Wondering how far Washington DC to New York City is? It all depends on the way you travel between the two.
How Far Apart Are DC And NYC?
Washington D.C. and New York City are two iconic cities on the east coast of the United States, each offering a myriad of attractions and experiences for travelers. Many visitors plan trips to both cities, making it essential to know the distance between them and the options available for travel. These cities are approximately 225 miles apart, but the time between them can vary greatly depending on the mode of transportation.
How Far Washington DC to NYC: By Train
Traveling from Washington DC to New York City by train is a convenient and comfortable option for passengers. There are multiple trains every day between the two cities. These are almost all operated by Amtrak trains as well as the Acela train which is also by Amtrak.
Via Amtrak
If using the regular Amtrak or the Northeast Regional, as it is often called, the travel time is between 3 hours and 25 minutes and 3 hours and 50 minutes. Some trains make more stops than others. You can find the exact timings when you book your ticket
Via Acela
The fastest option between NYC and DC is the Acela train. This train can get you between the two cities in just about 2 hours and 50 minutes. It only stops in major cities like Baltimore, Philadelphia and Newark. It is significantly more expensive than the regular Amtrak mentioned above.
Train Stations
The primary train station in Washington DC is Union Station, while in New York City, trains arrive at Penn Station. These iconic train stations allow passengers easy access to city centers due to their central locations.
Both stations are well equipped with food and small convenient stores. If you don’t want train station food, there’s plenty of restaurants near Union Station and near Penn Station as well.
How Far Washington DC to NYC: By Car
The driving distance between Washington DC and New York City is approximately 225 miles. There are several routes you can take, from the most direct to a more scenic one.
​Driving I-95
The most direct and fastest way to cover this distance generally involves taking the I-95 and New Jersey Turnpike. Travelers who prefer the direct route will find that the I-95 and New Jersey Turnpike allows for a relatively quick drive. This route passes through several major cities such as Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Newark. Keep in mind, though, that traffic on this route can be heavy, especially during peak hours, which may cause some delays. If you travel during off peak times, the fastest journey by car is just under 4 hours by car.
Coastline Route
One of the many other options is the coastline route, which stretches about 315 miles and takes around 5 hours 30 minutes. This route follows the eastern seaboard and offers picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean and its surrounding coastal areas. While this route takes longer than the I-95 and New Jersey Turnpike, it allows for a more enjoyable and relaxed road trip experience.
Traffic Between DC And NYC
Traffic in this part of the United States can be awful. What should be a 4 hour drive on I 95 between NYC and DC can take 6 or 7 hours in prime traffic. It is one of the biggest reasons taking the train is so popular between these two cities.
Whichever route you choose, it is important to plan for regular breaks during your journey. Service areas are available throughout both routes, providing opportunities for restroom stops, meals, and refueling. Additionally, taking breaks helps combat driver fatigue and enhances overall road safety.
How Far Washington DC To NYC: By Bus
Traveling from Washington DC to New York City by bus is a popular choice for those seeking an affordable transportation option. There are several bus companies to select from, including Bolt Bus and Greyhound which offers reasonable fares and frequent services.
Bus tickets can be purchased in advance or on the day of travel. It’s often advised to book your tickets in advance to secure a better price. Websites such as Wanderu can help you find bus tickets starting from just $5.
Buses typically depart from Union Station in Washington DC, which is easily accessible via public transportation or taxi. Travelers can expect the journey to New York City to take approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Upon arrival, most buses will drop you off at a central location in Manhattan, providing easy access to the city’s sights and attractions.
While buses may not be the fastest mode of transportation, they do offer certain advantages. For example, buses often have onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Additionally, choosing the bus over a flight can save you the hassle of dealing with a local airport and potential delays or cancellations.
How Far Washington DC To NYC: By Flight
If you don’t count your time in the airport itself, then a flight is the fastest way to get between NYC and DC. The flight time in air is typically around 38 to 40 minutes. Of course airports are more subject to delays than train or taking your own car.
Airports
There are several airports in both Washington, DC, and New York City that travelers can use for their flights. In Washington, DC, the best airports to fly into are Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport. BWI airport is also an option but this is further than the previous two airports mentioned.
In New York City, the major airports are John F. Kennedy International Airport, Newark Airport, and LaGuardia Airport.
Airlines
Several airlines offer flights between Washington, DC, and New York City. Some of the main carriers are Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, and American Airlines. These airlines offer various direct flights and connecting flights to cater to the travelers’ needs.
How Far Washington DC To NYC: Summary
The distance between Washington DC and New York City can be measured in different ways, depending on factors like mode of transportation and the specific route taken. Whether it’s the speed and convenience of the Acela train, the scenic beauty of a coastal drive, the affordability of bus travel, or the swiftness of a short flight, each mode of transportation provides its own unique advantages. It is approximately 225 miles between these two iconic cities. With many travel options, it’s easy to get between the two.
