Every way to reach the capital — costs, timing, and what no one tells you before you book. From a quick flight on the East Coast to a scenic Amtrak ride, we break down every option so you can arrive stress-free and ready to explore.
D.C. is served by three airports. Reagan National (DCA) is steps from Metro and closest to downtown, definitely worth paying a premium. Dulles (IAD) and BWI are often cheaper but add 45–90 min of ground transport, depending on traffic. There is a new Metro connection from IAD to downtown. BWI connects by train to Union Station.
Amtrak drops you at Union Station, walking distance to the Capitol Building and the Mall. From NYC it’s 2.5–3 hrs on Acela. Relaxed, no TSA, bags included, and you arrive into beautiful Union Station — amazing architecture and food spots.
Driving gives you flexibility, especially with kids or a packed itinerary. Many of our rentals come with street parking passes as an option. Pro tip: sometimes garage parking downtown can work out cheaper than a family riding by Metro. I-95/I-66 traffic is notoriously brutal — plan accordingly.
FlixBus and Greyhound serve D.C. from most major Eastern cities, often arriving near Union Station. The cheapest door-to-destination option if you’re flexible on time. Book early for the best fares.
Stuff worth knowing before you commit to anything.
Arrive on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Midweek arrivals mean lighter traffic, shorter lines at popular spots, and a more relaxed start to your trip.
Reagan National (DCA) is the closest airport to the city. If you have the option, it’s the most convenient — you’re downtown in under 30 minutes.
Give yourself a buffer day before any big plans. D.C. is a walk-everywhere city, and having time to get oriented before diving in makes a big difference.
The Metro connects most major attractions. Once you’re in the city, you rarely need a car — plan your arrival with that in mind.
D.C. traffic peaks hard on Friday afternoons. If you’re driving, aim to arrive before noon or after 7pm for a smoother ride in.
Union Station is more than a train stop. Whether you arrive by train or bus, it’s a beautiful landmark right in the heart of the city — a great first impression of D.C.
We’ve been hosting guests in D.C. since 2009, and one thing is always true: however you arrive, the city has a way of pulling you in immediately. Plan your route, but leave a little room for the unexpected — that’s where the best D.C. memories tend to happen.
Ready to plan the rest of your trip?
Once you’ve sorted how you’re getting there, explore what to see and do once you arrive in D.C.