Cheap train tickets from Washington, DC to Wilmington, NC

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Trip Summary

There is one daily train from Washington DC to Wilmington, NC. Traveling by train from Washington DC to Wilmington, NC usually takes 7 hours and 55 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.

Distance
327 mi (527 km)
Fastest train
7h 55m
Lowest price
$128.00
Trains per day
0
Most frequent service
Amtrak
Train lines
1

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Washington to Wilmington Train Schedule

Is it better to travel by train or bus from Washington to Wilmington?

There are usually 2 daily bus trips available from Washington, DC to Wilmington, NC.

Train
Bus
Avg. Price$156.25Avg. Price$87.49Cheaper
Daily Trips1Daily Trips2
Duration7h 55mFasterDuration9h 12m
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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Washington to Wilmington (Based on 3 ratings and reviews)

4.3

4.0

Kathleen

January 17, 2023 - Visiting friends

Amtrak
Pros: Good comfort Cons: Internet wifi did NOT work A real issue to be fixed quickly

4.0

Patricia

January 29, 2020 - Visiting family

Amtrak
Pros: Train was late. Driver very helpful and got us on our way quickly.
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What is the price of a train ticket from Washington DC to Wilmington, NC?

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Washington, DC to Wilmington, NC was $128.00. This is somewhat expensive compared to other train fares, but it makes sense given the route’s long distance. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 29 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $85.60 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Washington DC to Wilmington, NC by travel date

$150$100$50AugSep

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Washington DC to Wilmington, NC will cost between $124 and $150. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Washington DC to Wilmington, NC by month

$175$140$105$70$35JFMAMJJASOND

Ticket prices for the train from Washington DC to Wilmington, NC often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in September when the average ticket price is only $128. If you're thinking of traveling from Washington DC to Wilmington, NC during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $158 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in December, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

$225$180$135$90$4501020

By booking your train trip from Washington, DC to Wilmington, NC on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about $85.60 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

What train companies travel from Washington to Wilmington?

There are multiple trains that travel from Washington to Wilmington, including Amtrak. Here is what you should know about the 1 most popular train lines:

TRAINDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak17h 55m$156.25
  • Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 1 Amtrak trains from Washington, DC to Wilmington, NC every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $127.

    Amtrak train passing through mountains, offering affordable train tickets for scenic rail travel - WanderuModern Amtrak train at a station, providing cheap train travel and convenient Amtrak tickets - WanderuAmtrak train speeding through scenic fall foliage, featuring cheap train tickets for long-distance trips - WanderuInterior view of a table in the dining car of an Amtrak train - WanderuInterior view of the dining car on an Amtrak train. Find affordable train tickets on - WanderuClean and spacious Amtrak bathroom, offering convenience and comfort for passengers during long train journeys with cheap Amtrak tickets - WanderuAmtrak power outlet for charging devices, providing convenience for passengers during affordable travel with cheap train tickets - WanderuComfortable Amtrak seats with ample legroom, ideal for relaxing during long journeys with cheap Amtrak tickets - WanderuSpacious Amtrak seats with reclining options, offering comfort and convenience for passengers on affordable train travel - WanderuAmtrak viewing car seats with large windows, offering panoramic views and comfort for passengers enjoying scenic routes with affordable train tickets - Wanderu

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Washington to Wilmington

Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage. You can also take a train for your return trip from Wilmington, NC to Washington DC. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Washington DC to Wilmington, NC for $54.

TRIPS PER DAY

1

DIRECT TRIPS

0

The distance between Washington DC and Wilmington, NC is approximately 327 miles, or 527 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 7 hours and 55 minutes, Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

DISTANCE (MI)

327

DISTANCE (KM)

527

Most days, there is only one train which leaves Washington DC at 12:55pm and arrives in Wilmington, NC around 7 hours later.

