When I first used the Metro in Washington D.C., I was a bit confused by the number of lines and how to buy a ticket. But once you get used to it, it’s a super convenient way to get around the city—even without a car!
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about riding the D.C. Metro, from how to buy tickets to how the train lines work, plus some helpful tips and things to watch out for. I hope this guide will be useful for anyone visiting D.C. for the first time or those who’ve just moved here!
Metrorail Basics
Washington D.C.’s Metrorail system connects the city with parts of Virginia and Maryland through six different lines. The system is easy to use once you get the hang of it, and it’s a great way to avoid traffic when exploring the D.C. area.
Ticket Options
Recommended: Use a SmarTrip Card!
Tickets
In Washington, D.C., you won’t find paper train tickets. Instead, most people use a rechargeable IC card called a SmarTrip or a mobile app to pass through the gates.
▶ What is a SmarTrip Card?
A SmarTrip card is a rechargeable transportation card that can be used on both the Metrorail and Metrobus systems in the Washington, D.C. area.
- You can use it for both trains and buses.
- It’s a prepaid card—just top it up and tap to ride.
▶ How to Get a SmarTrip Card – 3 Easy Ways
1. Buy from a vending machine at the station
Each Metro station has touch-screen vending machines where you can purchase a SmarTrip card.
- Instructions are in English, but the process is simple.
- Payment can be made by cash or credit card.
2. Use the Mobile SmarTrip option
You can skip the physical card and use your smartphone instead!
- For iPhone users: add a SmarTrip card in the Apple Wallet app.
- For Android users: use Google Wallet.
This mobile version works the same as a physical card and is super convenient.
3. Buy at select airport kiosks or shops
Physical SmarTrip cards are also available at places like Reagan National Airport and some convenience stores around the city.
Fare System: How Much Does It Cost to Ride the Metro?
Washington D.C.’s Metrorail doesn’t have a flat fare. Instead, your fare depends on two main factors:
- Distance traveled
- Time of day
It might sound complicated at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s simple!
▶ Distance-Based Fare
The farther you travel, the more you pay.
You tap in when you enter the station and tap out when you exit.
The system calculates the exact fare automatically.
- Short trips: Around $2.00
- Medium trips: $3-$4
- Long trips (to suburbs): Up to $6.00
📌 Example:
- Dupont Circle → Smithsonian: around $2.00
- Vienna (suburb) → Metro Center: up to $5.40 during peak hours
▶ Time-Based Fare
Fares also change depending on what time you ride. On special holidays like July 4th, rides may be free!
| Time | Fare Range | When |
|---|---|---|
| Peak hours | $2.25～$6.00 | Weekdays 7:00–9:30 AM & 3:00–7:00 PM |
| Off-peak hours | $2.00～$3.85 | All other times + weekends/holidays |
▶ How to Check Your Fare in Advance
You can:
- Use the fare chart at station ticket machines
- Check your trip cost on the WMATA official website
▶ Day Passes & Unlimited Ride Options
If you’re planning to ride multiple times, these passes may save money:
| Pass Type | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Day Pass | $13 | Unlimited rides on Metro & bus for 1 day |
| 7-Day Unlimited | $58 | Great for commuters or long stays |
| 7-Day Short Trip | $38 | Unlimited rides up to $2 fare (ideal for short trips) |
- Using a SmarTrip card makes fare calculation and access much easier, especially with these variable rates.
- Always tap your card when entering and exiting the station
- Weekends and holidays are cheaper
- Consider passes if you’ll ride more than twice a day
How to Buy Metro Tickets in Washington, D.C.
Buying a Metro ticket or getting a SmarTrip card for the first time might feel unfamiliar, but don’t worry — the process is simple, even for beginners. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the ticket machines at Metro stations.
Step 1: Choose the Type of Ticket
At the top of the ticket machine, you’ll see a touchscreen or button panel.
- To purchase a new SmarTrip card, press the “A” button.
Next, you’ll be asked to choose the initial amount to load onto the card.
- Use the $-marked arrow buttons to adjust the amount.
💡 Note:
- SmarTrip card costs $2
- Minimum balance required: $2
➡️ You’ll need at least $4 to get started.
Step 2: Make a Payment
You can pay using:
- Credit or debit card (insert into the reader on the right side of the machine)
- Cash
Both options are available at most stations.
