- 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.
Cheapest price
$189
Average price
$218
Fastest journey
18 h 10 m
Average duration
18 h 10 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
763 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lansing, MI 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 Lansing, MI to Washington, DC will cost around $218 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $189.
Of the 2 trains that leave Lansing, MI for Washington, DC on Sun, Jun 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 763 km distance in an average of 18 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 18 h 10 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 18 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.




Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Lansing, MI to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $87. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $87, and a flight costs an average of $359.
Distance: 474 miles (763 km)
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$220 Average price | $449 Average price | $158 Average price Cheapest | $114 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
19h 47m Average total duration 19h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 55m Average total duration Fastest 2h 55m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 23h 31m Average total duration 23h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 39m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Lansing, MI to Washington, DC:
A bus is $62 (€51) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lansing, MI to Washington, DC costing on average $220 (€180).
A bus is $290 (€238) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lansing, MI to Washington, DC costing on average $449 (€367).
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 19h 17m.
Bus takes on average 23h 1m.
Tickets start at around $220 (€180) compared to roughly $114 (€93) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-106.35 (€-87.04). The journey takes 19h 17m versus 8h 39m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Lansing, MI to Washington, DC trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
6048 AMTRAK · 41 Floridian | 7:00 PM East Lansing Station, East Lansing, MI | 18h10 | 1:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
![]() | 12:00 AM Lansing, MI | 18h10 | 6:10 PM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Lansing, MI to Washington, DC run on average 3 times per day, taking around 19h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $115 (€94) but you can travel from only $87 (€71) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 08:54, the last at 19:00. The fastest train covers the 474 miles (763 km) distance in 18h 10m.
Distance 474 miles (763 km) |
Average train duration 19h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $115 (€94) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 18h 10m |
First train 8:54 AM |
Last train 7:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 42 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 most visited museums in the city, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and major natural science collections.
Flagship museum for aviation and space exploration, featuring iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and interactive exhibits.
Powerful museum covering African American history, culture, and achievements through immersive exhibitions.
The city’s central ceremonial landscape, lined with major museums, memorials, and classic Washington views.
Historic neighborhood of cobbled streets, waterfront paths, and Federal-era architecture, ideal for walking and photos.
Scenic waterfront loop famous for cherry blossoms and close-up access to several major memorials.
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 strongly associated with Washington carryout culture, commonly paired with fried chicken and fries. It is a distinctive local flavor locals recognize immediately.
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.
An established downtown institution known for oysters, crab cakes, and classic American seafood near the White House, with an elegant old-school atmosphere.
Busy, established French brasserie in Logan Circle known for polished service, a classic dining room, and consistently popular bistro dishes.
Historic casual landmark on U Street, famous for half-smokes, chili dogs, and classic Washington comfort food in a lively, nostalgic setting.
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining near central areas and major attractions.
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.
Official public transport app
Union Station, Washington, DC -> Metro Center, Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lansing, MI 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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