Airport Recommendations and Travel Tips

AIRPORTS

Dulles International Airport (IAD) (Recommended)

Located about 27 miles west of downtown Washington, D.C., Dulles is a major international hub.

Getting to downtown D.C.:

  • Metro: The Silver Line of the Washington Metro now connects directly to Dulles via the Dulles International Airport Station. It takes about 50–60 minutes to reach downtown (e.g., Metro Center).

    • Cost: $6 during peak hours, $2 during off-peak.

  • Taxi/Ride Share: Taxis and rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are available curbside. Travel time is 40–60 minutes, depending on traffic.

    • Cost: $60–$100 depending on destination and time of day.

  • Tips: Metro is the most budget-friendly, but can be slower during off-hours. Traffic can be unpredictable, especially during rush hour.

Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) (Recommended)

Located just 5 miles south of downtown D.C., Reagan is the most convenient airport for access to the city.

Getting to downtown D.C.:

  • Metro: Reagan is directly connected to the Blue and Yellow Metro lines via the Reagan National Airport Station. Downtown is just 15–20 minutes away.

    • Cost: $2–$4 depending on time of day.

  • Taxi/Ride Share: Quick and easy access to downtown, typically a 15–30 minute ride.

    • Cost: $20–$35 depending on time and exact location.

  • Tips: Reagan is the easiest airport for travelers staying downtown. Metro access is located just outside the terminal and is often faster than driving.

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

Located about 33 miles northeast of D.C., BWI is another major regional airport.

Getting to downtown D.C.:

  • Train + Metro: Take the free shuttle from the airport to the BWI Amtrak/MARC station, then take an Amtrak or MARC train to Union Station in D.C.

    • Cost: MARC (weekdays only): $8; Amtrak: $15–$50 depending on time. Travel time: 35–60 minutes.

  • Bus + Metro: Metrobus route B30 is no longer in service, so bus-to-Metro options are limited and slower.

  • Taxi/Ride Share: Travel time can range from 45–75 minutes depending on traffic.

    • Cost: $70–$120 depending on location and time of day.

  • Tips: MARC is the most affordable and efficient option on weekdays. Amtrak is faster but more expensive. Always check train schedules in advance, especially for weekend travel.

GETTING AROUND

  • Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority: TRIP PLANNER

    • Metro Rail

    • Metro Bus

  • DC Circulator Schedule & Pick Ups

  • Lyft and Ubers readily available at all times