Explore the various transportation options available for getting to Washington D.C. and navigating the city. Whether you prefer flying, taking the train, or traveling by bus, and whether you choose to explore the city via Metro, bus, bike, or on foot, our guide has you covered.
Getting to Washington D.C.:
By Air: Washington D.C. is served by three major airports:
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA): The closest airport to downtown D.C., located just across the Potomac River in Arlington, Virginia.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD): Located in Dulles, Virginia, about 26 miles west of downtown D.C.
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI): Located in Linthicum, Maryland, about 30 miles north of D.C.
By Train: Amtrak operates several trains that connect Washington D.C. to cities along the Northeast Corridor, as well as other parts of the country. The main train station in the city is Union Station, located near the Capitol Building.
By Bus: Several bus companies, including Greyhound, Megabus, and BoltBus, offer service to Washington D.C. from cities throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.
Getting Around the City:
Metro: The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) operates the Metro, which is the most convenient way to get around the city. The Metro consists of six color-coded lines that serve the city and the surrounding suburbs.
Buses: WMATA also operates a network of buses that cover areas not served by the Metro.
Biking: Washington D.C. is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs, such as Capital Bikeshare.
Walking: Many of the city's attractions are located within walking distance of each other, making walking a viable option for getting around.
Taxis and Ridesharing: Taxis are widely available throughout the city, and ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also popular options.
Car Rentals: While not recommended due to traffic and limited parking, car rentals are available for those who wish to explore the city and its surrounding areas by car.
