- Must visit
AKG Art Museum
Major art museum with a strong modern and contemporary collection in a landmark campus in Delaware Park.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY
Showing times and prices for May 26
Cheapest price
$136
Average price
$139
Fastest journey
17 h 32 m
Average duration
17 h 32 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
470 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY will cost around $139 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $136.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Washington, DC for Buffalo, NY on Tue, May 26, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, May 26 the direct trains cover the 470 km distance in an average of 17 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 17 h 32 m .
On Tue, May 26 the slowest trains will take 17 h 32 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.
2:00 AM17h32Washington, DC7:32 PMBuffalo, NY$1361One-way0 transfers- 3:00 AM17h32Washington, DC8:32 PMBuffalo, NY$1431One-way0 transfers
- 3:00 AM17h32Washington, DC8:32 PMBuffalo, NY$1431One-way0 transfers
- 2:00 AM17h32Washington, DC7:32 PMBuffalo, NY$1361One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $69. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $69, and a flight costs an average of $94.
Distance: 292 miles (470 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$174 Average price | $284 Average price | $132 Average price Cheapest | $76 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 18m Average total duration 12h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 0m Average total duration Fastest 2h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 13h 28m Average total duration 12h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.4 - 2.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY is a bus with an average price of $132 (€107).
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY:
A bus is $42 (€34) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY costing on average $174 (€140).
A bus is $153 (€123) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY costing on average $284 (€230).
The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 0m.
Other travel options to Buffalo, NY take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 48m.
Bus takes on average 12h 58m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Buffalo, NY including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY among Omio's users.
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 $174 (€140) compared to roughly $76 (€62) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-97.06 (€-78.54). The journey takes 12h 48m versus 6h 49m 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
Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY trains for today, Sunday, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 162 Northeast Regional · 281 Empire Service | 6:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 12h35 | 6:55 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 1 transfer | |
| 98 Silver Meteor · 283 Empire Service | 7:13 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 14h29 | 9:42 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 1 transfer | |
| 152 Northeast Regional · 283 Empire Service | 8:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 13h22 | 9:42 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 1 transfer | |
| 80 Carolinian · 63 Maple Leaf | 5:15 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 22h25 | 3:40 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 1 transfer | |
| 66 Northeast Regional · 63 Maple Leaf | 10:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 17h40 | 3:40 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 1 transfer | |
| 2:00 AM Washington, DC | 17h32 | 7:32 PM Buffalo, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:00 AM Washington, DC | 17h32 | 8:32 PM Buffalo, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY 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 Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY trains with Omio?
Amtrak as well as Amtrak offer trains services from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY.
- 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 Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY run on average 4 times per day, taking around 12h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $91 (€74) but you can travel from only $69 (€56) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 292 miles (470 km) distance in 12h 35m.
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 $69 (€56)
Distance 292 miles (470 km) |
Average train duration 12h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $91 (€74) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 12h 35m |
First train 3:20 AM |
Last train 10:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $69 (€56)
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Buffalo, NY from $69 (€56). 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
12h 35m
Cheapest Price
$91 (€74)
Amtrak frequency
1 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 Buffalo
Things to do in Buffalo
Discover the best of Buffalo — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Buffalo trip today.
- Must visit
Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House
Architectural museum complex and Prairie School masterpiece, one of Buffalo's most important design sites.
- Recommended
The Buffalo History Museum
City history museum overlooking Hoyt Lake, known for Pan-American Exposition collections and regional archives.
- Must visit
Canalside
The city's top waterfront destination with boardwalks, events, public art, and strong social media appeal.
- Must visit
Delaware Park
Frederick Law Olmsted-designed park with trails, Hoyt Lake, gardens, and major cultural institutions nearby.
- Recommended
Elmwood Village
Walkable neighborhood known for independent shops, historic homes, and one of Buffalo's best street scenes.
Buffalo Wings
Crispy chicken wings tossed in a tangy cayenne-butter sauce, usually served with celery and blue cheese. Buffalo's most famous dish originated here.
Beef on Weck
Roast beef piled on a kummelweck roll topped with caraway and coarse salt, typically served with horseradish and au jus. A signature Western New York sandwich.
Buffalo Fish Fry
A Friday staple of battered fried haddock or cod, often served with fries, coleslaw, rye bread, and tartar sauce. Especially popular during Lent but enjoyed year-round.
Schwabl's
Long-running traditional tavern famous for beef on weck, with old-school Buffalo character and dependable local specialties.
Hutch's
Well-known upscale restaurant offering polished American dining, steaks, seafood, and a refined atmosphere for a nicer night out.
Gabriel's Gate
Established pub in Allentown known for strong wings, burgers, and a lively neighborhood bar atmosphere in a historic building.
