2023-12-07 08:15:24
With three nearby airports, trains pulling into Union Station and an interstate system known as the Capital Beltway, reaching Washington, DC is easy. Once you’re in the District, getting around is easy, too, thanks to public transportation, access to taxis, Uber and Lyft and walkable, pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods. Find more information on washington.org.
BY PLANE
Three major airports typically handle more than 1,000 international and domestic departures daily:
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), closest to DC, served by Metro. Features a new 14-gate concourse
• Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), 26 miles west of DC in Dulles, Virginia. Served by Metro
• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), south of Baltimore, 32 miles from DC
BY TRAIN
Union Station is the country’s second busiest Amtrak station. The station also services Metro, the Virginia Railway Express (VRE), which offers service between Northern Virginia and DC and the Maryland Area Regional Commuter (MARC), which provides commuter rail service for neighboring Maryland.
BY CAR
The Capital Beltway (I-495) and I-95 encircle the city, while I-66 and I-395 lead into DC. It is recommended to park at a hotel or public garage and then use public transportation or chartered transportation provided for groups. Renting a car is unnecessary unless you plan to leave the metro area.
BY BUS
Companies including Greyhound, Peter Pan, BoltBus, Megabus and BestBus all offer service from Union Station. Or, let Destination DC recommend a transportation company.
BUSES
The DC Circulator connects many neighborhoods and attractions. It costs $1 for one regular fare. SmarTrip cards offer discounted rates from transfers. For bus charters, see the Bus Charter Rental listings beginning on page 112.
CARS
Taxis in DC accept credit cards. Fares start at $3.50 and are metered. A 15-20% tip is customary. Uber and Lyft also provide service throughout the metro DC area, and include options ranging from ride-shares to luxury SUVs.
ON FOOT
DC has numerous public parks and walkable neighborhoods, making navigation on foot easy. Order a free map today on washington.org.
ON BIKE
Cruise around DC on a battery-powered scooter or one of the bike-sharing systems that serve the area, such as Capital Bikeshare. You can also rent wheels and a helmet from Unlimited Biking.
METRO
Metro transit services make DC accessible and easy to navigate. The underground train and citywide bus system (Metrorail and Metrobus) serve the area. Most major hotels and attractions are near Metrorail stops. Notably, the Silver Line extension to Dulles Airport is now open.
©Washington-DC. View All Articles.