places to visit between washington dc and new york

Amazing Stops on the Drive From NYC to Washington DC

Planning a road trip/drive from NYC to Washington DC or drive from Washington DC to New York? Believe it or not, there are many incredible stops along the way on the New York to Washington DC drive or vice versa crossing through multiple states.

We’ve picked our favorite stops on this incredible journey plus road trip tips. Make your drive unforgettable by adding in some of these amazing stops. This guide covers some of the best things to do in each of these destinations as well as recommendations for overnight stays in case you plan on making a longer stop here.

Since this drive can be as short or as long as possible, we recommend planning to stop or even stay the night at a few of these destinations!

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Table of Contents

New york to washington dc drive tips, renting a car for your new york to washington dc drive, best stops on your drive from nyc to washington dc.

The total distance on your drive from NYC to Washington DC or drive from Washington DC to New York is anywhere between 227 miles to 245 miles depending on the route you take and where your starting and ending points are in both cities. You could definitely complete the drive from NYC to Washington DC or drive from Washington DC to New York in 4 to 5 hours in one day without stops.

However, we recommend building a fun itinerary so you can make some of these incredible stops along the way of this road trip! Also, if you’re planning on exploring more be sure to check out all our picks for best stops on the Montreal to Washington DC drive plus a great 3 day Montreal itinerary to extend your trip!

You will also want to be sure to plan time to spend at both Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park.

There are three main routes on the drive from Washington DC to New York and the drive from NYC to Washington DC, the quickest and shortest route is along the I-95, but this route has tolls! You’re going to want to plan for at least $40 in tolls. 

Other route options follow US 301 and I-95 / I-276. However, this may vary depending on which stops you make along your New York to Washington DC drive.

Be sure to also check out our road trip essentials for what to pack during your trip!

Spend time In NYC

Needless to say, before/after your New York to Washington DC drive or vice versa you should definitely spend time getting to know New York City and enjoy some sightseeing! We always recommend checking out our full guides to New York City including best places to see in New York City and where to stay in New York City to help you plan your trip.

Also, be sure to check out our weekend in NYC itinerary to help you plan your trip!

We recommend checking out some of the fabulous tours to get to learn about the history, different neighborhoods, film and cinema, and the best of all the food tours!

• Pre-order tickets to skip the line for the best skyscrapers in NYC to view from observation decks! We recommend the iconic Empire State Building , Top of the Rock Observation Level , One World Trade Center Observation Deck , and the brand new Edge Observation Deck .
• Enjoy an unforgettable view with a Helicopter night skyline tour over the city!
• Sail on a 2-hour scenic schooner around the city’s sites by water including The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Lower Manhattan.
• And join one of our favorite ways to explore a city, through our taste buds on a 2-hour food tour of Greenwich Village , one of the best foodie spots in the city!

Spend time In Washington DC

Needless to say, before/after your drive from Washington DC to New York or vice versa you should definitely spend time exploring the country’s capital and all the historic landmarks, museums, and many amazing neighborhoods in Washington DC to explore or if you have time you can extend your trip and spend a weekend in Washington DC and follow along our 3 day itinerary!

We recommend checking out some of the fabulous tours to get to learn about the history and different landmarks worth checking out!

• Join a 2.5 hour Washington DC moonlight trolley tour with a knowledgeable guide!
• Join a full 6-hour day tour of Washington DC visiting iconic buildings, such as the White House, Capitol Building, Lincoln Memorial, and more ending with a cruise down the Potomac River on a private yacht. Or if you don’t have that much time you can join a condensed 3-hour Best of DC tour .
• Eat your way through the city by joining this 3-hour Georgetown Walking Food Tour , plus a portion of your ticket is donated to Bread for the City, a local charity. Or just check out all the best things to do in Georgetown !

Back to the Top

If you already don’t have a car for your starting point we recommend renting a car in advance on Expedia.

We also recommend getting travel insurance for this trip. Many travel insurance plans also cover  Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) coverage up to $35,000.

Check out our guide to how to pick the best travel insurance for a few different options depending on what your needs are and type of coverage you’re looking for.

Princeton, New Jersey

53 miles from NYC, 182 miles from DC

Our first suggested stop on the New York to Washington DC drive or last stop on your drive from Washington DC to New York is Princeton, New Jersey.

Although this stop is best known for its renowned Ivy League University, the town has plenty more going on aside from its academic excellence and is a great place to spend a day enjoying the various attractions, museums and restaurants on offer.

The University has many years collecting fine art and the Princeton University Art Museum on campus is both free and open to the public, so you don’t have to be enrolled to get to see some amazing historical pieces.

Back in Princeton, you can take a tour to learn about the town and its community with many companies offering their services all year round. If you prefer to explore independently, a visit to Drumthwacket is not to be missed. This stately mansion is the official residence for the governor the state of New Jersey and we’d recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment as slots fill up fast.

Stopping by the Arts Council of Princeton is also a great idea to get the opportunity to view some of the best artwork by local Princeton artists. Exhibitions rotate throughout the year and you can even take an art lesson to try your own creative hand.

Princeton can also cater to nature lovers with open spaces like the 400-acre Mountain Lakes, you could really spend a whole day here strolling, hiking or cruising on a bicycle. Many people living in the Central New Jersey area like to come to the part to relax and connect with nature.

Find yourself enjoying so much of this stop on the drive from NYC to Washington DC or drive from Washington DC to New York that you need to stay the night? Explore the great hotel options below!

Philadelphia, Pennslyvania

Paying a visit to Philadelphia is a must on the drive from NYC to Washington DC or drive from Washington DC to New York. You can spend your time taking in riverside views, refueling with much-loved local eats, visiting museums, and checking out historic landmarks in Old City .

Philly’s Delaware River Waterfront continues to evolve and what were once undeveloped piers are now lively areas decked out with parks, museums, restaurants, and breweries.

It’s a fun place to spend the afternoon or evening, plus you can catch some great skyline views over the water from the Benjamin Franklin Bridge that connects the states of Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Whilst in the city, it’s non-negotiable to try the iconic Philly cheesesteak, which consists of chopped steak, a choice of cheeses and fried onion on a hoagie roll.

To cover some more culinary ground, Reading Terminal Market is a necessity. It’s located below a former railroad terminal and has now been operating as a market for 127 years and counting.

Tourists and locals alike love to pay a visit to buy or try a range of foods like seafood, meats, cheese and fresh products. To get your fill of historical sites, make sure you make it to the Liberty Bell and take a photo. The cracked inscription on the structure, proclaiming liberty for all inhabitants, became a symbol of freedom and continues to be visited by people from all around the world.

Independence Hall is also of high significance to the development of the United States and should be visited when in Philadelphia. It was here that the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

Try a Tour:

• Philly Cheesecake Foodie Tour by Segway – sample 5 authentic Philly cheesecake spots on this 2.5 hour food tour!
• Philadelphia Explorer Pass – This multi-attraction pass that includes admission to your choice of 3, 4, 5, or 7 of ovr Philadelphia attractions.
• Philadelphia Founding Fathers Historic Tour – This 2-hour tour shows you where the U.S. Constitution was signed, where George Washington lived, and more plus craft beer!

Wilmington, Delaware

126 miles from NYC, 110 miles from DC

The New York to Washington DC drive or drive from NYC to Washington DC works great with a stop off in Wilmington, since its about exactly halfway in between both cities. 

The city is in the first established state of the modern US, Delaware. It’s also the second smallest state after Rhode Island, but don’t be fooled by the size, there’s plenty to do – especially if you like perusing mansions, estates, and gardens.

You can explore the New Castle area right on the Delaware River, one of the best-preserved colonial towns in the country. There are cobblestone streets, historic homes, and buildings dating back to 1700 with the colonial history to match.

The Read House and gardens covering 14,000 square feet can also be found in New Castle, it’s been preserved so you can see what life was like for the Reads, the family who built it between 1801-1803. The Federalist-style house has been named a National Historic Landmark and has over 20 rooms to wander through.

To continue viewing impressive homes, you can head to the Nemours Mansion Wilmington, a late 18 th Century French-style mansion built by settler Alfred du Pont. You can take your time to stroll the French château style house and gardens inspired by those of Versailles, France one of the best places to see Paris .

If you have the inclination for even more manicured grounds, Longwood Gardens is a must, with over 1000 acres of flowers, plants, trees, and fountains. It’s elegant, beautiful and a delightful place to get lost for an hour or so.

For a taste of the inner-city life, you can visit downtown Wilmington. We recommend walking down the Riverfront and historic Market Street to take a look at the Art Deco style architecture.

Aberdeen, Maryland

161 miles from NYC, 70 miles from DC  

Aberdeen is a smaller city also within Maryland state and worth a visit on the drive from NYC to Washington DC or early on in your drive from Washington DC to New York.

Susquehanna State Park is around 15 minutes from the center and located on the eponymously named river. With thick forest and rocky terrain, this is a great place for a range of outdoor activities like mountain biking and hiking.

Of course, the river itself provides great fishing opportunities to catch the likes of pike, perch, and bass.

The waterfront town of Havre de Grace in the Chesapeake Bay is only a 10-minute drive from Aberdeen too. Here on the banks of the Susquehanna River, you can stroll on the boardwalk promenade and through the park to enjoy views over the water.

The Concord Point Lighthouse at the top of the Chesapeake is a beautiful spot to look over the water and take a moment to appreciate its natural beauty. This iconic light has been keeping travelers safe since 1827.

If you enjoy golf, there is also the very pretty Bulle Rock Golf Club on the edge of the town where you can take in the scenery while working on your swing.

If you feel like as spooky experience while in Aberdeen, you should head to Legends of the Fog, an imaginative inside-outside haunted world where you can have a fun and frightening experience at the haunted hayride, haunted hotel, haunted maze and sinister circus.

Baltimore, Maryland

200 miles from NYC, 40 miles from DC

Baltimore is a fantastic stop on the drive from NYC to Washington DC or an early stop on your drive from Washington DC to New York. This stop is the largest city in the state of Maryland.

Perhaps the most well-known landmark is the Inner Harbour, a spectacle by day or night. The historic seaport is one of the oldest in the United States and now blends the antique and contemporary with 19 th Century ships in the harbor (there are also sightseeing cruises! ) and attractions like the National Aquarium and Baltimore’s World Trade Center that towers up 27 floors. At the top, you can enjoy sweeping 360-views of the city below.

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, three miles southeast of the city center, is famed as the inspiration for the National Anthem ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’. You can tour the fort and learn about its history including the 1814 battle of Baltimore.

Another historic area to visit is Fell’s Point. The old harbor quarter, where ships were once built, has been restored making it a lovely place to spend a few hours enjoying the cafes, restaurants, and market stalls. You can also take a water taxi between the Inner Harbor and Fell’s Point.

In Baltimore, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to art. Try Walter’s Art Gallery for pieces by international artists ranging from the third millennium BC to the early 20th century, unconventional creations by self-taught artists around the world at the American Visionary Art Museum and the Baltimore Museum of Art for one of the United States’ most important African collections.

You can also check out the Baltimore’s baseball stadium Oriole Park at Camden Yards, which is also just a couple of blocks from the birthplace turned museum of legendary baseball star ‘Babe’ Ruth. 

• Baltimore Inner Harbor Sightseeing Cruise – Join this 1-hour sightseeing cruise around the Inner Harbor learning about Baltimore’s history while passing historic sites from the water.
• Baltimore City Tour with Lunch – This 4-hour tour takes you through Baltimore’s main sites, both historic and modern and includes lunch with local seafood specialties on the menu with a knowledgeable guide!
• Baltimore Helicopter Tour – Get a rare glimpse at a bird’s eye view of Baltimore in this 15-minute helicopter ride over the city, this is perfect for those short on time but want to see as much of the city as possible plus photographers!

Annapolis, Maryland

Nearing the end of your New York to Washington DC drive or the beginning of your Washington DC to New York drive, don’t forget to drop by Annapolis!

Considered as the sailing capital of the U.S. – not surprising since it’s home to the U.S. Naval Academy. You can take a tour of the Academy campus and learn about its history and culture in the United States Naval Academy Museum. You’ll also get to see the ornate domed chapel with the crypt of the father of the U.S. Navy, John Paul Jones.

