Washington, D.C., and New York City are always a favorite travel destination for many people. These cities are only about 5 hours away from each other, which creates a well-traveled route between these two iconic cities. You can choose from a variety of transportation options to help you easily get from one place to another.
Here, BestBus goes over are the four most popular ways to travel between Washington, D.C. and New York City.
1. Drive a Car
Depending on the amount of traffic, it usually takes anywhere between four to six hours for you to travel by car from Washington, D.C. to New York City. Traveling by car is ideal for families that enjoy sightseeing throughout the trip. Of course, it is always important to keep in mind that rush hour traffic is usually between 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
To optimize your road trip, take I-95 North, which links to the New Jersey Turnpike. This route will guide you into New York City via the Holland Tunnel, Lincoln Tunnel, or George Washington Bridge. Keep in mind that there are several tolls along this route; thus, having an E-ZPass is recommended to expedite your journey through toll plazas.
Traveling from Washington, D.C. to New York by car can be completed within a day, but preparing adequately can enhance comfort for everyone involved. A useful tip for the road is to pack non-perishable food items. It's prudent to have water and snacks like nuts and beef jerky readily available for a more enjoyable journey.
2. Travel by Bus
Taking a bus from Washington, D.C. to NYC is your best option (call us bias!). Usually, it takes around 5 or 6 hours to travel by bus. One of the main benefits of traveling by bus is that it is one of the cheapest options for getting to the city, and you will never have to worry about the expense of fuel or the stress of driving your vehicle in heavy traffic.
Buses depart from Union Station in Washington, D.C., and arrive at New York City's Port Authority Bus Terminal. Additionally, some services provide curbside drop-offs in Midtown, while others may take you directly to Chinatown.
You can take advantage of the range of amenities provided on a bus. Most bus companies ensure a comfortable ride with reserved seating, power outlets, Wi-Fi, and entertainment options. They operate on a consistent daily schedule. For an even more comfortable journey, you might opt for deluxe bus services, which feature larger seats, fewer passengers, more legroom, and complimentary amenities such as water, Wi-Fi, and movies.
3. Ride a Train
Whether you're traveling from Washington, D.C. to New York for leisure or business, taking the train is a straightforward and dependable mode of transportation. This option is particularly advantageous during the winter when other forms of travel might face delays.
Traveling by train between Washington, D.C., and NYC takes slightly over three hours, as it is an ideal option for business travelers. Taking the train is the fastest way to visit New York City, as you will not have to worry about the hassle of security checks or rest stops.
Many of New York's attractions, such as Broadway and Times Square, are conveniently located within walking distance from the train station. Additionally, if you plan to use the subway, you'll find that destinations like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Central Park, and the Museum of Natural History are easily accessible.
4. Travel by Plane
Visiting New York City from Washington, D.C. by plane is a great option if you are looking to travel quickly. The actual flight time is only an hour and 20 minutes, but it usually takes three to four hours due to waiting in line for security check-ins. The vast majority of flights from Washington, D.C. to NYC originate at Washington National Airport and end at LaGuardia Airport.
The price of plane tickets can be expensive and fluctuate based on the season and the platform used for booking. To secure the best rates and save on your airfare, be sure to search for online discounts.
What to Keep in Mind About Choosing Transportation
With the various transportation options available from Washington, D.C. to New York, you're guaranteed to find the perfect choice for your needs. Consider your preferences, budget, and desired comfort level to select the most convenient mode of transport. Additionally, it's important to plan your trip in advance and consider your itinerary before deciding on your preferred method of travel.
Contact BestBus for Travelling by Bus from Washington, D.C. to NYC
BestBus is one of the leading luxury travel companies that can help you always travel in style from Washington, D.C. to NYC. Contact us to book your bus ticket today and take advantage of our VIP rewards program that lets you reschedule trips, purchase discounted tickets, and much more!