Farewell to Monuments, Hello Big Apple (Washington D.C. to NYC)
This itinerary guides you from the historic heart of Washington D.C. back to the bustling energy of New York City. Get ready to experience the final chapter of your American adventure, filled with cultural gems, exciting farewells, and a smooth return journey.
Day 1: A Fond Farewell to the Nation’s Capital (Washington D.C.)
Savor a delicious breakfast, reminiscing about your time spent exploring American history and iconic landmarks.
Depending on your chosen mode of transportation (train, bus, or plane) and departure time, factor in enough time to check out of your hotel and reach your departure point.
Travel Options:
Train: Amtrak offers a comfortable train ride from Washington D.C.’s Union Station back to New York City. The Northeast Corridor service takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
Bus: Several bus companies offer affordable transportation between the two cities. Travel times can vary depending on the company and route, typically ranging from 4 to 5 hours.
Plane: While the fastest option, flying between Washington D.C. and NYC might not be much quicker after factoring in airport security and travel time to/from the airports. Flight time is around an hour, but additional time needs to be considered for pre-departure procedures and arrival formalities.
Day 2: Welcome Back to the City That Never Sleeps (New York City)
Upon arrival in New York City, either at Penn Station (train) or Port Authority Bus Terminal (bus), navigate to your hotel using the subway or a rideshare service. Check in and leave your luggage.
Taking the Train: A significant benefit of train travel is arriving directly in the heart of Manhattan at Penn Station. This allows for easy access to the subway system or a short taxi/rideshare ride to most hotels.
Taking the Bus: Depending on the bus company and terminal location, you might need to factor in additional travel time to reach your hotel from Port Authority Bus Terminal.
Depending on your arrival time and energy levels, consider revisiting a favorite NYC spot you encountered earlier in your trip or explore a new neighborhood.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a classic New York City restaurant, perhaps a quintessential steakhouse or a trendy rooftop bar with stunning city views.
Day 3: Last Minute Touches & Big Apple Departures (New York City)
Depending on your departure time, use this morning to do any last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a must-see attraction you might have missed earlier.
Take a taxi, rideshare service, or airport shuttle from your hotel to your departure airport (JFK, LGA, or EWR) to catch your flight back home.
Additional Tips:
- Consider purchasing a pre-booked car service for a stress-free airport transfer, especially if you have a tight schedule or heavy luggage.
- If you have more time, consider extending your stay in either city to delve deeper into the sights and experiences they offer.
- Download the metro apps (MetroHero for D.C. and MTA for NYC) for easy navigation using public transportation.
This itinerary provides a framework for your return journey. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences, departure schedule, and any lingering desires you might have to experience the best of what both Washington D.C. and New York City have to offer.
