Washington, DC to Buffalo, NY Train

Travel by train from Washington, DC, to Buffalo, NY

The train ride from Washington, DC, to Buffalo, NY, lasts on average 12 hr 52 min. Around 1 trains depart a day between Washington and Buffalo, the average price is $342.10 and the lowest ticket pricing starts at around $342.10.

Amtrak, the largest passenger railroad service in the US, operates the train from Washington to Buffalo. You will first board one of the Amtrak services connecting Washington to New York- the speed train Acela and the Northeast Regional are the most frequent connections between the cities of the Northeast corridor. In New York, you will transfer to one of the Amtrak trains connecting New York to Buffalo.

Change trains at New York's Moynihan Train Hall

You will start at Washington's Union Station, just a few blocks from the US Capitol Building. Amtrak, MARC, VRE trains, and several bus lines stop there. The station is accessible by Metro Rail (Red Line) and several bus routes. Housing dozens of stores ranging from exclusive luxury brands like Burberry to high-street favorites such as H&M and Pottery Barn, alongside a range of food outlets catering to every taste and budget, offers everyone options.

In Washington, you need to board one of the trains going to New York. Besides Acela and the Northeast Regional, you can also board one long-distance train to New York.

1. The Acela Express is a high-speed train between Boston, MA., and Washington, DC. It is the fastest train in the Northeast Corridor, reaching 150 miles per hour. Acela tickets are pricier due to their great speeds and comfort. Extra legroom, free Wi-Fi, and a power outlet under each seat are some perks you can expect on Amtrak Acela Express.
2. Northeast Regional is the most popular train due to its price and frequency. It serves 50 cities between Boston and Virginia beach, making it a convenient option for passengers who need to make connections. Coach offers all you need for your hour ride: Wi-Fi, power outlets, extra storage space, and a Café Car with a wide offer of food and beverages. Business class guarantees more legroom and a more flexible cancellation policy.

The ticket prices may vary depending on how early you book, so securing them at your earliest convenience is recommended. 

Children 2-12 travel at a lower fare on all Amtrak trains, but the Acela Express only offers discounts for children on weekends. But the good news is that children under two travel free on Amtrak trains.

You will change trains at New York's Penn Station's newest addition - Moynihan Train Hall. Recently opened in 2021, the new transportation facility and architectural marvel is situated across 8th Avenue from Penn Station. Fun fact or a warning: Penn Station is the busiest train station in the western hemisphere, so be prepared to find your new terminal in time.

New York to Buffalo with the Empire Service

Three Amtrak services connect New York to Buffalo:

1. The Empire Service serves cities on the Empire Corridor, along the Hudson river and Finger Lakes. It operates multiple times daily and makes stops in several cities, including Albany, Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo. The Empire Service offers business class and Coach seating options, with onboard amenities like Wi-Fi, power outlets, and an onboard cafe. It is the most frequent of the three services. 
2. The Maple Leaf is very similar to the Empire service when it comes to services on the train. It is less frequent but less expensive. It is a daily train service from New York City to Toronto, with a stop in Buffalo. The Maple Leaf offers Business and Coach seating options and conveniences like Wi-Fi, power outlets, and an onboard cafe for those who need to get some work done or have a bite to eat onboard.
3. Lake Shore Limited is the most expensive of the three services. It is a long-distance train connecting Chicago and New York, with the benefit of Viewliner Sleeper cars. Passengers who opt for the sleeper option have two meals included, which the staff can bring to their room, or they can take it in the exclusive lounge. It only operates one time a day.

Arriving in Buffalo by train

The Buffalo train station, also known as the Buffalo-Exchange Street station, is in downtown Buffalo. The station has an accessible parking lot with covered and uncovered spaces and a daily parking fee. Inside you can find several waiting areas with comfortable seating, restrooms, a small convenience store, vending machines, and a cafe where travelers can purchase food and beverages. The station is entirely wheelchair accessible.

Buffalo has plenty of activities and attractions to offer visitors. Art and architecture enthusiasts can explore the designs of Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Sullivan, while foodies can relinquish Buffalo-style chicken wings. The city is also home to the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the Buffalo Zoo, and Erie County Botanical Gardens. Visitors can stroll along the Canalside waterfront or drive to see Niagara Falls. 

So if you plan to travel by train from Washington to Buffalo, let us help you plan it. We check thousands of rail, bus, and flight destinations to help you find the best price. Check out our handy price calendar below, where you can see the best prices across all modes of transport between Washington and Buffalo.