You’ve spent a few days exploring the endless things to do in D.C. and the travel bug has taken a big bite. Now you’re wondering – is a road trip from Washington, D.C., to New York worth it? The answer is a resounding YES! Take advantage of the short distance between two of USA’s most iconic cities by planning a quick getaway to the Big Apple.
Fill up on US history, beautiful scenery, and mouthwatering food with a drive north along the East Coast. Our Washington, D.C., to New York City guide will show you how to plan and where to go, plus tips to make the journey smooth and enjoyable. Let’s dive in!
Planning your trip
Ready to dive into the planning stages of your trip from Washington, D.C., to New York City? Here are a few key points to consider.
Best time to travel
Both cities are exciting, year-round destinations. When scheduling a drive from Washington, D.C., to New York, consider the following seasons and what works best for your trip.
Spring: Spring is mostly mild, making it an attractive time to travel by road. However, rain and thunderstorms can pop up as the season progresses, so keep an eye on the weather.
Summer: Despite the heat and humidity, summer is the high season. Expect crowds of tourists and inflated hotel prices. On the bright side, there are lots of outdoor activities to enjoy in the city and on the road trip from Washington, D.C., to New York.
Fall: This is an especially scenic time to travel, especially if you manage to drive during peak fall foliage season. Another plus – with the start of school, crowds tend to thin out.
Winter: A holiday road trip to NYC is a magical experience. Of course, winter is fickle, so stay aware of potential travel disruptions and plan your drive from Washington, D.C., to New York accordingly.
Budgeting and costs
Planning a road trip from Washington, D.C., to New York City involves several budgeting considerations, particularly for fuel, tolls, and accommodation.
Fuel: At the time of writing, the approximate cost of fuel for a round trip from D.C. to NYC falls somewhere between $65 and $90.
Read more on the blog: How to calculate gas for a road trip
Tolls: If you’re paying out of pocket, round-trip tolls will run you about $80. To reduce costs, consider purchasing an E-ZPass transponder before you go.
Accommodation: Lodging is one of the most important costs to consider. New York City hotels range from budget to luxury, which can well exceed $300 a night, so be clear on what you’re able to spend before booking.
Vehicle preparation
Another critical piece of the road trip puzzle is the vehicle you choose to drive. First, you must decide whether to rent a vehicle in D.C. or use your own car. Ask yourself the following:
- Is your personal vehicle spacious enough to drive everyone from Washington, D.C., to New York? Would a passenger van be more comfortable?
- Are you okay with adding mileage and wear and tear to your own vehicle?
- Is your car updated with the latest modern safety technology, or would something like a Ford Transit van make you feel more secure?
- Do you have time to get your car in for a maintenance check before you go? If not, most agencies, like Greenvans, guarantee that vans are fully inspected before each rental.
Highlights along the route
There is no shortage of delightful bites and historical sites on the drive from Washington, D.C., to New York City. Plug these spectacular spots into your GPS:
Historical landmarks
- Gettysburg National Military Park: Check out the site of the pivotal 1863 Civil War battle which ultimately led to Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address.
- Independence Hall in Philadelphia: Visit the very spot where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted in Philly’s charming Old City district.
- Liberty Bell in Philadelphia: Just across the way from Independence Hall is a landmark of American independence, visible from outside.
- Fort McHenry in Baltimore: Stop at the historic coastal fort which inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner,” the country’s national anthem.
Scenic stops
- Shenandoah National Park: One of D.C.’s top day trips is a very worthwhile detour on your drive from Washington, D.C., to New York. Discover over 500 miles of hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and scenic overlooks on Skyline Drive.
- Delaware Water Gap: Enjoy the view of the Delaware River as it carves its way through the Appalachian Mountains.
- Inner Harbor in Baltimore: Have a meal at this lively waterfront area known for historic ships, museums, and fresh seafood.
- Annapolis: Maryland’s capital is famous for colonial architecture, the U.S. Naval Academy, and its own bustling harbor.
Cultural and culinary discoveries
- Catch a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Amish and their horse-drawn buggies, handcrafted goods, and farm-fresh produce in Lancaster County. Pennsylvania.
- It wouldn’t be right to drive through the City of Brotherly Love without tasting a legendary Philly cheesesteak.
- If the timing’s right, don’t miss your chance at fresh Baltimore blue crabs, seasoned with Old Bay and served with remoulade sauce.
- Once you’ve made it to your destination, sink your teeth into a perfectly-textured and guaranteed delicious New York-style bagel.
Recommended itineraries
The journey from Washington, D.C., to New York is dotted with great cities and historical gems. Here are a couple of memorable itineraries to maximize the journey.
One-day express trip
Only have a day? Here’s what you’ll want to see.
Stop #1: Baltimore, Maryland
38.5 miles (about 1 hour from D.C.)
Head directly to the National Aquarium before a stroll, and perhaps a bite, on the vibrant Inner Harbor.
Stop #2: Wilmington, Delaware
75 miles (about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Baltimore)
Take a scenic walk along the river in Brandywine Park. Check out the Hagley Museum and Library, once a grand DuPont mansion.
