Logistics of October trip

Question

I will be travelling to BWI from the UK on 25th October. I need to then get to Washington DC for a little sightseeing and then return to BWI to pick up hire car on the 27th. There may be two of us travelling but I could be alone so want to be comfortable with arrangements.

Firstly, I know when I stayed a night near Atlanta airport there was lots of advice regarding area and minimum price to pay for airport accommodation so I would invite any comments on this. Also, if it isn’t a silly question, I expect to leave the airport around 9pm so are the hotels easy and safe walking distance?

After a first night stop at the airport, I then plan to go to Washington for the second night. I have been advised to take a morning Amtrak train. Do they leave from Penn Station? I understand that there is an airport shuttle. Is it a train or bus as I seem to see mentions of both on this forum. Could anyone tell me how long the journey is? How do I get tickets? I see mentions advising against travelling alone. One journey would be around 9.30 am and the other around 1 pm. I would assume those are safer times but invite advice.

I also see from the forum that you have to walk to Penn from the shuttle dropoff. Again, what kind of neighbourhood is this in? Would I just be better getting a taxi from the hotel to Penn?

Lots of questions. Advice greatly appreciated.

Answer

It sounds like you have a packed but exciting trip ahead! I’ll address your questions one by one to make sure you're comfortable with all your travel arrangements.

1. Airport Accommodation Near BWI

When it comes to staying near Baltimore/Washington International (BWI), there are several options that cater to different budgets. For a comfortable but affordable option, you can expect to pay around $100–$150 per night for a decent airport hotel. This is a good price range for a comfortable stay without going overboard.

Regarding safety and walking distance, most of the airport hotels are not far from BWI, but they tend to be located on roads with more traffic, so they may not always be within walking distance. If you plan to leave the airport around 9 PM, I’d suggest using the hotel shuttle service, which most airport hotels provide. BWI is generally safe, but walking around late at night can be tricky in less pedestrian-friendly areas.

For a safer option, consider taking a taxi or using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft from BWI to your hotel if you're traveling at night. Many hotels also provide shuttle services, which can be a more convenient choice.

2. Getting to Washington, DC from BWI

Yes, you can take an Amtrak train from Baltimore's Penn Station to Washington, DC. It’s a great way to get into the city quickly, and it's relatively comfortable. Amtrak trains to Washington typically leave every 30 minutes or so, and the journey takes around 30–40 minutes.

As for getting to Penn Station from BWI, there are two main options:

Airport Shuttle (Bus): The BWI Airport shuttle is a bus service that takes passengers directly to the Baltimore Penn Station. The shuttle is relatively inexpensive and operates throughout the day. The journey to Penn Station typically takes about 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Light Rail: If you prefer, you can take the Light RailLink, which connects BWI to Penn Station. This is another convenient option, and the ride takes about 30 minutes.

If you're carrying luggage or just prefer a more comfortable and private option, I’d recommend taking a taxi or rideshare from your hotel to Penn Station. The surrounding area of Penn Station is safe but not particularly scenic, and a taxi ride might be more convenient, especially in the early morning hours.

3. Ticketing for Amtrak and Safe Travel Times

Amtrak tickets can be purchased either online through their website or app, or at the ticket counters in Penn Station. It's a good idea to book in advance, especially for popular travel times, but you can also buy tickets at the station if needed. For safety, traveling at 9:30 AM or 1:00 PM is generally a good idea, as the trains will be busier, which can provide more safety in numbers. If you travel alone, always keep your belongings close, and stay alert, especially when getting on and off the train.

4. Penn Station Area Neighborhood

The neighborhood around Penn Station is in the northern part of Baltimore and is generally safe during the day. However, like many cities, it’s best to be cautious at night, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. If you're feeling unsure about walking to Penn Station from your hotel, taking a taxi or rideshare service is a quick and relatively inexpensive way to avoid any potential concerns.

5. Taxi from Hotel to Penn Station

If you prefer a direct route to Penn Station and want to avoid walking through the neighborhood, taking a taxi or rideshare (like Uber or Lyft) is an excellent option. It will cost around $10–$15 depending on traffic, and you’ll be dropped off right at the entrance to the station. This is particularly recommended if you’re traveling with luggage or just want a more comfortable, direct experience.

Conclusion

To summarize, here’s what I suggest for your logistics:

Book a hotel near BWI with shuttle service and use it if you arrive at night. Otherwise, a taxi or rideshare is a safe alternative.
For getting to Washington, DC, take the Amtrak from Baltimore's Penn Station, and if you’re unsure about walking to the station, opt for a taxi or rideshare.
For safety, travel during daytime hours, and if you are traveling alone, take extra precautions with your belongings on the train and at the station.

Hopefully, this answers all your questions! Enjoy your trip, and feel free to reach out if you need any more advice. Safe travels!