Transport from DCA to Intercontinental Wharf

Question

Is there a shuttle service we should book (family) or should we just get a taxi? Thank you!

Answer

Traveling from Reagan National Airport (DCA) to the InterContinental Washington D.C. – The Wharf can be straightforward, and you have a few reliable options depending on convenience, budget, and your family’s needs.

Here are the main choices:

Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): This is the simplest and most direct option. The drive is roughly 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. A taxi or rideshare will take you right to the hotel entrance, which is especially convenient if you have luggage or children.
Hotel Shuttle Service: Some hotels offer shuttle service from DCA, but availability may vary and often requires advance booking. Contact the InterContinental Wharf directly to see if they provide a complimentary or paid shuttle. For a family, a pre-booked shuttle can provide peace of mind, especially during busy travel times.
Metro: If you prefer public transportation, you can take the Yellow Line from Reagan National Airport to L’Enfant Plaza, then transfer to the Green/Yellow Line or walk to the Wharf area. This is cheaper but less convenient with luggage or children.

Recommendations:

For a family traveling with luggage, a taxi or rideshare is usually the fastest and least stressful option.
If you want a fixed cost and slightly more organized experience, check with the hotel about a pre-booked shuttle service. This can be especially useful during peak travel times or holidays.
Public transit is cost-effective but involves walking and transfers, so it may not be ideal for a family with luggage.

Overall, unless the hotel shuttle is convenient and readily available, a taxi or rideshare is typically the best combination of speed, comfort, and simplicity when traveling from DCA to The Wharf.