Certainly the fastest way to get to Washington D.C. from Florida is to take a flight. Depending on where your trip is originating will determine how short the flight is and how much you will pay.
A flight from Orlando to the District of Columbia takes just over two hours on a nonstop flight and can sometimes be purchased for less than $200 each way, according to Southwest Airlines. From South Florida it is closer to a four-hour flight and is at least $100 more each way, as of 2009.
The arguments against flying include the lack to time spent on the trip with others in the party who believe getting there is half the fun and the need to rent a car or travel by expensive cabs once you arrive. However, those who don't want to endure a long trip or who are traveling alone for business may find this the best option.
The simplest way to get from Florida to Washington, D.C. in terms of preparation is to drive. This is the slowest method of travel, but it puts the traveler in complete control of the trip and allows those traveling together to keep one another company and have a good time. Often many vacation memories are made on the drive itself.
From Miami, the drive is about 15 hours long and more than 1,000 miles. Once you find Interstate 95, the trip is quite simple in terms of directions. While you may shave off a few miles by taking the Florida Turnpike for part of the way, you will make up for saved fuel by paying tolls.
Interstate 95 will take you all the way into Virginia where you will take I-295 North and I-395 and cross into the District of Columbia.
According to Mapquest, a vehicle that gets 30 miles per gallon will burn approximately $90 in gasoline each way on a trip from Miami to Washington D.C. However, you will have your own transportation with you and will not have to rent a car or pay cab fare.
Amtrak offers daily auto train service from Sanford, Florida to Lorton, Virginia (just outside D.C.) that will allow travelers to take advantage of the best of the travel options listed above. The train actually carries your vehicle on board so that you have your own car to drive once you arrive at the destination. The fares include all meals, and seating options range from coach seats to private bedrooms.
The ride can be just as long or longer than driving, but at least you aren't the one at the wheel. As far as costs go, the tickets to ride are reasonable at less than $100 for coach in most cases. However, depending on the size vehicle you have, it can get costly to transport the vehicle. Average sized cars will cost around $400, according to Amtrak.com.
