More about: 3 Best Day Trips to Washington DC from New York
The illustrious city of Washington represents the spirit of the United States with its streets and museums presided over by the Capitol. On a trip to Washington, you can see the White House and the Pentagon, among other points of interest.
The trip to Washington from New York is one of the best excursions you can take from the Big Apple, and in fact, there are several types to suit all budgets and trip lengths. Here are the ones that I think are the best:
Washington D.C. Day Trip From NYC
The best of Washington, in one day and at the best price
Perfect if you want to leave New York for a day to explore Washington DC and its most popular attractions, such as the White House, the Capitol, or the Lincoln Memorial.
The best way to visit Washington from New York in one day and learn about the history of each monument in the city with a professional guide is with an organised tour. The trip to Washington is a full day with return transport by coach and takes about 4 hours.
During the city tour, you will see the most important sights in Washington, such as the White House, the US Capitol, Arlington National Cemetery, the Pentagon and the Lincoln Memorial, among others. You will have free time to explore on your own and eat wherever you choose.
Why I like this excursion: in addition to its good value for money, I recommend this activity because it includes a very comprehensive tour of Washington, allowing you to make the most of the excursion.
Recommended if... you want to visit Washington DC and see its main attractions, but don't want to spend too much time or money.
Philadelphia and Washington DC 2-Day Trip from New York
The most comprehensive getaway to Washington
If you are eager to discover Washington DC but are afraid that one day will not be enough, join this tour, which also stops in Philadelphia. Accommodation is included.
If you prefer to make the most of your time and combine two excursions in one, I recommend booking the two-day tour of Washington with a visit to Philadelphia. In Washington, you'll discover all the essential attractions, such as the White House, the Capitol, the Pentagon, and the Vietnam and Korean War Memorials.
On the excursions to Philadelphia from New York, you'll also learn about an important part of American history by visiting the Liberty Bell. You'll also see the legendary Rocky Statue and its famous steps, and visit a traditional Amish community.
Why I like this tour: this is a more comprehensive tour that takes you to the main points of interest, not only in Washington, but also in Philadelphia. It's a great way to make the most of your trip and get to know the main cities on the East Coast.
Recommended if... you fancy a couple of days' getaway during your trip to New York and don't want to have to worry about organising transport or accommodation.
America 4-Day Tour from New York City (Niagara Falls, Washington and Philadelphia)
The best of the East Coast in four days
The United States is much more than just New York, and with this excursion to Washington, Philadelphia, and Niagara Falls, you will discover the highlights of the East Coast. Accommodation is included.
If you have time to spare for a tour of the East Coast of the United States, this trip is for you. In four days, you can take a trip to Washington, Philadelphia, and Niagara Falls from New York, seeing the most important sights in each place.
In Washington, you will tour the city with a guide who will take you to the White House, the Capitol, Arlington National Cemetery, the Pentagon, and the Lincoln Memorial, among other points of interest. And on your way through Philadelphia, you'll visit the Liberty Bell and the Rocky statue, as well as a traditional Amish community to see how the members of these colonies continue to live.
Finally, in Niagara, the most natural and wild jewel of the East Coast, you will visit the National Park, Watkins Glen State Park, and She-Qua-Ga Falls.
Recommended if... you have extra days on your trip to New York, because this tour will offer you four days of contrast to what you will have seen in the Big Apple. The nature of the Falls, the history of Philadelphia and the stately spirit of Washington will seem like another world to you.
Why I like this excursion: if you had to do this excursion on your own, it would be impossible to fit it into such a short time, so I think this is the most efficient way to make the most of your time.
We compare the three options
The best of Washington, in one day and at the best price
Perfect if you want to leave New York for a day to explore Washington DC and its most popular attractions, such as the White House, the Capitol, or the Lincoln Memorial. Includes free time.
The most comprehensive getaway to Washington
If you are eager to discover Washington DC but are concerned that one day will not be enough, join this tour, which also stops in Philadelphia. Accommodation is included.
The best of the East Coast in four days
With this excursion to Washington, Philadelphia, and Niagara Falls, you will see the highlights of the East Coast. Accommodation is included.
What to see in Washington?
Seeing Washington's main monuments is easy, as most of them are located within the National Mall. As you can imagine, these monuments are mainly related to the political history of the United States and its presidents. Most day trips to Washington and two-day trips follow a similar itinerary to this one:
- National Mall: The National Mall (also known as the National Esplanade) is the area that contains the Capitol, the famous Obelisk, the Lincoln Memorial, the Smithsonian Institution building, and other points of interest.
