Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Review a map of the Metro System before you begin your trip. You can find maps at Metro stations or at the Metro System website. Routes are coded by color and include red, orange, blue, green and yellow lines. Depending on your origination point, you may need to transfer from one line to another to get to your destination. Transfer points are marked on the map with large double circles.
Find the stop closest to your destination. The Metro System website features a Trip Planner page that allows you to enter your origination point and destination. The Trip Planner then provides the name of the Metro stop nearest your destination. Many tourist sites will also list the nearest Metro stops on their websites.
Decide what time of day you will need to travel. If you are visiting Washington, D.C. as a tourist, it is recommended that you avoid morning and afternoon rush hours because of the large number of people riding the Metro at these times. In addition to trains being less crowded, fares are also cheaper if you ride the Metro at off-peak times.
Travel to the nearest Metro station. Metro stations are marked by large brown columns. Look for a colored stripe, which will indicate which line is served at the station. In order to ride the Metro, you will need to pay for your trip with a fare card or pass. You can buy fare cards online, from vending machines at any Metro station, at Metro Sales offices or at Metro Commuter Stores. Once you have purchased a fare card or pass, go through the turnstiles and proceed to the platform. Flashing lights will alert you when a train is approaching. Destination names are displayed on the front and sides of every train, and the line color is displayed on the front and back of the train.
Be aware of your surroundings. While the Metro System is generally very safe, problems can occur anywhere. When you are waiting to board, stand near other passengers. Don’t ride in a car if you will be the only passenger on the train. If you have any safety concerns, use the phones located at either end of the car to alert Metro employees. Telephones can also be found in each Metro station.