- 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.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essex, MD to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $6. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $6, and a bus costs an average of $16.
Distance: 41 miles (67 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$9 Average price Cheapest | $17 Average price | $10 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 16m Average total duration Fastest 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 37m Average total duration 1h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Essex, MD to Washington, DC:
A train is $9 (€7) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Essex, MD to Washington, DC costing on average $17 (€14).
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 7m.
The journey is about 22m faster (46m by train vs 1h 8m by car) and roughly $1 (€1) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($9 (€7) vs $10 (€8)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Compare bus and train 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.
Trains from Essex, MD to Washington, DC run on average 33 times per day, taking around 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $6 (€5) if you book in advance.
There are 33 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:41, the last at 11:10. The fastest train covers the 41 miles (67 km) distance in 47m.
Distance 41 miles (67 km) |
Average train duration 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $6 (€5) |
Trains per day 33 |
Direct trains 33 |
Fastest train 47m |
First train 2:41 AM |
Last train 11:10 AM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Washington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington trip today.
One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and broad family-friendly exhibits.
Flagship Smithsonian museum covering aviation and spaceflight, with iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and major interactive exhibits.
Premier art museum with strong collections from the Middle Ages to modern art, plus sculpture garden and rotating exhibitions.
The city’s grand ceremonial park lined with Smithsonian museums, memorials, and iconic government buildings.
Historic neighborhood of cobblestone streets, waterfront walks, rowhouses, and some of Washington’s most photogenic corners.
Scenic waterside loop famous for cherry blossoms and views of major memorials, especially popular for sunrise and spring visits.
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.
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.
Steamed or picked blue crab from the nearby Chesapeake region is deeply tied to local food traditions. It is especially popular in warmer months.
Celebrated upscale restaurant with creative small plates and a warm, energetic atmosphere. It is one of Washington’s best-known modern dining destinations.
A classic, long-running Washington institution known for oysters, crab cakes, and traditional American fare in an elegant historic atmosphere.
Bustling brasserie known for polished French classics, strong brunch, and a stylish dining room that is popular with both locals and visitors.
Prices are high for hotels and dining, especially downtown. Free museums help balance daily costs.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
Official public transport app
Union Station, Washington, DC -> Metro Center, Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essex, MD 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.

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