How long is the drive?

It takes about 13 hours of driving time.

Yes, Amtrak provides direct service from Columbia to Penn Station.

What is the best route?

I-77 North to I-95 North is the standard route.

Yes, there are many tolls on the I-95 corridor.

NYC is safe in tourist areas, but use caution at night.

Lexington

New York

Train Driving

Lexington to New York

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Lexington to New York City is approximately 750 miles. By car, you will take I-77 North to I-95 North, a long drive of about 12 to 14 hours. Alternatively, you can take an Amtrak train from Columbia to Penn Station, which is a relaxing way to travel. This route passes through several major East Coast cities, including D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia.

Total Distance: 1,200 km driving distance; 1,050 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to LGA or JFK is the fastest method.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally the cheapest option for groups.

Compare Lexington to New York Routes

	Train Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	14 hours	13 hours
Avg Price	$150-$300	$120-$180 in fuel
Operator	Amtrak (Silver Meteor)	Personal Vehicle
Route	Columbia Station to Penn Station	I-77 N to I-95 N
Tip	Book tickets well in advance for the best prices.	Expect heavy traffic in the Northeast corridor; plan for extra time.

Travel Tips

Public Transit
Use the subway to get around; it is the fastest and cheapest way to travel.
Traffic
Driving in NYC is difficult; park your car in a garage and use public transit.
Walking
You will walk a lot; bring comfortable shoes.
Dining
Try the local pizza and bagels for an authentic NYC experience.
Safety
Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas.