No, you must transfer at Metro Center or Gallery Place.

How long is the commute?

Typically 50 to 75 minutes during rush hour.

Most street parking is metered; garages charge hourly rates.

Yes, the WMATA bus system connects various points in the region.

Yes, Arlington is considered a very safe and walkable community.

Gaithersburg

Arlington

Train Driving

Gaithersburg to Arlington

Updated: 28 May 2026

The commute from Gaithersburg to Arlington covers roughly 25 miles through the Washington DC metropolitan area. You can utilize the Washington Metro system by taking the Red Line from Shady Grove and transferring to the Orange or Silver Line. Driving is common but heavily dependent on the I-270 and I-495 traffic patterns. The journey typically takes 45 to 75 minutes depending on your chosen mode and time of day. Arlington offers a dense urban environment with excellent walkability near Metro stations.

Total Distance: 40 km driving distance; 32 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving during off-peak hours is the fastest, taking about 45 minutes.

Cheapest Way

The Washington Metro is the most affordable and predictable way to travel.

Compare Gaithersburg to Arlington Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 10 mins	50 mins
Avg Price	$4 - $7	$8 - $12 in fuel
Operator	WMATA Metro	Personal Vehicle
Route	Red Line from Shady Grove to Metro Center, transfer to Orange/Silver Line to Arlington.	I-270 S to I-495 S to George Washington Memorial Pkwy.
Tip	Use a SmarTrip card for the most efficient fare payment.	The George Washington Memorial Parkway offers a scenic alternative to the highway.

Travel Tips

Metro
Download the MetroHero app for real-time train arrival tracking.
Traffic
Use the Waze app to navigate around accidents on the I-495 Beltway.
Parking
Look for public parking garages in Rosslyn or Courthouse for easier access.
Walking
Arlington is very pedestrian-friendly; wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
Events
Check the Arlington County website for local festivals and farmers' markets.

Safety Tips

Metro Safety
Stay in the center of the platform while waiting for your train.
Night Travel
Use well-lit paths when walking from Metro stations to your destination.
Driving
Be cautious of aggressive drivers on the I-495 interchange.
Emergency
Dial 911 for any immediate safety concerns or emergencies.