- Must visit
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Major collection of American art from colonial works to contemporary pieces, housed in the historic Old Patent Office Building.
Cheapest price
$386
Average price
$386
Fastest journey
1 d 8 h 37 m
Average duration
1 d 8 h 37 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
1332 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Ottumwa Station, Ottumwa, IA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ottumwa Station, Ottumwa, IA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC will cost around $386 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $386.
It's difficult to get from Ottumwa Station, Ottumwa, IA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC without transferring at least once.
6 California Zephyr · 50 Cardinal
6 California Zephyr · 50 CardinalOmio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Ottumwa Station, Ottumwa, IA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $125. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $125, and a flight costs an average of $530.
Distance: 827 miles (1332 km)
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$255 Average price | $542 Average price | $159 Average price Cheapest | $20 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
29h 24m Average total duration 28h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 46m Average total duration Fastest 3h 46m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 28h 10m Average total duration 27h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Ottumwa Station, Ottumwa, IA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC:
A bus is $97 (€79) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ottumwa Station, Ottumwa, IA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC costing on average $255 (€209).
A bus is $384 (€315) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ottumwa Station, Ottumwa, IA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC costing on average $542 (€445).
Other travel options to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC take longer:
Bus takes on average 27h 40m.
Train takes on average 28h 54m.
Tickets start at around $255 (€209) compared to roughly $20 (€16) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-235.30 (€-193.02). The journey takes 28h 54m versus 14h 59m 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 Ottumwa Station, Ottumwa, IA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC trains for tomorrow, Saturday, July 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
6 California Zephyr · 50 Cardinal | 9:07 AM Ottumwa Station, Ottumwa, IA | 32h37 | 6:44 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Ottumwa Station, Ottumwa, IA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC run on average 1 times per day, taking around 28h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $163 (€133) but you can travel from only $125 (€102) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 14:07, the last at 15:07. The fastest train covers the 827 miles (1332 km) distance in 27h 3m.
Distance 827 miles (1332 km) |
Average train duration 28h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $163 (€133) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 27h 3m |
First train 2:07 PM |
Last train 3:07 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Discover the best of Washington Union Station — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington Union Station trip today.
Major collection of American art from colonial works to contemporary pieces, housed in the historic Old Patent Office Building.
World-class art museum with European and American masterpieces, sculpture garden, and rotating exhibitions across two buildings.
Smithsonian museum beside Union Station with mail history, rare stamps, stagecoaches, and exhibits on communication and logistics.
The city's central ceremonial park lined with museums, memorials, and major civic landmarks; essential for first-time visitors.
Scenic waterside walking area famous for cherry blossoms and views of major memorials, especially photogenic in spring.
Historic neighborhood around the Capitol with handsome row houses, public institutions, and classic Washington streetscapes.
Washington’s signature smoked sausage, usually served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is one of the city’s most iconic casual foods.
A sweet-tangy red sauce closely associated with Washington carryout culture, often paired with fried chicken and fries. It is a distinctive local comfort-food staple.
Crab cakes made with regional blue crab are a classic in the Washington area, reflecting the city’s strong Mid-Atlantic seafood traditions.
Historic Washington institution known for oysters, crab cakes, and classic American fare. Lively, traditional atmosphere near major landmarks.
Long-running Capitol Hill restaurant popular for steaks, seafood, and old-school Washington dining. Classic political atmosphere and established reputation.
Upscale, established steakhouse near Capitol Hill with polished service, strong wine program, and refined American dining.
Prices are moderate for a major US city. Station dining costs more than casual spots nearby.
Tip 18-20% at full-service restaurants. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5. Not expected at fast-food counters, but optional for coffee shops.
Official public transport app
Washington Union Station -> Metro Center, Washington
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ottumwa Station, Ottumwa, IA to Washington Union Station, 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 Union Station, Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
