- Must visit
Seattle Art Museum
Major art museum with global collections, strong Native and modern holdings, and rotating blockbuster exhibitions downtown.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA
Showing times and prices for Aug 24
Cheapest price
$480
Average price
$632
Fastest journey
2 d 22 h 32 m
Average duration
3 d 15 h 54 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
3737 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA will cost around $632 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $480.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA without transferring at least once.
40 Floridian · 27 Empire Builder · 508 Amtrak Cascades3:57 PM81h53Washington Union Station, Washington, DC10:50 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$4801One-way2 transfers- 40 Floridian · 7 Empire Builder3:57 PM70h32Washington Union Station, Washington, DC11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$5071One-way1 transfer
- 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 7 Empire Builder10:35 AM75h54Washington Union Station, Washington, DC11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$6341One-way2 transfers
- 40 Floridian · 5 California Zephyr · 14 Coast Starlight3:57 PM102h54Washington Union Station, Washington, DC7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$7071One-way2 transfers
- 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 5 California Zephyr · 14 Coast Starlight10:35 AM108h16Washington Union Station, Washington, DC7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$8341One-way3 transfers
- 40 Floridian · 7 Empire Builder3:57 PM70h32Washington Union Station, Washington, DC11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$5071One-way1 transfer
- 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 7 Empire Builder10:35 AM75h54Washington Union Station, Washington, DC11:29 AMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$6341One-way2 transfers
- 40 Floridian · 27 Empire Builder · 508 Amtrak Cascades3:57 PM81h53Washington Union Station, Washington, DC10:50 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$4801One-way2 transfers
- 40 Floridian · 5 California Zephyr · 14 Coast Starlight3:57 PM102h54Washington Union Station, Washington, DC7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$7071One-way2 transfers
- 174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 5 California Zephyr · 14 Coast Starlight10:35 AM108h16Washington Union Station, Washington, DC7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA$8341One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to Seattle, WA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $148. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 36m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $148, and a train costs an average of $231.
Distance: 2322 miles (3737 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$596 Average price | $277 Average price | $244 Average price Cheapest | $653 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
67h 47m Average total duration 67h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 36m Average total duration Fastest 6h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 84h 10m Average total duration 83h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 40h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA is a flight with an average price of $312 (€250).
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA:
A flight is $62 (€50) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA costing on average $374 (€301).
A flight is $241 (€194) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA costing on average $553 (€444).
The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 32m.
Other travel options to Seattle, WA take longer:
Train takes on average 67h 15m.
Bus takes on average 83h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Seattle, WA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA 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 $553 (€444) compared to roughly $653 (€525) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $100 (€81). The journey takes 67h 15m versus 40h 29m 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 Seattle, WA train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Seattle, WA trains for today, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51 Cardinal · 5 California Zephyr · 14 Coast Starlight | 11:39 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 107h12 | 7:51 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 2 transfers | |
| 51 Cardinal · 7 Empire Builder | 11:39 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 74h50 | 11:29 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 1 transfer | |
| 51 Cardinal · 27 Empire Builder · 508 Amtrak Cascades | 11:39 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 86h11 | 10:50 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 2 transfers | |
| 40 Floridian · 27 Empire Builder · 508 Amtrak Cascades | 3:57 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 81h53 | 10:50 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 2 transfers | |
| 40 Floridian · 5 California Zephyr · 14 Coast Starlight | 3:57 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 102h54 | 7:51 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 2 transfers | |
| 40 Floridian · 7 Empire Builder | 3:57 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 70h32 | 11:29 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Seattle, WA 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 67h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $231 (€186) but you can travel from only $148 (€119) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 07:13, the last at 18:42. The fastest train covers the 2322 miles (3737 km) distance in 70h 32m.
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
Flight from $148 (€119)
Distance 2322 miles (3737 km) |
Average train duration 67h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $231 (€186) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 70h 32m |
First train 7:13 AM |
Last train 6:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Flight from $148 (€119)
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Seattle, WA from $87 (€70). 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
66h 47m
Cheapest Price
$224 (€180)
Amtrak frequency
6 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 Seattle, WA
Things to do in Seattle, WA
Discover the best of Seattle, WA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Seattle, WA trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Pop Culture
Immersive pop-culture museum with music, science fiction, gaming, and film exhibits in a Frank Gehry building.
- Must visit
The Museum of Flight
Leading aviation museum featuring historic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on exhibits near Boeing Field.