United States Dollar
Generally cheaper than New York City. Hotels and dining are moderate, while bars, coffee, and local transport are fairly affordable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60-120+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for excellent service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff.
Token Transit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- USD 2.00
- Day pass
- USD 5.00
To the city center
Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo -> Downtown Buffalo Transit Center, Buffalo
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can pay NFTA Metro fares with the Token Transit app, which is convenient for buses and light rail.
- Card payment availability onboard can vary, so buy tickets in the app or carry a backup payment method.
Traveling by train from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY
Traveling between Washington, DC and Buffalo, NY is made convenient with Amtrak providing a comfortable train connection. The journey offers scenic views of the East Coast as you traverse through charming landscapes. With multiple daily departures, passengers can enjoy a hassle-free travel experience while relaxing in spacious seating and onboard amenities. Whether you're heading to explore Buffalo's rich history or returning from the nation's capital, Amtrak ensures an enjoyable ride for all travelers.
Train Connection: Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY
The train journey from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY takes approximately 13 hours and 2 minutes. There are no direct connections available; travelers will need to make at least one transfer during the trip.
Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY
The first daily train journey from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY departs at 12:50 PM. This schedule remains consistent throughout the day with no additional departures mentioned for this route.
Train Tickets Price for Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY is $136 (122.4€). The average ticket price tends to be around $195 (175.5€), making it a good option for travelers looking to save on transportation costs while exploring these two cities.
Exploring the Wonders of Niagara Falls and Buffalo
Welcome to Niagara Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder that has captivated visitors for centuries. This iconic landmark not only serves as a powerful reminder of nature's beauty but also plays a crucial role in the local economy through tourism and hydroelectric power generation. What makes it truly unique is its sheer volume of water—over 168,000 cubic meters flow over the falls every minute—creating an awe-inspiring spectacle that you simply cannot miss.
Next on our journey is Buffalo City Hall, an architectural gem completed in 1931 that stands as one of the tallest city halls in the United States. Its significance lies not just in its impressive Art Deco design but also as a symbol of Buffalo’s rich history and resilience during economic challenges. Be sure to take note of its stunning murals and intricate details; they reflect both civic pride and artistic achievement from an era when craftsmanship was paramount.
Finally, we arrive at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, home to one of America’s most distinguished collections of modern and contemporary art. Established in 1862, this gallery holds significant cultural importance by showcasing works from renowned artists like Picasso and Warhol while fostering community engagement with innovative exhibitions. The unique feature here is its commitment to education; you'll find interactive programs designed to inspire creativity among all ages—a true treasure trove for art lovers!
FAQs: Trains from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY 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 Buffalo, NY, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $91 (€74), while the average price is around $174 (€140).
The train from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY takes 12h 35m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY is 292 miles (470 km).
The first train from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY leaves at 3:20 AM.
The last train from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY leaves at 10:00 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY.
There is no direct train service currently available from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Buffalo, NY is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, which connects to Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY is by bus, with a cost of around $69 (€56).
The train journey from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the rolling landscapes of Pennsylvania and along the shores of picturesque lakes in New York. Passengers can enjoy a mix of urban and natural vistas, providing an enjoyable visual experience during the trip.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY is not feasible as the journey takes 12h 35m. However, trains run 3 times per day along this 292 miles (470 km) route.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Buffalo, NY is ideal for exploring key attractions like Niagara Falls, the Buffalo Zoo, and the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, while also enjoying the local food scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY.
Since neither Washington, DC nor Buffalo, NY 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 Buffalo, NY include Rochester, NY, Niagara Falls, NY, Erie, PA, Niagara Falls, ON, St. Catharines, ON.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY 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 Buffalo, NY, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and tourist spots. Scams involving overcharging for taxi or rideshare services have been reported, so it's advised to use licensed transportation and confirm fares beforehand. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings at night, particularly in less populated neighborhoods, to avoid potential safety risks.
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 Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY
Washington
Buffalo
The major train station for departures in Washington is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Washington to Buffalo.
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
The major train station for arrivals in Buffalo is Exchange Street Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Exchange Street Station for your journey to Buffalo from Washington.
Exchange Street Station
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available nearby with several public parking lots in the vicinity.
Dining
- Pearl Street Grill & Brewery
- Liberty Hound
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- Courtyard by Marriott Buffalo Downtown/Canalside
- Buffalo Marriott at LECOM HARBORCENTER
- The Westin Buffalo
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Hall 2: platforms for Empire Service and Maple Leaf trains
Public transit options for Exchange Street Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metro Rail: Erie Canal Harbor Station
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Buffalo, NY and Washington, DC
Most popular train connections to Buffalo, NY
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