EARLIEST TRAIN

12:55pm

LATEST TRAIN

12:55pm

Trains from Washington DC to Wilmington, NC are the most crowded on Saturday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

MOST CROWDED

Saturday

LEAST CROWDED

Monday

City Information

Washington, DC

DCA-0DCA-1DCA-2

Washington, DC is the capital of the United States, and as such, it offers many points of interest of governmental and historical value. DC is home to several iconic landmarks, including the White House where the U.S. president resides, the Capitol building that houses the meeting chambers of the Senate and the House of Representatives, and the National Mall, where you can stop by the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the World War II Memorial. One of the reasons Washington, DC is among the best destinations to visit with your family is because it is home to so many world-famous museums, including the Smithsonians – 16 museums scattered across the District, most of which are open every day of the week, and even better, every single one is free.

D.C. is not just about politics and museums, though. The city’s active nightlife fittingly ranks it among the biggest party hubs in the country. Head to the vibrant Dupont Circle neighborhood to check out some of the finest restaurants that the nation’s capital has to offer, or join a food tour of Georgetown to get a taste of the area’s culture along with its cuisine.

Nested between Virginia and Maryland, Washington, D.C. is a key transportation hub with three nearby airports and several bus and train stations.

Wilmington, NC

WMN-0WMN-1WMN-2

A hidden jewel in the South, Wilmington has seen a steady increase in popularity in recent years, with some even going as far as calling it Hollywood East. To fully explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, take a stroll around the Historic District. Featuring not only quaint mansions but also interesting museums and superb eateries, the district offers a wealth of fascinating information about the city and its people. While walking around, don’t miss out on the chance to explore the Riverwalk. As one of the most romantic spots in the city, it offers plenty of chances to take the perfect Instagram shot. If military history is your thing, Battleship North Carolina, which has now been turned into a museum, will be a satisfying experience.

For eats, one of the most-loved establishments is Nippy’s Soul Food Restaurant, which offers a lovely mix of seafood and soul foods. Wine lovers should also not miss the chance to try a tasting session at the Noni Bacca Winery, a local favorite.

Wilmington transportation center is WAVE Forden Station Transit Center, which is located on Cando St. From the station, tourists can catch Greyhound buses. While there’s no rail service in and out of Wilmington, the city is part of the Amtrak network via the carrier’s Thruway bus line. The Wilmington International Airport is the principal airport in the city.

Station Information

Where does the train leave from in Washington?

Main departure station: Union Station

Washington, DC - Union Station - DCAUST-0

Opened more than 100 years ago in 1907, Union Station is the largest transportation hub in Washington, D.C. with almost 5 million travelers passing through it every year. As the official headquarters of Amtrak, Union Station is the main train station in the U.S. capital. It is also a major hub for intercity bus travel, serving as the main bus station in D.C. for a number of carriers, including Greyhound, BoltBus, Peter Pan Bus Lines and OurBus. Union Station offers easy transit connections to places all over D.C. with dedicated stops for the city’s metro, bus and streetcar services, as well as commuter rail for travelers to and from the surrounding areas. Additionally, with a full blown shopping mall on the premises, Union Station is also among the most popular shopping destinations in the nation's capital.

All train stations in Washington:

  • Union Station

Where does the train arrive in Wilmington?

Main arrival station: WAVE Forden Station Transit Ctr - 505 Cando St

WAVE Forden Station Transit Ctr - 505 Cando St  - WMNAMT-0

The Forden Station Transit Center is a hub for transportation services from Wilmington’s local Wave Transit buses as well as intercity bus service on Greyhound and Amtrak Thruway. The station was built in 1974 to improve public transportation in Wilmington and features aptly shaped wavy roofs atop sheltered sidewalks. Plenty of parking spots are available at the station, and if you’re up for a short walk, you can head to Costco around the corner for a $1.50 hot dog before your trip. The station is located a few miles north of downtown, about a 10-minute drive from Wilmington International Airport.

All train stations in Wilmington:

  • WAVE Forden Station Transit Ctr - 505 Cando St

Need a return trip from Wilmington to Washington?

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