Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC Train

11/17/2024
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Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC by train

The journey from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC by train is 2,296.77 mi and takes 79 hr 44 min. There are 7 connections per day, with the first departure at 5:22 PM and the last at 10:00 PM. It is possible to travel from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC by train for as little as $254.44 or as much as $2,139.72. The best price for this journey is $254.44.

Lowest Price $254.44
Journey Duration 79 hr 44 min
Connection per Day 7
Lowest Price $254.44
Highest Price $2,139.72
First Departure 5:22 PM
Last Departure 10:00 PM
Distance 2,296.77 mi
Departure Los Angeles, CA
Arrival Washington, DC
Carriers Amtrak

Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC Train Times

Departure date
Sunday, Nov 17, 2024

Travel from Los Angeles, CA, to Washington, DC, by Train

The average train journey duration from Los Angeles to Washington is 79 hr 44 min. The distance between the two main stations is approximately 2,296.77 mi. Travelers have approximately 7 train connections to choose from per day. The cheapest train ticket available for this route is around $254.44. Departing from Los Angeles, trains typically leave from Los Angeles (Americanstar),Los Angeles International Airport, connecting to Washington at Springfield - Franconia,Washington DC Union Station,Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, DCA,Baltimore–Washington International Airport, BWI stations.

The Amtrak Coast Starlight service is the primary railway service managing the route between Los Angeles and Washington. This service is renowned for its spectacular views and is considered one of the most scenic train routes, linking the most significant cities on the West Coast. Dramatic landscapes characterize the journey, including snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta, lush forests, fertile valleys, and Pacific Ocean shoreline stretches.

The Coast Starlight offers both First Class private rooms and Coach accommodations. First Class rooms provide more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities, ensuring passengers can travel in comfort and luxury. Coach accommodations also offer big, comfortable seats and plenty of legroom for those preferring a more economical option. The train is equipped with various amenities to enhance the travel experience, including dining services where passengers can enjoy a variety of meal options.

Trains on this route are typically equipped with Wi-Fi, allowing passengers to stay connected. Some trains also include meals in the ticket price, offering passengers a range of dining options.

Los Angeles Union Station is a major railway hub boasting extensive amenities such as diverse eateries, ATMs, clean restrooms, clear signages, and information desks for seamless navigation. It is well-connected to local transit like buses and subways, ensuring easy commutes to various city points. In contrast, Washington Union Station offers extensive amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, surrounded by establishments offering a variety of cuisines and showcasing the city's vibrant life. Travelers should conduct thorough research and employ mobile mapping services to navigate both stations seamlessly.

What to Do in Washington:

  1. Explore the iconic National Mall and its surrounding monuments and memorials.
  2. Visit the Smithsonian Museums, offering a wealth of knowledge and exhibits.
  3. Take a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building and learn about the legislative process.
  4. Stroll through Georgetown and enjoy its historic charm and vibrant atmosphere.
  5. Visit the National Zoo and see a variety of animal species.
  6. Explore the diverse neighborhoods and experience the local culture and cuisine.
  7. Attend a performance at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
  8. Discover the history and significance of Arlington National Cemetery.
  9. Enjoy the natural beauty of Rock Creek Park.
  10. Visit the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world.

What to Eat in Washington:

  1. Enjoy Ben's Chili Bowl's iconic half-smoke, a local sausage delicacy.
  2. Try a bowl of chili at the historic Old Ebbitt Grill.
  3. Savor a delicious cupcake from Georgetown Cupcake.
  4. Indulge in a Jumbo Slice, a Washington D.C. pizza staple.
  5. Experience the diverse international cuisine options available throughout the city.
  6. Try the fresh seafood options available at local restaurants.
  7. Enjoy a hearty brunch at one of the city's popular brunch spots.
  8. Indulge in a gourmet meal at one of Washington's Michelin-starred restaurants.
  9. Savor the flavors of locally brewed craft beers.
  10. Try the variety of food truck offerings available around the city.

Day Trips from Washington:

Explore the historic city of Alexandria, Virginia, known for its well-preserved 18th-century architecture and vibrant waterfront. Visit Mount Vernon, the plantation home of George Washington, and learn about the life of the first President of the United States. Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor activities available in Shenandoah National Park. Explore the historic sites and battlefields of Gettysburg. Each destination offers unique experiences and is easily accessible from Washington, making them ideal for day trips.

Travel Tips for Washington:

In Washington, utilize the extensive Metro system to navigate the city efficiently. Be mindful of rush hour traffic and plan your travels accordingly. Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods to experience the local culture and cuisine. Take advantage of the numerous free museums and attractions available in the city. Be aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Dress appropriately for the weather and stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer. Finally, respect local customs and traditions and enjoy the rich history and vibrant culture of the nation's capital.

When planning your journey from Los Angeles to Washington by train, rely on Virail. Our platform compares numerous routes and transport modes to bring you the best travel deals. Check the price calendar below for the most affordable Los Angeles-Washington adventure options.

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Compare prices and tickets from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC

Cheap train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC travel

Virail Pro Tip ✌: Booking 10 days in advance save 10% on average

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC

The cheapest Los Angeles, CA - Washington, DC train tickets can be found for as low as $187.69 if you’re lucky, or $258.11 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $411.93.

Find the best day to travel to Washington, DC by train

When travelling to Washington, DC by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Services on board Amtrak from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC
Compare services on board when travelling from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC by train.
Facilities Amtrak
quiet_zone Quiet zone check
wifi WiFi check
power_sockets Power sockets check
luggage Luggage check
accessibility Accessibility check
food_and_drink Food and drink check
air_con Air conditioning check
bicycle Bicycle check
sleeper_couchette Sleeper check

Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC CO2 Emissions by Train

Ecology
Train
258.74kg
Bus
277.22kg
Flight
739.26kg
Car
591.41kg
What are the CO2 emissions from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC by train? The CO2 emissions from taking the train between Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC are 258.74kg.
How much CO2 do I save by taking the train between Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC? By taking the train between Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC you will save 480.52kg CO2 emissions compared to a flight, 18.48kg compared to a bus and 332.67kg compared to a car.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a train ticket from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC?
A train ticket from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC is $665.69. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $254.44.
What's the cheapest train ticket from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC?
The cheapest ticket you can get from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC is $254.44. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC by train?
Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC is 2,296.77 mi.
How long does the train between Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC take?
Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC is on average 79 hr 44 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 64 hr 43 min.
How many train connections per day go from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC?
Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC has 7 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first train from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC leave?
The earliest train from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC departs at 5:22 PM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last train from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC depart?
The latest train from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC departs at 10:00 PM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest train ticket we have found is $254.44 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
What's the fastest journey time between Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC by train?
The fastest journey time by train between Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC is 64 hr 43 min.
Is there a direct train from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC?
Yes, there is a direct train between Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC.
What are the CO2 emissions for Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC by train?
The train journey from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC creates 258.74kg of CO2 emissions.

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