Landing at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) and heading to Capitol Hill can be more complicated than it sounds. With traffic, distance, and limited direct public transit options, many business travelers and government professionals ask the same question: what is the best way to get from BWI to Capitol Hill?
If you are flying into BWI for a meeting on Capitol Hill, timing is everything. The airport sits about 35 miles northeast of downtown Washington, DC, which usually translates to 45 minutes to over an hour in travel time depending on traffic conditions. Unlike Washington National (DCA), which is just across the Potomac, or Dulles (IAD), which connects via the Silver Line Metro, BWI does not have a direct one-seat ride into the city.
That is why many travelers heading into Washington for work choose private car service when traveling from BWI to Capitol Hill.
Benefits of Choosing Private Car Service
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Direct transportation from BWI arrivals to Capitol Hill with no transfers
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Flight monitoring so drivers adjust for delays
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Professional drivers who know the traffic patterns around DC
With AET’s airport transportation services, passengers are met at the terminal and driven directly to their destination in Washington.
Comparing BWI, DCA, and IAD
Each airport in the region serves Washington differently, and travel time to Capitol Hill varies depending on location and available options.
| Airport | Distance to Capitol Hill | Typical Drive Time | Public Transit Availability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BWI | ~35 miles | 45–60 minutes | Amtrak/MARC via Union Station (transfer required) | International flights, lower fares |
| DCA | ~5 miles | 15–20 minutes | Metro Blue/Yellow Line, taxis, private car | Quick access to Capitol Hill |
| IAD | ~27 miles | 40–60 minutes | Silver Line Metro, taxis, private car | International arrivals, West Coast connections |
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BWI to Capitol Hill: 45 to 60 minutes by private car depending on whether traffic is heavier on I-295 or the Baltimore-Washington Parkway
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DCA to Capitol Hill: often just 15 to 20 minutes by car, making it the closest airport for congressional meetings
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IAD to Capitol Hill: about 40 to 60 minutes by car, though the Silver Line Metro adds an additional transit option
While DCA is the most convenient, many international flights land at BWI, making a ground service strategy important for those on tight schedules.
Transportation Options from BWI
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Amtrak or MARC Rail: trains connect BWI to Union Station, but schedules do not always match flight arrivals, and an additional transfer is needed to Capitol Hill
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Taxi or rideshare: easy to find but subject to long waits and unpredictable fares
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Private car service: scheduled in advance, direct, and reliable for those on professional travel
Whether your trip involves a corporate meeting, a business conference, a special event, or a roadshow, booking transportation ahead of time reduces uncertainty.
Why Professionals Book with AET
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Fleet variety with sedans, SUVs, and luxury vans for solo or group travel
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Corporate solutions that extend beyond airport transfers to include meeting logistics and roadshows
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Consistency that ensures a car is ready, even when flights run late
Pro Tip
If you are traveling during peak traffic hours, such as weekday mornings and evenings, build in extra time for your trip from BWI to Capitol Hill. Booking a private car with real-time flight monitoring ensures you have a driver waiting, and it can save you valuable minutes if your flight lands early or late.
FAQs
How far is BWI from Capitol Hill?
BWI is about 35 miles from Capitol Hill, with typical travel times of 45 to 60 minutes by car.
Is there public transportation from BWI to Capitol Hill?
You can take Amtrak or MARC rail from BWI to Union Station, but you will need an additional transfer to reach Capitol Hill.
Which airport is closest to Capitol Hill?
Washington National (DCA) is the closest, with drive times as short as 15 to 20 minutes.
Why should I book a private car from BWI?
A scheduled car service provides direct transfers without the uncertainty of public transit or rideshare availability.
Book Your Car Service
If you need reliable transportation from BWI to Capitol Hill, schedule your reservation with AET. From corporate travel to congressional visits, our professional drivers and tailored service help you stay on schedule.
