- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
One of the largest art museums in the US, with major collections spanning antiquities to contemporary works across multiple buildings in the Museum District.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX
Showing times and prices for Jun 23
Cheapest price
$1473
Average price
$1473
Fastest journey
1 d 22 h 24 m
Average duration
1 d 22 h 24 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
1992 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX will cost around $1473 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $1473.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Columbia, MD for Houston, TX on Tue, Jun 23, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 23 the direct trains cover the 1992 km distance in an average of 1 d 22 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 22 h 24 m .
On Tue, Jun 23 the slowest trains will take 1 d 22 h 24 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.
8:21 PM46h24Columbia, MD6:45 PMHouston, TX$14731One-way0 transfers
- 8:21 PM46h24Columbia, MD6:45 PMHouston, TX$14731One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Columbia, MD to Houston, TX
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $145. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $145, and a train costs an average of $369.
Distance: 1237 miles (1992 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$694 Average price | $216 Average price Cheapest | $249 Average price | $282 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
38h 53m Average total duration 38h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 41h 31m Average total duration 41h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 54m Average total duration Fastest 7h 54m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 21h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX is a bus with an average price of $216 (€177).
This is compared to other travel options from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX:
A bus is $33 (€27) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX costing on average $249 (€204).
A bus is $478 (€392) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX costing on average $694 (€569).
The fastest way to travel from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 54m.
Other travel options to Houston, TX take longer:
Train takes on average 38h 23m.
Bus takes on average 41h 1m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Columbia, MD and Houston, TX including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX 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 $694 (€569) compared to roughly $282 (€231) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-412.46 (€-337.87). The journey takes 38h 23m versus 21h 4m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Columbia, MD to Houston, TX by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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 Columbia, MD to Houston, TX
USAUSA
Trains from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX run on average 4 times per day, taking around 38h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $369 (€303) but you can travel from only $126 (€103) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 20:21, the last at 21:57. The fastest train covers the 1237 miles (1992 km) distance in 46h 24m.
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
Flight from $126 (€103)
Distance 1237 miles (1992 km) |
Average train duration 38h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $369 (€303) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 46h 24m |
First train 8:21 PM |
Last train 9:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Flight from $126 (€103)
Train companies: Amtrak from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Columbia, MD and Houston, TX from $126 (€103). 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
46h 24m
Cheapest Price
$369 (€303)
Amtrak frequency
4 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 Houston
Things to do in Houston
Discover the best of Houston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Houston trip today.
- Must visit
Space Center Houston
The official visitor center for NASA Johnson Space Center, known for spacecraft displays, astronaut history, and tram tours to working NASA facilities.
- Must visit
The Menil Collection
A renowned free art museum with strong surrealist, Byzantine, and modern collections, set in a quiet campus popular with locals.
- Must visit
Buffalo Bayou Park
A major urban park with skyline views, trails, public art, and bayou scenery, widely considered one of Houston's best outdoor spaces.
- Must visit
Discovery Green
A lively downtown park hosting art, events, gardens, and seasonal activities, making it one of the city's most visited public gathering spaces.
- Must visit
Museum District
Houston's leading cultural area, packed with major museums, walkable streets, and one of the best concentrations of attractions in the city.
- Gluten-free
Texas Brisket
Slow-smoked beef brisket with a peppery bark, a cornerstone of Houston barbecue culture shaped by Texas smoking traditions.
Beef Fajitas
Grilled skirt steak served sizzling with tortillas and fixings; Houston helped popularize Tex-Mex fajitas nationwide.
- Vegetarian
Breakfast Tacos
Soft tortillas filled with eggs, potatoes, cheese, or meats, reflecting Houston’s everyday Tex-Mex breakfast culture.
Pappas Bros. Steakhouse
Established upscale steakhouse known for prime beef, polished service, and an extensive wine program.
Truth BBQ
Widely praised Houston barbecue spot known for brisket, ribs, and classic Texas sides in a lively, casual setting.
Hugo's
Well-known restaurant serving refined regional Mexican cuisine in an elegant but welcoming setting.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. big-city standards. Dining and transport are manageable, but hotels and car-related costs can add up.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-6 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis/rideshares 10-15%, hotel staff USD 2-5, and round up for coffee only if desired.
FAQs: Trains from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX 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 Houston, TX, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $369 (€303), while the average price is around $694 (€569).
The train from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX takes 46h 24m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX leaves at 8:21 PM.
The distance by train from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX is 1237 miles (1992 km).
The last train from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX leaves at 9:57 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX.
There is no direct train service currently available from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX.
The train station in Columbia, MD that goes to Houston, TX is BWI Airport Rail Station, Hanover, MD, which connects to Houston Station, Houston, TX.
The cheapest way to get from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX is by flight, with a cost of around $126 (€103).
The train journey from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX primarily travels through urban and suburban areas, with some stretches showcasing the landscapes of the Appalachian region and the vast plains of Texas, offering limited scenic views compared to more mountainous or coastal routes.
In Houston, TX, you can visit the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, explore vibrant street art in the Houston Heights, and enjoy performances at the Houston Symphony. Discover the culinary scene with a food tour, and catch a baseball game at Minute Maid Park. For sights, explore Space Center Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Houston Zoo, and the Museum of Fine Arts. Enjoy outdoor activities at Buffalo Bayou Park with its trails and gardens.
To fully experience Houston, TX, including its cultural attractions, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods, spending three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX.
Since neither Columbia, MD nor Houston, TX 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 Houston, TX include Beaumont, TX.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX 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 Houston, TX, travelers should be cautious of common urban safety concerns such as petty theft, pickpocketing, and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Scams to watch out for include fake ticket sellers, overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers, and street vendors offering counterfeit goods. Staying in well-lit areas, using authorized transportation, and securing personal belongings can help minimize risks.
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 Columbia, MD to Houston, TX
Most Columbia, MD to Houston, TX trains use the BWI Airport Rail Station to Houston Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Columbia, MD and Houston, TX train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Columbia
Arrival train stations in Houston
Which Houston, TX station do trains from Columbia, MD arrive at?
Trains from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX arrive at Houston Station. Houston Station is 0 miles (1 km) from Houston, TX city centre.
Houston Station902 Washington Avenue, Houston, TX 77002, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Houston Station from Houston city centre
Bus030 · 21m · $1 · every ~5 min
030 · 22m · $1 · every ~5 min
Houston Station train station facilities and services
Houston Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Irma's Southwest Grill, The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Houston Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Houston Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Houston Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Houston Station: Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Houston Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Lancaster Hotel, Hotel ICON, Magnolia Hotel Houston.
Most popular train connections from Columbia, MD
More options for your journey from Columbia, MD to Houston, TX
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Houston, TX and Columbia, MD
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