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Wheatland
Former home of President James Buchanan with guided tours, period rooms, and political history on landscaped grounds west of downtown.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA
Showing times and prices for Aug 27
Cheapest price
$37
Average price
$87
Fastest journey
3 h 33 m
Average duration
4 h 6 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
142 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA 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 Lancaster, PA will cost around $87 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Washington, DC for Lancaster, PA on Thu, Aug 27, 5 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 142 km distance in an average of 4 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 33 m .
On Thu, Aug 27 the slowest trains will take 4 h 30 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.
9:05 AM3h33Washington, DC12:38 PMLancaster, PA$371One-way0 transfers- 3:30 PM4h14Washington, DC7:44 PMLancaster, PA$721One-way0 transfers
- 2:20 PM4h30Washington, DC6:50 PMLancaster, PA$881One-way0 transfers
- 2:35 PM4h11Washington, DC6:46 PMLancaster, PA$921One-way0 transfers
- 7:45 PM4h04Washington, DC11:49 PMLancaster, PA$1451One-way0 transfers
- 9:05 AM3h33Washington, DC12:38 PMLancaster, PA$371One-way0 transfers
- 7:45 PM4h04Washington, DC11:49 PMLancaster, PA$1451One-way0 transfers
- 2:35 PM4h11Washington, DC6:46 PMLancaster, PA$921One-way0 transfers
- 3:30 PM4h14Washington, DC7:44 PMLancaster, PA$721One-way0 transfers
- 2:20 PM4h30Washington, DC6:50 PMLancaster, PA$881One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $43. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, and a train costs an average of $37.
Distance: 88 miles (142 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$81 Average price | $44 Average price Cheapest | $23 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 24m Average total duration Fastest 2h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 50m Average total duration 5h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA is a bus with an average price of $44 (€36).
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA:
A bus is $36 (€29) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA costing on average $81 (€65).
The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA is by train with an average journey time of 2h 54m.
Other travel options to Lancaster, PA take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Lancaster, PA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA 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 $81 (€65) compared to roughly $23 (€18) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-57.73 (€-46.48). The journey takes 2h 54m versus 2h 21m 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 Lancaster, PA train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA trains for today, Wednesday, August 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 134 Northeast Regional · 609 Keystone Service | 11:56 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 4h01 | 3:57 PM Lancaster Station, Lancaster, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 134 Northeast Regional · 647 Keystone Service | 11:56 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 4h54 | 4:50 PM Lancaster Station, Lancaster, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 184 Northeast Regional · 647 Keystone Service | 1:20 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 3h30 | 4:50 PM Lancaster Station, Lancaster, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 94 Northeast Regional · 649 Keystone Service | 2:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 3h57 | 5:57 PM Lancaster Station, Lancaster, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 94 Northeast Regional · 651 Keystone Service | 2:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 4h49 | 6:49 PM Lancaster Station, Lancaster, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 20 Crescent · 651 Keystone Service | 2:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 4h14 | 6:49 PM Lancaster Station, Lancaster, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 148 Northeast Regional · 651 Keystone Service | 2:55 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 3h54 | 6:49 PM Lancaster Station, Lancaster, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 176 Northeast Regional · 609 Keystone Service | 3:30 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 24h27 | 3:57 PM Lancaster Station, Lancaster, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 176 Northeast Regional · 647 Keystone Service | 3:30 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 25h20 | 4:50 PM Lancaster Station, Lancaster, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 178 Northeast Regional · 653 Keystone Service | 3:56 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 3h57 | 7:53 PM Lancaster Station, Lancaster, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 138 Northeast Regional · 657 Keystone Service | 6:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 4h42 | 11:17 PM Lancaster Station, Lancaster, PA | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, August 27 | |||||
| 9:05 AM Washington, DC | 3h33 | 12:38 PM Lancaster, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:20 PM Washington, DC | 4h30 | 6:50 PM Lancaster, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:35 PM Washington, DC | 4h11 | 6:46 PM Lancaster, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:30 PM Washington, DC | 4h14 | 7:44 PM Lancaster, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Thu
Aug 27
Aug 27
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Aug 28
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Aug 30
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Sep 02
Why should you book Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA trains with Omio?
Amtrak as well as Amtrak offer trains services from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA.
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 Lancaster, PA.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA run on average 16 times per day, taking around 2h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 (€30) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 21:50. The fastest train covers the 88 miles (142 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
Distance 88 miles (142 km) |
Average train duration 2h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€30) |
Trains per day 16 |
Fastest train 3h 30m |
First train 3:20 AM |
Last train 9:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Lancaster, PA from $37 (€30). 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
3h 30m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€30)
Amtrak frequency
14 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 Lancaster, PA
Things to do in Lancaster, PA
Discover the best of Lancaster, PA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lancaster, PA trip today.
