Is it better to fly or drive?

Flying is much faster, but driving is a great road trip experience.

How long is the flight?

The flight time is approximately 2.5 hours.

Yes, Amtrak's Capitol Limited runs from Chicago to Washington, D.C.

What is the best way to get around?

The Metro system and walking are the best ways to explore the city.

Is Washington, D.C. safe?

Like any major city, it has safe and unsafe areas; stay aware of your surroundings.

Northfield

Washington

Flight Driving

Northfield to Washington

Updated: 28 May 2026

The distance from Northfield to Washington, D.C. is approximately 1,100 miles. You can drive via I-90 East and I-70 East, which takes about 17 to 19 hours, or fly from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) to Reagan National (DCA), which takes about 2.5 hours in the air. Flying is significantly faster, while driving allows for a scenic road trip through the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic. Washington, D.C. is a major city with extensive public transit options.

Total Distance: 1,770 km driving distance; 1,600 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from MSP to DCA is the fastest method, totaling about 5 hours including airport time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheaper if you are traveling with more than one person.

Compare Northfield to Washington Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 30 mins	18 hours
Avg Price	$200-$400	$160-$200 in fuel
Operator	Delta or United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MSP to DCA	I-90 East to I-70 East
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance for the best fares.	Plan for at least one overnight stop; Pittsburgh is a good halfway point.

Travel Tips

Public Transit
Use the Metro system to navigate the city; it is efficient and covers most of the area.
Traffic
Avoid driving in downtown Washington, D.C. during rush hour; it is very congested.
Parking
Parking in downtown Washington, D.C. is very expensive; use public parking garages.
Airport Access
Take the Metro directly from Reagan National (DCA) to downtown Washington, D.C.
Weather
Washington, D.C. can be very hot and humid in the summer; dress in light, breathable clothing.

Safety Tips

City Awareness
Stay in well-lit, populated areas, especially at night.
Driving
Be prepared for heavy traffic and complex street layouts in the city.
Personal Belongings
Keep your bag in front of you in crowded tourist areas to prevent pickpocketing.
Emergency
Dial 911 for emergencies; Washington, D.C. has a robust emergency response system.