- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC
Showing times and prices for Jun 23
Cheapest price
$83
Average price
$337
Fastest journey
2 h 42 m
Average duration
2 h 58 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
168 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Downingtown, PA 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 Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC will cost around $337 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC without transferring at least once.
7:07 AM3h24Downingtown, PA10:31 AMWashington, DC$831One-way1 transfer- 6:05 AM2h57Downingtown, PA9:02 AMWashington, DC$2721One-way1 transfer
- 7:47 AM3h14Downingtown, PA11:01 AMWashington, DC$2721One-way1 transfer
- 4:13 PM3h15Downingtown, PA7:28 PMWashington, DC$2721One-way1 transfer
- 5:37 PM3h13Downingtown, PA8:50 PMWashington, DC$2721One-way1 transfer
- 10:05 AM2h42Downingtown, PA12:47 PMWashington, DC$6881One-way1 transfer
- 1:07 PM2h51Downingtown, PA3:58 PMWashington, DC$6881One-way1 transfer
- 6:05 AM2h57Downingtown, PA9:02 AMWashington, DC$2721One-way1 transfer
- 6:45 PM3h08Downingtown, PA9:53 PMWashington, DC$2721One-way1 transfer
- 5:37 PM3h13Downingtown, PA8:50 PMWashington, DC$2721One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 13m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $28, and a flight costs an average of $221.
Distance: 104 miles (168 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$76 Average price | $31 Average price Cheapest | $443 Average price | $24 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 7m Average total duration 2h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration 3h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 13m Average total duration Fastest 1h 13m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC is a bus with an average price of $31 (€26).
This is compared to other travel options from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC:
A bus is $45 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC costing on average $76 (€62).
A bus is $412 (€337) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC costing on average $443 (€363).
The fastest way to travel from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 13m.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 37m.
Bus takes on average 3h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Downingtown, PA 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 Downingtown, PA 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 $76 (€62) compared to roughly $24 (€20) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-51.73 (€-42.34). The journey takes 2h 37m versus 2h 35m 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
Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC train times
The table below shows live departures for Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC trains for today, Monday, June 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 640 Keystone Service · 181 Northeast Regional | 6:05 AM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 3h01 | 9:06 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 640 Keystone Service · 89 Palmetto | 6:05 AM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 3h39 | 9:44 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
640 Keystone Service+ 2107 Acela | 6:05 AM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 4h25 | 10:30 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 642 Keystone Service · 79 Carolinian | 6:57 AM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 4h12 | 11:09 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 642 Keystone Service+2107 Acela | 6:57 AM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 3h33 | 10:30 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 600 Keystone Service · 185 Northeast Regional | 7:47 AM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 5h10 | 12:57 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 646 Keystone Service · 95 Northeast Regional | 10:05 AM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 4h00 | 2:05 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 650 Keystone Service · 171 Northeast Regional | 1:12 PM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 3h13 | 4:25 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 652 Keystone Service · 173 Northeast Regional | 4:13 PM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 3h19 | 7:32 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 652 Keystone Service+2167 Acela | 4:13 PM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 3h50 | 8:03 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 654 Keystone Service · 193 Northeast Regional | 5:37 PM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 3h15 | 8:52 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 656 Keystone Service · 137 Northeast Regional | 6:45 PM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 3h13 | 9:58 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 658 Keystone Service · 175 Northeast Regional | 7:40 PM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 3h43 | 11:23 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| 622 Keystone Service · 67 Northeast Regional | 10:15 PM Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA | 8h39 | 6:54 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Downingtown, PA 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 Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Trains from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $36 (€29) but you can travel from only $28 (€23) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:00, the last at 22:21. The fastest train covers the 104 miles (168 km) distance in 3h 1m.
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 $28 (€23)
Distance 104 miles (168 km) |
Average train duration 2h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€29) |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 3h 1m |
First train 3:00 AM |
Last train 10:21 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $28 (€23)
Train companies: Amtrak from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Downingtown, PA and Washington, DC from $28 (€23). 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
3h 1m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
Amtrak frequency
10 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 museum for aviation and space exploration, featuring iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and interactive exhibits.
- Must visit
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Powerful museum covering African American history, culture, and achievements through immersive exhibitions.
- Must visit
National Mall
The city’s central ceremonial landscape, lined with major museums, memorials, and classic Washington views.
- Must visit
Georgetown
Historic neighborhood of cobbled streets, waterfront paths, and Federal-era architecture, ideal for walking and photos.
- Must visit
Tidal Basin
Scenic waterfront loop famous for cherry blossoms and close-up access to several major memorials.
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.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Mumbo Sauce
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.
- Gluten-free
Chesapeake Blue Crab
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.
Old Ebbitt Grill
An established downtown institution known for oysters, crab cakes, and classic American seafood near the White House, with an elegant old-school atmosphere.
Le Diplomate
Busy, established French brasserie in Logan Circle known for polished service, a classic dining room, and consistently popular bistro dishes.
Ben's Chili Bowl
Historic casual landmark on U Street, famous for half-smokes, chili dogs, and classic Washington comfort food in a lively, nostalgic setting.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining near central areas and major attractions.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast casual or food trucks.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
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.
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 is the official fare system for Metrorail and Metrobus, and mobile wallet payment is supported through the official app. On buses, you cannot pay cash; use SmarTrip or contactless fare media.
- Metrorail fares vary by time and distance, so the lowest fare is not always the fare you will pay. Check service alerts before traveling, especially on weekends.
FAQs: Trains from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Downingtown, 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 Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $36 (€29), while the average price is around $76 (€62).
The train from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC takes 3h 1m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC is 104 miles (168 km).
The first train from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC leaves at 3:00 AM.
The last train from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC leaves at 10:21 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC.
There is no direct train service currently available from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC.
The train station in Downingtown, PA that goes to Washington, DC is Downingtown Amtrak, Downingtown, PA, which connects to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC is by bus, with a cost of around $28 (€23).
The train journey from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC offers a mix of suburban and urban views, with glimpses of the Pennsylvania countryside, the historic cityscapes of Baltimore, and the scenic Potomac River as you approach Washington, DC.
A day trip from Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC is not feasible as the duration is 3h 1m. However, there are 13 trains per day available for this route, covering a distance of 104 miles (168 km).
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 Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC.
Since neither Downingtown, 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 Downingtown, 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 Downingtown, PA to Washington, DC
Downingtown
Washington
The major train station for departures in Downingtown is Downingtown Amtrak. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Downingtown Amtrak for your trip from Downingtown to Washington.
Downingtown Amtrak
Amenities at train station
ATM
The major train station for arrivals in Washington is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your journey to Washington from Downingtown.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
DiningATM
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
Most popular train connections from Downingtown, PA
More options for your journey from Downingtown, 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 Downingtown, PA
Most popular train connections to Washington, DC
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