- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Renowned museum featuring exhibits on Earth's biodiversity, anthropology, and more.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Waltham, MA to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Take a train from Waltham, MA to Washington, DC and enjoy the approximately 387 miles (624 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
There are 28 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 22:00.
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 387 miles (624 km) |
Average train duration 7h 55m |
Trains per day 36 |
Direct trains 28 |
First train 3:20 AM |
Last train 10:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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 from Waltham, MA to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Waltham, MA and Washington, DC. 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
Amtrak frequency
22 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
Complete guide to Washington D.C.
Things to do in Washington D.C.
Discover the best of Washington D.C. — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington D.C. trip today.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Art
Prestigious art museum housing a vast collection of European and American art.
- Must visit
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Comprehensive museum portraying African American life, history, and culture.
- Must visit
National Mall
Expansive park area hosting iconic monuments, museums, and political events.
- Recommended
U Street Corridor
Vibrant area known for its nightlife, music, and African American heritage.
- Recommended
Georgetown
Charming neighborhood featuring historic architecture, high-end shops, and dining.
Half-Smoke
A spiced sausage typically made of half beef and half pork, smoked and served with chili on a bun. Iconic to Washington, DC.
- Gluten-free
Maryland Blue Crab
Fresh blue crabs from the Chesapeake Bay, often steamed with Old Bay seasoning. A regional favorite.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Mumbo Sauce
A tangy, sweet, and spicy sauce originally from Chicago but popularized in DC, often served with fried chicken or fries.
Blue Duck Tavern
A Michelin-starred restaurant featuring farm-to-table American cuisine in a contemporary setting.
Old Ebbitt Grill
A historic bar and restaurant known for oysters and classic American dishes. Popular with politicians and tourists.
Founding Farmers DC
A farmer-owned restaurant offering American comfort food and sustainable practices in a charming setting.
United States Dollar
As the capital city, costs in Washington, D.C. can be high, with accommodation and dining generally more expensive than other US cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-5 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
15-20% in restaurants, round up taxis, not expected in cafes.
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
- Tap a contactless card or mobile wallet directly at Metrorail faregates and on Metrobus; SmarTrip in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet also works.
- Metrobus fare is USD 2.25 and transfers between Metrobus and Metrorail are calculated automatically with SmarTrip or contactless payment.
FAQs: Trains from Waltham, MA to Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Waltham, MA 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.
The distance by train from Waltham, MA to Washington, DC is 387 miles (624 km).
The first train from Waltham, MA to Washington, DC leaves at 3:20 AM.
The last train from Waltham, MA to Washington, DC leaves at 10:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Waltham, MA to Washington, DC.
Yes, there is a direct train from Waltham, MA to Washington, DC. This service operates 28 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Waltham, MA to Washington, DC.
The train station in Waltham, MA that goes to Washington, DC is South Station, Boston, MA, which connects to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The train journey from Waltham, MA to Washington, DC offers a mix of urban and natural views, with scenic highlights including glimpses of the Connecticut River, coastal landscapes near New Haven, and stretches of the Northeast Corridor's historic rail lines.
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 Waltham, MA to Washington, DC.
Since neither Waltham, MA 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 Waltham, MA 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 Waltham, MA to Washington, DC
Waltham
Washington
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
Distance to city center
2 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak.
Lockers
- Amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Dining
- 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
Accessibility
- Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Hotel
- Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill
- Phoenix Park Hotel
- Kimpton George Hotel
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
Information Desk
- Located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Public transit options for Union Station
- Metro lines: Red
- Bus lines: D6, D8, 80, 96,
- Train lines: Acela, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Fredericksburg Line, MARC Brunswick, MARC Camden, MARC Penn, Manassas Line, Northeast Regional, Palmetto, Silver Service/Palmetto, Vermonter
Most popular train connections from Waltham, MA
More options for your journey from Waltham, MA to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Washington, DC and Waltham, MA
Most popular train connections to Washington, DC
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