Riding the DC Metro is one of the easiest ways to navigate the city. One of the best features of Washington, DC is that it is very pedestrian-friendly. Many of the main attractions are centered on or around the National Mall.
I remember my very first trip to Washington, DC with my family. My dad made us walk EVERYWHERE because he was intimidated by riding the DC metro. I can see how it might be a little daunting, if you’re not used to riding public transportation. To help, we’ve put together a list of tips to for riding the DC Metro.
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DC Metro Passes
A SmarTrip card is required to enter and exit the system. All riders ages 5 and older must have a card. SmartTrip cards can be ordered online or you may buy a card at the station. Cards cost $10/each, $2 for the card itself and they come preloaded with $8 of credit. You can also purchase the pass at any Metro station.
Fares for single trips average between $2.25 and $6.00 during peak hours. Peak hours are from opening until 9:30 and between 3 pm and 7 pm on weekdays.
Each vending machine will show you how much it will cost to travel to any station within the system.
Prior to our last trip (see our 4 day itinerary), we planned on purchasing a 3-day pass (a weekly pass is also available). After talking to one of the Metro stewards, he actually convinced us that it would be more economical to load $20 on a Metro card and go from there. Don’t hesitate to speak to the employees and decide which option would be best for you.
Having a card, whether pre-loaded or a 3-day or weekly pass, makes it easier to utilize the Metro system. Not only can it save you money, but it also makes it easier to get in and out of the station- since you won’t have to worry about purchasing tickets at each stop. This is especially beneficial during peak times (morning and afternoon rush hours and during special events).
1-Day Passes
If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of re-loading cards, you can purchase a 1 day pass for $15/person. Although this seems like a good deal, you may want to do the math first. If you’re staying close to the National Mall or Capitol Hill, you’ll probably want to skip this option. This will be better for people who are staying a bit further out.
3-Day Passes
If you’re visiting DC for a weekend, you may want to look into a 3-day pass. It costs $30 and allows for unlimited Metro and Metrobus rides for 3 consecutive days.
Navigating & Riding the DC Metro
The Metro is made up of six different lines, each of them color coded. In several portions of the Metro system, two or more lines run parallel to each other, making it convenient to pop on any of the lines. We used the Orange/Silver/Blue lines for pretty much everything on our last trip, as we stayed in the National Mall area.
If you are flying into DC, we suggest looking into catching a flight in and out of Reagan National Airport since there is a Metro stop directly in the airport. The Silver Line services Dulles International Airport, but you’ll have to do a little more walking.
Once you’re at the Metro, be sure to use the signs throughout the station to ensure you’re in the proper location. Find the platform with the corresponding final stop, that will let you know which side of the platform you need to be on.
After you’ve boarded the train, pay attention to the maps located at the middle of each car. Although the train operators will announce the stops, they are often difficult to understand or hear. Count the stops on the map (posted on the train or at the station) and keep an eye out for your stop. The Metro stop’s names are also posted on the walls of the Metro stations, so you can look out the window to see where you are.
The Metro Lines
- Red: serves the northern part of the city. The main stations are Union Station, Metro Center, Chinatown, and Dupont Circle.
- Blue: runs east-west through the city and then cuts south. The main stations are Capitol South, Smithsonian, McPherson Square (White House), Arlington National Cemetery, National Airport.
- Silver: runs east-west through the city. It offers the closest access to Dulles Airport that you can get to using public transportation.
- Orange: runs east-west through the city. The orange/silver/blue lines follow the same tracks inside downtown.
- Green: runs north-south. Take the Green line to get to Navy-Yard/Nationals Park Baseball Stadium.
- Yellow: runs north-south. The yellow line shares a track with Green for most of downtown. Both lines visit L’Enfant Plaza. The Yellow line continues south into Virginia to the Pentagon, Ronald Reagan National Airport and King Street for Old Town Alexandria.
Tips for Riding the DC Metro
- Each Metro station has ticket kiosks where you can use cash or a credit card to purchase or reload a prepaid card. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance in picking which option is best for you.
- To locate the Metro stations, look for tall brown signs with the letter “M” and the station name. The name of the stop and the color lines that service the station will be noted on the top of the post. See our example above in the “Navigating the DC Metro” section.
There are also maps strategically located around the tourist areas which make it easy to locate where the Metro entrances are. Some of them can be hidden behind bushes (we’re looking at you Smithsonian Station!), between buildings, or even accessed via the first floor of a building. Again, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Once you know what you’re looking for, they are easy to spot.
3. Most of the stations in downtown Washington, DC are deep underground. These stations are accessed via a long escalator ride. Stand on the right side of the escalator, and pass on the left. Never block the way of other passengers. Many locals use the Metro for commuting too and from work and have the timing down to a science. If you block them, they could potentially miss their ride
4. Be sure to check the color coded maps to make sure you are getting on the right train and where to transfer, if needed. Don’t be shy- even the locals refer to the map. If you’d rather be less obvious about it, you can download the app to help you navigate.
5. Before you board a train, check the color band on the digital marquee on the side of the train, this color will indicate what line you are boarding.
6. Be sure not to stand directly in front of the doors. Be sure to stand back and let passengers get off before you board.
7. There is a map of the Metro posted in each of the cars, for you to refer to.
8. Do not eat or drink while you are riding.
9. Marijuana has been legalized in DC, this head led to use on the Metro system. If the smell bothers you, switch cars at the next available stop.
10. Keep your ticket/pass in your right hand for a fast exit. Remember, people are on tight schedules. It’s never okay to stand in front of the exit gate to locate your ticket.
Riding the DC Metro is efficient, reliable, convenient, and easy. If you find yourself in Washington, DC, don’t be afraid to ride the Metro. It sure beats walking everywhere!
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Be sure to check out our family-friendly 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary and our Ultimate Guide to the National Mall and Beyond to help you plan your trip. We’ll also show you how to score a tour of the White House.