Step 3: Collect Your Card
Once the payment is complete, your SmarTrip card (or paper farecard, if applicable) will come out from the slot on the right side of the machine.
How to Recharge (Add Value to) Your SmarTrip Card
After your first ride, you’ll probably need to reload your card. Here’s how:
- Go to the same ticket machine.
- Tap your SmarTrip card on the card reader area — it’s usually located in the center of the machine.
- The screen will display the “Add Value” menu.
- Select your desired amount.
- Pay with cash or credit card.
And that’s it — your card is ready to use again!
Tips to Keep in Mind When Riding the Metro
Here are a couple of important things to be aware of when using the Metro in Washington, D.C. — some of these might surprise you if you’re used to trains in Japan or other countries!
🚫 No Eating or Drinking on the Train
Like many public transit systems in the U.S., eating and drinking are not allowed on Metro trains. Even sipping water is technically against the rules, so be sure to finish your drinks before boarding.
You may notice signs inside the trains reminding riders of this policy, and in some cases, violators may be fined.
🚇 The Ride Can Be a Bit Bumpy
Compared to trains in Japan, D.C. Metro trains tend to shake more, especially when turning or braking.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, here are a few tips:
- Try to sit facing forward
- Choose a seat near the front or middle of the train
- Avoid looking at your phone during the ride
A little planning goes a long way in making your ride more comfortable!
Benefits of Using the Metro in Washington, D.C.
While there are some things to watch out for when riding the Metro, there are also plenty of advantages to using the train in D.C.
First, driving in downtown D.C. can be stressful and slow because of many vehicle restrictions, one-way streets, and heavy pedestrian traffic. The roads are often narrow—much like in Japan—and there are many traffic lights, making car travel slower than you might expect.
Parking fees in the city are also quite high. For example, parking for 8 hours can easily cost $25 or more. In contrast, taking the Metro on weekends for two people costs about $10 for a round trip, which is much more economical.
Travel times between driving and taking the Metro are often similar, but when you factor in the hassle of finding parking, the high costs, and the stress of driving, choosing the Metro from the start can be a much smarter option. (Plus, parking issues like disputes or unexpected fees are common in the U.S., so taking the Metro helps you avoid those troubles.)
- Weekend round-trip fare for two people on the Metro is about $10 — very budget-friendly
- No stress from parking searches or driving in busy city traffic
- Travel time is usually comparable to driving
Frequently Used Station
▶Smithsonian Station | Silver Line, Orange Line, Blue Line
Smithsonian Station is located right in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s most famous tourist area. As soon as you exit the station, you’ll see the National Mall stretching out before you — it’s a moment that really makes you feel like you’ve arrived in D.C.!
The station sits roughly midway between the U.S. Capitol Building and the Washington Monument. Nearby, you’ll find many Smithsonian museums and art galleries, making this station a very convenient base for sightseeing.
▶McPherson Square Station | Silver Line, Orange Line, Blue Line
When visiting the White House, McPherson Square Station is a convenient access point. While it is possible to walk from the U.S. Capitol to the White House, the distance is quite long, so taking the metro is definitely worth considering.
If you want to explore tourist spots efficiently, using the metro to get around part of the way is a smart choice.
▶Washington Dulles International Airport Station | Silver Line
Dulles International Airport (IAD) is served by the Metro Silver Line. Although it takes about an hour to reach downtown DC from the airport, the convenience of a direct, no-transfer ride is a big advantage.
In the U.S., the image is often that airports are only accessible by car or shuttle bus, but the ease of taking public transit straight to the city center is especially helpful for travelers.
▶Ronald Regan Washington National Airport Station | Blue Line, Yellow Line
Many travelers using domestic flights often use Reagan National Airport (DCA). This airport also has a Metro station directly connected, allowing for easy and smooth access to downtown DC by train.
Compared to Dulles Airport, Reagan is much closer to the city, with a travel time of about 20 minutes. This makes it very convenient for both sightseeing and business, especially for first-time visitors.
Summary
In a country known for its car culture, Washington DC stands out with its well-developed Metro system. The trains are clean and comfortable, making it a safe and convenient option—even for Japanese visitors—unlike the subway systems in cities like New York.
I hope this article helps those planning to visit Washington DC navigate the Metro with ease and enjoy their time in the city.
コメント