Another important place to learn about the past is the Banneker-Douglass Museum where you can explore African American history, with a focus on writer and abolitionist Frederick Douglass and 18 th Century mathematician and astrologer, Benjamin Banneker.

The aptly named ‘Ego Alley’ is the spot to go to gawp at yachts from the dockside restaurants. It’s located in a narrow waterway right in the heart of pretty, historic downtown Annapolis. Between exploring the city, you’ll want to fill up on some of the best Maryland seafood too with crabs, fresh fish, and oysters all around.

If you happen to be in Annapolis on March 21, you’ll have the luck of experiencing a tradition established in 1978 to welcome in the springtime. Locals get together to burn their winter socks, eat oysters, enjoy live music, and celebrate the end of hibernation!

Found this guide to the best stops along the drive from NYC to Washington DC or drive from Washington DC to NYC? Bookmark for later or share the love below on Pinterest! Let us know if we missed any too! We are always looking for new places to add to our list to visit!

Megan loves cats, pizza, and finding cool themed bars and hotels in New York and on her travels!

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Top 5 Stops & Driving Routes from Washington DC to New York

Driving from Washington, D.C. to New York City can take as little as 4 hours if you take the most direct route. But if you are feeling adventurous, there are other more scenic options that take slightly more time but might be worth your while if you are not in a rush. We have a couple of route suggestions, and also offer tips on places to stop between Washington, D.C. and NYC plus some ways to make the road trip go smoothly. And if you are relocating or are not sure what your plans are after arriving in New York , a one-way rental might be the right option for you.

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The Fastest Route

The most scenic route.

• Inner Harbor, Baltimore
• Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
• Annapolis Historic District
• Philadelphia Museum of Art
• Staten Island, New York

Road Trip Tips

The drive from Washington, D.C. to New York is a relatively quick one and can easily be done in a day. Just be advised that traffic along the way can be brutal, especially during morning and evening rush hours. For the fastest route, all you have to do is get on Interstate 95 North toward Baltimore, Maryland, and you can take that all the way to Lower Manhattan and then everywhere else you need to go in New York City.

There are several ways to get to New York from Washington, DC where you will have a bit more to see and explore than interstate gas stations and fast food. Yes, the route we propose below, passing through parts of Maryland and Pennsylvania before entering New Jersey, will take you at least an hour more than the straight shot up I-95. It’s worth the detour if you have the extra time.

5 Stops to Make Along the Way

1. inner harbor, baltimore.

No matter which route you take from DC to New York, you are likely going to pass by Baltimore and this historic city is worth a stop. Head to the Inner Harbor , an area that was once an important seaport. Here you will find old military ships, a science center and plenty of restaurants to try some fresh crab. A short distance away is Fort McHenry that was an integral part of the War of 1812 and a source of inspiration for what became the song “The Star Spangled Banner”.

What to see: Head to the National Aquarium to see all kinds of creatures from the sea. Or for a sweeping view of the city, head to the 27th floor of the World Trade Center to the Top of the World observation deck.

2. Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

Why should you drive through this county in southeast Pennsylvania? It’s a great way to see first-hand how the Amish live. Also known as the Pennsylvania Dutch, the group largely lives without modern technology and you can see their farms while driving through and buy their homemade products.

What to see: There are several ways to experience how the Amish live, including the Amish Village, the Amish Experience interpretive center or the Amish Country Homestead & One-Room School.

3. Annapolis Historic District

If you choose to go east from Washington, D.C. on Highway 50 through Annapolis you will have a lot to see. The capital city of Maryland has a historic district featuring buildings from the 1700s, a harbor, and is home to the United States Naval Academy.

What to see: Visit Hogshead to see a surviving historic home in Annapolis. This 18th-century building is a good representation of how people lived during that period, and is thought to have been used as barracks during the Revolutionary War.

4. The Philadelphia Museum of Art

There is so much to see and do in The City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia , but one of the best-known landmarks is the Philadelphia Museum of Art . Yes, the art inside is superb, but you can also take a picture running up the stairs out front, just like Rocky Balboa did in the movie “Rocky”.

What to see: There is enough art in the museum to take up multiple days of your time if you choose. If you are short on time, take a tour, check out the works of famous artists like Renoir and Degas, or explore the comprehensive American art collection.

5. Staten Island, New York

Sure, you can take a free ferry from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island , but then you’ll be on foot and only able to see the area around the ferry terminal. Why not drive in on Highway 440 and then you can drive back into New Jersey and from there get to Manhattan? Visit Historic Richmond Town where you can see what life was like for the first settlers in the area, or stop at Fort Wadsworth .

What to see: Head to the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden and spend some time walking around the grounds and visit 28 historical buildings and a museum. History buffs can also head to the Conference House, which dates to 1680, and was the site of a 1776 meeting between notable names like Benjamin Franklin and John Adams and British commander Lord Howe, in an attempt to end the Revolutionary War.

While the drive from Washington, D.C. to New York will likely only take you a day, there are ways to make it easier for everyone in the car.

Suggest Games Early: If you want to play any games, whether it’s Old Maid or I Spy, it’s a good idea to do them as soon as you get on the road. That way everyone’s fresh and can enjoy playing!

Pack an Overnight Bag: If you are planning a drive that will require at least one overnight stay, do yourself a favor and pack a separate smaller bag with pajamas, changes of clothing, toiletries and anything valuable you don’t want to leave in the car overnight.

Have Non-Perishable Food Available: Even for shorter road trips, it’s always a good idea to have water and non-perishable food like beef jerky, peanut butter, nuts or other items handy in the car. That way if you break down or would just like to eat something without stopping you are all set.

One-Way Car Rental

Renting a car one way ensures that you get to drive a new-model vehicle with the latest safety and entertainment technologies, while also riding in comfort. Whether you are relocating in New York, had a flight from Washington, D.C. canceled, or New York is simply the first part of your journey, a one-way rental is an affordable option. SIXT offers a selection of car models for your journey, whether its a budget economy car, a premium sedan , a spacious SUV or minivan with plenty of cargo space, or a fun sports car or convertible. We also have competitive rates, whether you need a one-way rental for just 1 day or for 28 days or more .

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DC To NYC: The Ultimate Checklist For A Perfect Road Trip

A road trip from Washington, D.C., to New York City is a must-try if you’re not in a hurry to reach your destination. You may be taking the weekend off or visiting a family member from the East Coast—either way, taking this pit stop is an excellent time to see and enjoy some of the incredible stops that the journey has to offer. Passing through multiple states isn’t something you often do, and when an opportunity presents itself, why not grab it?

Whether taking a  bus from DC to New York  or driving your own vehicle, here’s an ultimate checklist you can use for a perfect road trip to look forward to: 

1. Baltimore, Maryland

If you live in DC, it only makes sense to leave it out of your road trip itinerary. That is assuming you’ve already had your fair share of sightseeing and history fix that the country’s capital has to offer. But if you haven’t, here’s a quick list of what you may want to visit or check out in DC, just for the sake of setting the mood for your upcoming road trip:

• Pennsylvania Avenue (where you can see the White House and Capitol Building)
• The Lincoln Memorial
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• National Mall
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Gallery of Art

There’s a lot to see and experience in DC, but if you don’t have enough time to make it happen, you can skip the DC part and head to your first destination, Baltimore. Being Maryland’s largest city, you’d definitely want to make a stop here in Baltimore. Be sure to visit the Inner Harbour, which is quite a spectacle regardless of the time of the day or night you drop by. If you have the luxury of time, you can try one of their sightseeing cruises and if you need a convenient way to explore the city, consider a car rental at Baltimore Airport through Rental24h.com to make the most of your trip.

Other spots to see in Baltimore include the World Trade Center, Fort McHenry National Monument, American Visionary Art Museum, and Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum. If you have kids, don’t forget to take them to the Port Discovery Children’s Museum and the National Aquarium.

2. Wilmington, Delaware

After Maryland, you’ll be passing through the state of Delaware. Delaware may not be as large as the other US states, but there are plenty of things to do and sights to see, especially if you enjoy visiting gardens, estates, and mansions. If you’re coming from Baltimore and want to stop by Wilmington, the fastest way is to take the I-95.

Wilmington  has a lot to offer, and it’s also almost the halfway point of your road trip, so it only makes sense to stop by the city. Walk down memory lane as you tour around the New Castle area, where you’ll be amazed by several historic homes, colonial buildings, and cobblestone streets. For a quick fix of mansions and gardens, don’t forget to drop by the Nemours Mansion and Gardens and Longwood Gardens.

Art enthusiasts will also have a great time exploring the Delaware Contemporary, Brandywine River Museum of Art, and the Delaware Art Museum. If you plan to stay in Wilmington for the night (which will most probably be the most practical decision if you’ve spent most of the day touring around Baltimore and this city,) you can enjoy your sumptuous dinner downtown. You’ll find a variety of restaurants, bars, and pubs that serve different cuisines and drinks too.

3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

After hitting the sack in Wilmington, you’d want to wake up early and prepare to get on with your road trip adventure. Right ahead of Delaware is the state of Pennsylvania, the Keystone State. Stopping by Philadelphia is a good idea if you’re a history buff and like to get a taste of American history.

Some places to include in your PA itinerary are the following:

• Liberty Bell Center
• Independence National Historical Park
• Philadelphia Museum of Art
• Eastern State Penitentiary
• Independence Hall
• The LOVE Park
• Reading Terminal Market
• The Franklin Institute

While you’re there, don’t miss trying out the famous Philly cheesesteak, unquestionably the most famous food in Philly. You’ll find countless restaurants serving the sandwich, but if you want recommendations on some of the best ones, be sure to check the intersection of Passyunk Avenue and South 9th Street.

A Road Trip To Remember

There are more than enough places to see and things to experience when you’re  on a road trip  from DC to NYC. Covering at least three states should be a good start, especially if you’re not ultimately familiar with the itinerary. If you want, you can also drop by New Jersey before hitting New York. But it’s also OK to head straight to the City of Dreams after you’ve gotten your fill of history and food in Philly.

Having a checklist can help you stay on track and schedule while exploring different places. Be sure to have this list right before hitting the road. Pack enough food and water, take a lot of pictures, and have a great time!

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Meghan Waters Mbaye

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Road Trip from New York to Washington DC

A road trip from New York to Washington DC is a classic American drive! En route to the nation's capital, you'll pass through great towns and cities plus some amazing historic and culturally significant attractions.

The 225-mile road trip from New York to Washington DC takes 4 hours to drive. Key stops include Princeton, Newark, Peddler's Village, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Maryland and Annapolis, as well as Staten Island, Atlantic City and Six Flags Great Adventure.

These are just a handful of the numerous landmarks and places of interest you can see on this fabulous journey, so keep reading until the end to find out more about them.

How far is New York to Washington DC and how long will the road trip take?

The road trip from New York to Washington DC covers a distance of 225 miles and takes four hours of non-stop driving to complete.

While you could easily leave the Big Apple after breakfast and get in to the nation's capital in time for lunch, it would be a real shame not to explore some of the many sights, landmarks and attractions that you will pass along the way.

With this in mind, a better option would be to stretch the drive out over a period of at least 2-3 days, allowing you longer at each attraction plus the opportunity for a couple of overnight stops.

Best road trip route from New York To Washington DC

From New York, the quickest and most direct route to Washington DC is via Interstate 95. This straightforward option takes you through five states and includes a great amount of attractions to see along the way.

That said, if you have more time to spare, you could take a longer route to Washington DC via Interstate 78. Despite adding more than 50 miles to your journey, it doesn't really add much in terms of scenery or places of interest. On this occasion, the quickest and most direct is best.

Road trip route from New York to Washington DC

Leave New York on Interstate 78 and head west past Newark. You could make a quick first stop and take the ferry over to Staten Island, alternatively change to I-95 and head south before merging with US-1 to the town of Princeton.

After leaving New Jersey, you'll take I-295 south through Bensalem where you'll merge on I-95 and arrive in the incredible city of Philadelphia - a great option for a first overnight stop.

After exploring this great city, continue on I-95 south alongside the Delaware River and through Wilmington, the historic Delaware city.

Continue south on I-95 until you enter into Maryland and the vibrant city of Baltimore, with its noted hipster culture, gorgeous harbor and fabulous National Aquarium. Consider a visit to Patapsco Valley State Park before changing several times and following the signs to Washington DC.

