What is the fastest and cheapest way to get from New York to Baltimore or Washington DC?

Question

I am trying to decide whether it's better for me to go from New York to Washington by flying, taking the train, taking the bus...or even going from New York to Baltimore and then onto Washington. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.

Answer 1

going by plane is not the fastest because you need to check-in so much time in advance and go thru long security lines, etc. Airports are also outside the city. So, add in travel time to/from the airport .

train tickets can cost as much as a cheap plane ticket, especially if you ride the newer "Acela" trains. Train fare on an "unreserved" train is cheapest.

Bus will probably be cheaper, definitely for last minute trips. There is a bus service called Dragon something, i'm sorry i don't have the exact name, but it takes you between Chinatown in NY to Chinatown in DC. They are cheaper than the Greyhound, PeterPan, Trailways bus services.

i used to drive from DC to NYC all the time and it took maybe 3/4 tank of gas, and i had the convenience of getting around. So if you have a car, then drive!

BTW, going to Baltimore won't save you time or money because you still have to take train,bus, or plane from B'more to DC

Answer 2

The NY Times once did a test. It sent three reporters from midtown Manhattan to somewhere in DC (I forget where, but probably some landmark). One flew; one drove, and one took the train.

All three methods took about the same time, but given the hassles with flying these days, you're probably better off taking the train. Penn Station in NYC is nice and central as is the station in DC.

The train is easy and the Acela is actually comfortable, but a bit more expensive than the regular Metroliner.

Answer 3

The easiest is the train because it goes from downtown to downtown. The cheapest is the bus. Forget Greyhound and Peter Pan, the cheapest options are:

http://www.2000coach.com/ ($35 round trip/$20 one way)
http://www.washny.com/ ($35 round trip/$20 one way)

Both of the bus lines pick up at a variety of convenient locations in downtown DC and Manhatten. You can make a reservation on the web site and then pay the driver when you get on the bus. Both lines are safe and clean.

Answer 4

Amtrak train ..... not the cheapest (Bus) , Not the fastest (plane) but probally the best choice.

Answer 5

walking is the best way to go, no kiddin, check out grey hound, they have some special packages. Also, check Yahoo Fairchase, it's the best

Answer 6

Amtrak train, is probably faster and cheaper. U.S. Airways flies between D.C. and NYC.

Answer 7

The Enterprise Starship "TRANSPORTER!"

Thanks, RR

Answer 8

try www.travelocity.com