Washington, DC, USA to Columbus, OH, USA from $33: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Washington to Columbus: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$33 - Train, busBest price
528 kmDistance
4h 8m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Washington to Columbus with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.
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Traveling From Washington to Columbus
Traveling from Washington to Columbus offers a shift from the vibrant, historical landscapes of the capital to the lively, Midwestern charm of Ohio's largest city.
Best Neighborhoods in Columbus
Columbus boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.
Short North
• Vibrant art scene with local galleries.
• Renowned for its eclectic dining options.
German Village
• Historic brick streets with charming architecture.
• Famous for the authentic German cuisine.
Downtown
• Bustling area filled with shops and entertainment.
• Home to major cultural institutions and events.
Best Times To Visit Columbus's Attractions
Maximize your Columbus experience by choosing the right time to visit key attractions.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Early mornings during weekdays offer smaller crowds and cooler weather.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Visit in spring to enjoy blooming flowers and fewer visitors.
COSI (Center of Science and Industry)
Weekdays in the late afternoon present lighter foot traffic and engaging exhibits.
Columbus Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Columbus experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, making the spring and fall ideal for comfortable exploration. Weather conditions can significantly influence your travel plans, so being prepared for seasonal changes enhances your overall experience.
Dining in Columbus: A Unique Experience
Don’t miss the chance to try a classic Cincinnati-style chili at Skyline Chili, a dish distinctly different from Washington’s more refined dining scene. The combination of spices, served over spaghetti, along with the laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, offers a refreshing contrast to the dining options you might find in the nation’s capital.
Washington - Columbus operators
Explore transport companies operating between Washington and Columbus, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
southwest.com
Plane from Reagan Washington (DCA) to Columbus (CMH)
Average Duration
1h 30mEstimated price
$113-286Website
aa.com
Plane from Reagan Washington (DCA) to Columbus (CMH)
Average Duration
1h 38mEstimated price
$113-286Website
delta.com
Plane from Reagan Washington (DCA) to Columbus (CMH)
Average Duration
1h 30mEstimated price
$113-286Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Washington Union Station to Pittsburgh Amtrak Station
Average Duration
7h 43mEstimated price
$332-2865Train from Washington Union Station to Ashland Amtrak Station
Average Duration
11h 13mEstimated price
$3328-33270Train from Washington Union Station to BWI Thurgood Marshall
Average Duration
25mEstimated price
$332-28685Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Washington Union Station to Pittsburgh Intermodal Station
Average Duration
6h 15mEstimated price
$1135-336Bus from Pittsburgh Intermodal Station to Columbus Bus Station
Average Duration
3h 20mEstimated price
$28670-28680Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823Website
baronsbus.com
Bus from Ashland Bus Station to N Wilson Rd & Ferrell Pl - Columbus
Average Duration
2h 35mEstimated price
$3322-1138Washington to Columbus: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Washington and Columbus offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.
🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Washington to Columbus covering a distance of 412 miles. The journey offers a mix of charming urban landscapes and scenic countryside views along the way.
💰 Explore budget-friendly options for traveling from Washington to Columbus by car, with prices ranging from $75 to $110 for the road trip. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of a self-guided excursion at your own pace.
🌇 Arrive in Columbus after approximately 6 hours and 57 minutes of driving, ready to experience the vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and exciting attractions that the capital city of Ohio has to offer.
Average price
$75 - $110
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the Amtrak Cardinal route, onboard catering services offer a café car with a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. There’s also a dining car where you can enjoy table service with options like sandwiches, salads, and daily specials. Be sure to check the schedule for dining hours to maximize your dining experience.
• Amtrak provides a variety of seating options on this route: Superliner Coach (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. Economy seats are comfortable with ample legroom, while Business Class offers wider seats and additional amenities. If you're looking for a quieter atmosphere with priority boarding and complimentary meals, opt for First Class.
• For your journey, the main operators are Amtrak (amtrak.com) and Greyhound (greyhound.com). Make sure to check their respective websites for schedules, ticketing, and real-time updates on your travel dates. Upon arriving in Columbus, you can leave your luggage at the station for a small fee and use the restrooms available within the facility. Columbus Union Station may not have showers, but several nearby hotels might offer day passes.
🛫 Traveling from Washington to Columbus by plane is quick and convenient, with the fastest direct flight taking only 1 hour and 25 minutes from Reagan Washington Airport to Columbus Airport. Airlines like Southwest, Delta, and American Airlines operate flights on this route.
🌟 The total flight duration from Washington to Columbus is approximately 4 hours and 8 minutes. This allows travelers to arrive in Columbus swiftly and efficiently, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure trips.
💰 Flight ticket prices between Columbus and Washington typically range from $113 to $286, offering travelers a variety of options to choose from based on their budget and preferences. Booking in advance or keeping an eye out for deals can help secure the best fares for this route.
Departure Point
Reagan Washington Airport
Arrival Point
Columbus Airport
🚌 Even though there isn't a direct bus from Washington DC to Columbus OH, you can travel between the two cities with a transfer at Pittsburgh Intermodal Station. The total journey, with transfers, takes approximately 11 hours and 53 minutes.
