If you’re flying out of Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) and wondering how to get to BWI from Union Station in Washington, D.C., this is the only guide you’ll need. We break down all the best ways to travel — including train, bus, shuttle, rideshare, and car — to help you get to BWI Airport smoothly and affordably.
✈️ Quick Overview: Union Station to BWI
- Distance: ~32 miles (51 km)
- Fastest Way: Amtrak or MARC train
- Cheapest Way: MARC train (~$7 USD)
- Travel Time: ~30 to 90 minutes depending on method
🚆 1. Take the Train: Amtrak or MARC to BWI
The most efficient and popular method is taking either Amtrak or MARC train from Washington Union Station to BWI Rail Station, followed by a free shuttle to the airport terminal.
✅ Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Board Amtrak or MARC train at Union Station (Washington, D.C.)
- Get off at BWI Rail Station
- Take the free BWI Airport shuttle bus from the train station to the airport terminals (runs every 6–10 minutes, 24/7)
🕒 Travel Time:
- Amtrak: ~30–40 minutes
- MARC (Camden Line or Penn Line): ~35–45 minutes
- Shuttle to terminal: ~10 minutes
💰 Cost:
- MARC Train: ~$7 USD (Penn Line)
- Amtrak: $15–$35 USD depending on booking
🔗 Check MARC Schedule
🔗 Check Amtrak Schedule
🚆 Best for: Daily commuters, budget travelers, and frequent flyers
🚕 2. Taxi or Rideshare (Uber, Lyft)
If you want a direct, door-to-door trip, rideshare or taxi is the most convenient—but also the most expensive—option.
✅ Details:
- Pickup Location: Curbside at Union Station
- Drop-off: BWI Departures Terminal
- Estimated Time: 45–60 minutes (can vary with traffic)
- Estimated Cost:
- UberX: $60–$90 USD
- Taxi: ~$90–$110 USD flat rate (plus tip)
🚖 Best for: Families, groups, early morning or late-night flights
🚍 3. Buses (Megabus or Greyhound to BWI)
There are limited direct bus services from Union Station to BWI, but it can be done by combining regional bus lines.
🚌 Option: Greyhound from Union Station
- Greyhound sometimes offers routes from Union Station Bus Terminal to BWI
- Availability may vary by day
- Check schedules on Greyhound.com
🚍 Option: Take Metrobus + MARC/Amtrak
- Use Metrobus B30 (currently suspended as of 2025) or alternate local buses from Greenbelt or New Carrollton
- Or, take Metro to New Carrollton, then board Amtrak/MARC to BWI
🕒 Total Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours
💰 Total Cost: ~$10–$15 USD
🚌 Best for: Budget travelers with flexible time
🚗 4. Drive Yourself or Use a Rental Car
If you’re planning to drive from Union Station to BWI Airport, it’s a relatively simple route via Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) or I-95 North.
✅ Driving Directions:
- Head northeast on H Street NE
- Merge onto Baltimore-Washington Pkwy (MD-295 N)
- Follow signs for BWI Airport Exit
- Park in Hourly, Daily, or Long-Term parking lots
🕒 Travel Time: ~45 minutes (off-peak)
💰 Parking: $12–$22/day depending on lot
🚗 Best for: Travelers with early flights or multi-day trips
🧭 Route Comparison Table
| Transport Method | Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| MARC Train + Shuttle | 40–55 min | ~$7 | Budget-friendly and reliable |
| Amtrak + Shuttle | 40–50 min | $15–$35 | Faster and more frequent departures |
| Uber/Lyft/Taxi | 45–60 min | $60–$100 | Direct comfort with no transfers |
| Bus (via transfer) | 90–120 min | ~$10–$15 | Low-cost but longer journey |
| Driving | ~45 min | Varies by parking | Flexibility for multi-day trips |
🔄 Return Trip: Getting from BWI to Union Station
- Take the free shuttle from BWI terminals to BWI Rail Station
- Board MARC or Amtrak train to Union Station (Washington, D.C.)
- Trains run frequently, especially during peak hours
🧳 Travel Tips
- MARC trains run weekdays only, limited service on weekends
- Amtrak runs every day and is more frequent but pricier
- Check live train schedules before heading out—especially on holidays
- For early-morning or red-eye flights, consider rideshare or driving
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ What’s the cheapest way to get to BWI from Union Station?
The MARC Penn Line train is the cheapest, costing around $7 USD one-way.
❓ Is there a direct Metro line from Union Station to BWI?
No. Washington Metro (WMATA) does not directly serve BWI. You’ll need to transfer to MARC or Amtrak.
❓ Is there a shuttle from Union Station to BWI?
No direct airport shuttle, but trains to BWI Rail Station include a free airport shuttle to the terminal.
❓ How early should I leave Union Station to catch a flight at BWI?
Leave at least 2–3 hours before your departure time, especially during peak travel seasons.
🧠 Final Thoughts
The easiest and most cost-effective way to travel from Union Station to BWI Airport is the MARC Penn Line or Amtrak, which drops you just a free shuttle ride away from the terminal. If you prioritize speed and comfort, Uber or taxi may be worth the cost. Budget travelers may opt for regional buses or carpooling.
Whatever your travel style, this guide ensures a smooth, stress-free journey from downtown Washington, D.C. to BWI Airport.