How to Get to Washington D.C. from Los Angeles [2025–2026 Guide] 🏛️✈️🚆
To travel from Los Angeles to Washington D.C., you can take a flight, train, or bus, with flying being the fastest option. Flights are the quickest way to travel, taking about 5-6 hours. The train journey is long, typically around 65-82 hours, often requiring a transfer in Chicago. The bus also involves a long trip, with the fastest options around 63-64 hours.
🏙️ Why Visit Washington D.C.?
Washington D.C., the capital of the United States, is home to world-class museums, historic landmarks, and political monuments. From the White House and U.S. Capitol to the Smithsonian museums and National Mall, it’s one of the most visited cities in America.
If you’re starting in Los Angeles (LAX), the journey to Washington D.C. covers ~2,650 miles (4,265 km). Thankfully, there are multiple ways to get there depending on your budget, time, and preferences.
✈️ Option 1: Flights from Los Angeles to Washington D.C. (Fastest Way)
Flying is by far the quickest and most convenient way.
- Airports in D.C.: Washington Dulles International (IAD), Reagan National (DCA), and Baltimore/Washington International (BWI).
- Flight Time: ~5–5.5 hours nonstop.
- Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, United, Alaska, JetBlue, and Southwest offer direct flights.
- Cost: $180–$400 round trip (prices vary by season).
👉 Best option if you want to save time and maximize sightseeing.
🚆 Option 2: Train from Los Angeles to Washington D.C. (Scenic but Long)
Taking Amtrak is a slower but scenic journey across the U.S.
- Route: Los Angeles Union Station → Chicago (Amtrak Southwest Chief) → Washington D.C. (Amtrak Capitol Limited).
- Travel Time: ~65–70 hours total (almost 3 days).
- Cost: $250–$500 for coach; $800+ for sleeper accommodations.
- Experience: Cross-country scenery, comfortable seating, dining car, overnight options.
👉 Best for travelers who enjoy train journeys and sightseeing along the way.
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🚌 Option 3: Bus from Los Angeles to Washington D.C. (Budget-Friendly)
Buses are the cheapest but also the longest travel option.
- Operators: Greyhound, FlixBus, Megabus (with transfers).
- Travel Time: 60–70 hours depending on connections.
- Cost: $180–$250 one-way.
- Facilities: Wi-Fi, rest stops, reclining seats.
👉 Ideal for budget travelers who don’t mind a very long ride.
🚗 Option 4: Driving from Los Angeles to Washington D.C. (Road Trip)
If you love road trips, driving cross-country can be an adventure.
- Distance: ~2,650 miles (4,265 km).
- Driving Time: ~40 hours of driving (spread over 5–7 days for comfort).
- Route: I-40 East or I-70 East (scenic highways through Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Midwest states).
- Cost: ~$400–$700 for gas + lodging/food.
- Highlights: Grand Canyon, Nashville, St. Louis, and Appalachian Mountains.
👉 Perfect for those who want a cross-country experience with stops along the way.
📊 Travel Options Summary
| Option | Duration | Cost (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Flight | 5–6 hrs | $180–$400 | Fast & convenient |
| 🚆 Train (Amtrak) | 65–70 hrs | $250–$800+ | Scenic travel lovers |
| 🚌 Bus | 60–70 hrs | $180–$250 | Budget travelers |
| 🚗 Driving | ~40 hrs (5–7 days with stops) | $400–$700 | Road trip adventure |
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Washington D.C.
- Spring (Mar–May): Cherry blossoms in bloom, mild weather.
- Fall (Sep–Nov): Crisp air, fall foliage, and fewer tourists.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot, humid, and busy with tourists.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold, but festive with holiday lights.
❓ FAQs About Traveling from Los Angeles to Washington D.C.
Q1: What’s the fastest way to get to Washington D.C. from Los Angeles?
A nonstop flight from LAX to D.C. takes just 5–6 hours.
Q2: How much does it cost to fly from Los Angeles to Washington D.C.?
Round-trip flights typically cost $180–$400, depending on season and airline.
Q3: Can I take a train from Los Angeles to Washington D.C.?
Yes, via Amtrak Southwest Chief to Chicago, then connect to the Capitol Limited. The journey takes ~3 days.
Q4: How far is Washington D.C. from Los Angeles by car?
It’s about 2,650 miles (4,265 km) — a 40-hour drive without long stops.
Q5: Is the bus from Los Angeles to Washington D.C. worth it?
It’s the cheapest ($180–$250), but the trip takes nearly 3 days by bus.
✅ Whether you want the speed of a nonstop flight, the adventure of a train ride, the affordability of a bus, or the freedom of a road trip, this guide shows you every way to get from Los Angeles to Washington D.C. in 2025–2026.