- Must visit
Discovery Park
Vast urban park with forests, beaches, bluffs, and trails, plus some of Seattle’s finest Puget Sound views.
- Must visit
Seattle Waterfront
Lively waterfront district with ferries, the Great Wheel, promenades, and classic Elliott Bay scenery.
- Must visit
Kerry Park
Beloved hilltop park offering postcard views of downtown, Elliott Bay, and Mount Rainier, especially at sunset.
- Gluten-free
Cedar Plank Salmon
Cedar plank salmon is Pacific Northwest salmon roasted on cedar, adding smoky wood aroma. It reflects Seattle's strong salmon culture and regional cooking style.
Seattle-Style Teriyaki
Seattle-style teriyaki is grilled meat with sweet-savory sauce, usually over rice and salad. It became a defining everyday local meal across the city.
- Gluten-free
Geoduck
Geoduck is a large Pacific Northwest clam, often served raw or lightly cooked. It is prized locally for its sweet taste and connection to regional seafood.
Pike Place Chowder
Historic Pike Place Market spot famed for clam chowder, seafood sandwiches, and casual counter service with a lively market atmosphere.
Matt's in the Market
Long-running market restaurant known for Dungeness crab cakes, seafood entrées, and views over Pike Place with a classic local feel.
The Pink Door
Acclaimed fine dining destination focused on seasonal Pacific Northwest ingredients, refined tasting menus, and elegant service near Pike Place.
US dollar ($)
Seattle is pricier than many US cities, with higher hotel, dining, and parking costs. Transit is reasonable, but central stays and waterfront meals raise typical visitor budgets.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars or screens; small tips are appreciated.
FAQs: Trains from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $224 (€180), while the average price is around $553 (€444).
The train from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA takes 66h 47m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA leaves at 7:13 AM.
The distance by train from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA is 2322 miles (3737 km).
The last train from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA leaves at 6:42 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Seattle, WA is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, which connects to King Street Station, Seattle, WA.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA is by flight, with a cost of around $148 (€119).
The train journey from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA is considered scenic, offering views of the diverse landscapes of America, including the Appalachian Mountains, the Mississippi River, the plains of North Dakota, and the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA is not feasible as the travel duration is 66h 47m and the distance is 2322 miles (3737 km). The frequency of trains is 5 per day.
In Seattle, WA, you can take a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island for stunning views and a charming small-town experience, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Capitol Hill and Fremont, visit the Seattle Aquarium, and enjoy a walk or bike ride along the Burke-Gilman Trail. For cultural experiences, see a live performance at the historic Paramount Theatre. Must-see sights include the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Seattle Art Museum.
For a comprehensive experience in Seattle, WA, 3 to 4 days are typically sufficient to explore major attractions such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Museum of Pop Culture, while also allowing time for side trips to nearby destinations like Mount Rainier or Bainbridge Island.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA.
Since neither Washington, DC nor Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA include Olympia, WA, Tacoma, WA, Lacey, WA, Centralia, WA, Mount Vernon, WA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots like Pike Place Market. Scams involving fake charity collectors and street performers asking for money are common. It's advisable to stay alert in public transit and avoid unlicensed taxis. Travelers should also be aware of occasional aggressive panhandling in certain 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 Washington, DC to Seattle, WA
Most Washington, DC to Seattle, WA trains use the Union Station to King Street Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Seattle, WA 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 Seattle
Which Washington, DC station do trains to Seattle, WA leave from?
Trains from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA station do trains from Washington, DC arrive at?
Trains from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA most often arrive at King Street Station. Some services arrive at Tukwila Amtrak, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Seattle, WA arrival station.
King Street Station303 South Jackson Street, Seattle, WA 98104, USA+1 206-553-3000
City-centre transport
Getting to King Street Station from Seattle city centre
BusDungeness Line · 4m · $22
1, 101, 13, 14, 150, 177, 2, 3, 36, 4, 7, 70, 49, 102, 162 · 5m · $4 · every ~52 min
Tram1 Line, 2 Line · 3m · $4 · every ~28 min
King Street Station train station facilities and services
King Street Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The London Plane, Salumi
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at King Street Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at King Street Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at King Street Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at King Street Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at King Street Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square, The Arctic Club Seattle - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Best Western Plus Pioneer Square Hotel Downtown.
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Seattle, WA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Seattle, WA and Washington, DC
Most popular train connections to Seattle, WA
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