- The Capitol and the Library of Congress: Start your day by visiting the iconic Capitol, home to the United States Congress, and the Library of Congress, which you can freely access if you wish and marvel at its spectacular interior.
- U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial: You will recognise this memorial statue as soon as you see it. It depicts American soldiers raising the flag on Iwo Jima, and with any luck you will see a military parade passing in front of it.
- Lincoln Memorial: Located at the western end of the National Mall, the memorial dedicated to President Abraham Lincoln has been the scene of numerous historically significant speeches, including Martin Luther King's famous speech in 1963.
- Korean War Veterans Memorial: Southeast of the Lincoln Memorial, you'll find a series of steel statues representing a group of soldiers, arranged in a triangle in front of a wall with images of the Korean War.
- The White House: A must-see if you're taking a trip to Washington. Even if you don't take a tour of the interior, you can see the unmistakable building from its outer fence (except on certain occasions, such as official events).
- Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: Opened in 2011, the memorial consists of a granite statue of the Civil Rights Movement leader carved from a rock behind him, where there are a series of inscriptions related to Martin Luther King Jr.
- Arlington National Cemetery: This military cemetery is the final resting place of more than 14,000 veterans from wars as old as the American Civil War. Arlington National Cemetery is quite unique, with gravestones standing on the ground along a tree-lined avenue.
Plan your excursion to Washington from New York
First of all, if you book a day trip to Washington from New York, the round trip will take about seven hours. If you're reading this, you know that discovering new places is always worthwhile, and the truth is that Washington is interesting enough to justify the long journey from New York.
What's more, with an organised tour, you won't have to worry about how to get to Washington from New York. That said, one day is enough to see Washington's monuments and buildings of interest, so some excursions combine a visit to Washington with a tour of Philadelphia.
Can you visit Washington in a single day from New York?
Visiting Washington, D.C. from New York in a single day is possible, but it is essential to plan your trip carefully or book a day trip to Washington from New York to see the most iconic sights and make the most of your time.
Ideally, you should start the excursion first thing in the morning so that you arrive in Washington between 10 and 11 a.m. For the return journey, it is best to choose the last transport service, around 6 or 7 p.m.
How far is Washington from New York?
Before booking your trip to Washington from New York, you should know that the distance between the two cities is approximately 360 kilometres. The travel time may vary depending on the means of transport you choose:
- By bus or car, the journey usually takes between 4 and 5 hours, depending on traffic. The most common route is via Interstate 95, a motorway with heavy traffic, especially during rush hour.
- By train, the journey takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours with Amtrak.
The short distance means that the trip can be done in a day or as a weekend getaway.
How to get to Washington from New York?
If you are travelling to Washington, D.C. from New York, you are in luck because there are numerous transport options available depending on the time and price you have available. Here are the different options:
- Train
- Duration: 3-3.5 hours.
- Price: can range from $50 to $150 (€45 to €135) depending on how far in advance you book.
- A comfortable and fast option.
- Company: Amtrak.
- Bus
- Duration: 4-5 hours.
- Price: very economical, from $15 to $40 (€13-36), depending on the operator and date.
- A very economical option.
- Company: Megabus or Greyhound.
- Plane
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours, but you have to add transfer and check-in time.
- Price: from $100-300 (€90-270), depending on how far in advance you book and the operator.
- A good option if you need to travel quickly and prefer to fly for comfort.
- Car
- Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: varies depending on fuel prices, tolls and whether you have to hire a vehicle.
- An ideal option if you prefer complete freedom of movement and flexibility.
In short, if you are looking for speed and comfort, the train is an unbeatable option. But if you are on a tight budget, the bus is the best option in terms of value for money.
What is the best day of the week to take a trip to Washington?
As you can imagine, it's best to visit Washington during the week and avoid Saturdays and Sundays.
Specifically, if you book a trip to Washington from New York, the best days are Mondays and Wednesdays, as tourist attractions tend to be less crowded after 2 p.m. Many museums and monuments are closed on public holidays, so try to avoid holidays if you want to see everything.
When is the best time of year to visit Washington?
If you happen to be visiting New York in spring or autumn, you'll be lucky enough to book a trip to Washington at the best time of year. Winter in Washington is quite cold, and the problem with summer in Washington is that it usually rains at least once a week and it's also quite hot.
