Train
Driving
Kingston to Washington
Updated: 31 May 2026
The trip from Kingston to Washington, D.C. is a 400-kilometer journey south. The most direct route is via I-87 South and I-95 South, which takes approximately 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive to the Poughkeepsie train station and take the train to NYC, then transfer to an Amtrak train to Washington, D.C. This route is popular for those visiting the nation's capital.
Total Distance: Driving distance 400 km, straight-line air distance 350 km.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest, taking about 4.5 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most economical for this distance.
Compare Kingston to Washington Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6 hours | 4 hours 30 mins |
| Avg Price | $80 - $150 | $50 - $60 in fuel |
| Operator | Amtrak | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | Drive to Poughkeepsie, train to NYC, then Amtrak to Washington, D.C. | I-87 S to I-95 S. |
| Tip | Check the Amtrak schedule for train times. | The highway is the fastest way to travel between these cities. |
Travel Tips
-
TrafficI-95 can have heavy traffic near Washington, D.C. during rush hour.
-
ParkingParking in Washington, D.C. is available in public garages.
-
Train AccessPoughkeepsie station is the best hub for train travel.
-
RouteI-87 and I-95 are the most reliable routes; avoid local roads for speed.
-
WeatherCheck for traffic alerts during winter storms.
Safety Tips
-
Road ConditionsBe careful on highway ramps during heavy rain.
-
PedestriansWatch for pedestrians in the busy downtown area.
-
EmergencyKeep your vehicle registration and insurance handy.
-
VisibilityUse headlights during dusk for better safety.
People Also Ask
-
How far is Washington, D.C.?It is about 400 kilometers away.
-
Is there a train?No direct train from Kingston; you must drive to Poughkeepsie first.
-
How long is the drive?The drive is about 4.5 hours.
-
Is there a toll?Yes, I-87 and I-95 have tolls.
-
What is the best way to travel?Driving is the most convenient method.
Quick Info
- From Kingston, New York, United States
- To Washington, District of Columbia, United States
-
Modes
Best Time to Travel
Any time of year is suitable for this commute.
Things to Do in Washington
1
National Mall
Visit the iconic monuments and museums.
2
Smithsonian Museums
Explore the world-class museums.
3
White House
See the home of the President.
4
Capitol Building
Tour the seat of the US government.
Tags
Kingston to Washington DC
driving to Washington DC
train to Washington DC
Northeast travel
Kingston NY
Washington DC
commuting to Washington DC
traveling south
Amtrak
local transport
