Iconic landmarks like the National Mall and the White House, so often shown in movies and tv shows, suddenly right in front of you. That’s the magic of a day trip to Washington DC from NYC! In this detailed guide, I’ll everything you need to know for an unforgettable visit to the beautiful capital of the United States.
If you’re spending seven days or six days in New York – which is plenty of time to experience the Big Apple – why not consider a day trip to Washington DC for a change of scenery? This solemn city, known for its many national monuments, is a must-see for both history buffs and people who enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
Washington DC in a nutshell
About 225 miles to the southwest of New York, located on the Potomac River and bordered by Maryland, lies Washington DC. This compact city is both the capital of the United States and a federal district (the District of Columbia, or DC). It is not part of any state, and is not one itself.
The city features the three branches of U.S. federal government: Congress (legislative), the Supreme Court (judicial) and the president (executive). These branches are represented by iconic buildings, including the U.S. Capitol, the Supreme Court Building and the White House.
The city is also known for its many famous monuments like the Washington Monument, Abraham Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.
Did you know: Washington DC’s National Mall and parks include more than 100 monuments and memorials!
How to get from NYC to Washington DC
There are several ways to get to Washington DC from New York for a day trip: by train, by bus or by car. I’ll discuss each option below, so you can decide for yourself which option is the one for you.
NYC to Washington DC by train
Taking the train from NYC to Washington is the fastest option, but also the most expensive. On average, the train ride takes 3,5 hours. The Acela train, even though not a bullet train, travels to DC in as little as 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Amtrak offers several services from Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station (Manhattan) to Washington DC Union Station:
- Northeast Regional: This service takes about 3,5 hours. Tickets cost around $100 round trip (coach).
- Acela (Premium): This service takes about 2,5 hours. Tickets cost around $200 round trip (business only).
- Cardinal: This service takes about 3,5 hours. Round trip tickets cost around $150 (coach).
- Carolinian: This service takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes. Tickets cost around $102 round trip (coach).
- Silver Service: This service takes around 3,5 hours. Round trip tickets cost around $150 (coach).
Trains to Washington DC arrive at Union Station (1907), Amtrak’s second-busiest station.
NYC to Washington DC by bus
The cheapest way to get to DC is by bus. Several bus companies offer services between the two cities, with different departure points in Manhattan.
FlixBus: We chose FlixBus for our day trip to Washington DC and were very pleased. The bus was comfortable with plenty of leg space and free Wi-Fi, USB-charging ports and restrooms. Make sure to be at the departure point on time, as the driver typically won’t wait for long (if at all).
FlixBus leaves from 31st Street and 8th Avenue (across Madison Square Garden), 28 Allen Street (Chinatown) and New York Port Authority. The journey takes approximately 4.5 hours – 5 hours, ending at Washington DC Union Station. Round-trip tickets cost around $30.
The FlixBus station at 8th Avenue, right across Madison Square Garden.
Greyhound (FlixBus): Greyhound buses depart from the New York Port Authority and George Washington Bridge bus stations. It takes around 4,5 – 5 hours to reach Union Station. A round-trip ticket costs $32 – $48.
Peter Pan: Peter Pan runs buses between New York Port Authority and Washington DC Union Station. Travel times vary between 4,5 and 6,5 hours. Tickets cost $44 for a round-trip.
Megabus: The Megabus M21 route stops at three stops between New York and Washington. The bus sets off from Megabus Bus Stop – 34th St b/t 11th Ave and 12th Ave and drops you off at Union Station. Round-trip tickets cost roughly $15, and the journey takes around 4 hours and 45 minutes.
NYC to Washington DC by car
Visiting Washington DC by car is the most flexible option, allowing you to travel whenever you please. The journey takes approximately 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Visiting Washington by car offers the most flexibility in your schedule.
One Day Washington DC Itinerary (+/- 8 Hours)
You’ve arrived in Washington! Now, there aren’t enough hours in a day to see everything to see this city has to offer. That’s why this itinerary focuses on the main attractions, assuming your stay lasts from around 12 PM until 8 PM (just as ours did).
- Union Station (Freedom Bell)
- United States Capitol
- Washington Monument
- World War II Memorial
- Lincoln Monument
- White House
The route of this itinerary will take you along the National Mall and the White House.
Union Station (Freedom Bell)
Immediately upon leaving Union Station, you’ll arrive at the Freedom Bell. It was made in 1986 to commemorate the centennial anniversary of the Statue of Liberty, and to honor the United States’ commitment to freedom and democracy.
Tip: Next, grab a scooter (Lime, Lyft, Spin or Veo) to get from Union Station to the Capitol faster.
The Freedom Bell, located right outside Union Station.
United States Capitol
This iconic landmark houses the legislative branch of the U.S. government. As the seat of the United States Congress, the Capitol is where laws are debated, decisions are made, and the nation’s course is charted.
The neoclassical design is inspired by ancient Greek and Roman architecture. The building is also adorned with frescoes, sculptures, and murals that chronicle the nation’s history. Take a guided tour to explore the Rotunda, where famous paintings and statues honor key figures in American history, and the chambers of the Senate and House of Representatives.
On top of the dome of the Capitol stands a 19-feet, 15.000-pound statue called the Statue of Freedom. It represents the Goddess of Liberty and faces east – away from the National Mall – because this side is its principal entrance. The statue faces those who arrive from this direction.
Outside of the Capitol, you’ll find the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial. This statue pays tribute to the Union Army general and 18th President of the United States. Crafted from bronze, the statue captures Grant in a commanding pose, reflecting his leadership during the Civil War.