Without a doubt, the best time to visit Washington is in spring, as you'll have the chance to enjoy the city full of almond trees in bloom.
- Winter
- December - March
- Climate: Occasional blizzards
- Maximum 7ºC
- Minimum -7ºC
- Spring
- March - June
- Climate: Changeable
- Maximum 25ºC
- Minimum -2ºC
- Summer
- June - August
- Climate: Humid
- Maximum 28ºC
- Minimum 13ºC
- Autumn
- September - November
- Climate: Sunny
- Maximum 23ºC
- Minimum 1ºC
Can I explore Washington on my own?
Yes, you can explore Washington, D.C. on your own, especially if you are looking for 100% flexibility. The main advantages are:
- Flexibility: you can plan your route to suit your interests.
- Economy: it is a more economical experience than booking an organised tour, as Washington has numerous monuments and museums with free admission.
- Personalised pace: you can take as many breaks as you like, eat wherever you want and change the itinerary as you see fit.
However, if you book your trip to Washington from New York, you will have the following advantages:
- Historical depth: guides usually offer detailed information, interesting anecdotes and historical context.
- Simple logistics: you won't have to plan the route and can focus on relaxing and enjoying yourself.
- Themed experience: there are tours focused on specific themes, such as political history, iconic monuments, gastronomy or African-American culture, so you can tailor the trip to your interests.
Ultimately, if you enjoy independence and feel comfortable exploring and getting around on your own, exploring Washington on your own can be very rewarding. But keep in mind that a tour can enrich your visit.
Where to eat on your trip to Washington from New York?
If you book a trip to Washington from New York,beware of restaurants in the most touristy areas! A meal for two can easily cost $50 (approximately €46.50).
If you're on a tight budget, it's best to bring food in your backpack or look for cheaper options to eat, as most trips to Washington from New York do not include meals.
Some of my recommendations
- Pho 75: near Arlington National Cemetery, you'll find this Vietnamese restaurant, which ranks 7th out of 712 on TripAdvisor.
- Five Guys, Swizzler Burger Truck or Proper 21: Washington is known for its typical American food and, in particular, its burgers, so any of these options will delight any meat lover.
- Lincoln's Waffle Shop: another option is to have a hearty American-style breakfast. If the combination of pancakes, bacon, and scrambled eggs makes your mouth water, this is the place for you.
- Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken: if doughnuts are your thing, head to this place and grab one (or several) of these delicacies to take away.
What should I bring with me on a trip to Washington?
If you book a trip to Washington from New York, as a general rule, I recommend wearing comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking all day, as even if you take public transport, you will still have to walk a bit to visit each monument.
Washington DC is an elegant city and its inhabitants reflect this: the dress code tends to be more formal than casual. You won't find many people wearing flip-flops, shorts or T-shirts, so if you don't want to look like a tourist, it's best to avoid this type of clothing.
Check the weather before travelling to Washington
With this in mind, if you visit the city in summer, it makes sense to wear the coolest outfit possible, as temperatures are quite high. As you know, it often rains, so it's a good idea to bring a raincoat or umbrella just in case.
Winters in Washington are cold, and temperatures rarely exceed 0º, so be prepared for fairly extreme temperatures. And if you visit Washington during the hot season, Arlington Cemetery will be full of mosquitoes. Bring repellent if you don't want to be bitten to death!
Final tips for your trip to Washington from New York
If you book a trip to Washington from New York, you'll love it if you're a fan of American politics and history, if you enjoy strolling through cities full of monuments, parks and impressive squares, and if you're interested in architecture and urban planning, as Washington has a rather unique layout.
If you find that it's not your style, since you're in New York, try some of the hundreds of tours of New York City that are available.
Washington with children
And if you're visiting Washington with children, don't worry: it's very easy to get around the city using public transport, which is also safe and of high quality. You won't have to walk too far, and thanks to the large number of parks and open spaces, you can take a break from sightseeing whenever you need to.
Don't forget
- Some tips we can give you before your trip are not to carry too much cash to avoid having it stolen or losing it, but keep in mind that some local restaurants and shops do not accept credit cards (for example, at Pho 75, you can only pay in cash).
- For the same reason, avoid carrying valuable belongings and leave anything that is not essential in your hotel or flat.
- Remember to bring your passport and be prepared to go through security checks, especially at monuments and points of interest such as Arlington Cemetery. Washington DC takes security quite seriously, and in fact, it's no wonder given the political importance of the city.
All that's left for me to say is... happy travels!