how far is baltimore maryland to washington dc

Jane Haynes

2 min read

·

07-09-2024

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When planning a trip or a commute between Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C., one of the first questions that may pop into your mind is: how far is it? In this article, we'll explore the distance, travel options, and other useful tips to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Distance Between Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

The straight-line distance (or as the crow flies) from Baltimore to Washington, D.C. is approximately 32 miles (51 kilometers). However, if you are considering driving or taking public transportation, the actual distance may vary slightly depending on the route you take.

Driving Distance

• Route: The most common driving route is via I-95 South.
• Total Distance: About 40 miles (64 kilometers).
• Average Travel Time: Depending on traffic conditions, it typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to drive this distance.

Public Transportation

If you prefer to leave the driving to someone else, there are excellent public transportation options available:

1. Train:

   • Amtrak runs frequent services between Baltimore Penn Station and Washington Union Station.
   • Travel Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.

2. Light Rail & Metro:

   • Take the Light RailLink to the BWI Rail Station and then transfer to the MARC train or take the Metro from a station in the Baltimore area.
   • Total Travel Time: Can range from 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on transfers.

3. Bus:

   • Several bus companies, including Greyhound and Megabus, operate routes between Baltimore and D.C.
   • Travel Time: Generally around 1 to 1.5 hours, subject to traffic.

Factors Affecting Travel Time

1. Traffic Conditions:

   • Heavy traffic, especially during rush hours (morning and evening), can extend your travel time significantly.

2. Weather Conditions:

   • Inclement weather such as rain or snow can impact both driving and public transport schedules.

3. Public Transit Schedules:

   • Always check train and bus schedules ahead of time to avoid delays.

Conclusion

Whether you are commuting for work, visiting friends, or exploring the sights of the nation’s capital, knowing that Baltimore is just a hop, skip, and jump away can help you plan your journey effectively. Remember to factor in your mode of transportation and the time of day when you set off.

Useful Links

• Amtrak Schedule
• MARC Train Information
• Metro Map

By understanding the distance and the various travel options, you can make your trip between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. both efficient and enjoyable! Safe travels!