The Ulysses S. Grant Memorial, located outside the U.S. Capitol.
Washington Monument
Towering proudly at the heart of the National Mall in Washington D.C. stands the Washington Monument. This obelisk, built to honor the first president of the Unites States, is a must-see for any visitors to Washington DC.
Ascending 555 feet into the sky, the Washington Monument offers panoramic views of the city, showcasing landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Capitol Building, and the White House. Discover the enduring legacy of George Washington’s leadership and vision, and how it took over half a century to build the monument.
Did you know: the Washington Monument features in the 2017 Spider-Man: Homecoming movie!
The Washington Monument, towering over the National Mall, took over half a century to complete.
World War II Memorial
The next stop is the World War II Memorial, a solemn tribute to the brave men and women who served and sacrificed during one of the most defining conflicts of the 20th century. The memorial features a series of granite columns and arches, adorned with inscriptions, quotations, and symbols of all 50 states. It represents the unity, sacrifice, and victory of the U.S. forces during World War II.
The solemn World War II Memorial at the National Mall.
Lincoln Memorial
Situated on the western end of the National Mall, this grand structure is built in honor of one of America’s most beloved leaders: Abraham Lincoln. Famous for his role as president of the United States during the American Civil War, eventually re-uniting the nation and abolishing slavery through the 13th amendment.
Approaching the monument, we were struck with the size of the building and the statue. You really need to see this one! An added bonus: from the memorial’s steps, you can enjoy a great view of the Reflecting Pool, the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol.
Taking a scooter from the Lincoln Monument to the White House saves a lot of time!
White House
Finally, head to to White House. We made use of a scooter, as it’s a 30-minute walk from the Lincoln Memorial (and by now, you’ll have walked plenty). Keep in mind that the general public isn’t actually allowed to get near the White House. Instead, we’ll have to make do with a road passing the White House at about a 700 yard distance.
To get there, navigate to the Butt-Millet Memorial Fountain, or the National Christmas Tree. You’ll be able to clearly see the White House trough the fence. If you’ve got a quality zoom-function on your cellphone, you’ll also be able to make some decent pictures.
The White House, as seen from the National Christmas Tree.
Timing your trip to DC
While you can easily visit Washington DC all year round (we visited in December), there are certain periods each year during which the city is at its prettiest. Also, what day of the week is the best day to visit? I’ll let you know!
The best time of the year to take a tour to Washington
The best time of the year to visit Washington is during spring and fall. In spring (March to May), the cherry blossoms bloom, adding to the beauty of the city. During fall (September to November), the foliage turns orange and red, which is also a sight to behold.
The best day of the week to take a tour to Washington
Skip the weekend crowds and opt for a visit mid-week if you can. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays tend to be less busy, meaning fewer crowds at the National Mall and the Smithsonian museums. Plus, you might snag better deals on tours and activities.
Organized 1-day, 2-day and 3-day bus tours from NYC to DC
If planning a trip yourself still seems daunting, consider opting for an organized bus tour from New York to Washington DC. There are multiple options, like a 1-day bus tour, a 2-day bus tour and a 3-day bus tour. However, only choose a longer trip when you’ll have plenty time left to see all you want to see in New York.
Yes, organizing a trip yourself does give you complete control over your itinerary, but an organized tour takes all of this organizational hassle out of your hands. In addition, tour guides are able to tell stories and provide information about pretty much everything there is to see in Washington. You’ve just got to sit back and enjoy the experience!
Tours from New York to Washington DC and Philadelphia
Also, why not consider a combined tour from NYC to both Washington DC and Philadelphia? Visiting both cities truly allows you to dive into the storied past of the United States.
Philadelphia, the “City of Brotherly Love,” is renowned for its role in American history, just like Boston (read more about a day trip from NYC to Boston). Visit landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, to immerse yourself in the birthplace of American democracy. Also, why not visit the Rocky Steps – famous for the iconic running scene in Rocky (1976) – while you’re here?
FAQ – Day Trip to Washington DC from New York
How far is Washington DC from NYC?
Washington DC is approximately 225 miles south of New York City.
Can you do day trip to Washington DC from New York?
Sure! It’s definitely possible to do a day trip to Washington DC from New York. However, it would be a long day as travel time is around 3-4 hours one way.
Is Washington DC worth visiting from New York?
Yes, Washington DC is definitely worth visiting from New York (if you’ve got plenty of time). It’s the capital of the United States and offers famous attractions which are often shown in movies, like the National Mall and the White House.
What to see in Washington DC?
Some must-see attractions in Washington DC include the National Mall, United States Capitol, Library of Congress, World War II Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, The White House, Martin Luther King Jr Memorial, and Arlington National Cemetery.
What should I take with me to Washington DC?
Some essentials to take with you to Washington DC include comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, a refillable water bottle, snacks, a map or smartphone with navigation, a phone charging cable, a power bank and any necessary medications or personal items.
What’s the best way to get from NYC to Washington DC?
The best option depends on your preferences. By train is the fastest, by bus the cheapest and by car the most flexible.
How much is a train ride from New York to Washington DC?
Train fares from New York to Washington DC vary depending on the type of service. Generally, prices range from $100 to $200 per round trip ticket.
How long does a train ride from New York to Washington DC take?
A train ride from New York to Washington DC typically takes around 3-4 hours.
How much is a bus ride from New York to Washington DC?
Bus fares from New York to Washington DC vary depending on the bus company and time of booking. Generally, prices range from $30 to $60 for a round trip ticket.
How long does a bus ride from New York to Washington DC take?
A bus ride from New York to Washington DC typically takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic.
