In this paper numerical and experimental studies are conducted to examine the wave screening effectiveness of wave barriers. The numerical study is based on a finite element model of a "sandbox" with Lysmer-Kuhlemeyer-type absorbing boundaries. Using the model, the screening effectiveness of wave barriers is studied for different barrier dimensions and distances between the source/receiver and the wave barrier. The results of the numerical modeling are compared with those of the ultrasonic experiment which is performed on an acrylic block with a drilled rectangular cut. Finally, the problem of ground transmitting vibration from a traveling train is numerically treated as a real-world application and the results are discussed in some detail.