Best places to stop between New York and Washington DC

The road trip from New York to Washington DC offers a number of excellent overnight stops.

That being said, in order to get the most out of your road trip, there are some that we'd recommend first and foremost:

Explore the 'City of Brotherly Love' - Philadelphia

At just under 3 hours from your destination, an obvious and ideal overnight stop would be at Pennsylvania's largest city - Philadelphia.

Well known for its historic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Philadelphia is also famous for its Philly Cheesesteak and the notable stairs of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which fans of the film Rocky should instantly recognize.

With great museums, art galleries as well as its popular zoo and nearby Wharton State Forest, Philadelphia is definitely a city that benefits from an overnight stop to explore all that it has to offer.

With a number of great nearby hotels, there's a fantastic choice of places to stop. That said, one of best is the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center .

Located right in the heart of the city center, this luxury 5-star hotel sits right at the top of the Comcast Center, a 60-storey tower that showcases incredible views of the city.

Featuring modern, stylish rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, fantastic onsite restaurants as well as an indoor pool with outstanding views, the Four Seasons Hotel is the ideal blend of fantastic location, great architecture and luxurious comfort.

Enjoy Baltimore's cultural vibe

If you prefer a stop close to Washington DC itself, then Baltimore is an excellent option. One of the coolest cities in the US, Baltimore has a rich culture, fabulous food scene, stunning harbor and terrific museums.

Set in Maryland with a long history, this place offers a great mix of coast and city life. Popular for its National Aquarium, showcasing thousands of marine creatures, Baltimore is also a great base to explore nearby green spaces at Patapsco Valley State Park.

For a fantastic scenery and luxury, a stay at The Ivy Hotel in Baltimore definitely won't disappoint . Built in 1889, this stunning boutique hotel is less than a mile from the Walters Art Museum and features a luxury spa as well as a fine dining restaurant.

Rooms at this fancy mansion include four-poster beds and some suites even have a balcony with views of Mount Vernon. Why not watch the stars from the stunning outdoor terrace or take a walk to the harbor - or simply indulge with the celebrity treatment before embarking on the rest of your trip.

A stay at iconic Washington DC

The US capital, Washington DC is set on the Patomac River and is bordered by the states of Maryland and Virginia. Defined by neoclassiclal monuments and buildings, it's best known for its iconic federal branches: The White House, United States Capital and Supreme Court.

As well as the government buildings, Washington DC has a number of fantastic museums to visit, art venues such as the Kennedy Center and of course, the striking Washington Monument.

To make the most of your stay here, an excellent option would be the Conrad Washington DC. This modern hotel is set right in the heart of the city with Capital One Arena and Gallery Place just around the corner.

With incredible views of Washington DC from the both the communal and private rooms, this 5-star hotel promises a luxurious stay with fantastic amenities including a restaurant serving fresh seafood from the rooftop bar and a beautiful garden to stroll in.

What better way could you have to complete this trip than spending the evening at overlooking views of the DC monuments?

Things to see on a road trip from New York to Washington DC

There is so much to see and do on a road trip from New York to Washington DC that you could spend several weeks visiting them all.

If you are restricted with time, here's our roundup of some of the best places you should really try and visit en route:

• Newark - Visit Branch Brook Park to see gorgeous cherry trees or spend some time at the Newark Museum and take in a show at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.
• Staten Island - Take the ferry over the Hudson River to check out the kangaroos at the Staten Island Zoo. Be sure to see the wonderful flowers, building and art galleries at The Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden too.
• Asbury Park Boardwalk - Stroll along the lovely 19th-century oceanfront walkway that showcases eye-catching murals and gorgeous coastal views.
• Six Flags Great Adventure - For the thrill seekers, visit this massive fun park with a waterpark and the fastest, longest and tallest rail coaster in the world - the ‘Jersey Devil Coaster'.
• Princeton - This New Jersey town is rich with history and has great museums, gardens and places of interest to visit. From here you can also take a drive to nearby Sourland Mountain Preserve.
• Sesame Place - Little kids and big kids alike will love the rides, water slides and parades at this Sesame Street themed amusement park located close to Philadelphia.
• Peddler's Village - Charming, medieval like ‘village' that accommodates a nice range of eclectic shops.
• Philadelphia - Visit the ‘City of Brotherly Love', to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Try a Philly Cheesesteak and run up the stairs of the Philadelphia Museum of Art just like Rocky did!
• Harrah's Philadelphia Casino & Racetrack - Nestled on the waterfront in Chester, this harness racing track and casino boasts vibrant nightlife and varied shopping.
• Atlantic City - Discover this wonderful resort city on the Atlantic Coast. Famous for its glitzy casinos, great beaches, iconic boardwalk, and notable nightlife.
• Hershey Chocolate World – Located close to Philadelphia, a must visit for all chocolate lovers, Hershey Chocolate World is open year-round.
• Wilmington - Nestled on the Christina and Delaware rivers, Wilmington's downtown area has some beautiful architecture and cultural attractions.
• Gettysburg - Area of massive historical Civil War significance. Visit Gettysburg National Military Park to see antiquities and the Gettysburg National Cemetery, where Abraham Lincoln made his famous 1863 Gettysburg Address.
• Baltimore - Bustling city at the mouth of Inner Harbor that is famed for being the birthplace of 'The Star-Spangled Banner'. Also a noted spot for hipster culture, great museums and the iconic National Aquarium.
• Annapolis - Set on Chesapeake Bay, this charming Maryland city boasts incredible architecture and a fabulous dining scene with incredible seafood.

Best time to go on a road trip from New York to Washington DC

The road trip from New York to Washington DC is one that can be completed at any time in the year. That said, summer in this part of the US can get sweltering with highs of between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

The humidity, coupled with large crowds and busy hotels, means that travelling outside of summer might be preferable.

Therefore the best times to visit Washington DC are from September to November and March to May. Fall brings pleasant weather and lighter crowds, while avoiding winter which can see lows of 30 degrees.

Spring is also a great time to appreciate the fantastic attractions this trip has to offer, especially if you're hoping to visit some of the national parks in the area.

As a general rule you will find that that traffic levels will be heightened during the holidays and at weekends. You can also expect higher prices for hotel accommodation, and longer queues for entry into the most popular tourist attractions.

Finally, if you don't mind crowds, you could time your trip with one of the many fantastic events held in and around Washington DC each year. Particular highlights include the National Cherry Blossom Festival in March and April and the DC Jazz Festival.

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For the Love of Life

New York to Washington DC day trip itinerary

Confused on what to see in Washington DC in a day? Not sure if it is worth a day trip from New York to Washington DC? Surprise, surprise – it is absolutely worth it and also possible with the right planning. This blog covers all the must see places to see in Washington DC and provides that perfect itinerary to follow to get maximum results. So why spend another second ruminating when we can begin right away.

This itinerary is suitable for travelers using public transport. It covers all the essential places to see in Washington D.C and is meant for first time visitors. This tour involves a lot of walking so it maynot be ideal for people with walking difficulties.

Looking for a New York guide? Look up my itinerary for 4 day in New York here .

Reaching Washington DC from New York

There are two viable options to reach DC from New York. The fastest and the more expensive option is via train. Amtrak has two types of train services between these cities – the non stop Acela fleet with journey time of 2hr 35 mins and the usual Amtrak taking about 3hr 30 mins.

The cheaper option is to take the bus which takes about 4 hrs. There are multiple service providers to choose from and we chose the new entrant Flixbus as we were more familiar with its services in Europe.

Itinerary map

This walking tour map covers all the places of interest. Some places could not be marked due to Google Map’s limitation on number of stops. But I have listed them in the details below.

Itinerary details

Pro Tip: Pack sandwiches for the journey and have breakfast on the bus

Our Flixbus dropped us near the Union station which is also where you would get down while traveling via train. The first stop would be The White House . There are guided tours possible of the interior but you need to book them in advance, we did not go for it anyways. To know more, visit their website . The atmosphere outside the White House is quite amazing with protestors and supporters camping alike with placards.

From there follow the map, stopping at the Washington Monument , World War II Memorial and Lincoln Memorial . One of the best shots of D.C is from the Lincoln Memorial with the reflection of the Washington Memorial and the US Capitol faraway in the background.

Between the Lincoln Memorial and Dr Martin Luther King Jr Memorial is the Korean War Veteran’s Memorial . After visiting the Dr Martin Luther King Memorial you can choose to walk further south to the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial . You can also add the Jefferson Memorial which is across the lake.

Walk further on towards the Smithsonian Museums stopping at the Japanese Lantern on the way. The Japanese Lantern would be a good place to relax for a while during Spring / Summer with the Cherry Blossoms and a great view across the lake. Beware of dog poop though on the grass near the lantern.

Pro Tip: There is a public restroom right after you cross the bridge from the Japanese Lantern.

Lunch break

From the Japanese Lantern walk across the bridge towards the National Mall. The National Mall is a 1.2 mi long green space connecting the US Capitol with the Lincoln Memorial. It is a good time to have lunch now after the long walk. You can choose from about 30 odd food trucks that line the National Mall.  Sit down on the grass or use some of the benches to relax.

Post lunch tour

Next stop is the Smithsonian museums – there are 17 to choose from of which 11 are around the National Mall. The two most famous ones are the National Museum of Natural history and National Air and Space Museum . You would mostly have time for just one or maybe two if you rush. We chose the Air and Space museum having visited the Natural history museum in NYC. We also visited a temporary exhibition of ancient monuments at the adjacent Sackler Gallery.

To know more about a 4 day New York itinerary, click here .

Pro Tip: All Smithsonian museums have free entry which is a great bargain given the amount of knowledge on display. If you are confused on what to see, stop by at the Smithsonian Castle which is also the information centre.

The last stop of the day is the US Capitol . Depending on what time it is already you can visit the visitor centre (open till 4.30pm). To know more about visiting hours check their website . From here you will walk back to either Union Station or to the bus boarding point.

Do tell me what you think about this itinerary from New York to Washington DC in a day trip in the comments below.

Till then, Happy Travels.

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Top Places to See Between Washington DC & NYC

Traveling on a bus between Washington DC to NYC is a great way to check out a wide range of attractions. Some of these cities are historical locations with a rich history, while others offer numerous activities to enjoy that are perfect for the entire family. Learning more about all of these attractions will allow you to plan your road trip in advance to help you create an unforgettable experience.

While BestBus offers direct routes to NYC with no additional stops, here are a few of the top cities to visit between Washington DC to NYC if you are driving.

Baltimore, Maryland

The National Aquarium is always a top destination, as you can easily schedule a tour of the aquarium while also checking popular exhibits, such as the Dolphin Discovery and the Amazon River Forest. Special events are held at the aquarium throughout the year. Another popular location is The American Visionary Art Museum, as it's home to many unusual exhibits and sculptures. Fort McHenry is also a great place to visit for history buffs, as it's the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is a city that offers a wide range of activities. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is home to many beautiful paintings that cover a variety of styles. Independence National Park is another excellent place to visit, as you can see where the founding fathers debated the United States Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. Many other museums and sites are available throughout Philadelphia, as it's an iconic city with such a rich history.

Wilmington, Delaware

Wilmington, Delaware, is the perfect place to visit if you love history. The Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library is home to many different antiques and decorative arts related to America's heritage. Another place to check out in Wilmington is the Rockwood Park and Museum, as it's home to over 72 acres of walking trails. You can even go on a ghost tour and learn about the history of this museum that was built in the mid-1850s.

Schedule a Bus Trip from Washington DC to NYC

BestBus is one of the leaders in offering luxury bus from Washington DC to NYC . We offer members 2 reward points for every dollar spent, and you can choose between a free or VIP membership program . You can even reschedule your bus trip the day before without any extra costs.

Contact our team BestBus today to schedule your next bus trip!

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The top things to do on an I-95 road trip

Running almost parallel to the Atlantic Ocean, you're never far from the beach on this drive between Florida and Maine

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Created by Roadtrippers - December 30th 2020

I-95 is the main highway that runs along the East Coast of the U.S. Since it is almost parallel to the Atlantic Ocean, you're never too far away from the beach on an I-95 road trip. Some of the major cities you'll pass through include Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington D.C., Richmond, Savannah, Jacksonville, and Miami. Here's some of the top attractions to see along I-95, from Florida to Maine.

