Amtrak’s pleasant and effective rail services make it easier than ever to travel between New York City and Washington, DC. Everything you need to know about Amtrak New York to Washington DC routes, schedules, tickets, and more is covered in this guide, whether you’re traveling for work or visiting the East Coast’s cultural hotspots.

Amtrak New York to Washington DC

Amtrak New York to Washington Route Details

The following table contains important information on Amtrak’s route from New York to Washington, D.C., which mostly follows the Northeast Corridor:

AspectDetails
Route NameNortheast Corridor (NEC)
Primary Stations New York City, NY: Moynihan Train Hall (Penn Station)
Washington, D.C.: Union Station
Distance225 miles (362 km)
Travel Time2h 45m – 3h 30m (varies by service):
Acela Express: Fastest (2h 45m – 3h 10m)
Northeast Regional: 3h 15m – 3h 30m
Frequency30–40 daily departures (combined services):
Acela: 15–20 trains/day
Northeast Regional: 20–25 trains/day
Other long-distance trains (e.g., Cardinal, Silver Star): Limited stops
Train Services Acela Express (Premium high-speed)
 Northeast Regional (Standard)
 Long-Distance Routes (e.g., Cardinal, Silver Meteor)
Key Intermediate StopsNewark (NJ), Trenton (NJ), Philadelphia (PA), Wilmington (DE), Baltimore (MD), BWI Airport (MD)
Amenities Acela: Business/First Class, Wi-Fi, Café, Power outlets, Quiet Car
 Northeast Regional: Coach/Business Class, Wi-Fi, Café, Power outlets
AccessibilityAll trains and stations comply with ADA requirements.
Loyalty ProgramAmtrak Guest Rewards (points earned per dollar spent).
Pet PolicySmall pets allowed in carriers (reservation required; $29 fee).
Baggage Allowance 2 carry-ons + 2 personal items
2 checked bags (free on most routes).
Ticket OptionsFlexible, Semi-Flexible, Saver (refund/cancellation policies vary).
Peak Travel TimesWeekdays (business travel), holidays, summer. Book early for discounts.
Additional Notes Delays possible due to track congestion or weather.
Acela offers First Class lounge access at stations.
Booking OptionsOnline via Amtrak website or app, at station kiosks, or through ticket agents.

Important Amtrak Stop of New York to Washington

This table lists the major cities, transport hubs, and unique characteristics at each station along Amtrak’s New York (NYP) to Washington, D.C. (WAS) route:

Stop NameLocationDistance from NYCNotable Features
New York (NYP)New York, NY0 milesMoynihan Train Hall at Penn Station; connects to NYC Subway, LIRR, NJ Transit.
Newark (NWK)Newark, NJ10 milesLinks to Newark Liberty Airport via AirTrain; major NJ Transit hub.
Trenton (TRE)Trenton, NJ55 milesNew Jersey’s capital; connects to NJ Transit and SEPTA Regional Rail.
Philadelphia (PHL)Philadelphia, PA95 miles30th Street Station (historic landmark); SEPTA, buses, and regional rail access.
Wilmington (WIL)Wilmington, DE120 milesDelaware’s largest city; close to tax-free shopping districts.
Baltimore (BAL)Baltimore, MD185 milesPenn Station (Charles Street); connects to MARC commuter rail and Charm City Circulator.
BWI Airport (BWI)Baltimore, MD195 milesFree shuttle to BWI Airport terminals; MARC and Amtrak Thruway buses available.
Washington, D.C. (WAS)Washington, D.C.225 milesUnion Station (iconic architecture); Metro, buses, and VRE/MARC commuter rail.

Amtrak Timetable of New York to Washington DC

The Amtrak train schedule from New York City (NYP) to Washington, D.C. (WAS) is shown in this table.

Departure Time (NYP)Arrival Time (WAS)Service TypeDurationKey StopsNotes
5:00 AM8:15 AMNortheast Regional3h 15mNewark (NWK), Trenton (TRE), Philadelphia (PHL)Early morning train; limited crowds.
6:30 AM9:45 AMAcela Express3h 15mNewark (NWK), Philadelphia (PHL), Baltimore (BAL)Peak business service; Quiet Car and Wi-Fi.
8:00 AM11:15 AMNortheast Regional3h 15mMetropark (MET), Trenton (TRE), Wilmington (WIL)Connects to NJ Transit at Metropark.
9:30 AM12:45 PMAcela Express3h 15mPhiladelphia (PHL), BWI Airport (BWI)Mid-morning express; First Class meals included.
11:00 AM2:15 PMNortheast Regional3h 15mNewark (NWK), Philadelphia (PHL), Wilmington (WIL)Standard midday service; café car available.
12:30 PM3:45 PMAcela Express3h 15mTrenton (TRE), Philadelphia (PHL), Baltimore (BAL)High-speed option; fewer stops.
2:00 PM5:15 PMNortheast Regional3h 15mPhiladelphia (PHL), Wilmington (WIL), BWI (BWI)Afternoon service; ideal for leisure travel.
4:00 PM7:15 PMAcela Express3h 15mNewark (NWK), Philadelphia (PHL)Evening rush-hour train; crowded but efficient.
5:30 PM8:45 PMNortheast Regional3h 15mTrenton (TRE), Philadelphia (PHL), BWI (BWI)Connects to commuter rail at Philadelphia.
7:00 PM10:15 PMAcela Express3h 15mPhiladelphia (PHL), Wilmington (WIL)Last Acela with full dining service.
9:00 PM12:15 AM (next day)Northeast Regional3h 15mNewark (NWK), Trenton (TRE), Baltimore (BAL)Late-night option; limited amenities.
11:00 PM2:15 AM (next day)Northeast Regional3h 15mPhiladelphia (PHL), Wilmington (WIL), BWI (BWI)Overnight service; minimal crowds.

