- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.
Cheapest price on Oct 15
$144
Average ticket price on Oct 15
$351
Fastest journey on Oct 15
2 h 59 m
Average journey duration on Oct 15
3 h 5 m
Trains on Oct 15
25
Distance
328 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from New York, NY 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 New York, NY to Washington, DC will cost around $351 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $144.
On Thu, Oct 15, we found 25 trains from New York, NY to Washington, DC, including 25 direct services.
On Thu, Oct 15 the direct trains cover the 328 km distance in an average of 3 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 59 m .
On Thu, Oct 15 the slowest trains will take 3 h 7 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.
1111 Northeast Regional
1103 Northeast Regional
79 Carolinian
67 Northeast Regional
1127 Northeast Regional
2151 Acela [NextGen]
2149 Acela [NextGen]
2115 Acela [NextGen]
2105 Acela [NextGen]
2155 Acela [NextGen]Trains from New York, NY to Washington, DC run on average 34 times per day, taking around 3h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 if you book in advance.
There are 33 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:00, the last at 23:28. The fastest train covers the 203 miles (328 km) distance in 2h 39m.
Distance 203 miles (328 km) |
Average train duration 3h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 |
Trains per day 34 |
Direct trains 33 |
Fastest train 2h 39m |
First train 3:00 AM |
Last train 11:28 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 84 days |
The table below shows live departures for New York, NY to Washington, DC trains for today, Wednesday, October 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1087 Northeast Regional | 3:04 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h30 | 6:34 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2115 Acela [NextGen] | 3:50 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h06 | 6:56 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1163 Northeast Regional | 4:05 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h45 | 7:50 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2155 Acela [NextGen] | 5:00 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h07 | 8:07 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1129 Northeast Regional | 5:03 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h40 | 8:43 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1135 Northeast Regional | 6:05 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h41 | 9:46 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1107 Northeast Regional | 7:10 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h30 | 10:40 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1165 Northeast Regional | 8:01 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h41 | 11:42 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
67 Northeast Regional | 11:23 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 7h31 | 6:54 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, October 15 | |||||
1109 Northeast Regional | 5:35 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h27 | 9:02 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2101 Acela [NextGen] | 6:50 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h14 | 10:04 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
79 Carolinian | 7:04 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h58 | 11:02 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1111 Northeast Regional | 7:55 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h31 | 11:26 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2103 Acela [NextGen] | 8:00 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h12 | 11:12 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1153 Northeast Regional | 8:05 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h38 | 11:43 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2105 Acela [NextGen] | 9:00 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h06 | 12:06 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1103 Northeast Regional | 9:01 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h25 | 12:26 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1155 Northeast Regional | 9:08 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h33 | 12:41 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1143 Northeast Regional | 9:58 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h24 | 1:22 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2149 Acela [NextGen] | 10:03 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h05 | 1:08 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1127 Northeast Regional | 10:10 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h45 | 1:55 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2151 Acela [NextGen] | 11:06 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 2h59 | 2:05 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1195 Northeast Regional | 11:11 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h27 | 2:38 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2133 Acela [NextGen] | 12:10 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h07 | 3:17 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1147 Northeast Regional | 12:50 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h22 | 4:12 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1099 Northeast Regional | 1:17 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h24 | 4:41 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1161 Northeast Regional | 1:49 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h37 | 5:26 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
19 Crescent | 2:00 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h48 | 5:48 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2123 Acela [NextGen] | 2:05 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h08 | 5:13 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
97 Silver Meteor | 2:30 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h56 | 6:26 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
By Maria Kofou
Traveling between New York City and Washington, D.C., by train is one of the most popular routes in the United States. Whether you're heading out for a weekend getaway or a multi-city East Coast itinerary, the train offers comfort, speed, and a stress-free, city-center-to-city-center experience.

A view from the train platform looking directly at the front of a blue and silver Amtrak Northeast Regional train.
The rail journey from New York Penn Station (NYP) to Washington Union Station (WAS) covers approximately 362 kilometers. Depending on the service, the trip takes between 2 hours 45 minutes and 3 hours 30 minutes.
I’ve personally taken this route twice, and each time, it reinforced just how convenient—and surprisingly scenic—train travel can be in the USA. As a lover of museums and history, D.C. was an obvious choice—so much of America’s story is preserved and told there. From the Lincoln Memorial to the Library of Congress, I was drawn to the city’s monumental past and present. And getting there couldn’t have been easier. Rather than dealing with airport transfers and security lines, I simply boarded a train in Midtown Manhattan and stepped off just a short walk from the Capitol.
Penn Station is located beneath Madison Square Garden in Midtown Manhattan, between 7th and 8th Avenue and 31st to 33rd Street. Though it’s one of the busiest transit hubs in the U.S., it’s become easier to navigate, thanks to recent renovations and clearer signage. There are multiple entrances, each serving different parts of the station: Main Entrance at 7th Avenue & 32nd Street: This is the classic Penn Station access point, leading you into the Amtrak concourse and main departure boards. 8th Avenue Entrance (near Moynihan Train Hall): Ideal if you're traveling on Amtrak; it connects to the spacious and modern Moynihan Hall, with high ceilings, natural light, and extra amenities. 31st & 33rd Street Entrances: These provide direct access to specific platforms, often used by commuters and those familiar with their departure gates. You’ll find food vendors, public restrooms, and seating areas throughout the complex. If you're traveling in Business Class or Acela First, you can access Amtrak lounges for a quieter waiting experience, with complimentary Wi-Fi and refreshments. Union Station is both functional and grand. Inside, you’ll find restaurants, coffee shops, convenience stores, and even a post office. The station also has car rentals and bike share docks and is directly connected to the Washington Metro (Red Line). Insider Tips: Use the 1st Street NE Exit for the fastest walk to the Capitol or Supreme Court buildings. Main Entrance on Massachusetts Avenue offers easy taxi, rideshare, and tour bus pickup. Metro Access is located downstairs—follow signs for the Red Line if you're heading toward Dupont Circle, Chinatown, or Bethesda. Luggage storage is available at the Amtrak Parcel Check for a fee—ideal if you're doing a day trip and don’t want to carry bags around. Security lines are minimal, but if you're catching a return train during rush hour, give yourself a few extra minutes to find your track.
