- 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 Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC
Showing times and prices for Jul 02
Cheapest price
$93
Average price
$170
Fastest journey
2 h 31 m
Average duration
2 h 40 m
Trains per day
30
Distance
293 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Metuchen, NJ 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 Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC will cost around $170 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $93.
Fast trains
Of the 30 trains that leave Metuchen, NJ for Washington, DC on Thu, Jul 02, 30 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 02 the direct trains cover the 293 km distance in an average of 2 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 31 m .
On Thu, Jul 02 the slowest trains will take 2 h 51 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.
111 Northeast Regional5:30 AM2h56New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ8:26 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$931One-way0 transfers- 111 Northeast Regional5:20 AM3h06Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ8:26 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$971One-way0 transfers
- 65 Northeast Regional11:57 PM6h32Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ6:29 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$971One-way0 transfers
2103 NextGen Acela6:37 AM2h32Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ9:09 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$1291One-way0 transfers- 79 Carolinian7:51 AM3h18New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ11:09 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$1311One-way0 transfers
- 2113 NextGen Acela10:27 AM2h31Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ12:58 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$1601One-way0 transfers
- 2103 NextGen Acela6:37 AM2h32Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ9:09 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$1291One-way0 transfers
- 2109 NextGen Acela8:46 AM2h36Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ11:22 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$1601One-way0 transfers
- 141 Northeast Regional8:56 AM2h49Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ11:45 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$1811One-way0 transfers
- 93 Northeast Regional2:34 PM2h51Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ5:25 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$1811One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $30. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 26m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $30, and a flight costs an average of $68.
Distance: 182 miles (293 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$65 Average price | $186 Average price | $37 Average price Cheapest | $41 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 15m Average total duration 2h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 26m Average total duration Fastest 1h 26m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration 4h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC is a bus with an average price of $37 (€30).
This is compared to other travel options from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC:
A bus is $28 (€23) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC costing on average $65 (€54).
A bus is $149 (€123) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC costing on average $186 (€153).
The fastest way to travel from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 26m.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 45m.
Bus takes on average 4h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Metuchen, NJ 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 Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 42m sooner (2h 45m by train vs 3h 27m by car). Tickets start at around $65 (€54) compared to roughly $41 (€33) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Amtrak, Amtrak.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC train times
The table below shows live departures for Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC trains for tomorrow, Thursday, July 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 111 Northeast Regional | 5:20 AM Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ | 3h06 | 8:26 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 111 Northeast Regional | 5:30 AM New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ | 2h56 | 8:26 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 89 Palmetto | 6:33 AM Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ | 3h11 | 9:44 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2103 NextGen Acela | 6:37 AM Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ | 2h32 | 9:09 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 79 Carolinian | 7:40 AM Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ | 3h29 | 11:09 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 79 Carolinian | 7:51 AM New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ | 3h18 | 11:09 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 183 Northeast Regional | 7:56 AM Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ | 3h20 | 11:16 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 141 Northeast Regional | 8:44 AM Newark Liberty International Airport, Newark, NJ | 3h01 | 11:45 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2109 NextGen Acela | 8:46 AM Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ | 2h36 | 11:22 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 141 Northeast Regional | 8:56 AM Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ | 2h49 | 11:45 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 185 Northeast Regional | 9:46 AM Newark Liberty International Airport, Newark, NJ | 3h11 | 12:57 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 185 Northeast Regional | 9:59 AM Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ | 2h58 | 12:57 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Metuchen, NJ 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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Why should you book Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC trains with Omio?
Amtrak as well as Amtrak or NJ Transit offer trains services from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Amtrak, but also compare tickets for the likes of Amtrak or NJ Transit to find the best option for your trip from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Amtrak with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Trains from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC run on average 30 times per day, taking around 2h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $19 (€16) if you book in advance.
There are 29 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 182 miles (293 km) distance in 2h 52m.
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
Distance 182 miles (293 km) |
Average train duration 2h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€16) |
Trains per day 30 |
Direct trains 29 |
Fastest train 2h 52m |
First train 3:20 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 49 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
Train companies: Amtrak, NJ Transit from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak, NJ Transit trains will get you between Metuchen, NJ and Washington, DC from $19 (€16). 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
2h 52m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€16)
Amtrak frequency
27 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
NJ Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 39m
Cheapest Price
$41 (€34)
NJ Transit frequency
10 a day
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 is the official fare system for Metrorail and Metrobus, and paying with SmarTrip gives the lowest fare. You can add SmarTrip to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet.
- Metrobus accepts contactless card payment on buses only through SmarTrip, not direct bank card tap. Use the official WMATA tools to check service alerts before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Metuchen, NJ 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 Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $19 (€16), while the average price is around $65 (€54).
The train from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC takes 2h 52m and runs 30 per day.
The distance by train from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC is 182 miles (293 km).
The first train from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC leaves at 3:20 AM.
The last train from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC.
Yes, there is a direct train from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC. This service operates 29 times per day, provided by Amtrak, Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC.
The train station in Metuchen, NJ that goes to Washington, DC is Metropark Station, Iselin, NJ, which connects to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC is by train, with a cost of around $19 (€16).
The train journey from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC offers a mix of urban and suburban scenery, with views of cities, small towns, and natural landscapes like rivers and wooded areas, though it is not typically considered one of the most scenic routes.
A day trip from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 52m. However, there are 34 train trips available per day for this route.
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 Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC.
Since neither Metuchen, NJ 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 Metuchen, NJ 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 Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC
Most Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC trains use the Metropark Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Metuchen, NJ and Washington, DC train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Metuchen
Arrival train stations in Washington
Which Washington, DC station do trains from Metuchen, NJ arrive at?
Trains from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC arrive at Union Station. Union Station is 1 miles (3 km) from Washington, DC city centre.
Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States+1 202 2891908
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Washington city centre
Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD30 · 15m · $4 · every ~10 min
281, 481, 483, 484, 486 · 19m · $2 · every ~1 min
SubwayR · 5m · $2 · every ~27 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: 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
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak. ATMs are there are 2 ATM machines located on Level G.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00, Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00. Information desks are located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill, Phoenix Park Hotel, Kimpton George Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Metuchen, NJ
More options for your journey from Metuchen, NJ to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Washington, DC and Metuchen, NJ
Most popular train connections to Washington, DC
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