Your Guide to Summer Travel ☀️

Photo Source: Jonathan Nevius

It’s that time of year when people across the DC Metro area are jetting off on unforgettable trips around the globe.

If you’re traveling soon, remember that you’re not only sharing the airports and train stations with fellow travelers, but the roads, parking garages and shuttles are busy too.

The good news is our region has plenty of smart and stress-free options to help you avoid unexpected delays and costs. Here are some ways to travel smarter this summer:

Metro Service to Local Airports

Flying out of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)? Take the Metro to bypass airport traffic and parking fees!

DCA: Take the Orange or Silver Line to Rosslyn Metro Station and transfer to the Blue Line toward Franconia-Springfield. Reagan National Airport is the fourth stop after you transfer to the Blue Line.

IAD: Take the Silver Line toward Ashburn. Dulles International Airport is the next stop after Innovation Center Metro Station.

Metro Service to Amtrak Stations

Catching an Amtrak train at Alexandria or Union Station? Metro can take you directly to train stations across the region.

Alexandria Station: Take the Orange or Silver Lines to Rosslyn and transfer to the Blue Line toward Franconia Springfield. Alexandria Station is next to King St/Old Town Metro Station.

Union Station: Ride the Silver or Orange Lines to Metro Center and transfer to the Red Line toward Glenmont. Union Station is the third stop after you transfer to the Red Line.

Regional Rail in Virginia and Maryland

Getting around Virginia and Maryland is a breeze with regional rail options.

Virginia Railway Express (VRE) is a regional commuter rail system with two lines that only operate on weekdays. VRE can take you to destinations like DC, Alexandria, Lorton, Spotsylvania, Manassas, Fredericksburg and more. One-way tickets can be purchased at VRE stations or through their mobile app.

Maryland Area Regional Commuter (MARC) service connects Union Station in Washington, DC to a variety of locations in Maryland.

  • Penn Line includes stops at Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI), the City of Baltimore and Aberdeen.
  • Camden Line provides access to destinations like Laurel, Jessup and Camden Yards  
  • Brunswick Line serves areas including Gaithersburg, Germantown and Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.

Planning a Road Trip? Try Amtrak’s Auto Train

Amtrak’s Auto Train allows you to load your vehicle on the train to travel in comfort between Lorton, VA and Sanford, FL without putting your vehicle through the wear and tear of a long drive.

Most Importantly, Have Fun!

We hope your summer trips are free of stress and delays! For a more detailed look at all of the available transportation options for your upcoming trips, get your personalized commute plan.

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