I would suggest you arrive 20–30 minutes early, especially if it’s your first time navigating Penn Station or if you want to enter through Moynihan Hall and enjoy the new concourse. Located just a 10-minute walk from the U.S. Capitol, Union Station places you within easy reach of the National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, and popular D.C. neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and NoMa.
Amtrak trains between NYC and D.C. run almost every hour, beginning early in the morning and continuing through the evening. Acela: Travel time is around 2h 45m, with fewer daily departures. Northeast Regional: Runs more frequently, averaging 3h 20m. On my first trip, I rode the Northeast Regional both times—one late morning, one early afternoon. Both trains were punctual, and boarding was easy with an e-ticket.
Classes and Comfort Both Acela and Northeast Regional offer two main classes: Coach Class: Spacious, reserved seating with tray tables, outlets, and free Wi-Fi. Business Class: More legroom, quieter cars, and complimentary beverages (Acela includes lounge access in select stations). Acela First Class: Reserved seating, at-seat meal service, and premium lounge access. I traveled in Coach Class both times and was impressed by the comfort. The seats were wide, legroom generous, and Wi-Fi reliable enough for basic browsing and emails. Amenities There’s a café car on all services with snacks, sandwiches, coffee, and drinks. Restrooms are located in each car, and the train staff were helpful and professional on both journeys.
Train Options: Acela Express – Amtrak’s premium, high-speed service; the fastest option. Northeast Regional – A bit slower than Acela but more affordable and frequent. Other Amtrak Trains – Such as the Cardinal or Crescent, which also run along this corridor but with limited schedules. If you're prioritizing speed, Acela is ideal. If you're looking for value and flexibility, the Northeast Regional is an excellent choice—and the one I used on both of my trips. The best way to buy your tickets is through Omio. Omio is especially useful if you’re planning a multi-city trip across countries or regions. It combines trains, buses, and flights into one streamlined booking process. For U.S. routes like New York to Washington, D.C., it’s a convenient alternative to booking directly with Amtrak, plus you may find promo codes or discounts. Prices vary based on the time of booking and travel date: Northeast Regional (Coach): $29–$89 Acela Express: $120–$180 Business Class Upgrade: Add $20–$50 Tip: Book 1–3 weeks in advance to get the best fares and your preferred departure time. Bonus: Scenic Highlights Along the Route While not mountainous or coastal, this journey still offers subtle beauty, especially if you enjoy urban and riverside views. Some highlights include: Skyscrapers fading into suburbs as you leave New York Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station, one of the most historic in the U.S. Crossing the Susquehanna River in Maryland Approaching Union Station with the Capitol dome in the distance On both trips, I sat on the left side of the train when heading south—recommended for better river views.
| Item | Cost (eur) |
|---|---|
| Ticket price | €120 |
| Food & drinks | € |
| Travel to departure station | € |
| Travel from arrival station | € |
| Total | € 120 |
Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, taking the train from New York to Washington, D.C., is fast, efficient, and stress-free. After riding this route twice, I can confidently say it’s one of the easiest ways to navigate the Northeast—and a far better alternative to short-haul flights.

A headshot of travel journalist Maria Kofou smiling, with a travel backpack on.
Discover the best of Washington, DC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington, DC trip today.
This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.
Housed in a Beaux-Arts building, this museum explores natural wonders with dinosaurs, gems, fossils, and global biodiversity.
A landmark museum documenting African American history and culture through powerful exhibitions, artifacts, and storytelling.
The National Mall is Washington's grand civic promenade, lined with museums, memorials, and classic views ideal for first-time visitors.
Georgetown charms with historic streets, rowhouses, waterfront paths, and independent shops that make it one of the city's best walking areas.
The Tidal Basin loop offers famous cherry blossoms, water views, and easy access to several of Washington's most iconic memorials.
Half-smoke sausage, usually smoked pork and beef, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is DC's signature street food, strongly tied to Ben's Chili Bowl.
Jumbo slice is an oversized late-night pizza slice popular in Adams Morgan. It is a recognizable DC nightlife food known for its huge foldable portions.
Mumbo sauce is a sweet tangy red sauce commonly served with fried chicken and wings at DC carryouts. It is a beloved local condiment with roots in Black DC food culture.
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant focused on Mid-Atlantic ingredients and refined tasting menus in an elegant, contemporary dining room.
Polished seafood institution at the municipal fish market, best known for regional oysters, crab cakes, and classic Chesapeake flavors.
Historic casual landmark famous for half-smokes, chili, and a classic diner feel. A must for trying DC's best-known street food tradition.
DC is pricier than many US cities. Hotels and dining run high in central areas, but Metro and many free museums help balance daily travel costs.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes: round up or add $1-2.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from New York, NY 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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