D.C. Metro, Transportation in Washington D.C.

The American capital is one of the world’s premier tourist destinations. Getting around this city can be easy, cheap and convenient if you know how to use the D.C. metro.

D.C. Metro

Many people don’t recommend driving in Washington DC. Rest your feet by using the metro. While the D.C. metro is clean and fast, there are a few tricks you’ll want to pick up to make using it even easier.

Buying Tickets

You can buy your tickets from a ticket taker or from a machine by cash or a credit card. You can pick from a single fare to get on once or multiple passes that will last for as long as a week. If you are going to be in D.C. for a longer trip, the longer pass can be a great bargain. The price of the fare will also depend on how far you’re going and will be higher if you are traveling during rush hour. Keep the ticket on you at all times. You will be asked to exit via turnstile. If you don’t have enough money on your card, you won’t be able to exit. You’ll have to get more money on the card before you can leave the station.

Other Details

The system has five color coded separate lines that go everywhere including the suburbs and the national zoo. Children over five must pay full fare. Be aware that many stations have long escalators. The metro opens up at 5 a.m. on weekdays and at 7 a.m. on weekends. It closes at midnight  from Sunday to Thursday and at 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Many of the stations go directly next to most major attractions in the city, making them an easy way to get from one place to avoid walking long distances.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about the D.C. metro in Washington.