- Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) – The most convenient airport with direct connections to Downtown Baltimore and the Inner Harbor area.
- Reagan National (DCA) – Convenient for Washington arrivals but requires transfer into DC, then train or rideshare north to Baltimore.
- Dulles International (IAD) – Convenient for international and budget flights, but requires transfer into DC, then train or rideshare north to Baltimore..
- Rail – Amtrak and MARC provide reliable connections to Baltimore Penn Station. MTA Light RailLink connects the BWI area and the downtown Camden Yards / Inner Harbor area.
Airports – routes, practical steps, and realistic estimates
BWI – Baltimore/Washington International
BWI provides the simplest door-to-door options. It has easy rail access and frequent ground transport options.
- Recommended routes – Taxi or rideshare direct to hotel; or free airport shuttle to BWI Rail Station, then Amtrak or MARC to Baltimore Penn Station, followed by a short taxi or local transit to the hotel.
- Estimated travel times – Taxi/rideshare: 20 – 35 minutes; shuttle + Amtrak/MARC + taxi: 30 – 50 minutes; Light RailLink to Camden area: 35 – 55 minutes (depends on wait times).
- Estimated fares – Taxi/rideshare $25 – $45; MARC $5 – $12; Amtrak short-hop $10 – $25; Light Rail single-ride $3 – $6. These are estimates for planning only.
- Practical steps – Follow signage to the free BWI shuttle to the rail station if choosing rail; buy MARC tickets on CharmPass or Amtrak tickets via the Amtrak app for faster boarding.
- Notes – Shuttle departures and train schedules can vary; allow 10 – 15 minutes for the shuttle between the terminal and the rail station, plus time for boarding.
DCA – Reagan National
DCA places travelers close to central Washington. It is viable when flight timing or pricing is favorable, but it requires a transfer into the rail network.
- Recommended routes – Metro to Washington Union Station, then Amtrak or MARC north to Baltimore Penn Station, then taxi or local transit to the hotel; or direct rideshare to Baltimore (longer and more expensive).
- Estimated travel times – Metro + Amtrak/MARC route: 60 – 90 minutes; direct rideshare: 60 – 90+ minutes depending on traffic.
- Estimated fares – Metro + MARC/Amtrak: $10 – $40; Rideshare: $70 – $120+.
- Practical steps – buy AMTRAK or MARC tickets in advance if possible; factor transfer times between Metro and Amtrak platforms at Union Station.
IAD – Dulles International
IAD is farther from Baltimore. It is appropriate for international connections but requires more transit time.
- Recommended routes – Silver Line extension into the DC Metro system and transfer to Union Station for Amtrak/MARC; or direct rideshare/shuttle for groups to avoid multiple transfers.
- Estimated travel times – Public transit option: 90 – 180 minutes, depending on transfers; rideshare: 90 – 150 minutes, typically.
- Estimated fares – rideshare $90 – $160+; multi-leg transit $15 – $50 depending on ticket choices.
Rail options – Amtrak, MARC, and Light RailLink
Amtrak
Amtrak offers fast, frequent service between major Northeast cities, BWI Rail Station, and Baltimore Penn Station. It is typically the most comfortable rail option and is more luggage-friendly.
- Typical use cases – travelers from New York, Philadelphia, Washington, or other Amtrak-served cities who prefer a predictable schedule and luggage space.
- Suggested actions – book early for best fares, use the Amtrak app for real-time updates and seat assignments.
- Estimated journey examples – New York Penn Station to Baltimore Penn Station: 2.5 – 3 hours on Northeast Regional (times vary by service).
MARC – Penn Line
MARC commuter rail is typically lower cost and effective for weekday travel. Weekend schedules are reduced, so check timetables in advance.
- Typical journey times – BWI to Baltimore Penn Station: 20 – 35 minutes, depending on train and stops.
- Tickets – Use CharmPass or station vending machines; fares are usually lower than Amtrak.
MTA Light RailLink
Light RailLink connects the BWI area and downtown stops such as Camden Yards and the Convention Center. It is an economical option if luggage is minimal and schedules align.
- Typical journey times – BWI area to Camden Yards: 30 – 45 minutes, depending on wait times.
- Tickets – Buy via CharmPass. Frequency is high during the day, less frequent late at night.
Local transit, taxis and rideshare
- Taxis – Official taxi stands are available at airports and around downtown. Metered fares apply; airport surcharges may apply.
- Rideshare – Uber and Lyft operate throughout the region. Expect surge pricing during peak times and events. App pickups are the most convenient option at airports.
- Public buses and light rail – Useful for low-cost transfers. Ticketing via CharmPass for MTA services. Plan for luggage and crowding during peak commute hours.
- Water taxi – Seasonal provider on the Inner Harbor – good for short hops and scenic transfers when operating.
Parking, rental cars and driving
- Hotel parking – the Hilton and nearby garages offer paid parking. Typical daily rates vary by garage and season – expect $20 – $40+ per day. Confirm current rates with the hotel or garage operator.
- Short-term parking – Street parking and short-term lots exist but can be limited around the Inner Harbor, especially during events.
- Rental cars – Convenient for day trips (Annapolis, scenic drives). For downtown use, consider parking costs and traffic when deciding whether to rent.
Accessibility and luggage considerations
- Amtrak offers the best space and accessibility for travelers with larger luggage or mobility needs.
- MARC and Light Rail are commuter-focused – trains can be crowded during peak commute windows. Check ADA services with each operator if mobility assistance is required.
- Airport shuttles typically have room for luggage; rideshare is convenient for door-to-door service if mobility or luggage is a concern.
Group transfers and special arrangements
For groups of 6 or more, pre-booking a dedicated shuttle van or private coach is recommended. This reduces coordination overhead on arrival and ensures on-time arrivals for registration or keynotes.
- Obtain quotes from local shuttle companies and book early – holiday season demand can increase prices.
- For institutional reimbursements, request an itemized quote and cancellation policy from the shuttle operator.
Realistic time and fare summary
| Route | Estimated time | Typical fare range |
|---|---|---|
| BWI – taxi/rideshare to Hilton | 20 – 35 minutes | $25 – $45 |
| BWI – shuttle + Amtrak/MARC + taxi | 30 – 50 minutes | $5 – $30 |
| BWI – Light RailLink to Camden + walk | 35 – 55 minutes | $3 – $6 |
| DCA – Metro + Amtrak/MARC to Penn + taxi | 60 – 90 minutes | $10 – $120 |
| IAD – transit or rideshare to Hilton | 90 – 150+ minutes | $15 – $160+ |
These estimates assume normal mid-December conditions. Allow extra time for airport processing, holiday traffic, and weather delays.
Apps, tickets and practical reminders
- Ticketing and apps – Amtrak app for reservations and real-time updates; CharmPass for MTA and MARC ticketing; Uber and Lyft for rideshare bookings.
- Weekend and holiday schedules – Commuter services may operate on reduced timetables on weekends and holidays. Check schedules before travel.
- Weather – December weather can be cold or icy; add time if forecasts show snow or freezing rain.
- Safety – downtown tourist corridors are generally well-patrolled; observe normal travel awareness for belongings and devices.