connections to Washington, DC
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