Amenities of Amtrak New York to Washington

  • Spacious Seating: Comfortable seats with ample legroom and adjustable headrests.
  • Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected throughout your journey with complimentary internet access.
  • Power Outlets: Conveniently located at your seat to charge your devices.
  • Quiet Car Option: A peaceful environment for those who prefer a noise-free experience.
  • Cafe Service: Onboard snacks, beverages, and light meals available for purchase.
  • Scenic Views: Large windows offering picturesque views of the East Coast.
  • Luggage Allowance: Generous baggage policy with space for carry-ons and checked luggage.
  • Accessibility Features: Accommodations for passengers with disabilities, including priority seating and accessible restrooms.

Amtrak New York City to Washington DC Cost

This table shows the price of popular Amtrak routes from New York City to Washington, DC, along with fare types, discounts, and pricing-influencing factors. Prices are estimates that could change, (check Amtrak.com).

erviceFare TypePrice Range (One-Way)Key FeaturesDiscounts
Northeast RegionalSaver Fare20–20–50Non-refundable, limited availability, no changes allowed.10% off for seniors (60+), AAA, military, students (through Amtrak’s deals).
Value Fare40–40–80Partially refundable, moderate flexibility.Same as above.
Flexible Fare60–60–120Fully refundable, last-minute changes allowed.Rarely discounted.
Business Class100–100–180Priority boarding, extra legroom, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks.Discounts apply to base fare only.
Acela ExpressBusiness Class120–120–220High-speed service, Wi-Fi, power outlets, Café Car access.Limited discounts (seniors/military may apply).
First Class200–200–350+Premium dining, wider seats, exclusive lounge access at stations.No standard discounts; upgrades available.
Planning Your Trip for New York City to Washington DC Amtrak
  • Choose Your Train Service: Decide between the Northeast Regional (affordable) or Acela Express (fast and premium) depending on your budget and travel preferences.
  • Check the Schedule: Review the Amtrak New York to Washington DC Schedule to pick a departure time that suits your needs.
  • Book in Advance: Secure your tickets early to enjoy the best rates on Amtrak Tickets from New York to Washington DC.
  • Plan for Onboard Comfort: Bring along any personal items like headphones, snacks, or reading materials for a relaxing journey.
  • Explore Additional Services: Consider options like the Quiet Car or Cafe Service for added convenience and comfort.
  • Know Your Stops: Familiarize yourself with the Amtrak Washington to New York Stops for potential destinations or pickup locations along the way
Conclusion

Amtrak offers comfort and trustworthiness whether you’re traveling for work or pleasure from Washington, DC, to New York. It’s the best option for East Coast travel because of its regular timetables, affordable prices, and hassle-free experience.

The Best Routes on Amtrak
FAQs for Amtrak from New York City to Washington, DC
How long is the train ride from New York to Washington, D.C.?

The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes on Acela Express and about 3.5 hours on Northeast Regional trains.​

How can I purchase Amtrak tickets from New York to Washington, D.C.?

Tickets can be purchased online via Amtrak’s official website, through the Amtrak mobile app, at station kiosks, or with station agents.​

How often do trains run between New York and Washington, D.C.?

Amtrak offers multiple daily departures on both Acela Express and Northeast Regional services.​

Can I change or cancel my Amtrak ticket after purchase?

Yes, depending on the fare type purchased. Details on modifying reservations can be found on Amtrak’s Tickets & Reservations page.​

How can I access the latest schedules for trains between New York and Washington, D.C.?

The most up-to-date schedules are available on Amtrak’s official website under the Train Schedules & Timetables section.

What is the Amtrak Schedule from Washington DC to New York?

Trains run from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily; check Amtrak’s official timetable.

What’s the difference between Acela and Northeast Regional?

Acela is faster with premium amenities; Regional is budget-friendly.

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