Overview
Metropark Station (MTP) in New Jersey is a major stop on Amtraks Northeast Corridor, offering frequent service to Washington Union Station (WAS). Whether you are traveling for business, leisure, or a weekend getaway, the route provides several convenient departure times each day.
Typical Daily Frequency
During weekdays, Amtrak runs approximately 1214 trains from Metropark to Washington, DC. Service peaks in the morning and early evening, matching commuter demand. On weekends the frequency drops slightly, with 810 departures.
Sample Weekday Schedule (May2026)
| Departure (Metropark) | Arrival (WashingtonDC) | Train | Service Type | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06:10am | 08:53am | NE30 | Acela Express | 2h43m |
| 07:00am | 09:45am | NE2 | Northeast Regional | 2h45m |
| 07:55am | 10:38am | NE12 | Northeast Regional | 2h43m |
| 09:30am | 12:14pm | NE14 | Northeast Regional | 2h44m |
| 11:05am | 01:48pm | NE24 | Northeast Regional | 2h43m |
| 12:30pm | 03:13pm | NE26 | Northeast Regional | 2h43m |
| 02:00pm | 04:44pm | NE28 | Northeast Regional | 2h44m |
| 04:10pm | 06:54pm | NE30 | Acela Express | 2h44m |
| 05:25pm | 08:09pm | NE32 | Northeast Regional | 2h44m |
| 06:55pm | 09:38pm | NE34 | Northeast Regional | 2h43m |
| 08:20pm | 11:04pm | NE36 | Northeast Regional | 2h44m |
| 10:00pm | 12:44am (next day) | NE38 | Northeast Regional | 2h44m |
Times shown are local to each station. Schedule is subject to change; always verify on the official Amtrak website before travel.
Weekend Schedule Highlights
On Saturdays and Sundays the first train departs around 07:20am and the last around 09:30pm. The Acela Express runs twice each day (morning and early evening), while the Northeast Regional provides the bulk of service.
How to Book
- Visit Amtrak.com or use the Amtrak mobile app.
- Select Metropark, NJ MTP as your origin and Washington, DC WAS as your destination.
- Choose your preferred date and time; filters let you view only Acela or only Northeast Regional.
- Complete payment with a credit card, Amex, or redeem Amtrak Guest Rewards points.
Tips for a Comfortable Trip
- Arrive Early. Metropark has a large parking garage, but spaces fill quickly during peak hours.
- Reserve a seat. While most Northeast Regional trains are unreserved, a seat reservation guarantees a spot, especially on weekends.
- Bring snacks. Both Acela and Regional have caf cars, but purchasing ahead can save time.
- Use WiFi. Free WiFi is available on Acela and on most Regional trains, but signal strength can vary.
- Check for service alerts. Weather or track work can cause delays, especially in the winter months.
Connecting Services in Washington, DC
Upon arrival at Washington Union Station, you have multiple options to continue your journey:
- Metro (Red Line) direct access to downtown, the National Mall, and the airport.
- VRE (Virginia Railway Express) commuter service to Northern Virginia.
- Greyhound & Megabus intercity bus connections.
- Rental cars and rideshare services are available at the stationsgroundlevel parking garage.
Fare Overview (2026)
| Service | Base OneWay Fare | Typical RoundTrip | Upgrade Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acela Express | $78$115 | $150$210 | FirstClass seating, Business Class |
| Northeast Regional | $45$70 | $85$130 | Business Class, Reserved Seat |
Fares vary by demand, advance purchase window, and any applicable discounts (students, seniors, military, etc.).
Conclusion
The MetroparktoWashington, DC corridor is one of the most reliable and frequently served routes on the Amtrak network. With multiple departures each day, a choice between highspeed Acela and more economical Northeast Regional, and easy connections at Union Station, travelers have flexibility and comfort for both short trips and longer stays in the nations capital.
