Best Travel Options for Students: From The New School to D.C.

1. Car: Flexibility and Convenience
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Driving from The New School to Washington, D.C. offers flexibility, allowing you to travel on your own schedule. The most common route is I-95 South, which connects New York City to D.C. The main drawback is the traffic — particularly during rush hours and holiday weekends.

Pro Tip: Leave early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heaviest traffic on I-95. Carpooling with friends can help split the costs and make the journey more affordable.

Estimated Drive Time: 4.5–5 hours (subject to traffic)

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2. Amtrak: Comfortable, Reliable, and Scenic
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For a more relaxing and comfortable option, Amtrak offers direct service from Penn Station, which is just a short subway ride from The New School. Amtrak is a great choice if you want to work, read, or relax during the journey.

• Northeast Regional Line: The Northeast Regional is an affordable option, with comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and power outlets at each seat. This option takes about 4-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
• Acela Express: For those who need to get to D.C. quickly, the Acela Express is a faster, more premium service, reducing the travel time by about an hour. It is more expensive but offers added comfort and speed.

Ticket Prices: A higher-cost option, with rates that tend to increase around the holidays.

Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours (Acela) or 4–5 hours (Northeast Regional)

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3. TripperBus: Affordable and Comfortable Travel
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TripperBus offers an affordable and convenient way to travel between New York City and Washington, D.C. The buses depart from Penn Station, located just a short distance from The New School. TripperBus is known for its comfortable and student-friendly amenities, including:

• Free Wi-Fi
• Power outlets at every seat
• Comfortable reclining seats for long trips

This makes it ideal for students who want to study or relax on the 4-5 hour journey. TripperBus also has a central drop-off location in D.C. at Dupont Circle, where you can easily access local transit options.

‍Ticket Prices: Starting at 25$ each way

Estimated Travel Time: 4-5 hours (depending on traffic)

BOOK YOUR JOURNEY

Directions to the nearest TripperBus pickup station.

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4. Washington Deluxe: Comfortable and Convenient
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Washington Deluxe buses provide a comfortable ride with amenities like Wi-Fi, power outlets, and reclining seats. For an enhanced experience, consider the LUX bus, which offers extra legroom and oversized seats. With multiple departures each day from three convenient locations—Penn Station, Lower Manhattan (Chinatown), and Brooklyn—Washington Deluxe makes it easy to choose the most convenient departure point.

Ticket Prices: Starting from $39 each way
Estimated Travel Time: 4–5 hours (depending on traffic)
Pro Tip: Book early to secure your seat, especially during peak travel periods!

BOOK YOUR JOURNEY

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5. Greyhound: Flexible and Budget-Friendly
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Greyhound is a popular choice for students on a budget. Buses depart from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan, which is slightly further from The New School but still easily accessible by subway. Greyhound offers frequent departures, making it ideal for last-minute plans.

While Greyhound does not offer the same level of amenities as TripperBus, it still provides a reliable and affordable travel option. Greyhound’s flexible schedules and frequent student discounts make it a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Ticket Prices: Prices vary and increase during holiday seasons.

Estimated Travel Time: 4.5–5 hours (depending on traffic)

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Travel Tips for New School Students

• Look for Student Discounts: Many bus and train services, including Amtrak and Greyhound, offer student discounts. Be sure to check for promotions before booking.
• Plan Ahead: D.C. is a popular destination, especially on weekends. To secure the best fares, it’s wise to book tickets in advance.
• Pack Smart: Whether you’re on a bus or a train, bring snacks, a sweater, headphones, and any study materials you might need for the ride. If you’re traveling during the colder months, don’t forget to bring something warm for the journey.
• Book a Return Ticket Early: Sunday evenings are often busy with travelers heading back to New York City. Secure your return ticket early to avoid missing out on a spot.

Whether you prefer the speed and comfort of Amtrak, the affordability of TripperBus, or the flexibility of Greyhound, New School students have plenty of travel options to get to D.C. Choose the one that best fits your schedule, budget, and preferences, and enjoy the journey!

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