28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL, US

Coral Castle

Starting in southern Florida, just outside Miami, you'll stumble upon Coral Castle in Homestead. Built entirely by hand by an eccentric, heartbroken man, Coral Castle is a unique structure carved from oolite limestone. Marvel at the wonder and the sad story at this roadside attraction.

2701 De Soto Blvd, Coral Gables, FL, US

Venetian Pool

If you want the relaxation of a day at the beach minus the crowds, then hit the Venetian Pool. The Venetian Pool was originally built for Coral Gables, one of the country's first planned communities in the 1920s. The pool is filled with fresh water each day, straight from artesian wells. It's drained every night and refilled every morning, so you know that you're swimming in exceptionally clean water. If you're worried about water conservation, fear not. The water is drained back into the aquifer.

Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL, US

South Beach

From there, hop back in the car and cruise to South Beach, one of the swankiest beaches along the East Coast. But, South Beach is way more than than playing in the waves and chilling in cabanas. The people-watching is second-to-none, and walking around the Art Deco district will transport you back in time to a vibrant era.

3600 W Sample Rd, Coconut Creek, FL, US

Butterfly World

Once you've had your fill of the city, head to Butterfly World in nearby Coconut Creek. It's one of the largest butterfly parks in the world, offering displays of butterflies, bugs, and birds, as well as beautiful flowers.

17855 Rocky Pines Rd., Jupiter, FL, US

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary

At the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, you can wander along trails featuring various natural habitats and displays of native animals, including eagles, panthers, crocodiles, snakes, and more. Plus, admission is free.

1322 US Hwy 1, Sebastian, FL, US

Mel Fisher's Treasure Museum

Mel Fisher's Treasure Museum exhibits archaeological maritime artifacts from 18th century shipwrecks. Mel Fisher is a real-life Indiana Jones who has spent more than 20 years recovering lost treasures from the bottom of the sea. You can see gold, gem-studded jewelry, old coins, and more.

Kennedy Space Center, SR 405, Titusville, FL, US

Kennedy Space Center

Head over to Titusville to get a bus tour of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, but come early—the tours are popular and fill up fast. Other sites at the complex include the United States Astronaut Hall Of Fame, the Rocket Garden, and the Space Shuttle Atlantis.

4931 S Peninsula Dr, Ponce Inlet, FL, US

Ponce Deleon Inlet Lighthouse

The Ponce Deleon Inlet Lighthouse is the perfect place to get off I-95 to stretch your legs, especially if you decide to tackle the 200-step stairway to the top. The view is absolutely worth it. Tour the a small museum to learn more.

8635 A1A South, FL, US

Fort Matanzas National Monument

From Titusville, it's just a short drive to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., founded in 1565. You'll find one of the best preserved historic districts in the nation, not to mention great restaurants and bars. From Castillo De San Marcos—which is a stunning fortress that's believed to be haunted—to Fort Matanzas National Monument and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, history comes to life here.

100 Red Cox Rd, FL, US

St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum

If you're feeling up for a bit more climbing, stop at St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum, and ascend to the top of this 165-foot tall tower. The views of downtown St. Augustine and the oldest port in the U.S. are amazing. There are also exhibits here covering the country's maritime history and a gift shop.

If you're looking for a hotel in St. Augustine, the St. George Inn, the Carriage House Bed and Breakfast, and Casa Monica are exceptional options.

1368 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL, US

Jacksonville Beach

Before leaving the Sunshine State, hit up Jacksonville Beach to soak up the sun while walking the boardwalk. Parking is usually easy to find if you get there early. Plus, many restaurants and bars offer exquisite views.

1860 Starratt Rd, Jacksonville, FL, US

The Catty Shack Ranch

The Catty Shack Ranch offers up-close views of lions, tigers, and other big cats. Run mostly by volunteers, this non-profit provides a sanctuary for rescued cats that might not otherwise have a home.

113 Saint Marys St, GA, US

Cumberland Island National Seashore

For a fun side trip off I-95, head to Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore is to catch the ferry at St. Marys. You'll find campsites, hiking trails, and wild horses roaming around. There's nowhere to buy food or supplies on the island, so pack accordingly.

US Hwy. 17 South, Darien, GA, US

Smallest Church in America

While in the Peach State, visit the Smallest Church in America—or so it claims—in South Newport. Built in 1949, this roadside stop offers a charming photo backdrop.

102 W Hall St, Savannah, GA, US

Forsyth Park

Savannah is one of the U.S.'s most picturesque cities. It seems like it's covered in Spanish moss as far as the eye can see. With one of the largest historic downtowns in the nation, Savannah has a bounty of charming shops and spots to visit, and the food scene is renowned.

If you're just driving through, but want to get a quick taste of Savannah, stop at Forsyth Park for a walk. This beautiful public park is an iconic oasis in the city.

If you are spending the night, consider the Hamilton-Turner Inn, Ballastone Inn, or The Gastonian.

30 Meddin Drive, Tybee Island, GA, US

Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum

A quick detour from Savannah to the Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum is worthwhile. The barrier island is vacation destination, known for its iconic lighthouse, historic sites, and endless beaches.

330 Bonaventure Rd, Savannah, GA, US

Bonaventure Cemetery

There are a few famous people buried at Savannah's Bonaventure Cemetery, but the real appeal is the beauty of the Southern Gothic cemetery itself. Graceful old trees covered in Spanish moss create a canopy, and many of the gravestones are works of art. Just remember that this is still a functioning cemetery and some of the visitors are there to grieve.

301 Gervais St., Columbia, SC, US

South Carolina State Museum

Make your first stop in the Palmetto State the South Carolina State Museum in Columbia. This amazing museum is housed in a massive former textile mill and features four floors with over 70,000 exhibits. You'll find many nice hotels in Columbia, as well. Victorian Elegance Inn and the Hilton Columbia Center are among the many places to book a room.

4004 Homestead Rd, Bowman, SC, US

UFO Welcome Center

For something completely different, detour off of I-95 to visit the UFO Welcome Center in Bowman. Built in 1994, this structure quickly became a popular tourist attraction. The 42-foot-wide flying saucer is built out of wood, fiberglass, and plastic. For a small fee, you can meet the owner and peek inside.

251 State Park Rd, Santee, SC, US

Santee State Park

Stretch your legs at Santee State Park, which has an abundance of catfish in the waters of Lake Marion. In addition to fishing, hiking and camping are popular activities. You can also drive a little longer to the Woods Bay State Park to soak in the natural beauty of one of the last Carolina Bays found along the Atlantic Coast.

I-95 officially ends at the Houlton–Woodstock Border Crossing. The route continues into Canada, where you can cross the border into New Brunswick. If you want to have an international journey after this epic tour of the East Coast, just keep driving.

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What to See on a Drive from NYC to Washington DC

The classic East Coast road trip is the drive from New York City to Washington DC. While it is possible to make the trip in just a few short hours, it’s best to take a full week to enjoy each of the cities and some hidden gems along the way. Our recommendations include stops in the usual suspects of New York, Philadelphia, and DC plus Bucks County, Valley Forge, Wilmington, and Annapolis. Along the way, there are lots of historic sites, parks, museums, and good things to eat and drink.

If time is of the essence, the fastest route is to head south on I-95. This traffic clogged and unremarkable stretch of roadway will let you drive from New York to Washington DC in 4-5 hours (distance of 226 miles) – assuming there is no traffic. It is best to allow 5 hours for the trip, or even a little more if you will be hitting any of the cities at rush hour.

With more time, we recommend skipping the highway and opting for the more remarkable, historic, and scenic route outlined in the itinerary below.

New York City

Start by spending a day or two in America’s cultural capital: New York City. There is so much to do in New York that you could easily fill a week, but try to focus your time on the highlights. On a nice day, visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Museum is a must. Timed tickets are required for the ferry ride, and the climb to the top of the crown (164 steps!) is worth it. Back in Lower Manhattan, the ferry terminal is only a 10-minute walk from the somber giant waterfalls of the National September 11 th Memorial .

There is no better way to get a sense of the grandeur of New York than by visiting one of its observation decks. The Empire State Building is a classic, and our favorite is Top of the Rock . Timed tickets mean that lines aren’t very long, and they’ll give you a rain check if the weather is poor. At Top of the Rock, you’re only three blocks from seeing masterpieces like Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Monet’s Water Lillies at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). A combined ticket saves $10 on admission to both.

If seeing a Broadway show is high on your list and you’re flexible, check out the TKTS ticket counter in Times Square for a chance to get same-day discounted tickets. Joe Allen’s and Sardi’s are always a good choice for a pre-theater dinner. We also enjoy 5 Napkin Burger –they have good deals on their weekday happy hour.

Bucks County

Two hours outside of New York and just across the Delaware River in Pennsylvania is Bucks County. This wealthy, rural area is home to horse stables, farms, and a number of very cute towns like New Hope and Doylestown . There are a ton of activities and things to see in Bucks County to fill a day.

From pick-your-own spots like Solebury Orchard or Shady Brook Farm to the serenity of Washington Crossing Historic Park (the point where Washington and his troops crossed the Delaware), Bucks County feels like it is a million miles from the hustle of the big cities on the East Coast. When visiting, you’ll quickly see why this is a very popular weekend getaway.

Our favorite spots in Bucks County are Main Street in New Hope and Fonthill Castle in Doylestown . Main Street is a delightful street lined with shops and restaurants, and it offers great river views. Browse the stores and stop for lunch at New Hope Ferry Market . If you’re up for more walking, stroll across the Delaware River to wander quaint Lambertville, New Jersey, on the other side.

Fonthill is a location unlike anywhere else. Over 100 years old, the concrete castle was originally built as the private home of collector Henry Mercer. He filled it with souvenirs from his travels and adorned the walls, ceilings, and fireplaces with tiles collected from around the world as well as many he made himself. A tour of the massive building provides an in-depth look at the architecture and Mercer’s unique story. Timed tickets are needed. Leave about 90 minutes for a visit here .

Alternative :  The Jersey Shore. If you are visiting in the summer and would rather have a beach day, head to the Jersey Shore. You can work on your tan and experience the uniqueness of this unusual section of American life. The beaches at the shore are not like beaches anywhere else in America. If you are visiting with kids, head to Ocean City , Sea Isle City or Margate. If you want the full Jersey Shore experience, head to Seaside Heights or Belmar.

Philadelphia

The heart of your journey is Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love and the birthplace of America. We recommend spending two days in Philadelphia to see the historic highlights and experience some of the unique things that set Philly apart.

For day one, take in all of the sites in historic Old City. Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, which are just a few feet from each other, are both free to visit and relatively quick. Just a few blocks away, flag maker Betsy Ross’s house and Elfreth’s Alley–the oldest street in America–round out some of the top attractions. In the afternoon, take a break having a drink in a pop-up garden on the Delaware River or sample some of the classic Philly foods , like the famous cheesesteak .

On day two, explore the city’s cultural scene. The Museum Mile in the western part of Center City includes the Philadelphia Museum of Art , which is world-renowned for its collection. Outside, a statue of the fictional boxer Rocky Balboa draws visitors year-round (usually before or after they run up the “Rocky steps,” aka the museum’s steps). A few blocks away, the Rodin Museum showcases the largest collection of the sculptor’s work outside France.

Our favorite museum in this area is The Barnes Foundation which houses an unbelievable group of artwork, including paintings by artists such as Van Gogh, Cezanne, Picasso, and other greats. The works are uniquely displayed alongside furniture and metal objects that may have you scratching your head at the groupings. If you’re looking for a place for lunch, the on-site restaurant is excellent.

If you haven’t had enough art yet, head to South Street for a completely different artistic space–the quirky Magic Gardens which is made of outstanding mosaics and found objects. Honestly, every time I see works by Isaiah Zagar–either at his Magic Gardens or around South Philly–I can’t help but smile. Along the way, check out the thousands of public art murals that are part of the Mural Arts Program – the largest public art project in America.

End your day with a visit to one of Philly’s iconic restaurants– Zahav , Amada, or Parc–and a nightcap at Bok Bar or a speakeasy like Hop Sing Laundromat or Andra Hem.

