Using the Washington, D.C. Metro Subway System
By Rachel Cooper
Updated 07/10/19
The Washington Metro, the District's regional subway system, provides a clean, safe, and reliable way to get around almost all
of the major attractions in Washington, D.C. The Metro does extend to the suburbs of Maryland and Virginia.
the Metrorail trains can be crowded with commuters during rush hour and when there is a big event going on downtown,
taking the Washington Metro is usually cheaper and easier than finding a place to park in the city. Several Metro stations are helpful
sightseeing stops.
The Metro Lines
Since opening in 1976, the Metrorail network has grown to include six lines, 91 stations, and 117 miles of track. It is the thirdbusiest rapid transit system in the United States in the number of passenger trips after New York City and Chicago.
Hours
The Metro begins operation at 5 a.m. on weekdays, 7 a.m. on Saturdays, and 8 a.m. on Sundays. Service ends at 11:30 p.m.
Monday through Thursday, 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 p.m. on Sundays, although the last trains leave their terminals about a
half an hour before these times.
Trains run frequently averaging four to 10 minutes between trains with frequency increasing during rush hour times. Night and
weekend service varies between eight and 20 minutes, with trains generally scheduled only every 20 minutes.
Metro Farecards
A SmartTrip Metro farecard is required to ride the Metro. The rechargeable, proximity card is encoded with any amount up to
$300. If you register your card, and you lose it, or it is stolen, you do not lose the value of the card.
Fares range from $2 to $6 depending on your destination and the time of day. Fares are cheaper after 9:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. and
after 7 p.m. until close. An all-day Metro pass is available for $14.75. Metro charges reduced fares on all federal holidays.
(Adapted from: https://www.tripsavvy.com)
