- 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 Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC
Showing times and prices for Jul 09
Cheapest price
$169
Average price
$285
Fastest journey
11 h 16 m
Average duration
16 h 43 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
490 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cleveland, OH 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 Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC will cost around $285 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $169.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Cleveland, OH for Washington, DC on Thu, Jul 09, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 09 the direct trains cover the 490 km distance in an average of 16 h 43 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 11 h 16 m .
On Thu, Jul 09 the slowest trains will take 21 h 10 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
41 Floridian1:54 AM11h16Cleveland Amtrak, Cleveland, OH1:10 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$1691One-way0 transfers- 41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian · 173 Northeast Regional1:54 AM17h44Cleveland Amtrak, Cleveland, OH7:38 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$3271One-way2 transfers
- 48 Lake Shore Limited · 177 Northeast Regional · 6077 AMTRAK5:50 AM21h10Cleveland Amtrak, Cleveland, OH3:00 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$3611One-way2 transfers
- 41 Floridian1:54 AM11h16Cleveland Amtrak, Cleveland, OH1:10 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$1691One-way0 transfers
- 41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian · 173 Northeast Regional1:54 AM17h44Cleveland Amtrak, Cleveland, OH7:38 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$3271One-way2 transfers
- 48 Lake Shore Limited · 177 Northeast Regional · 6077 AMTRAK5:50 AM21h10Cleveland Amtrak, Cleveland, OH3:00 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$3611One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $49. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 14m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $49, and a flight costs an average of $97.
Distance: 304 miles (490 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$139 Average price | $89 Average price Cheapest | $308 Average price | $134 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 45m Average total duration 11h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 39m Average total duration 11h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 14m Average total duration Fastest 1h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC is a bus with an average price of $89 (€74).
This is compared to other travel options from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC:
A bus is $50 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC costing on average $139 (€115).
A bus is $218 (€180) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC costing on average $308 (€253).
The fastest way to travel from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 14m.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Bus takes on average 11h 9m.
Train takes on average 11h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cleveland, OH 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 Cleveland, OH 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 $139 (€115) compared to roughly $134 (€110) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-5.35 (€-4.40). The journey takes 11h 15m versus 5h 46m 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
Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC train times
The table below shows live departures for Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC trains for tomorrow, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian · 173 Northeast Regional | 1:54 AM Cleveland Amtrak, Cleveland, OH | 17h44 | 7:38 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2 transfers | |
| 41 Floridian | 1:54 AM Cleveland Amtrak, Cleveland, OH | 11h16 | 1:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 48 Lake Shore Limited · 177 Northeast Regional · 6077 AMTRAK | 5:50 AM Cleveland Amtrak, Cleveland, OH | 21h10 | 3:00 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC by train, bus, or flight
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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Trains from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC run on average 3 times per day, taking around 11h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $53 (€44) but you can travel from only $49 (€40) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:15, the last at 19:42. The fastest train covers the 304 miles (490 km) distance in 11h 16m.
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 $49 (€40)
Distance 304 miles (490 km) |
Average train duration 11h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $53 (€44) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 11h 16m |
First train 1:15 AM |
Last train 7:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 35 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 $49 (€40)
Train companies: Amtrak from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Cleveland, OH and Washington, DC from $49 (€40). 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
11h 16m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€44)
Amtrak frequency
3 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 Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC
Traveling between Cleveland, OH and Washington, DC is a convenient journey made easy by Amtrak. With comfortable seating and scenic views along the way, you can relax as you traverse approximately 450 miles of beautiful landscapes. The train service offers multiple daily departures, ensuring flexibility in your travel plans while connecting these two cities rich in culture and history.
Train Connection: Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC
The train connection from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC takes approximately 11 hours and 11 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day. Passengers will depart from Cleveland Amtrak station and arrive at Union Station in Washington, DC.
Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC
The first daily train journey departs from Cleveland at 5:54 AM. This early morning departure allows travelers to start their day with a scenic ride towards the nation's capital.
Train Tickets Price for Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC
The cheapest ticket price for a train journey from Cleveland to Washington is $79 (71.1€). The average ticket price tends to be around $111 (99.9€), making the lower fare an attractive option 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 Rose Garden, 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 not only serves as a tribute but also stands as an enduring symbol for civil rights movements across generations. Visitors are often struck by its unique design featuring 36 columns representing states at the time of Lincoln's death, along with his imposing seated statue that invites reflection on freedom and justice.
The United States Capitol is more than just an architectural marvel; it's where laws are made that govern this great nation—housing both chambers of Congress since its completion in 1800. The building holds immense significance as a beacon of democracy worldwide while showcasing centuries-old traditions intertwined with modern governance practices. Notable features include its stunning dome topped with Lady Freedom—a powerful emblem—and intricate frescoes within that narrate America’s journey from inception to present day.
FAQs: Trains from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cleveland, OH 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 Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $53 (€44), while the average price is around $139 (€115).
The train from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC takes 11h 16m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC is 304 miles (490 km).
The first train from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC leaves at 1:15 AM.
The last train from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC leaves at 7:42 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC.
The train station in Cleveland, OH that goes to Washington, DC is Cleveland Amtrak, Cleveland, OH, which connects to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC is by bus, with a cost of around $49 (€40).
The train journey from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, featuring views of the Appalachian Mountains, rivers, and small towns, making parts of the trip quite scenic.
A day trip from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC is not feasible as the travel duration is 11h 16m. The trip distance is 304 miles (490 km), and there are only 3 trains available per day.
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 Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC.
Since neither Cleveland, OH 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 Cleveland, OH 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 Cleveland, OH
More options for your journey from Cleveland, OH to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Washington, DC and Cleveland, OH
Most popular train connections to Washington, DC
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