Valley Forge

After leaving downtown Philadelphia, head west to the suburbs. About an hour from downtown along the hills of Great Valley is Valley Forge National Historical Park . Here in the winter of 1777, General George Washington led a group of over 12,000 ragtag fighters from the various colonies to set up a winter encampment that essentially became the fourth largest city in America. The winter was extremely challenging due to diseases and lack of supplies, but the army that left the hills in the spring of 1778 was fit and motivated for battle.

Throughout the park, there are memorials to the Revolutionary War troops as well as replica log cabins of the type they built and lived in. You’ll see Washington’s Headquarters –the building he stayed in along with his aides-de-camp and paid and enslaved workers. It is open daily for visiting. We always stop by the dramatic National Memorial Arch where there are sweeping views of much of the park and gorgeous foliage in the fall .

Visiting Valley Forge is one of the most popular things to do in Montgomery County because of its historical significance as well as its walking and cycling trails. It’s a popular spot for people training for races (myself included) or just for having a picnic in a peaceful setting. Depending on your interest level and how many sites you want to see, a stop here could range from 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Brandywine Valley and Wilmington

Leaving Valley Forge, head through the Brandywine Valley, which straddles the Pennsylvania-Delaware state line. This valley has lush hills, beautiful rivers, and lots of famous gardens and estates.

Pause for a visit at the famous Longwood Gardens , one of the many DuPont family legacy sites in the area. The incredible space is 1000+ acres of manicured gardens and woodlands. The creations in the Conservatory consistently impress and intrigue us with their use of sculpted plants, brilliant flowers, and water features. If the weather is nice, a stop here is essential. It’s also incredible when decorated for Christmas .

With more time in the area, consider a visit to one of the other DuPont family estates such as Winterthur, Nemours Estate, and the Mt. Cuba Center. Winterthur has a house museum that features the largest collection of decorative arts in America ranging from hand-painted Chinese wall paper to a tankard that belonged to Paul Revere. A spring visit to the 60-acre garden here actually took my breath away when we managed to see peak bloom of most of the flowering trees. Nearby, the outstanding landscaping at Nemours includes ponds, grand fountains, and a stunning vista view from the 77-room mansion built by Alfred I. duPont. Check out the bowling alley and the vintage cars in the chauffeur’s garage.

Rounding out the group of estates, a visit to Mt. Cuba Center is primarily about the outdoor space. The grounds are filled with native plants, and the nature trails provide an opportunity to see many of them. We love the pond, and the dogwood path is worth a stroll.

Just south of the PA line, there are lots more attractions in Wilmington to visit. Take a walk and have a meal along the Riverfront or tour Old Swedes Church –consecrated in 1699, it’s one of the country’s oldest churches. Don’t miss DE.CO food hall for a selection of different cuisines and drinks. Fortunately, it is located in the same building as the Hotel du Pont –spending the night here before continuing the trip can make sense.

Despite being the capital of Maryland, Annapolis still feels like a small town. It has all the charm of a waterfront community with all the amenities associated with a capital and the home of a major university. Of course, that university is the U.S. Naval Academy and its location in Annapolis isn’t an accident. This town is the gateway to the Chesapeake Bay.

Staying in Annapolis for one night is a must. There are so many things to do in Annapolis that you will have a hard time narrowing down your options. Our picks include taking a tour the Naval Academy and then heading out on the Schooner Woodwind for some sailing on the Chesapeake. If you’re in town on a Wednesday night in the summer, the city’s Wednesday night sailing races are always fun to watch (or participate in!).

Don’t miss the chance to see the city’s street art or watch the boats showing off in the area affectionately known as Ego Alley (it’s technically City Dock). If you’re in town on a weekend, Great Frogs Winery is a fun place to stop for a wine tasting. For shellfish lovers, Annapolis does not disappoint–you’ll find everything from a crab omelet ( Chick & Ruth’s Delly ) to excellent crab cakes ( Carrol’s Creek ).

Washington DC

A short drive from Annapolis is Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States. Much of what there is to do in Washington centers around the government and the National Mall. Top picks for visitors, especially those with kids, are visiting our government sites – the Capitol, the White House , and the National Archives.

Across the river in Arlington, Virginia, the Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a powerful experience for any visitor. And finally, do not forget to spend time visiting the national monuments:  Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, the Vietnam wall, World War II, and Korean War.

The various museums of the Smithsonian are fascinating and free to visit. With 17 museums and galleries in all, there is something for everyone. Whether your interest in natural history or air & space, there is a museum that will captivate your interest. Visitors could literally spend a week visiting all the museums, so we recommend picking one or two that you would like to focus on and doing those. If you have more time, you can always add a few more. The National Museum of African American History and Culture is at the top of our list.

Beyond the formal government institutions, there’s also some cool things to do in the city.  Do not miss the Spy Museum, which is way cooler than you would ever expect from a museum. And, of course, there are some exceptional restaurants to experience. Washington is worth at least two days on your East Coast itinerary.

A final note—

If you happen to be starting your trip in Washington, DC, just flip the itinerary. It’s possible to do this trip as Washington DC to New York drive. It really does not matter which way you do the trip.

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From New York City to Washington, D.C.: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Lavanya Sunkara and Freddy Sherman Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Travelers have a plethora of options for traveling from New York City to Washington D.C. From a quick flight or a leisurely train or bus ride to an organized tour , you have your pick of choices. The nation's capital is located 230 miles southwest of the Big Apple, and it's worth adding a weekend trip to your New York City vacation to explore D.C.'s monuments, museums, and capital buildings .

Various transportation methods between the cities have both pros and cons. To help you figure out the best way to travel from New York City to Washington D.C., we've put together five ways, with advice on the most affordable, the quickest, and the best tour.

On This Page:

• From New York to Washington D.C. on a Day Trip Tour
• From New York to Washington D.C. by Train
• From New York to Washington D.C. by Car
• From New York to Washington D.C. by Plane
• From New York to Washington D.C. by Bus

1. From New York to Washington D.C. on a Day Trip Tour

Highlights: Relaxed, guided sightseeing that includes transportation and admission fees

An organized tour is one of the best and easiest ways to explore the country's capital, giving you peace of mind if you are traveling alone, want a guided experience, or you want to see the sights without the hassle of planning everything on your own. Best of all, you can do it all in just a day. The Washington D.C. Day Trip from New York City tour takes care of all the logistics, so you can relax and enjoy the vibrant city with a group.

The trip brings guests in a minivan or bus and passes by landmarks such as the White House and the Capitol Building. It makes stops at Arlington Cemetery (where JFK is buried) and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, one of D.C.'s top attractions. Stop by the Vietnam War Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial before making your way back to New York. Enjoy Wi-Fi onboard the vehicle. The tour departs New York City at 6:30am.

2. From New York to Washington D.C. by Train

Highlights: Fast, comfortable transit with a range of conveniences depending on budget

Clocking in just around three hours , the high-speed Acela Express train by Amtrak brings you to D.C. in one of the most efficient ways, so you can have more time to enjoy the capital city. Catch the train at New York City's Moynihan Train Hall at Pennsylvania Station, known as Penn Station, located in Midtown, to D.C's centrally located Union Station. Trains operate regularly from early morning to 10pm. Amtrak recently introduced the Acela Nonstop to D.C., so you can make your way faster than ever on the train.

The Acela train offers Business and First Class options, and passengers can take advantage of Wi-Fi, large tray tables, power outlets, and conference tables during the trip. The train has a Cafe Car, and First Class passengers get an at-seat meal, complimentary beverages, hot towel service, and a chance to board early and access the station lounges.

The Amtrak Regional Service trains are cheaper but add just a half hour more to the commute , and you can reserve your reclinable seat ahead of time in a Wi-Fi-equipped, air-conditioned car. Upon arrival, you can take the Metro , or an Uber or Lyft car to get to your hotel.

3. From New York to Washington D.C. by Car

Highlights: Personalized itinerary and freedom to visit neighboring sights

Whether you are renting a car or have your own, driving to D.C. from New York can be accomplished in just around four hours , longer during weekends and the winter months.

Take the New Jersey Turnpike South and Interstate 95 South through New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland to get to the capital city. To reach the New Jersey Turnpike, either take the Holland or Lincoln Tunnels or the George Washington Bridge. Avoid rush hour for a quicker ride and use apps like Google Maps or Waze for the best route.

A total of 18 northeastern states use E-ZPass , a device and system for cashless tolls on roads, bridges, and tunnels. The system can even be used to pay for airport parking in some cities. If you have one, be sure to have it with you, and if you don't have one, but live in the region, consider getting one before your trip. For tolls incurred in New York, you can use tollsbymailny.com to pay them online within 48 hours. International visitors should note the site is only accessible from the U.S.

Closer to the city, you will catch the Baltimore-Washington Pkwy, which tends to experience slow downs. Avoid congestion on the Baltimore Washington Parkway by setting your GPS to avoid highways, so you can use side streets to reach your destination sooner.

While driving gives you more freedom to get around, keep in mind that parking can be hard to find in the city. However, if your hotel is located in the suburbs of D.C., driving will give you more flexibility and a chance to leave the car behind and catch the Metro to see the sights.

Renting a car from a company like Hertz , Avis , or Budget is a good option. Keep in mind renting a car at an NYC airport (or in Manhattan) is more expensive than at a satellite location. If you're not flying in, consider taking the train to Queens, Long Island, or Jersey City to rent a car there.

4. From New York to Washington D.C. by Plane

Highlights: Speedy and wallet-friendly travel, maximize time to enjoy tourist attractions

Flying from New York City to D.C. is the fastest way to travel between the cities, with an estimated flying time of just under an hour . Plane fares also tend to be lower than train tickets, making flying a more affordable and efficient way to get to Washington D.C.; although keep in mind that money spent on cab or Uber rides to and from airports outside of the cities could add to the cost.

All three of the New York City Airports – John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark International Airport (EWR) – have regular non-stop shuttle flights to DC airports starting from as early as 6am. United , JetBlue , Delta , and American Airlines have the most direct flights to D.C.

Customers can book flights to either Reagan National (DCA), Dulles International Airport (IAD) in Virginia, or Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) in Maryland. While Reagan National is a short Metro or cab ride from Downtown Washington, plane passengers arriving at Dulles and BWI, both of which are over 25 miles from the city center, can take a shuttle service, cab, or a hired service. Uber and Lyft rideshare cars are also an option.

BWI has connections to Maryland's MARC commuter and Amtrak's Regional lines, with free shuttles bringing passengers from the terminals to the train station. It takes approximately 30 to 35 minutes on the train to reach D.C. from BWI.

5. From New York to Washington D.C. by Bus

Highlights: Low-cost and stress-free, take in the views across 5 states

If you've got the time to spare and don't mind a more leisurely way to get to Washington D.C. from New York City, there are a number of bus companies offering competitive prices. Fares are usually the lowest when compared to flying or riding the train.

Popular companies like Greyhound , Megabus , BestBus , and Peter Pan are some companies that offer rides, with the trip taking anywhere from five to six hours as you make your way through Northeastern states to the country's capital.

Greyhound buses depart from Port Authority Bus Terminal, while other buses leave curbside from various locations in New York City to D.C.'s Union Station.

BestBus gives customers a free bottle of water upon boarding, and has free Wi-Fi, restrooms, and power outlets onboard. They drop-off at Dupont Circle and Union Station in DC and pick up at Penn Station in NYC. Megabus has reserved reclining seating, free Wi-Fi, and onboard entertainment with Megabus RIDE, a free app for your mobile device.

FlixBus has more than 20 buses going between New York and Washington each day. Some buses depart from a curbside stop in Chinatown, others depart from a curbside stop in Midtown, near Penn Station. In Washington, the drop-off point is at New York Avenue and 6th Street NW. Their journey takes between four and five hours as it's fairly direct.