💰 The cost of a bus ticket from Washington to Columbus ranges from $53 to $140, offering an affordable and convenient travel option for those looking to explore the route at a budget-friendly price.
Departure Point
Washington Union Station
Arrival Point
Columbus Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Bring snacks and entertainment, as the bus journey is long and varies from 11h to 12h; consider downloading shows or books to stay engaged during the ride.
• Upon arriving at Columbus Bus Station, be ready to navigate to your next destination by consulting the map of downtown Columbus, readily accessible at https://www.experiencecolumbus.com/plan/visitor-center/maps/; it's a short walk from the bus station to various dining and transportation options.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Washington to Columbus.
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The distance between Washington and Columbus is approximately 328 miles or 412 miles by road. The typical travel time by train and then flying from Washington to Columbus is 4 hours and 20 minutes, while flying directly takes about 4 hours and 6 minutes. If driving, it typically takes around 6 hours and 57 minutes to travel from Columbus to Washington by car. Alternatively, taking a bus from Washington to Columbus can take around 8 hours and 19 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Washington to Columbus is by taking a bus, with tickets ranging from $9 to $75. Although it takes approximately 8 hours and 19 minutes, this option allows for a relatively affordable journey. On the other hand, the fastest way to reach Columbus from Washington is by flying, which takes around 4 hours and 6 minutes and costs between $110 and $290. Both options have their advantages depending on the traveler's priorities.
The prices for a bus ticket between Columbus and Washington can range from $9 to $74, depending on the specific bus service and the time of booking. It is recommended to check different bus operators and their websites for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, factors such as demand, seasonality, and any promotional offers may also influence the ticket prices.
To get from Washington to Columbus without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two cities is around 412 miles, and it usually takes approximately 6 hours and 57 minutes to drive from Washington to Columbus. The cost of driving can vary depending on factors like gas prices, tolls, and vehicle efficiency, with prices typically ranging between $75 and $110.
To travel from Washington to Columbus without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 8 hours and 19 minutes and costs between $9 and $75, depending on the bus service and availability. This is a convenient and cost-effective way to reach Columbus from Washington, as it allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route without the stress of driving.
Yes, there is a direct link between Washington and Columbus but it involves transfers. There is no direct bus from Washington Union Station to Columbus, but there are services available through Akron. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 13h 31m. Greyhound USA operates bus services from Washington to Columbus, and Barons Bus operates the bus services that arrive at the Columbus station.
The flight between Washington and Columbus typically takes 1 hour and 20 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary between $113 and $287, depending on the airline and time of travel. It is advised to check with different airlines for the most up-to-date prices.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Columbus. With over 433 hotels available, you can find a variety of choices to fit your preferences and budget. Prices start at $50, giving you a range of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly accommodations, you can easily find a place to stay near Columbus.
Trips from Washington
- Washington to Charlottesville
- Washington to Pittsburgh
- Washington to Annapolis
- Washington to Atlantic City
- Washington to Asheville
- Washington to Nashville
- Washington to New Haven
- Washington to Philadelphia
- Washington to Orlando
- Washington to Roanoke
- Washington to Raleigh
- Washington to Charlotte
- Washington to Richmond
- Washington to Virginia Beach
- Washington to Harrisburg
- Washington to Providence
- Washington to Boston
- Washington to Miami
- Washington to Ocean City
- Washington to Chicago
- Washington to Indianapolis
- Washington to Baltimore
- Washington to New York City
- Washington to Williamsburg
- Washington to Atlanta
- Washington to Mount Vernon
- Washington to Norfolk
- Washington to Seattle
- Washington to Pullman
- Washington to TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
- Washington to National Harbor
- Washington to Vienna
- Washington to Leavenworth
- Washington to Niagara Falls
- Washington to Denver
- Washington to Cabo San Lucas
- Washington to Tulum
- Washington to Forks
- Washington to Natural Bridge
- Washington to Paris
Trips to Columbus
- San Diego to Columbus
- Chicago to Columbus
- Philadelphia to Columbus
- Minneapolis to Columbus
- New York City to Columbus
- Pittsburgh to Columbus
- Ann Arbor to Columbus
- Zanesville to Columbus
- Boston to Columbus
- Detroit to Columbus
- Nashville to Columbus
- Newark to Columbus
- Chillicothe to Columbus
- South Bend to Columbus
- Morgantown to Columbus
- Grand Rapids to Columbus
- Cincinnati to Columbus
- Raleigh to Columbus
- Denver to Columbus
- Miami to Columbus
- Dayton to Columbus
- Houston to Columbus
- Hartford to Columbus
- Salt Lake City to Columbus
- Jacksonville to Columbus
- Princeton to Columbus
- Seattle to Columbus
- Springfield to Columbus
- Akron to Columbus
- Athens to Columbus
- Sidney to Columbus
- Norfolk to Columbus
- Heath to Columbus
- Lexington to Columbus
- Providence to Columbus
- Wilmington to Columbus
- Delaware to Columbus
- Lima to Columbus
- Lexington to Columbus
- Indianapolis to Columbus