- Recommended
North Museum of Nature and Science
Hands-on museum and gallery hub in a restored factory complex, featuring regional art, science exhibits, and family-friendly learning.
- Recommended
Demuth Museum
Leading regional art museum with American art, Pennsylvania Impressionists, and rotating exhibitions in a refined downtown setting.
- Must visit
Downtown Lancaster
The city’s historic commercial heart, lined with preserved architecture, boutiques, galleries, and theaters; ideal for first-time exploration.
- Must visit
Central Market Area
Beloved public market district and surrounding blocks, busy with local life, architecture, and easy walking access to downtown highlights.
- Recommended
Gallery Row
Popular arts corridor known for murals, galleries, small shops, and a lively walkable atmosphere just north of the core.
Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Pot Pie
A Pennsylvania Dutch pot pie is a rich chicken stew with hand-rolled square noodles, not a baked pie, and is a cherished regional comfort food.
- Gluten-free
Chicken Corn Soup
Slow-cooked chicken and sweet corn in creamy broth, often with hard-boiled egg. It is a classic Lancaster County Sunday and church supper dish.
Scrapple
Scrapple is a fried loaf of pork scraps and cornmeal, served at breakfast. It is a long-standing Pennsylvania Dutch and Amish country staple.
Central Market Lancaster
Historic market with many local vendors for Pennsylvania Dutch baked goods, breakfast, sandwiches, and regional snacks in a lively casual setting.
John J. Jeffries
Upscale American restaurant in a restored tobacco warehouse, known for seasonal local ingredients, polished service, and a refined but approachable atmosphere.
Dienner's Country Restaurant
Long-running Lancaster favorite serving classic Pennsylvania Dutch fare, hearty breakfasts, pies, and local comfort food in a traditional setting.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. travel. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than major East Coast cities, while car use and limited transit can raise visitor costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-5 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars; $1 per drink is common.
FAQs: Trains from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA 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 Lancaster, PA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37 (€30), while the average price is around $81 (€65).
The train from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA takes 3h 30m and runs 16 per day.
The first train from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA leaves at 3:20 AM.
The distance by train from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA is 88 miles (142 km).
The last train from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA leaves at 9:50 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Lancaster, PA is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, which connects to Lancaster Station, Lancaster, PA.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA is by train, with a cost of around $37 (€30).
The train journey from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA offers scenic views, including glimpses of rolling countryside, historic towns, and picturesque farmlands, making it a pleasant and visually appealing trip.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 30m each way. However, there are 17 trains available per day. The distance is 88 miles (142 km).
In Lancaster, PA, you can enjoy a day of family fun at Dutch Wonderland amusement park or explore interactive exhibits at The Lancaster Science Factory. Relax at Long's Park with its walking trails and picnic areas, or experience the ice cream-making process at the Turkey Hill Experience. Visit the Wolf Sanctuary of PA for guided tours to see rescued wolves. For cultural insights, explore Lancaster Central Market, The Amish Farm and House, and Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum. History enthusiasts can tour the Rock Ford Plantation, while art lovers might enjoy the Demuth Museum, showcasing works by Charles Demuth.
Most visitors spend about 2 to 3 days in Lancaster, PA, which allows enough time to explore Amish Country, visit museums, and enjoy local attractions like farms and markets.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA.
Since neither Washington, DC nor Lancaster, PA 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 Lancaster, PA include Philadelphia, PA, Harrisburg, PA, Trenton, NJ, Paoli, PA, Ardmore, PA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA 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 Lancaster, PA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi or ride-share drivers and ticket scams at popular attractions. It is advisable to use official transportation services and stay aware of surroundings, particularly in busy tourist spots.
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 Lancaster, PA
Most Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA trains use the Union Station to Lancaster Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Lancaster, PA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Washington
Arrival train stations in Lancaster
Which Washington, DC station do trains to Lancaster, PA leave from?
Trains from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA leave from Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Washington, DC city centre at 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States.
Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States+1 202 2891908
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.
Which Lancaster, PA station do trains from Washington, DC arrive at?
Trains from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA most often arrive at Lancaster Station. Some services arrive at Elizabethtown Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Lancaster, PA arrival station.
Lancaster Station53 McGovern Ave, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Lancaster Station from Lancaster city centre
Lancaster Station is 1 km from Lancaster city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, 6, 19 · 3m · every ~6 min
Lancaster Station train station facilities and services
Lancaster Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lancaster Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lancaster Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Lancaster Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lancaster Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lancaster Station: Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lancaster Station: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square, The Hotel Lancaster, Cork Factory Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Lancaster, PA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lancaster, PA and Washington, DC
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