New York to Washington D.C. is America's most politically and culturally significant corridor — two of the most visited cities in the country, connected by a fast highway and an even faster train.
The drive runs about 230 miles via the New Jersey Turnpike, through Philadelphia and Delaware. Amtrak's Acela covers the same distance in under 3 hours, and is often the better choice for business or leisure travel.
Stops Along the Way
The natural halfway stop — great for a meal or to explore the Liberty Bell and Old City before continuing south.
Delaware's largest city, home to excellent museums and conveniently located 30 minutes south of Philadelphia.
About 45 minutes north of D.C. — worth a stop for the Inner Harbor, outstanding seafood, and Fells Point.
Tips for This Trip
Amtrak is the premium choice
The Acela takes under 3 hours and connects Penn Station directly to Union Station. Business class is worth it for comfortable, productive travel.
Rush hour congestion is severe
The I-95 corridor is notoriously slow through Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Baltimore. Leave before 7am or after 8pm on weekdays.
I-95 tolls exceed $25 round-trip
Budget for New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland tolls. E-ZPass is essentially mandatory if you drive this route regularly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Washington D.C. is about 200 miles (320 km) from New York in a straight line, and roughly 230 miles (370 km) by road via I-95 through New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland.