- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
Vast air and space museum displaying historic aircraft, spacecraft and interactive exhibits for all ages.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Sept
Cheapest price on 02 Sept
£461
Average ticket price on 02 Sept
£1122
Fastest journey on 02 Sept
2 d 17 h 15 m
Average journey duration on 02 Sept
3 d 6 h 20 m
Trains on 02 Sept
8
Distance
3692 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC will cost around £1122 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £461.
Fast trains
To travel from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC you need to make at least one change.
2 Sunset Limited · 20 Crescent22:0084h47Union Station, Los Angeles, CA13:47Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£4611One-way1 change- 4 Southwest Chief · 41 Floridian16:5565h15Union Station, Los Angeles, CA13:10Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£4701One-way1 change
- 785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr · 50 Cardinal19:1392h31Union Station, Los Angeles, CA18:44Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£5921One-way3 changes
- 785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr · 41 Floridian19:1386h57Union Station, Los Angeles, CA13:10Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£5921One-way3 changes
- 4 Southwest Chief · 41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian · 97 Silver Meteor16:5570h31Union Station, Los Angeles, CA18:26Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£6431One-way3 changes
- 4 Southwest Chief · 41 Floridian16:5565h15Union Station, Los Angeles, CA13:10Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£4701One-way1 change
- 4 Southwest Chief · 41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian · 97 Silver Meteor16:5570h31Union Station, Los Angeles, CA18:26Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£6431One-way3 changes
- 422 Texas Eagle · 41 Floridian22:0084h10Union Station, Los Angeles, CA13:10Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£19261One-way1 change
- 2 Sunset Limited · 20 Crescent22:0084h47Union Station, Los Angeles, CA13:47Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£4611One-way1 change
- 785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr · 41 Floridian19:1386h57Union Station, Los Angeles, CA13:10Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£5921One-way3 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £138 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 7h 52m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 1.1 - 3.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £138, while a train costs an average of £354.
Distance: 3692 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£354 Average Price | £186 Average Price | £138 Average Price Cheapest |
64h 7m Average total duration 63h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 52m Average total duration Fastest 5h 52m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 62h 46m Average total duration 62h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
1.1 - 3.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 11.1 - 22.2kg CO2 emissions | 3.7 - 9.2kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC train times
The table below shows live departures for Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC trains for today, Tuesday 1 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Southwest Chief · 41 Floridian | 16:55 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 65h15 | 13:10 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 change | |
| 4 Southwest Chief · 41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian · 97 Silver Meteor | 16:55 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 70h31 | 18:26 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 3 changes | |
| 4 Southwest Chief · 50 Cardinal | 16:55 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 70h49 | 18:44 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 change | |
| 785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr · 41 Floridian | 19:13 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 86h57 | 13:10 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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02 Sept
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC run on average 5 times per day, taking around 63h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £203 but you can travel from only £83 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 07:03, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 3692 km distance in 64h 51m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £83
Distance 3692 km |
Average train duration 63h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price £203 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 64h 51m |
First train 7:03 |
Last train 22:00 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £83
Train companies: Amtrak from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC from £83. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Amtrak Duration
64h 51m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£203
Amtrak frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Washington, DC
Things to do in Washington, DC
Discover the best of Washington, DC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington, DC trip today.
- Must visit
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Museum exploring the history, culture and contributions of African Americans through powerful exhibitions.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Art
Leading art museum with European and American masterpieces, sculpture garden and free permanent collection.
- Must visit
National Mall
Grand landscaped park linking memorials, museums and monuments, ideal for walking and classic city views.
- Must visit
Georgetown
Historic waterfront district with cobbled streets, canal paths, shops and scenic walks by the Potomac.
- Recommended
Adams Morgan
Vibrant neighbourhood known for murals, music venues, independent shops and one of the city’s liveliest streets.
Half-smoke
Half-smoke sausage, usually smoked pork and beef, served on a bun with chilli and toppings. It is a long-standing Washington street food linked to the city’s carry-outs.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Mumbo sauce
Mumbo sauce is a sweet, tangy, slightly spicy condiment popular with fried chicken and chips in Washington carry-outs. It is a distinctive local takeaway staple.
- Vegetarian
Jumbo slice
Jumbo slice is an oversized pizza slice sold late at night in Washington, especially around nightlife areas. It is a local post-night-out food ritual.
Iron Gate
Polished American dining with a focus on seasonal produce and Chesapeake influences. Sophisticated setting suited to a celebratory meal.
The Hamilton
Refined Mid-Atlantic seafood restaurant known for oyster dishes, crab, and seasonal ingredients. Elegant but approachable atmosphere in Penn Quarter.
Tryst
Beloved bakery and café serving Ethiopian coffee, pastries, and light meals. Relaxed community feel in Adams Morgan.
US dollar ($)
Washington is pricier than many US cities for hotels and dining near central sights, though museums are often free and public transport is reasonably priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants if service is not included, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and spare change or up to 10% in cafés.
Metro Pulse
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- $2.25
- Day pass
- $13.00
To the city centre
Washington Union Station -> Metro Center, Washington, DC
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tap contactless bank card, phone wallet, or SmarTrip at Metrorail faregates and Metrobus fareboxes.
- Metrorail fares vary by distance and time; $2.25 is the lowest full single fare, while longer trips cost more.
FAQs: Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £203, while the average price tends to be around £354.
The train journey from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC covers a distance of 3692 km and takes approximately 64h 51m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC is 3692 km.
The first train from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC leaves at 7:03.
The last train from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC departs at 22:00.
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC.
To get from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC.
The train station in Los Angeles, CA that goes to Washington, DC is Union Station, Los Angeles, CA, and it arrives at Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC is by coach, costing approximately £83.
Booking trains from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Los Angeles to Washington, DC offers a variety of scenic views, including the diverse landscapes of the American Southwest, the dramatic Rocky Mountains, and the rolling plains of the Midwest.
A day trip from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC is not feasible with a duration of 64h 51m and a distance of 3692 km. The frequency of this journey is 5 times per day for trains.
In Washington, DC, you can discover the National Gallery of Art, stroll through the historic Georgetown neighbourhood, visit the Library of Congress, explore the vibrant Eastern Market, and enjoy a performance at the Kennedy Centre. Best sights include the National Mall, the White House, the United States Capitol, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Lincoln Memorial.
For a comprehensive experience of Washington, DC, plan to spend about three to four days. This allows time to visit major attractions such as the National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, and landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the US Capitol.
Yes, you can take the train from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC
Most Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC trains use the Union Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Los Angeles
Arrival train stations in Washington
Which Los Angeles, CA station do trains to Washington, DC leave from?
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC leave from Union Station. The station is 1 km from Los Angeles, CA city centre at 800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA.
Union Station800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA+1 213-683-6875
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Los Angeles city centre
TrainSouthwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 57h 43m · £758
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 60h 6m · £810
BusGreyhound US1210 · 59h 10m · £409
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Traxx Restaurant, Union Station Cafe, Philippe The Original
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown, Miyako Hotel Los Angeles, Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza.
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station7720 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91405, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Van Nuys, Metrolink Station from Los Angeles city centre
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station is 25 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 30m · £5
VC Line · 31m · £6
Bus20 · 2h 30m · £4 · every ~8 min
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station train station facilities and services
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station.
Which Washington, DC station do trains from Los Angeles, CA arrive at?
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC arrive at Union Station. Union Station is 3 km from Washington, DC city centre.
Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States+1 202 2891908
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Washington city centre
Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD30 · 15m · £3 · every ~10 min
281, 481, 483, 484, 486 · 19m · £2 · every ~1 min
SubwayR · 5m · £2 · every ~27 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Shake Shack, McDonald’s, Starbucks, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Chopt Creative Salad Co., Chipotle Mexican Grill, Thunder Grill, Johnny Rockets, Jamba Juice, Ladurée Union Station, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak. ATMs are there are 2 ATM machines located on Level G.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00, Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00. Information desks are located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill, Phoenix Park Hotel, Kimpton George Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Los Angeles, CA
More options for your journey from Los Angeles, CA to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Washington, DC and Los Angeles, CA
Most popular train connections to Washington, DC
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