Getting around Washington, DC
Planning to travel in Washington? Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, let this guide help you make the most of your Washington experience. Travel from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport to popular hotels like Marriott Marquis Washington, DC using Uber and discover popular routes and destinations.
Ways to get around Washington
Walking
Walking is a convenient way to explore Washington, D.C., thanks to its compact layout and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Many key attractions, including monuments, museums, and government buildings, are clustered within a manageable distance, particularly around the National Mall. The city features well-maintained sidewalks, crosswalks, and scenic routes that make walking enjoyable. However, the weather can influence comfort, as summers are often hot and humid, while winters can be cold. Additionally, some areas may require longer walks, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Overall, walking is a practical and enjoyable option for getting around many parts of the city.
Biking
Biking is another practical way to navigate Washington, D.C., thanks to its extensive network of bike lanes, including protected lanes in many areas. The city’s relatively compact layout makes it easy to reach popular destinations by bike, and there are trails connecting to regional areas for longer rides. While biking is generally convenient, factors like traffic and the need to navigate intersections carefully should be considered. Limebike is available through the Uber app, offering a convenient bikeshare option for short trips or exploring the city.
Car
Driving in Washington, D.C. can be challenging due to heavy traffic and limited parking availability, especially in busy areas. The city has a dense urban layout with a mix of one-way streets and traffic circles, which can be confusing for drivers unfamiliar with the area. While the road infrastructure supports car travel, congestion during peak hours can significantly slow down commutes. Parking is often expensive and difficult to find, particularly near popular landmarks. However, having a car may be useful for accessing suburban areas or destinations outside the city center.
Public Transit
Public transportation in Washington, D.C. is a robust and convenient option, with buses, a subway system, and streetcars making it easy to navigate the city without a car. Many key destinations, including government buildings, museums, and neighborhoods, are accessible via public transit. The subway system is extensive, with routes connecting various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Buses and streetcars provide additional coverage, particularly in areas not served by the subway. The city’s infrastructure supports these options well, though factors like distance and occasional delays may influence travel times.
Train
Trains provide another convenient way to travel in and around Washington, D.C., with an extensive rail network connecting major neighborhoods, landmarks, and surrounding areas. Multiple routes are available, and trains generally run on a regular schedule, often every 10-20 minutes during peak hours. The infrastructure is well-developed, with stations located throughout the city and nearby suburbs. However, the suitability of trains may depend on the distance to your destination and proximity to a station, as some areas might require additional transportation options.
Popular destinations in Washington, DC
Uber makes Washington travel easy. While riders can use Uber to request a ride to pretty much anywhere, some destinations are more popular than others. Uber riders getting around Washington request rides to Union Station more than any other spot.Here, you can explore popular routes requested by riders near you—with dropoff locations and average route prices.
Popular destinations in Washington, DC
Uber makes Washington travel easy. While riders can use Uber to request a ride to pretty much anywhere, some destinations are more popular than others. Uber riders getting around Washington request rides to Union Station more than any other spot.Here, you can explore popular routes requested by riders near you—with dropoff locations and average route prices.
Popular destinations in Washington, DC
Uber makes Washington travel easy. While riders can use Uber to request a ride to pretty much anywhere, some destinations are more popular than others. Uber riders getting around Washington request rides to Union Station more than any other spot.Here, you can explore popular routes requested by riders near you—with dropoff locations and average route prices.
Reserve a ride in Washington with Uber
Arrange your car service needs in advance with Uber in Washington. Request a ride anytime up to 90 days ahead, whether you need transportation to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, you have plans to visit your favorite restaurant, or you’re going somewhere else.
Rideshare and other services in Washington, District of Columbia
Getting around Washington without a car is easy with Uber. Find places to visit, then request a ride on any day and at any time of the week. You can request a ride from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport to Glover-Archbold Parkway or head to another destination with the app. If you’re planning to travel in Washington with a large group, request BLACK CAR + Car Seat to enjoy a comfortable ride.
Open the Uber app and enter your destination to begin exploring Washington.
Washington-area airport car service
When your travel in Washington takes you to an airport from Glover-Archbold Parkway, Shepherd Park or elsewhere, open the app and request a ride at any time of day. Tap below on the name of a nearby airport to learn how to use Uber to get car service to arrivals and departures. On the linked airport page, you’ll find out where to meet your driver for pickup, how much the trip will cost, and more.
Washington taxis and other ride options
Car rentals near Washington, DC
Frequently asked questions
- Is Uber available in Washington?
Yes. The Uber app gives you the power to request a ride to get around Washington anytime, 24/7.
- What’s the most affordable way to travel in Washington?
With Uber, you can choose the ride option that works best for your budget when you travel in Washington. To get an estimated cost, sign in online or open the app and input your destination in the “Where to?” box. The price estimate for each ride option will appear. Scroll to explore what’s currently available.
- Can I get around Washington without a car?
Yes. Sign in online or open your Uber app to request a ride in Washington, and let your driver take you where you want to go. (You might see other Washington transportation options available in your app, too.)
- Can I rent a car in Washington?
Sign in to your Uber account on Uber.com or open your Uber app to find out if car rentals are available in your city. If so, choose Rent and complete your reservation with a rental provider on Uber.com or using the Uber app. Then travel in Washington or wherever the road takes you.
- How does Uber in Washington help keep riders safe?
Your safety when traveling in Washington is a top priority. In a few taps, you can access in-app features like the emergency assistance button to call authorities if you need help.
- Is Uber Eats available in Washington?
Yes. Uber Eats offers pickup or food delivery in Washington from your favorite restaurants. Browse lots of food delivery options, place your order, and track it by the minute.
Uber does not tolerate the use of alcohol or drugs by drivers using the Uber app. If you believe your driver may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please have the driver end the trip immediately.
Commercial vehicles may be subject to additional state government taxes, which would be over and above the toll.
After the driver has ended the trip, please report any feedback when rating your trip in the Uber app, visiting help.uber.com, or calling 800-664-1378.
Rasier LLC (“Rasier”) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Uber Technologies Inc. (“UTI”). Rasier is a licensed transportation network company in the Commonwealth of Virginia and Maryland, and a licensed private sedan business in the District. UTI is a technology company that develops and licenses a smartphone application, which includes a driver app and a rider app.
Vehicle-for-hire complaints regarding trips in Maryland may be submitted to the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) here or by calling 410-767-8000 or 800-492-0474. Rasier and Drinnen have filed updated proposed rate schedules with the Maryland PSC.
*Sample rider prices are average UberX prices only and do not reflect variations due to geography, traffic delays, promotions, or other factors. Flat rates and minimum fees may apply. Actual prices for rides and scheduled rides may vary.
Rasier LLC ("Rasier) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Uber Technologies Inc. ("UTI"). Rasier is a licensed transportation network company in the Commonwealth of Virginia and Maryland, and a private sedan business in the District licensed by the Department of For-Hire Vehicles ("DFHV"). UTI is a technology company that develops and licenses a smartphone application, which includes a driver app and a rider app. Rasier and Drinnen have filed updated proposed rate schedules with the Maryland PSC.
Vehicle-for-hire complaints regarding trips in Maryland may be submitted to the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) here or by calling 410-767-8000 or 800-492-0474. To file a vehicle for hire complaint with DFHV email: dfhv.complaints@dc.gov or call (202) 645-7300 for other questions.
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About
Explore Washington
Cities near me
DCA airport
Popular routes
Select your preferred language
Select your preferred language
About
Explore Washington
Cities near me
DCA airport
Popular routes