Figure out which station is closest to you. To ride on the Metro in Washington, D.C., you first need to locate a station. The easiest way to do so is to go to the official website of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. Once you are on the website, click on the "Rail Maps" link on the left navigational panel. On the next page you will see clickable maps that indicate where stations are in your location.
Decide where you are going. From your location, chose a destination that the Metro connects to. Use the map to see where in the city the Metro travels.
Look up the schedule for the station you have selected by clicking on the "Rail Schedules" link. Once you've clicked that link, you'll find a full directory of schedules for each station.
Purchase tickets for the Metro online or in person. To buy your Metro tickets online, click on "Online Far Purchases" to begin the ordering process. You can elect to purchase a one day or a seven day Metro pass that allows you unlimited use for the duration of the pass. These passes can save a large amount of money if you are going to be traveling a lot via the Metro. If you don't wish to buy your tickets online, you can buy your tickets in person. Tickets are available in vending machines in the stations. Additionally, tickets are available at selected outlets throughout the city.
Go to the station, allowing plenty of time before the departure time. Especially if it's your first time, you want to get there early and familiarize yourself to your surroundings. Once you board the Metro, keep your eyes and ears open and remember to depart on the right stop.