Stop#3: Princeton, New Jersey
30 miles (about 30 minutes from Wilmington)
Wander the beautiful campus at Princeton University. Pop into Morven Museum & Garden for a tour of the Governor’s mansion.
Is New York your final destination? How about booking a one-way car rental to get you there?
Two-day leisure trip
If you’ve got two days to arrive in New York City, why not spend the night in one of America’s hallmark destinations?
Overnight: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
132 miles (about 3 hours from D.C.)
Arrive early in Old City to see Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell without the crowds. Head toward Reading Terminal Market for lunch. Don’t miss a glimpse of City Hall. Spend the afternoon browsing Philadelphia’s Museum of Art. Enjoy dinner in a charming restaurant on Sansom Street.
Before departing for New York City the next day, have a delicious breakfast with a view on Rittenhouse Square. If you leave after 10 AM, you’ll have plenty of time to stop in Princeton for a late lunch and a stroll on the campus.
Three-day exploratory journey
You could stay overnight in big cities like Baltimore and Philadelphia. But what if you want something a bit more quaint? Consider these quiet, enchanting alternatives.
Overnight #1: Frederick, Maryland
50 miles (about 1 hour from D.C.)
Arrive early to Catoctin Mountain Park for a morning hike and a picnic with a view. Reward yourself with a freshly-brewed beer at one of the dozens of local breweries. This afternoon, explore the historic downtown and sign up for an evening ghost tour. Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant for your evening meal.
Overnight #2: New Hope, Pennsylvania
70 miles (about 1 hour and 30 minutes)
Leave early to beat any rush hour traffic outside of Frederick. Stop for a bike ride along the Delaware Canal as you enter New Hope. Make your way to Main Street for shopping and a casual lunch. Visit Parry Mansion, built in 1784 by one of New Hope’s founders. This evening, enjoy a live performance at Bucks County Playhouse, a historic theater.
The drive from New Hope to New York City covers 69 miles (about 1 hour and 25 minutes). Leave in the late morning so you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at The Ferry Market before departure.
Tips for a smooth ride
To plan a successful road trip from Washington, D.C., to New York City, keep the following points in mind.
Navigating traffic
- Traffic: Avoid peak rush hour to minimize delays. Morning traffic is worst between 7 AM and 9 AM, while evenings tend to be busiest from 4 PM to 6 PM.
- Routes: Investigate alternative routes to highways like I-95 and the Turnpike. Local roads might take longer, but they’re often less congested and much more scenic.
- Tolls: Invest in an EZ Pass transponder to avoid messy cash transactions while on the road.
- Parking: Street parking in major cities is often inconvenient. Use apps like Waze to determine the closest lots and consider staying in hotels with onsite parking or valet service.
Safety and roadside assistance
- Emergency contacts: In addition to 911, it’s useful to know the number to local hospitals, fire departments, and police stations.
- Vehicle safety: Be sure to schedule a full inspection of your vehicle before taking off. Pack an emergency kit and keep your belongings out of sight when parked.
- Roadside assistance: Check with your insurance company for your roadside assistance provider. If you’re a AAA member, have your card on hand. Renting a van from an agency? Save their emergency contact number in your phone.
Other considerations
- What to pack: Depending on the season, you’ll likely want to pack layers for changing weather conditions. Don’t forget important items like chargers, medications, and toiletries. Make the most of the space you have with these car packing tips and tricks.
- What to snack on: Pack your favorite fruits and veggies, chips and nuts to avoid overspending on unhealthy snacks on the road. Remember to bring water, which you can keep cold in a cooler.
- On-the-road entertainment: From audiobooks and podcasts to games like I Spy and magnetic checkers, there are plenty of ways to keep entertained while driving.
- Navigational tools: Bolster your road trip with the help of Google Maps, Waze, and local parking apps that can help you out in a cinch.
FAQs about a road trip from Washington, D.C., to New York
What is the easiest way to go from D.C. to NYC?
The easiest way to travel from Washington, D.C., to New York City is on I-95. The route is direct between the two cities, and typically takes around 4 to 5 hours when traffic is light.
What is the cheapest way to travel between D.C. and NYC?
The cheapest way to travel between Washington, D.C., and New York City is with a company like Megabus or BoltBus. Keep in mind, however, that while the fares might be low, you’re often sacrificing the convenience of your own vehicle. Why not rent a van in New York or D.C. to ensure a comfortable ride?
What is the most scenic route from New York to D.C.?
Route 1 is the most scenic route from New York to D.C., as it takes you through the Amish Countryside in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. As you near Annapolis, switch to Route 50 for views of the Chesapeake Bay.
Is Washington, D.C., a day trip from NYC?
Technically, Washington, D.C., could be a day trip from NYC, but it is not recommended. One-way driving time is between 4 – 5 hours without traffic, leaving you little time to explore one of the most iconic cities in the world. Anywhere between one and three overnights is suggested to truly enjoy D.C.
An unforgettable road trip from Washington, D.C., to New York is one click away – here’s your free van rental quote.
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