Washington DC Metro Train Tips for Tourists

Washington DC Metro train tips for tourists make it easier to get around. These are ways to make using the Metro trains less stressful when you visit Washington DC.

Washington DC Metro Background: Public transportation in Washington DC is better than most cities but has its problems. Metro train fares increased again in August 2010, there are frequent service disruptions, and Metro trains don't cover a lot of the city. Still, these are ways to stay more comfortable and save time and money using Metro trains.

Saving on Metro Train Fares: Metro trains just started using 3 different types of fares they call regular, reduced and peak-of-the-peak. To keep it simple and save, you can buy a SmarTrip card online and get a 25 cents discount. The cheapest rates are before midnight on weekends or weekdays before 7:30 am or after 7 pm or between 9:30 am and 3 pm. Otherwise, you pay up to 40 cents more.

Using Fare Cards: You can board a Metro train without having the full fare on your card but you won't be able to exit. To avoid lines at the exit fare machines, you're better off having the full fare in advance. Also, carry some cash because the machines don't take credit cards.

Avoiding Overcrowded Metro Trains: You'll likely face many trains that are too crowded to board and sometimes several overcrowded trains in a row. This usually occurs at peak hours or anytime delays cause a backup. There are overhead monitors that display when the next train is arriving and how many cars it has. If you wait a few additional minutes, you may get a train that you can board safely. The problem is so serious that the Washington DC Metro website has a special section for how to get a train at some of the worst stations.

Monitoring Metro Trains Service Disruptions and Scheduled Maintenance: You can use the Washington DC Metro website or get email alerts for service disruptions. Especially in the non-summer months, Metro often schedules weekend maintenance which causes overcrowding so you may want to plan an early morning departure if you want to use a Metro train and make other arrangements for later in the day.

Getting to the Airport: For Washington DC tourists, it's nice to know that Metro trains do service Washington National Airport (DCA).

With all their problems, Washington DC Metro trains are still the best way for tourists to visit the Mall and many other attractions.