Cover the 400 miles between Charlotte and Washington, D.C. without dealing with I-85 traffic by taking the train. You can use the time productively by working or relaxing, and arrive at Union Station right by many attractions.
This article includes information about the routes, time, cost, and classes of tickets, as well as tips to make the trip more comfortable and cheaper.
Quick Facts: Charlotte to Washington, D.C. by Train
Amtrak – The Carolinian/The Crescent
- From: Charlotte Amtrak Station, 1914 N. Tryon Street
- To: Washington Union Station
- Distance: approximately 400 miles
- Est. Travel Time: 9 – 11 hours
- Trains per Day: 2
- Price: Varies, $50 – $150+
Fares and schedules change; always check Amtrak.com/app for the most current info.
Which Trains Run From Charlotte to Washington, D.C.?
There is no fast, “express” train service between these cities. Instead, there are two Amtrak services that connect Charlotte and Washington, D.C., each with different timing, so the one to take depends on preference for daytime or nighttime travel.
1. The Carolinian
The Carolinian is a rail service that connects Charlotte and New York City with stops in Washington, D.C. It offers daytime travel and scenic rail, making it a more popular service for travelers wanting to take in the countryside.
-Typical stops between Charlotte and Washington, D.C. include Kannapolis, Salisbury, High Point, Greensboro, Burlington, Durham, Cary, Raleigh, Selma, Smithfield, Wilson, Rocky Mount, Petersburg, Richmond (Staples Mill Road), Fredericksburg, Alexandria.
Because it makes a loop through the Research Triangle of North Carolina (Raleigh, Durham, and Cary) and then up through Virginia’s I-95 corridor, it makes a number of stops, making the ride longer than a direct route.
-Best for: Daytime travel, scenic rail, and travelers starting or ending their trips in the Research Triangle or Richmond.
2. The Crescent
The Crescent is a route that connects New Orleans and New York City, including stops in Washington, DC and Charlotte. The northbound route to Charlotte, however, is an hour that is less than favorable for some travelers, but it is more direct than taking The Piedmont.
-Typical stops between Charlotte and Washington, DC include Salisbury, High Point, Greensboro, Danville, Lynchburg, Charlottesville, Culpeper, Manassas, and Alexandria.
– The Crescent takes a more Western route through Virginia.
| Feature | Carolinian | Crescent |
| Route through Virginia | Richmond / I-95 corridor | Lynchburg / Charlottesville |
| Number of stops | More | Fewer |
| Best time to ride | Daytime | Mix of day and night |
| Sleeping cars | No | Yes, on the long-distance route |
| Good for | Scenery, Triangle stops | Speed, western Virginia |
How Long Does the Train From Charlotte to Washington, D.C. Take?
Expect the trip to take about 9 to 11 hours. Driving is faster at about 6 to 7 hours, and flying is the fastest at about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
The real comparison is door-to-door and stress-to-stress.
- Taking the train means no:
- – Dealing with security at the airport, or having to arrive 2 hours prior to departure.
- – Driving through Atlanta’s infamous congested areas.
- – Paying for parking in D.C. (Parking can be costly.)
- The train also gives you the opportunity to get work done, since it has:
- – Wi-Fi
- – Tables
- – Outlets
If you prioritize getting to your destination the fastest, flying is the way to go. However, if you want to get there the most cost-effectively, the train gives you the best opportunity to take in some of the beautiful scenery along the eastern seaboard.
Train Ticket Prices: How Much Does It Cost?
Prices will vary for Amtrak’s Charlotte to Washington, D.C. route based on how early you book your ticket and how full the train is. Here are some prices for coach seats for that route:
- Many tickets are in the 50-150 range, and the lower prices are usually found further out when booked weeks in advance.
- Business Class tickets tend to be more expensive than coach, but offer a bit more legroom and sometimes a drink for free on the train.
- Roomettes and Bedrooms (on the Crescent route) offer a private room and include meals for higher prices on the longer routes.
What determines cost:
- Booking date. Train tickets are typically cheaper the earlier you purchase them. If you are going during a busy time, the tickets may sell out and be more expensive.
- Day of the week. Trains on more popular days (ex: Friday, Sunday) will be more expensive.
- Holidays. Trains to popular destinations over holidays will go up in price quicker.
- Seat class. Coaches are the cheapest, then Business Class, then sleeping accommodations.
Seat Options Explained
Coach Class
Seats are a lot wider, recline a lot more and have way more legroom than airplane seats. Each seat has a power outlet, a tray table and access to the Wi-Fi that is provided on the train (speeds may vary). Luggage goes on the overhead racks and the end-of-car racks.
Business Class
Business Class provides a bit more legroom and a quieter car. This is a good upgrade for a longer trip if you plan to work on a laptop.
Sleeping Cars (Crescent Only)
A Roomette, which is two seats that convert into beds, or a Bedroom, gives you a good amount of privacy on the Crescent, which is an overnight train. Meals in the dining car, along with a ticket for a sleeper on the long-distance route, give a good justification for the high price.
The Stations: Where You Depart and Arrive
Charlotte Amtrak Station
Located on North Tryon Street, this station is less than a 25-minute ride from Uptown and the NoDa Arts district. This station is also along the LYNX Blue Line. Parking is available on-site and rideshare is easy to access. Arrive about 30-45 minutes before your departure time, especially if you are checking bags.
Washington Union Station
Union Station is one of the most accessible train stations in the country. After arriving at the station, you can step onto the Metro’s Red Line, take a bus, or rent a bike. Also, you can walk to Capitol Hill. Many other hotels, restaurants and attractions are nearby, and the station has shopping and dining.