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• Apr 10, 2021

East Coast USA 10 Day Full Itinerary - New York City, Philadelphia and Washington DC

Updated: Oct 5, 2021

My brother and I visited the East Coast of the US back in the summer of 2019 - before the terms coronavirus, social distancing and lockdown were a thing. It was our first trip together without our parents and we managed to navigate three of the US' biggest cities with only a few arguments! During our ten day trip we visited: New York City, Philadelphia and Washington. New York City will forever be one of my all-time favourite travel destinations in the world. It truly has everything you could want in a city - excitement, diversity, culture and above all, a great energy. I always feel so energised when I visit NYC. After spending a couple of days in NYC, we took the Greyhound Bus to Philadelphia. I'd never been to Philadelphia before so I didn't know what to expect. It's safe to say I was very pleasantly surprised! Philadelphia was such a cool place and I wish we got to spend more time there. After another couple of days in Pennsylvania's capital, we headed for the US capital - Washington DC. Luckily our cousin lives in Washington DC so we stayed at his apartment for the duration of our time there. You know what you're getting with DC and even though I'd visited once before, there was so much I hadn't seen or done yet. DC is the heart of America's culture and history and this is encapsulated by its many museums, exhibitions and memorials. Right - introduction over, here is all the important information that can help you plan your own trip to the East Coast of the US - accommodation, food, activities.

Day 1 - New York City

Accommodation - The Pod Times Square - $547 for two nights (I know, absolutely ridiculous!). That roughly equates to £395. The reason it was so expensive was due to its location (five minute walk from Times Square) and the dates we went (NYC is always more expensive in the summer).

On our first full day in NYC we went on a day-long walking tour of Manhattan and Brooklyn - full on tourist mode! We walked from Times Square to Brooklyn Bridge, taking in everything NYC had to offer. The best part about NYC - you can get so much for free! Every block you walk past has something on offer, whether that be a skyscraper, a local food truck or a street performance, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The walk from Times Square to Brooklyn Bridge was long and it was a very hot day in NYC. The view from Brooklyn Bridge was breathtaking and the walk across it was even better. The bridge is a tourist hotspot in itself and its a thriving part of NYC. There are opportunities to buy paintings, take photos and even hold a snake! I managed to capture some fantastic photos of the bridge as I walked across - navigating the hundreds of people doing the same as well as cyclists swerving in and out of the waiting tourists. As we made our way over the bridge to Brooklyn I was instantly amazed by Brooklyn's character and uniqueness. We didn't spend too much time in Brooklyn as time was getting on but we did stop by the Hudson River to admire the view of Manhattan across the bridge. To finish the day we stopped off at Subway for some food and then went to Times Square which comes alive at night. It makes me so sad to think about how Times Square has been affected by the pandemic - it thrives off having thousands of people fill its streets day after day.

Day 2 - New York City

Day two in NYC was just as busy as day one, if not even busier. After breakfast at Dunkin Donuts in which I had my favourite NYC breakfast (a cream cheese bagel), we decided to venture to one of NYC's most famous bakeries in Harlem - the Levain bakery. To get to the Levain bakery we walked from one end of Central Park to the other. It was a very long walk but I absolutely love Central Park - so it was all worth it! We tried one of the famous chocolate chip cookies and it's safe to say it didn't disappoint. After a day of walking we decided to get the metro back to Times Square and then went back to our hotel to prepare for our departure to Philadelphia the next day.

Day 3 - Philadelphia - Apple Hostel (Twin private room) - Approximately £120 for two nights

Greyhound Bus - NYC to Philadelphia. After arriving to Philadelphia in the afternoon, we didn't do too much on the first day after from try the famous Philly Cheese Steak! We couldn't visit Philadelphia without trying the local delicacy - it did not disappoint!

Day 4 - Philadelphia

Our first stop on our first full day in Philadelphia was the Museum of the American Revolution. I had never studied about the American Revolution so I was really interested in finding out more about America's past and how it has shaped the America we see today. We then went to the Eastern State Penitentiary which was one the most famous and expensive prison in the world. Today it stands in ruin - crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Admission for adults costs $19 which is a very reasonable price given how long we spent walking around. There was also lots of information about the current judicial system in the US - such as the issues with the system as well as what needs to be done to improve it. After exploring the Eastern State Penitentiary we took an Uber back into the centre of Philadelphia and visited the famous Liberty Bell. It was free to visit with no tickets required but there was a queue so bare that in mind when visiting at popular times. For dinner we went to an Indian restaurant and I had a delicious chicken korma - I'd highly recommend!

Day 5 - Washington DC

Day 5 took us to our third and final destination of our East Coast US trip. Instead of explaining everywhere we went and what we did in DC, I'll create a list below of it all including opening and closing times, prices etc.

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Admission: Free

Opening and closing hours: 10am-5:30pm

National Museum of African American History and Culture

Opening and closing hours: 11am-4pm

The Capitol Visitor Centre - guided tour and Senate Gallery

All tours, programmes and activities are free of charge.

Opening and closing hours: 8:30am-4:30pm

To access the Senate Gallery you'll need to show your passport as proof of ID if you're not an American citizen - I'd highly recommend visiting the Senate Gallery if you get the opportunity. The process of obtaining the required pass was a lot quicker and straight forward than I initially imagined.

Lincoln Memorial

Location: Western end of the National Mall, across from the Washington Monument.

National Air and Space Museum

I'd highly recommend paying to do the Flight Simulator Experience. This cost $10 per person which was great value for money and a lot of fun! Make sure to avoid the busy times though as we did unfortunately have to queue.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Location: Near Constitution Gardens on the National Mall. The closest Metro stops are Foggy Bottom or Federal Triangle on the Orange, Blue and Silver lines.

Martin Luther King Memorial

Location: West Potomac Park at 1964 Independence Avenue.

D.C. United vs Real Betis - football match

Location: Buzzard Point, Washington.

Washington Nationals baseball match

Location: Along the Anacostia River in the Navy Yard neighbourhood of Washington DC.

During our time in Washington we also met up with my friend Ellie who I met whilst travelling in Thailand. We drove to Shenandoah National Park and explored the area as well as going on a hike. My brother and I had been to a few National Park's in America before but I'd have to say that Shenandoah National Park was one of my favourites!

Overall, my brother and I had a fantastic time on our East Coast US trip! We both love visiting the US and what always excites me is the diversity within the country and amongst all the different cities. Each city offers something unique and I can't wait to return to the US soon - hopefully within the next year or so.

So, who's thinking of booking a trip to the East Coast of the US? I hope you find this itinerary useful!

All information provided is from our personal experience and OneGlobe360 cannot take any responsibility for any changes in prices or details of the information discussed.

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• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Washington or New York City?
• Which is Cheaper, Washington or New York City? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Washington or New York City?

• When to Visit Washington or New York City?

Should you visit Washington or New York City?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and New York City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

New York City

New York City is a energetic, cosmopolitan, and one-of-a-kind city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Washington and New York City: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Numerous theater shows
• Active nightlife
• Good for hiking
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Big city activities
• Impressive beauty
• Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
• Less active music scene
• Less popular with backpackers
• Good music scene
• Known for Christmas markets
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Home to the Statue of Liberty

Is there more to do in Washington or New York City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in New York City than Washington, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. New York City is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Washington is known for its hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. New York City is more touristy than Washington and is known for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty. Washington is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums.

How is Washington different from New York City?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City and Washington. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Washington or New York City?

Spend time exploring the first-rate sights and museums in either Washington or New York City.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in New York City are among the most recognizable in the world. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

Is Washington or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is a world-class destination for theatre. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its theatre productions.

The theater scene in New York City is world-class. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Is the Food Better in Washington or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Washington and New York City both to be first-rate destinations.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, New York City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

Is Washington or New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

People head to New York City just to party. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Is Washington or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is a world-class destination for live music. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its live music scene.

New York City is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Is Washington or New York City Better for Hiking?

Washington is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, New York City is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

New York City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or New York City?

New York City is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in New York City. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Washington or New York City Better for Christmas?

With various activities, both Washington and New York City are first-rate places to visit during Christmas.

With so many activities, Washington is a top place to visit during Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

New York City is a fantastic destination at Christmas. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Is Washington or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Washington does not offer Christmas markets.

New York City offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Washington does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Washington or New York City Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Washington or New York City.

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

New York City is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Is Washington or New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, New York City has plenty to offer. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Washington or New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

New York City is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Washington or New York City Better for Students?

For students, both Washington and New York City are first-rate places to visit.

Students come from all over the world to visit Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

New York City is a great destination for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Is Washington or New York City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Washington and New York City both offer first-rate public transit to get you around.

With a huge network, the transit system in Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Visitors in New York City can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

Is Washington or New York City a more walkable city?

Washington and New York City are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

It is easy to get around New York City on foot. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

For even more information, also check out Is Washington Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in New York City or Washington?

How long in washington or new york city.

Both Washington and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, New York City has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in New York City than Washington . However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in New York City than Washington. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in New York City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in New York City than Washington. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in New York City that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Washington if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in New York City.

• How many days in Washington or New York City? Ideal Length of Stay Washington 3-7   New York City   3-7

One day in Washington or New York City?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With theater and nightlife around the vibrant city of New York City, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With nightlife and live music around the big city destination of New York City, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Washington or New York City?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

New York City, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or New York City?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America , The Best Camping Tours in United States of America , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America , and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America .

Which place is cheaper, New York City or Washington?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Washington Prices USA Prices New York City Prices USA Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Washington $ 198 New York City $ 326

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $198, while the average daily cost in New York City is $326. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Washington and New York City in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Washington $ 113 New York City $ 175
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Washington $ 226 New York City $ 350

Compare Hotels in Washington and New York City

Looking for a hotel in Washington or New York City? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Washington

Hotels in New York City

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Washington $ 47 New York City $ 49

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:

• Metro Day Pass $ 9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

Also for Washington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• private Ronald Reagan, Washington National Airport transfer: $150
• Washington, DC Airport Transfer Service DCA: $350
• Washington to Washington Airport (IAD) Departure Private Transfer: $67
• Washington to Washington Airport (DCA) Departure Private Transfer: $60
• Washington to NY Kennedy Airport(JFK)- Departure Private Transfer: $206
• Washington to Baltimore Airport (BWI) Departure Private Transfer: $78
• Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA): Transfer to Washington: $181
• Washington DC: Private Transfer to Airports or Baltimore: $160
• Washington DC: One Way Airport Transfer Service: $80
• Washington DC: DCA Private Transfer from/to Downtown: $110
• Washington DC Metro Area :Airport Transfers: $75
• Washington City to Philadelphia City - Private Car Transfer: $141

Typical Local Transportation Prices in New York City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in New York City are as follows:

• Subway $ 4.50
• Taxi Ride $ 8.00
• Subway $ 2.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in New York City

Also for New York City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• 1 Day-Private Tour New York Highlights with Private Transfer: $1,200
• NYC: Six Flags Great Adventure Private Hotel Transfer: $549
• Private Transfer: between Manhattan and Philadelphia: $548
• La Guardia Airport Private Limousine Transfer: $489
• Skip-the-line Tickets to Bronx Zoo with Private Transfers: $410
• JFK Airport: Private Transfer to New York City: $400
• JFK Airport To Manhattan Luxury SUV Transfer: $370
• (EWR) Airport: Private Transfer to New York City: $325
• Empire State Building NYC Tour, Pre-booked Tickets, Transfer: $300
• Family And Group Airport Transfer: $300
• JFK Departure - Private Van Transfers to JFK Airport: $300
• Skip-the-line One World Observatory Tour with Transfers: $296

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or New York City?

Prices for flights to both New York City and Washington change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Washington $ 38 New York City $ 50

Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:

• Water $ 2.00
• Snacks on Monuments Tour $ 6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

For Washington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Sweet and Savory Scandalous White House walking Food Tour: $60
• DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $60
• Eastern Market Small-Group Food Tour with 5 Food Stop and Dessert: $69
• Eastern Market Eats Food Tour (5 Food Stops + Dessert): $69
• Adams Morgan Food Tour: $74
• Small-Group Capitol Hill Walking Food Tour: $75
• Gastronomic Georgetown Walking Food Tour : $80
• Washington D.C: Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown: $85
• DC: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $85
• Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $103
• Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
• Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140

Typical Food Prices in New York City

For New York City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:

• Gelato $ 7.50
• Snacks for Two at Yankees Game $ 34
• Coffee $ 6.53
• Smoothie $ 6.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in New York City

For New York City, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• The Satin Dollz at Brooklyn Deli Times Square Live Show & Dinner: $22
• Half-Day Private Pizza Crawl in Manhattan: $40
• Greenwich Village Walking Food Tour: Sweets and Slices: $59
• Chinatown Walking Food Tour of New York: $63
• Great Food Tour of New York: $63
• Chinatown New York Walking Food Tour: $63
• Ultimate Greenwich Village NYC Food Tour: $63
• NYC: Greenwich Village Guided Food Tour: $63
• Greenwich Village NYC Pizza Walking Tour: $65
• East Village NYC Pizza Walking Tour: $65
• Pizza Walking Tour of Downtown Brooklyn: $65
• East Village Food Tour: $65

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Washington $ 24 New York City $ 180

Tours and Activities in Washington

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Washington.

