Summary
- Fall foliage train excursions offer incredible views of changing leaves and small towns along the way, making it a great way to enjoy the season.
- The Amtrak train ride from Washington DC to New York City offers a scenic journey with breathtaking views of rivers, marshes, and the famous Manhattan skyline.
- Traveling by train between DC and NYC saves time and provides a more relaxed experience compared to driving, with the option of first-class tickets and complimentary meals on the Acela route.
Each year, the approach of fall brings with it a plethora of pleasant experiences, like making tasty pumpkin dishes, watching fall-themed movies when the weather cools, and, most significantly, going leaf-peeping. There is nothing better than enjoying a crisp day outside while the leaves change color. The most incredible views are frequently provided by a fall foliage train excursion, although fall lovers can also enjoy the experience by walking around the neighborhood or taking a leisurely drive along a country road.
Every year, a huge number of passengers travel between New York and Washington by rail. They are offered 225 miles (362 km) of picturesque terrain that runs approximately parallel to Interstate 95 between the Big Apple and the U.S. capitol over by an Amtrak ride. Here is what vacationers need to expect on the scenic Amtrak train ride from Washington DC to New York City in the fall.
What To Expect On The Scenic Amtrak Train Ride From DC To NYC
The grandiose Union Station in Washington, DC, on Massachusetts Avenue, which dates to 1908, welcomes everyone seeking a trip from Washington DC to New York City. It is also a reminder of the heyday of travel.
It is a white palace with an elegant arched roof and polished marble flooring. The station's Main Hall is appropriately named, and in a city filled with impressive structures, it ranks among the best.
About 15 minutes prior to departure, the gates open, and everyone rushes downstairs to the platform as Amtrak riders from DC to NYC wait in line on the main concourse.
Once the train sets off, a never-ending visual feast unfolds through the windows as the vehicle travels through the incredible cities of Baltimore and Philadelphia as well as the centers of Wilmington and Trenton.
An aerial view of historic Annapolis, situated on the Chesapeake Bay, during an early November morning.
The Chesapeake Bay, the Schuylkill and Delaware Rivers, and the marshes of the Hackensack River offer some of the best fall foliage views, but what is most interesting is seeing U.S. small towns as riders pass through.
Everyone in the compartment turns to the right to take in sights of the famous Manhattan skyline as the train approaches the level plains of New Jersey. Since the nicest train station in the U.S., New York Penn Station, is not far away, there is a bustle of activity.
While the journey began grandly in Washington's Union Station, offering a kaleidoscope of vistas, the destination at Penn Station is essentially functional, with the platforms leading up to a confusing network of arcades and exits.
The magnificent view of New York in the fall is breathtaking from every aspect once passengers reach street level on 34th Street.
- Amtrak ticket price from Washington DC to New York City: Starting at $20
Passengers can stop at several places between DC and NYC to enjoy the fall foliage.
The Scenic Amtrak Train Ride Schedule From DC To NYC
A four to seven-hour drive from New York City to Washington, DC may be made by vehicle. Therefore, a train ride is the best alternative and easiest way to travel to NYC. Amtrak offers two routes: Amtrak Acela travels in 2 hours and 46 minutes to 54 minutes.
The scenic train stops at Newark Penn Station, Metropark, NJ, Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Baltimore Penn Station. It takes the Northeast Regional 3 hours and 20 to 40 minutes. It travels at a slower pace and makes all the same stops as the Acela, in addition to stops at the airports of Newark and Baltimore.
By using the train instead of a vehicle, travelers may save about an hour of hair-tearing frenzy and up to four hours of driving. Additionally, the Acela offers first-class tickets with complimentary meals and beverages delivered right to the rider’s seat.
Additionally, the food selection is more varied in the Acela café car than it is on the Northeast Regional train.
- Departure Time: The first scenic Amtrak leaves at 3:15 AM and the last one at 10:00 PM
Top Amtrak Train Rides To See Fall Foliage Passing By NYC
Seeing the leaves just as they change to golden yellows, warm reds, and toasty browns is one of the finest things about fall. Any time of year, taking a scenic train is an exciting adventure, but excursions in the fall provide more scenery as the leaves change to various hues of red, orange, and yellow.
Additionally, if riders book their trip after Labor Day, Amtrak trains are typically less busy. It is a terrific time to get outside and discover mesmerizing fall foliage.
Hudson River Valley
Hudson River Valley is one of the most stunning sites to witness the leaves change color. From New York City or Albany, the stations at either end of the valley, it is a straightforward rail journey along the several Amtrak routes that follow the Hudson River.
- Best time: Mid-September to early October
If riders are coming from New York City, they are recommended to sit on the left side of the train to the wonderful fall foliage; if they are coming from Manhattan, it is better to sit on the right side of the train.
Vermont
Riders may take the Vermonter Amtrak to view the magnificent fall colors in Vermont. With additional stops in Maryland, Philadelphia, New Jersey, New York City, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, trains run between Washington, D.C., and Vermont.
The finest sights will be found on southbound trains leaving from Vermont because they will be traveling exclusively during the day.
- Best Time: Mid-September to early October
Shenandoah Valley And Appalachian Mountains
The Cardinal Amtrak route, which passes through the New River Gorge, the Appalachian Mountains, and the Shenandoah Valley, is among the most picturesque train journeys east of the Mississippi River.
There are various locations where passengers may join the train as it runs between Chicago and New York City, but traveling eastward will offer riders the most time to see the New River Gorge in daylight.
They will need to prepare for a long ride and a night on the train, especially if they want to take in all the scenery in the mountains and the valley, as there are not many Amtrak stops along this route that are close to significant airports.
- Best time: October