New York, NY to Washington, DC Train

Traveling from New York, NY, to Washington D.C. by Train

Amtrak operates the route from NYC to D.C. with its Acela Express and Northeast Regional services. The two services offer distinct experiences for East Coast travelers. The Acela, reaching speeds up to 150 mph, is faster than the Northeast Regional, making it convenient to get there fast. It features spacious seating with ample legroom and amenities like electrical outlets and tray tables in each seat. First Class on Acela includes priority boarding, complimentary meals, and access to station lounges.

In contrast, the Northeast Regional serves more stations, stopping in various cities across multiple states. It operates numerous times daily, guaranteeing greater flexibility for commuters and leisure travelers: the Northeast Regional has complimentary WiFi, a quiet car, and a café car. Business class on this train offers extra legroom, complimentary beverages, assigned seating, and conference tables. 

Amenities on Union Station in Washington

Washington Union Station, located at 50 Massachusetts Avenue NE, Washington, DC 20002-4214, includes an enclosed waiting area, WiFi, parking facilities, and an accessible platform with wheelchair availability. For passenger convenience, there are Free Cell Phone Waiting and Kiss & Ride lots for easy drop-off and pick-up, located inside the Union Station parking garage accessible from H Street, NE.

The station also has a lactation suite for nursing mothers, which is ADA-compliant and equipped with benches, a fold-down table, an electrical outlet for breast pumps, and a lockable door for privacy. This suite is in the East Concourse near the women's restrooms and vending machines.

Things to Do in Washington D.C.:

1. Check out the National Mall: Visit iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol.
2. Smithsonian Museums: Discover a world of knowledge at the Smithsonian museums, including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History.
3. Tour the White House: Take a tour of the White House, the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States.
4. Stroll through Georgetown: Wander through this charming neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and boutique shops.
5. Visit the U.S. Supreme Court: Learn about the American judicial system and possibly attend a court session.
6. Explore the Tidal Basin: It is beautiful during the Cherry Blossom Festival in spring.
7. Arlington National Cemetery: Pay respects at this solemn and historic site, home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
8. Attend a Performance at the Kennedy Center: Enjoy world-class theater, dance, and music performances.
9. Visit the National Zoo, Home to thousands of animals, including the famous giant pandas.
10. Explore the Library of Congress: The most extensive library in the world, offering tours and exhibitions.

What to Eat in Washington D.C.:

1. Half-Smoke: A local sausage delicacy best enjoyed at places like Ben's Chili Bowl.
2. Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs: Often served steamed with Old Bay seasoning, a regional favorite.
3. Ethiopian Cuisine: With a significant Ethiopian community, D.C. offers authentic dishes like injera and doro wat.
4. Mumbo Sauce: A tangy sauce unique to D.C., perfect for chicken wings and fries.
5. Peruvian Chicken: Charcoal-grilled chicken marinated in flavorful spices, commonly found in various eateries around the city.
6. Jumbo Slice Pizza: A D.C. late-night staple, these oversized pizza slices are filling and delicious.
7. Pupusas: A Salvadoran dish, these stuffed tortillas with cheese, beans, or meat are found in various spots around the city.
8. Korean BBQ: Enjoy a variety of Korean dishes in the suburbs of Annandale, known as Koreatown.
9. Vietnamese Pho: Found in the nearby Eden Center in Falls Church, this aromatic noodle soup is a local favorite.
10. Cupcakes from Georgetown Cupcakes: Famous on T.V., these are as delicious as beautiful.

Day trips from Washington D.C.:

A short drive or train ride can take you to historic Alexandria in Virginia, where cobblestone streets and colonial architecture will take you in a time machine. For some nature, head to Shenandoah National Park for hiking and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The historic battlefields of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, are all near and will guide you through the history of the Civil War. Annapolis, Maryland, with its charming waterfront and the U.S. Naval Academy, will give you a chance to learn about the maritime heritage. Wine lovers can explore the vineyards of Virginia's wine country, known for its picturesque landscapes and exquisite wines. For beach lovers, a trip to Ocean City, Maryland's sandy shores, provides a perfect seaside escape.

Travel Tips for Washington D.C.:

1. Washington, DC, is served by three major airports: Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA), and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). 
2. The Circulator bus connects many of Washington's popular tourist destinations and neighborhoods. It's an affordable way to get around the city, costing only $1 per ride or $3 for a day pass.
3. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, but these seasons also bring more crowds and higher hotel prices. Summers are hot and muggy, while winters can vary from mild to blizzard conditions. Hotel prices are generally more affordable in winter.
4. Visiting during the cherry blossom season in spring is particularly magical. The peak bloom varies each year, typically around April 4, but can occur as early as March 15 or as late as April 18. 
5.  Some popular museums, like the National Museum of African American History and Culture, require advance tickets. Besides the free options, there are also paid museums worth visiting, such as the International Spy Museum and the Newseum, which offer unique and interactive experiences.