• See DC In A Day: Guided Small Group Ultimate Day Tour : $99
• "Drunk Shakespeare" Live Show Ticket at DC's Sage Theatre: $49
• "Women of the Cold War" Guided Walking Tour in Georgetown: $30
• 2 For 1! DC Highlights & Arlington Cemetery Tour Bundle: $84
• 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour : $75
• 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Morning Guided Walking Tour: $50
• 2-Hour National Mall Walking Tour from Washington DC: $25
• 2.5-Hour Sunset Cruise on Chesapeake Bay: $116
• 3 Hour Washington DC Guided Sightseeing Tour : $144
• ARTECHOUSE DC Immersive Art Experience with Reserved Entry Time: $27
• Admission & Guided Tour of Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria: $99
• African American History Private Tour w/ Museum Entry: $450

Typical Entertainment Prices in New York City

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New York City's activities, tours, and tickets:

• Comedy Show Tickets $ 56
• City Map $ 8.00
• Broadway Musical $ 111
• Broadway Show Program $ 10
• Magazine $ 6.99

Tours and Activities in New York City

For New York City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

• 9/11 Memorial Tour with Skip-the-Line Museum Ticket: $55
• Classic 1-Hour Central Park Pedicab Tour : $69
• Godfather Movie Locations New York Tour with Private Guide: $195
• Grand Central Terminal Walking Tour: $35
• New York City Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village: $36
• Official Central Park Pedicab Tours: $50
• THE VIP CARRIAGE RIDE with photo stops (50min) ~ Skip the line : $150
• #1 Six Hour Bus Tour and Boat Ride By The Statue of Liberty: $175
• & Juliet on Broadway Ticket : $148
• & Juliet on Broadway Ticket with VIP Experience and Lunch: $299
• 1 Day Tour to Philadelphia and Hershey's Chocolate World: $195
• 1 HR - NYC Private Classic Car Experience - Downtown: $249

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Things to do in New York City with Kids , Things to Do in Central Park in NYC , and The Best Museums in New York City .

• Alcohol Drinks for one day Washington $ 19 New York City $ 29

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

• Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
• DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures: $28
• Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $28
• Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C.: $59
• Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
• DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
• From Washington DC: Seneca Creek Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175
• Full-Day Private Virginia Wine Tour Experience from Washington : $252
• Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255

Sample the Local Flavors in New York City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New York City:

• New York Rooftop Pub Crawl: $1.00
• NYC West Village Pub Crawl: $20
• NYC West Village Pub Crawl: $22
• New York Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $28
• NYC: Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $28
• NYC Pub Crawl and Rooftop Clubbing Experience: $29
• NYC Pub Crawl with Rooftop Clubbing Experience: $31
• NYC: Brooklyn Nightlife Pub Crawl: $34
• Lower East Side & Alphabet City divebar crawl with the Bar Buds: $48
• Williamsburg Definitive Dive Bar Crawl with the Bar Buds: $48
• Greenwich Village Literary Pub Crawl: $49
• Brooklyn Literary Pub Crawl: $49

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Washington and New York City, we can see that New York City is more expensive. And not only is Washington much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Washington would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Washington and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City than you might in Washington.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Washington Expensive? and Is New York City Expensive? .

New York City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Washington and New York City, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Washington or New York City?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Washington or New York City in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and New York City. Many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to New York City for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Washington is around the same temperature as New York City in the summer. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

New York City receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Washington usually receives less rain than New York City. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Washington 79°F (26°C)   New York City   77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Washington or New York City in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Washington as well as New York City. Most visitors come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to New York City because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Washington is around the same temperature as New York City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Washington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and New York City averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Washington usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as New York City. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Washington 60°F (15°C)   New York City   57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Washington or New York City in the Winter?

Both New York City and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

It's quite cold in New York City in the winter. The weather in Washington can be very cold. In January, Washington is generally much warmer than New York City. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and New York City fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).

In January, Washington usually receives less rain than New York City. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Washington 35°F (1°C)   New York City   31°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Washington or New York City in the Spring?

Both New York City and Washington during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to New York City for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Washington is a little warmer than New York City in the spring. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Washington usually gets less rain in April than New York City. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Washington 56°F (14°C)   New York City   52°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for New York City and Washington

Related articles for washington, related articles for new york city.

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

38 Best Stops Between Washington DC and Buffalo

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How long is the drive from Washington DC to Buffalo?

The direct drive from Washington DC to Buffalo is 457 mi (736 km) , and should have a drive time of 7 hrs 10 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Washington DC to Buffalo, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Pittsburgh , Gettysburg , Erie , Frederick , Leesburg , Winchester , St. Catharines , and Harpers Ferry , as well as top places to visit like Great Falls Park and Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, or the ever-popular Manassas National Battlefield Park.

Top cities between Washington DC and Buffalo

Harpers Ferry

St. Catharines

Best stops along washington dc to buffalo drive, manassas national battlefield park.

Great Falls Park

Steven f. udvar-hazy center, the adventure park at sandy spring, leesburg premium outlets, downtown frederick partnership, harpers ferry national historical park, the inn at charles town races, antietam national battlefield, gettysburg national military park museum & visitor center, gettysburg national cemetery, flight 93 national memorial, ohiopyle state park, fallingwater, world famous horseshoe curve, the johnstown inclined plane, idlewild & soakzone, hollywood casino at the meadows, phipps conservatory and botanical gardens.

Mt Washington

The duquesne incline.

Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum

Peek'n peak resort, chautauqua institution, splash lagoon, presque isle state park.

Welland Canal

Lakeside park carousel.

Attractions

Top searches in Buffalo

Other popular road trips from washington dc, explore nearby places.

• West Seneca
• Cheektowaga
• Williamsville
• Crystal Beach
• Orchard Park
• Stevensville
• North Tonawanda
• Grand Island
• East Amherst
• Clarence Center
• Niagara Falls
• North Evans

All related maps of Buffalo

• Map of Buffalo
• Map of Fort Erie
• Map of Lackawanna
• Map of Blasdell
• Map of Kenmore
• Map of West Seneca
• Map of Cheektowaga
• Map of Williamsville
• Map of Ridgeway
• Map of Crystal Beach
• Map of Depew
• Map of Tonawanda
• Map of Orchard Park
• Map of Stevensville
• Map of Lancaster
• Map of North Tonawanda
• Map of Amherst
• Map of Hamburg
• Map of Lake View
• Map of Getzville
• Map of Grand Island
• Map of Elma
• Map of East Amherst
• Map of Derby
• Map of Eden
• Map of Chippawa
• Map of Clarence Center
• Map of West Falls
• Map of Boston
• Map of Niagara Falls
• Map of North Evans

Buffalo throughout the year

• Buffalo in January
• Buffalo in February
• Buffalo in March
• Buffalo in April
• Buffalo in May
• Buffalo in June
• Buffalo in July
• Buffalo in August
• Buffalo in September
• Buffalo in October
• Buffalo in November
• Buffalo in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Buffalo?

Get inspired for your trip to Buffalo with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Buffalo Itinerary
• 2-Day Buffalo Itinerary
• 3-Day Buffalo Itinerary
• 4-Day Buffalo Itinerary
• 5-Day Buffalo Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from washington dc to buffalo.

Yes! You can drive from Washington DC to Buffalo.

How far is Buffalo from Washington DC by car?

The drive from Washington DC to Buffalo is 457 miles (736 km).

How long does it take to drive from Washington DC to Buffalo?

Driving from Washington DC to Buffalo should take you 7 hrs 10 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Washington DC to Buffalo?

Gas from Washington DC to Buffalo would cost around $40 to $94 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Washington DC to Buffalo?

You could check out Great Falls Park and Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, or the always popular Manassas National Battlefield Park!

What are the best cities to visit between Washington DC and Buffalo?

People love visiting Pittsburgh, Gettysburg, and Erie, among others.

What's the weather like in Washington DC?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Washington DC in January
• Weather in Washington DC in February
• Weather in Washington DC in March
• Weather in Washington DC in April
• Weather in Washington DC in May
• Weather in Washington DC in June
• Weather in Washington DC in July
• Weather in Washington DC in August
• Weather in Washington DC in September
• Weather in Washington DC in October
• Weather in Washington DC in November
• Weather in Washington DC in December

What are some other road trips from Washington DC?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Washington DC.

• Washington DC to New York City drive
• Washington DC to Philadelphia drive
• Washington DC to Orlando drive
• Washington DC to Boston drive
• Washington DC to Chicago drive
• Washington DC to Williamsburg drive
• Washington DC to Toronto drive
• Washington DC to Gettysburg drive
• Washington DC to Niagara Falls drive
• Washington DC to Montreal drive
• Washington DC to Pittsburgh drive
• Washington DC to New Orleans drive
• Washington DC to Nashville drive
• Washington DC to Richmond drive
• Washington DC to Gatlinburg drive
• Washington DC to Atlanta drive
• Washington DC to Atlantic City drive
• Washington DC to Savannah drive
• Washington DC to Cleveland drive
• Washington DC to Charleston drive
• Washington DC to Virginia Beach drive
• Washington DC to Hershey drive
• Washington DC to Charlottesville drive
• Washington DC to Myrtle Beach drive
• Washington DC to St. Augustine drive
• Washington DC to Ocean City drive
• Washington DC to Lancaster drive
• Washington DC to Quebec City drive
• Washington DC to Miami Beach drive
• Washington DC to Memphis drive

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• New York City

How to Travel From New York City to Washington, DC by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

New York City was the original capital of the burgeoning United States of America before it was moved 225 miles south to Washington, D.C. For a comprehensive tour of U.S. history, seeing both of these major cities is practically obligatory. While they are close enough that you could technically make a quick day trip just to say you've been there, Washington has so much to see that it's worth a few days on its own.

Even though the cities are geographically not that far, you can take a quick flight from NYC to D.C., although you'll likely end up spending more time getting to and from the airport than on the plane. For a truly quick ride, taking the train is the fastest option for getting from city center to city center. It can get expensive, however, and buses tend to be the cheapest way to travel. If you have a car, the drive is direct but often backed up with traffic, and parking in either city is usually more trouble than it's worth.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From New York to Washington, DC?

Although it might take a little bit longer, bus service from New York City to the nation's capital is the reliably cheap option. The journey takes around four and a half hours so it's quite a bit slower than other methods of travel, but with seats starting for as low as $1 on Megabus , the prices are unbeatable. You'll need to book at least a few weeks in advance to get deals like $1 tickets, but the bus is also the cheapest option for saving money on last-minute plans. Train tickets and flights can both get prohibitively expensive if you don't reserve them early, but even same-day bus tickets should only cost about $30—assuming they're still available.

Greyhound and Bolt Bus are two other popular options for bus transport around the Northeast. Only Greyhound departs from within Port Authority Bus Terminal  while other bus services depart curbside at different venues across the city.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From New York to Washington, DC?

Traveling to Washington, D.C., from New York City by train is a quick, low-stress option that often offers comfortable seating with in-seat power outlets. Additionally, trains travel directly from Penn Station in central Manhattan to Union Station in Washington, D.C., allowing visitors quick access to both city's central areas of tourism.

Times vary by the number of stops by each service, with Acela service taking less than three hours and other trains taking about three-and-a-half hours. You can purchase tickets in advance on Amtrak's website or in person at Penn Station. If you plan to travel by train, booking your seats as early as possible is the best way to get the cheapest seats. This popular route sells out quickly and prices rapidly go up.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

You can certainly rent a car to drive from New York City to Washington, D.C., as the route is fairly direct along I-95 and takes just under four hours if you don't hit traffic. You'll want to avoid rush hour times on this busy commuter route or you could easily add an extra hour or two to the total journey, which is generally from about 8–10 a.m. and 4–7 p.m. on weekdays.

