Is it safe to walk from DC's Union Station?

Question

I am traveling to DC in a few weeks, getting in at Union Station around 8 p.m. Is it safe to walk three blocks to my hotel? What if my train is late (we all know how Amtrak is), would it still be safe at 10? 12?

Answer 1

In the daytime, the Union Station area is safe to walk in with no trouble - you may get asked for money by panhandlers.



At night, I suggest a taxi. Carrying a suitcase at night is an invite to a mugging. The "front" area of the station is better than the rear but still I think a taxi is safest.



There are some nice restaurants and bars in the area. I like the Hawk and Dove. You are almost guaranteed of seeing some Congressmen and Senators. Teddy K. is a common sight. Do not tap your foot in the bathroom stalls, though. The Congressmen and Senators might get the wrong idea.

Answer 2

I agree with the other answers that reinforce that it is OK to walk as long as you are on the front and not the back of the station. I have walked between Union Station and the Greyhound terminal (that is in the back), but you have to be careful as the area in the back of the Union Station is not safe.



The front of the station is well lit, well covered by cops, and walking tourist. You will be OK to walk.



I do not recommend taking taxis in DC. Unlike New York, the taxi meter in DC is unknown and the rate schedule depends in zones. Unless you are familiar with the zones, you may be taking a taxi to go 5 blocks and cross two zones and bang!.. and easy $12 charge for 5 blocks...



For DC transportation, I recommend walking, and the metro. If you are a bit active, try renting a bike and seeing the city by bike, or if the budget allows, some places rent Segway for specific tours.

Answer 3

It really all depends on where the hotel is. If your hotel is on the "front" side of Union Station--- that's the Capitol Hill area, Mass Ave, etc-- you'll be fine. There's a lot of traffic and pedestrian activity, restaurants and bars and the like and you will be perfectly safe walking even at midnight or later (as long as you use good common sense, no running down the street drunk with fifty-dollar-bills taped to your forehead). A couple of the bars are even the neighborhood cop bars so you couldn't be safer. If your hotel is on the "back" side of Union Station, towards NY Avenue or K Street, I would take a cab if it is past dark.



Call the hotel and ask them if you pass the Dubliner or the Hawk and Dove on the way to Union Station. If yes, you're on the "front" side.

Answer 4

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Answer 5

Better not to chance it. The cost of a cab ride, even for three blocks, may be well worth the price. It's a different story during the day, but later in the evening any large city is less safe than during daylight hours.

Answer 6

YES, Union Station is off of New Jersey Ave, you will be fine, tons of cops in the area, and the "tourist" area is right there, you will be fine, just stay in the touristy area...everything wil be fine. I would also suggest taking advanantge of the Metro (subway system) to go from place to place if indeed the tourist area is that what your doing...The Red Line run thru Union Station

Answer 7

Take a cab. You will get your throat cut.

Answer 8

Thanks to each and every one of you guys for the replies!