What to Expect on Board
Food and Drink. Expect to pay grocery store prices on snacks and drinks and a lot more for prepared food in the Café Car. Because of the cost, many travelers bring their own food. You are allowed to bring snacks and drinks onto the train.
Wi-Fi. Free Wi-Fi is often available, but may not work in rural areas. Download movies and other large files before you go.
Power Outlets. Each seat has one, but it’s a good idea to bring a small portable power bank for your electronics as a backup.
Luggage. Passengers can bring two personal items and two carry-ons for free, and checked baggage is usually available for an extra charge. You can check the most up-to-date policy before you travel.
Quiet and Comfort. The ride is smooth and may provide a good time to get work done. Bring a light jacket, as the temperature in the cars may vary, and a neck pillow for your ride.
Best Time to Take the Train
- Spring (March to May): The mild weather and greening of the landscapes in Virginia make this one of the most beautiful seasons in the state, particularly in the Piedmont.
- Fall (September to November): After Labor Day, leave the clock behind and don’t miss the autumn leaf display in Virginia.
- Summer (June to August): High fares, especially around July 4.
- Winter (December to February): Weather-related delays possible, but fares are often lower, and there are not as many travelers.
For the lowest fares, fly Tuesday through Thursday and book three to six weeks prior to the flight.
Tips for Booking Cheap Tickets
- Expect to pay more as the departure date gets closer. Seats on the cheaper end of the fare scale are released well in advance and are purchased first.
- Be flexible about departure days and times. Train fares can fluctuate significantly even with a 24-hour difference.
- The Amtrak app is a good source of discounts. Its digital tickets are a lot more convenient than print-at-home tickets.
- Amtrak has reduced fares for seniors, students, military members and veterans. Look for these reduced fares during your search.
- People can earn rewards points towards future travel by joining the Amtrak Guest Rewards program.
- It costs less to travel during the off-peak times, which are generally during the week. Also, try to avoid travel on major holidays or weekends, when possible.
- Make sure you are comparing prices for the bus and flight, including the cost of getting to and from the airport and bag fees.
Train vs. Flying vs. Driving vs. Bus
| Option | Approx. Time | Pros | Cons |
| Train | 9–11 hours | Comfortable, scenic, productive | Slowest option |
| Flight | About 1h 15m in the air (3–4 hours door to door) | Fastest | Airport hassle, bag fees |
| Driving | 6–7 hours | Flexible | Traffic, fuel, parking in D.C. |
| Bus | 8–10 hours | Often cheapest | Less space, traffic delays |
If you’re someone who likes a more open space to move around and a scenic ride, then taking the train is better. If you need to get to your morning meeting on time, flying is the better option.
Things to See Along the Way
The train journey is part of the vacation, and the scenic views along the way add to the experience.
- Piedmont N.C. The train between Charlotte, Greensboro, and Raleigh cuts through rural, small-town North Carolina.
- Virginia: Watch the Blue Ridge foothills north of Lynchburg, and the valley between the mountains and Charlottesville.
- Rivers and woods: The two routes cross many streams and long wooded sections that are hidden from view along the interstates.
- D.C.: The Capital’s skyline comes into view as you cross the last bridge into the city.
What to Do in Washington, D.C. After You Arrive
Union Station is a great central hub, and you can walk to many DC attractions:
- U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress
- National Mall (with the Smithsonian museums, which are free)
- Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool
- Georgetown, the C&O Canal, Eastern Market, and Capitol Hill restaurants
- The Tidal Basin and Wharf (Cherry Blossom Festival)
- You can get to all of these by public transit or walking, so you won’t need a car.
Packing Checklist for the Train
- You will need your Photo ID along with your digital or printed ticket.
- Phone, charger and power bank
- Earplugs or headphones
- A light jacket or blanket
- Food and water
- Entertainment: Book, tablet, downloaded shows
- Laptop and work files if you want to be productive
- Comfortable shoes for all the walking at the station
- You won’t regret it!
Accessibility and Traveling With Kids
Amtrak has accessible seating at most stations, as well as boarding assistance and wheelchair-friendly facilities. Make sure you let them know when you book your tickets or contact them in advance. Kids love trains because they can walk around, look out of the window and enjoy the changing scenery. Kids 2 and under are free on Amtrak, and there are discounts for kids 2-12. (Policies may change).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct train from Charlotte to Washington, D.C.?
Yes. Both the Carolinian and the Crescent pass through Charlotte and continue to Washington, D.C., without requiring a change of train.
How long is the train ride from Charlotte to Washington, D.C.?
About 9 to 11 hours, depending on the schedule for the day and which train you take.
How much are train tickets from Charlotte to Washington, D.C.?
Prices can vary, but the majority of the coach tickets are between about $50 and $150, one way. The mid-week tickets can be cheaper, and so can the tickets that are booked in advance.
Which train is better, the Carolinian or the Crescent?
The Carolinian is better for daytime travel and has stops in the Triangle and Richmond. The Crescent is more direct and has sleeping cars, which makes it more pleasant for longer travel.
Can I bring luggage on the train?
Yes. Amtrak allows a lot of carry-on luggage, and checked baggage can be found at many stations. Check the latest policy before you go.
Is there Wi-Fi on the train?
Yes, but it can be slow, especially in rural areas. Download important files in advance.
Where does the train arrive in Washington, D.C.?
Washington Union Station.
Is the train usually cheaper than flying?
Maybe. The train can be cheaper once you add all the costs associated with flying (parking, shuttles, baggage, etc.).