Unless you're traveling with a group and want to make stops along the way, going by car doesn't make sense for most visitors. Having a car in either city isn't necessary and is usually more trouble since parking is complicated and expensive. In addition to paying for parking, gas, and a rental car, there are also several tolls to be paid on the journey from New York to D.C.—adding up to $37 for a one-way trip depending on which route you take.

You can rent cars in Manhattan, though the rates at the airports outside of the city tend to be cheaper. Newark Airport is a great place to rent a car so that you can avoid the expensive tolls getting out of New York City and start the journey away from Manhattan traffic.

How Long Is the Flight?

Flying to Washington, D.C., is the fastest way to travel when only taking into consideration time actually spent in the air, which is about an hour and 15 minutes. But once you factor in all of the time checking in at the airport, clearing security, waiting at your boarding gate, and actually getting to and from the airport, it actually takes much longer, and a train from Penn Station to Union Station will get you from one city center to the other much faster.

If you choose to fly to cut down on time, make sure to choose the airports that are most convenient for you. Each city has three major airports, so choosing one that is farther away could drastically cut out any time you save by flying. Ronald Regan National Airport is the closest one to the D.C. city center, but many flights land at either Dulles Airport or Baltimore Airport, which are significantly farther.

The two cities are close enough that flying usually doesn't make much sense, although this commuter route is so popular that you may find flights that are cheaper than train tickets (although never as cheap as bus tickets).

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Washington, DC?

The best time to visit Washington, D.C. , depends on what you're looking for. Patriotic holiday weekends like Memorial Day or Fourth of July are especially festive times to visit the nation's capital, although be prepared for extra big crowds. The Cherry Blossom Festival in March and April adds some vibrant pops of color to the city and it's one of the best springtime celebrations in the country, but this is also peak tourism season.

If you're looking for a balance of good weather with minimum crowds, then head to D.C. in the fall. By September, the oppressive mugginess of summer has finally died down and so have the summer crowds, allowing visitors to enjoy the best of Washington's monuments and the gorgeous fall foliage .

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

Of the three Washington, D.C-area airports , Ronald Regan National Airport is by far the most convenient and best connected to the city center. The Washington metro system connects directly to the airport, costing just a couple of dollars and bringing passengers to the National Mall in just 15 minutes. If you want to take a taxi, the airport is just across the river and a short ride away.

Dulles Airport is the main international airport but also the worst connected to Washington, D.C. Travelers have to take an airport bus to a suburban metro station and then travel into the city from there, for a total journey of about 75 minutes. Baltimore Airport in Maryland is the farthest away, but it's actually better connected than Dulles. The MARC regional train stops at the airport and connects directly to Union Station, taking about 35 minutes.

What Is There to Do in Washington, DC?

The U.S. capital is home to some of the country's most iconic landmarks, museums, and monuments, and the vast majority of them are completely free to enjoy . Start at the National Mall , an expansive lawn that stretches from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol Building and is known as "America's Backyard." Apart from landmarks like the Washington Monument, White House, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial, many of the Smithsonian Museum buildings are located on the Mall and all of them are free to enter. But there's a lot more to Washington, D.C., than just history. The Georgetown neighborhood is known for its rich foodie and bar scene, with top restaurants and lively spots for going out.

Related Articles

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What to Look for on the Train Ride From New York to Washington

Sure, the view along Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor has its share of grime. But there are also sights that’ll make you want to put away your smart phone

Susan Spano

Over 1.5 million people take the train between New York and Washington every year. Some do it so often it almost doesn’t seem like traveling. They get on and zone out; three hours later—actually two hours and 45 minutes on Amtrak’s high-speed Acela Express inaugurated in 2000—they’re in D.C.

But 225 miles of scenery lie between the Big Apple and our nation’s capital along tracks once operated by the venerable old Pennsylvania Railroad that run roughly parallel to Interstate 95.

Next time you take the train keep your eyes open. There are plenty of sights to see:

1. All aboard at Penn Station, New York , the slap-dash modern terminal below Madison Square Garden, a far cry from beautiful Beaux Arts Grand Central (celebrating 100 years of service next year).

At Penn you have to close your eyes to imagine what it was like when it was built of pink granite in 1910 with a waiting room modeled on the Baths of Caracalla. Its demolition in 1963 was lamented by architects, including Yale’s Vincent Scully, who wrote, “One entered the city like a god; one scuttles in now like a rat.”

2. The New York Jets and Giants play football at the Meadowlands near the mouths of the Hackensack and Passaic Rivers. Passing by on the train you wouldn’t know that the 20,000-acre wetland is infamously polluted, the perfect place for Tony Soprano to dump dead bodies. Instead, you see high reeds and water channels visited by snowy egrets and Peregrine falcons—indications that the natural wonders of the region may get a second chance, thanks to an ambitious plan mounted by the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission .

3. The Acela train doesn’t stop in Trenton, New Jersey’s capital. But you’ll know you’re there when you see the big neon sign on the steel-framed Delaware River Bridge. With 9-foot high capitals and 7-foot high lower-case letters, it says, “Trenton Makes—The World Takes.” How‘s that for grandiosity? But back in 1935 when the present sign was erected (replacing an earlier version affixed in 1911) there was truth in the claim. Trenton was a major industrial center, producing steel, rubber and linoleum.

In 1776, George Washington crossed the Delaware River nearby for a surprise attack on English-employed Hessian soldiers garrisoned in Trenton. As the train goes over the river about 10 miles southeast of McConkey’s Ferry Inn (now the Washington Crossing Historic Park ), it’s worth remembering how he and his ragtag Continental Army turned the tide of the revolution that snow-stormy Christmas Day at Trenton.

4. You get a fine view of the skyline as the train approaches 30th Street Station, Philadelphia . If the windows opened you might even hear monkeys chatter and elephants trumpet because the track goes right by the gate of the Philadelphia Zoo , American‘s first, opened in 1874.

On your way out of town watch for Victorian Boathouse Row , a National Historic Landmark on the east bank of the Schuylkill River, still a major rowing center that holds a big regatta on the Fourth of July.

5. When you reach Wilmington the train passes close to Old Swedes Church , built in 1698 by Scandinavian immigrants who came to the Delaware River delta before English Quakers settled Philadelphia. With a mossy, old cemetery said to be haunted, the church still celebrates Swedish St. Lucia’s Day in early December.

6. There’s fine open duck-hunting country south of Wilmington and you get your first real look at the Chesapeake Bay as the train crosses the mouth of the Susquehanna River at little Havre de Grace .

7. Then it‘s on to Baltimore where mostly all you see are the thick granite walls of the 7,000-foot long Baltimore and Potomac Tunnel , built in 1873.

8. Little foretells the train’s arrival in Washington, D.C ., a city with almost no skyline, its uncontested high point the 555-foot top of the Washington Monument .

Collect your belongings as you pass through the grimy train shed at the back of Union Station , then disembark into Neo-Classical glory, thanks to an Act of Congress that mandated restoration of the terminal in 1988. The front door is better than the back, opening directly onto the U.S. Capitol .

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Susan Spano | | READ MORE

The travel writer Susan Spano is the author of French Ghosts, Russian Nights, and American Outlaws: Souvenirs of a Professional Vagabond , to be published in May by Roaring Forties Press.

The Sightseeing Pass Blog

Sightseeing and travel tips

New York City, Philadelphia, & Washington DC Road Trip

New York City, Washington DC and Philadelphia are just a short car or train ride away from each other, which makes them popular destinations to visit in one trip. While all three cities offer endless possibilities for exploration, here are some highlights for you to consider during your travels.

New York City

There is a lot to see in New York City, from Central Park to Times Square to Wall Street. If yo’re here for the highlights, consider a cruise or a tour, anything with a view and a museum.

1. City Sightseeing Hop-On-Hop-Off Cruise

When you arrive in any new city, especially one as big as New York, it’s great to start by getting your bearings. That’s why the City Sightseeing Hop-on, Hop-off cruise is a great way to start. Getting out of the hustle and bustle, you can get a feel for where you are, where all the landmarks are and what you’d like to see. As you cruise along the Hudson River, you’ll get spectacular views of the New York skyline (and see the Statue of Liberty) – and you can hop-off at 2 different locations along the way World Trade Center and Pier 78.

2. One World Observatory

The tallest building in New York City is home to an incredible 360 observation deck. From the highest view in the city, you can see all of Manhattan, as well as parts of Brooklyn, New Jersey and even the Statue of Liberty. The elevator ride to the top is an experience in itself!

3. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Also known as ‘The Met’, this is one of the most famous (and largest) art museums in the world. Across its impressive 17 acres, you’ll find almost every type of art imaginable. From sculptures to paintings, every piece here has a story to tell. The museum features many famous artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso.

>> TIP: With the Sightseeing Pass, you can visit all three Met locations for three consecutive days.

4. The Bronx Zoo

There are more than 600 species in the Bronx Zoo, making it the largest in America! The Bronx Zoo is a staple of life in New York City, beloved by families for decades. If you’re travelling with kids, this is the place to go to encounter hundreds of animals and have a fun afternoon.

>> Alternatively, consider exploring the smaller, yet beautiful Central Park Zoo

Free attractions to add to your New York itinerary

– Staten Island Ferry

Crossing from Staten Island to lower Manhattan is free on the iconic Staten Island Ferry. It’s a great way to see the skyline from a different perspective – and you’ll see Statue of Liberty to the West.

Some more free things to do:

– Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) Museum

– Central Park

– New York Public Library

Before you head to Philadelphia, explore more NYC attractions.

Philadelphia

Philly known as the ‘birthplace of America’ and for good reason. There are many iconic battlefields to explore, historical monuments – and the Declaration of Independence was created here.

5. Independence Walking Tour

It’s the city of Independence, so it makes sense this is the first thing on the itinerary for Philadelphia. As you’re walking, you’ll learn how America became a nation, and how the major presidents influenced the America we know today – and as an added bonus, you’ll get to see where Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence.

6. One Liberty Observation Desk

There’s nothing like seeing a city from above. Day or night, you get absolutely spectacular views from the observation deck. You can see for miles – and it makes a great photo opportunity for Instagram #PhillyFromTheTop

7. African American Museum

This museum was the first of it’s kind in America. It has some impressive features such as interactive exhibitions and life-size video projections, but it provides some fascinating history about the culture and heritage of African Americans.

Bonus: free attractions to add to your Philadelphia itinerary

– The Liberty Bell & The Independence Hall

This is the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence – and one of the most popular things to see in the city. Although the Independence Hall is free to visit, you’ll still need to get a ticket (and they go fast!)

Some other free attractions:

– Franklin Square

– Washington Square

– The Rocky Statue

– Independence Visitor Center

Or if you’d prefer, you can see more attractions in Philadelphia here, and add some of your own.

Washington DC

No trip to the east of the US is complete without a visit to Washington DC, the capital city of the US. With its rich political history, it is filled with statues and memorials of all the major Presidents – not to mention the White House is located here. The Lincoln Memorial is the most visited monument in the country, so you can’t miss that!

8. Big Bus Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour

A bus tour is a great way to see a new city. You get to learn about the history, see the landmarks – and get off whenever you want to explore one of the sights. There are three loops in Washington DC, and they’ll take you past all the major sites and attractions. You can also take the bus tour at night if you fancy seeing Washington DC

9. George Washington’s Mount Vernon

You can’t come to DC with seeing Mount Vernon, the plantation of George Washington. It’s located on the river and has some lovely views and gardens that you can explore. There’s a rich history and you can learn about the life and legacy of Washington – and how he led the American Army to victory in the Revolutionary War.

10. Madame Tussauds DC

If you fancy something different, Madame Tussauds is a great choice. It now has over 100 wax figures, including singers such as Taylor Swift and Michael Jackson. Being located in DC, it also features 45 major US Presidents in the Presidents Gallery – so you can meet Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, as well as modern-day Presidents such as Donald Trump and Barack Obama.

Free attractions to add to your Washington DC itinerary

– Lincoln Memorial

With its huge size and impressive architecture, the Lincoln Memorial is one of the most popular attractions in DC. In fact, it’s literally the most visited landmark in the entire country.

Other options:

– The White House

– The Pentagon

– Washington Monument

– National Mall

There’s even more attractions in Washington DC , so have a look and see if you’d like to add any to your trip.

See what else you can experience on your trip and make the most of it with the USA Pass.