North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC train with NJ Transit

Wed, Aug 26
+ Add return
NJ Transit
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
NJ Transit
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC

Showing times and prices for Aug 27

Cheapest price

$25

Average price

$25

Fastest journey

6 h 57 m

Average duration

6 h 57 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

295 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from North Plainfield, 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 North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC will cost around $25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $25.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave North Plainfield, NJ for Washington, DC on Thu, Aug 27, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Aug 27 the direct trains cover the 295 km distance in an average of 6 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 57 m .

On Thu, Aug 27 the slowest trains will take 6 h 57 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.

  • Amtrak
    3:57 AM6h57
    North Plainfield, NJ
    10:54 AMWashington, DC
    $251One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $74. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 26m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $74, and a train costs an average of $310.

Distance: 183 miles (295 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$471

Average price

$76

Average price

Cheapest

$43

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 56m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 9m

Average total duration

6h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 43m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC is a bus with an average price of $76.

This is compared to other travel options from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC:

A bus is $395 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC costing on average $471.

The fastest way to travel from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC is by train with an average journey time of 4h 26m.

Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 39m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between North Plainfield, NJ and Washington, DC including taking a train and bus.
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 $471 compared to roughly $43 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-427.76. The journey takes 4h 26m versus 3h 43m 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

North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC train times

The table below shows live departures for North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak3:57 AM North Plainfield, NJ
6h57
10:54 AM Washington, DC0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Wed
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01

Journey information

Overview: Train from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC run on average 21 times per day, taking around 4h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $310 but you can travel from only $74 by bus.

There are 20 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:00, the last at 20:30. The fastest train covers the 183 miles (295 km) distance in 3h 30m.

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 $74
Distance
183 miles (295 km)
Average train duration
4h 26m
Cheapest ticket price
$310
Trains per day
21
Direct trains
20
Fastest train
3h 30m
First train
5:00 AM
Last train
8:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
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 $74

Train companies: NJ Transit from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC trainsNJ Transit trains will get you between North Plainfield, NJ and Washington, DC from $74. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

NJ Transit

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 30m
Cheapest Price
$74
NJ Transit frequency
25 a day

Complete guide to Washington, DC

Things to do in Washington, DC

Discover the best of Washington, DC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington, DC trip today.

  • 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.

  • Must visit

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Housed in a Beaux-Arts building, this museum explores natural wonders with dinosaurs, gems, fossils, and global biodiversity.

  • Must visit

National Museum of African American History and Culture

A landmark museum documenting African American history and culture through powerful exhibitions, artifacts, and storytelling.

US dollar ($)

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.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
$80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$4-6 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes: round up or add $1-2.

FAQs: Trains from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from North Plainfield, 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $310, while the average price is around $471.
The train from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC takes 3h 30m and runs 21 per day.
The distance by train from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC is 183 miles (295 km).
The first train from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC leaves at 5:00 AM.
The last train from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC leaves at 8:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC.
There is no direct train service currently available from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC.
The train station in North Plainfield, 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 North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC is by bus, with a cost of around $74.
The train journey from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC offers views of urban landscapes, industrial areas, and sections of natural scenery, particularly as it passes through parts of New Jersey and along the Delaware River, but it is not widely regarded as particularly scenic compared to other routes.
A day trip from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 30m. However, there are 35 trains available per day for this journey. The distance is 183 miles (295 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 North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC.
Since neither North Plainfield, 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.
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 North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC

Most North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC trains use the Metropark Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare North Plainfield, 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 North Plainfield
Arrival train stations in Washington

Which Washington, DC station do trains from North Plainfield, NJ arrive at?

Trains from North Plainfield, 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 2891908WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

More options for your journey from North Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Washington, DCNorth Plainfield, NJ to Washington, DC train

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone