From Fordham to D.C.: The Best Travel Options for Rams Heading South

1. Car: A Flexible, If Traffic-Filled, Option
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Driving from Fordham to D.C. offers a lot of flexibility and can be a fun road trip, especially with friends. The trip down I-95 takes you through major cities, but traffic on this busy corridor can be a challenge. Leaving early in the morning or later in the evening is a good strategy to avoid peak times.

Pro Tip: Carpooling with other Fordham students can make the trip more affordable and enjoyable. Car rental services near Fordham are available, but remember to budget for tolls and parking fees in D.C.

Estimated Drive Time: 4-5 hours (traffic-dependent)

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2. Amtrak: Comfortable and Convenient from Penn Station
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Amtrak is a popular choice for Fordham students looking for comfort and reliability. Trains depart from Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan, which is easily accessible from Fordham’s campus. Amtrak offers two main services for this route:

• Northeast Regional Line: This is the standard option, providing a comfortable ride with amenities like Wi-Fi and power outlets, so you can study or relax during the 4-5 hour journey. It’s typically the more budget-friendly option of the two.
• Acela Express: For a faster trip, Acela cuts about an hour off the travel time, but the ticket price is higher. This high-speed train is ideal if you’re heading to D.C. for a short trip and want to minimize travel time.

Ticket Prices: Higher cost option, with rates that typically rise during the holiday season.

Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours on Acela, 4-5 hours on the Northeast Regional

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3. TripperBus: Affordable and Student-Friendly
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TripperBus is a great budget-friendly option for Fordham students. It offers routes from Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan and also departs from Brooklyn, making it accessible for students living off-campus or in other parts of NYC. Known for its student-friendly amenities, TripperBus includes Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating—perfect for long trips where you can study, watch movies, or just unwind.

TripperBus also arrives in D.C. at Dupont Circle, a central location with easy connections to D.C.’s Metro system, so you can quickly get to where you need to go in the city.

Ticket Prices: Typically start at 25$

Estimated Travel Time: 4-5 hours (traffic-dependent)

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. The bus drops off at the Dupont Circle Bus Stop in D.C., making it easy to access local transit options. You can also book your return trip with Washington Deluxe for a seamless journey back.

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 buses leave from the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan, offering flexible scheduling and frequent departures for Fordham students who may be booking last-minute. However, compared to TripperBus, Greyhound has more basic amenities. While it’s a budget-friendly option, the travel time can sometimes be slightly longer.

Ticket Prices: Pricier option, with rates often increasing during the holiday season or peak travel times. 

Estimated Travel Time: 4.5-5 hours (traffic-dependent)

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Travel Tips for CUNY Graduate Center Students

• Look for Student Discounts: All of the services mentioned above offer student discounts, so be sure to check for deals when booking your tickets.
• Plan Ahead: Especially during busy times like weekends or holidays, booking in advance can help secure a better price and ensure you get the seat you want.
• Bring Comfort Essentials: A cozy sweater, headphones, snacks, and study materials will make the ride more comfortable, especially if you’re planning to study or relax along the way.
• Check the Return Schedule: If you're heading back to NYC on a Sunday or after a major event, buses and trains can fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to book your return ticket in advance.

Whether you’re looking for flexibility, comfort, or affordability, CUNY Graduate Center students have plenty of options when traveling from NYC to D.C. Plan ahead, take advantage of student discounts, and enjoy the journey!