Explore the map of Washington DC Metro, The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority is responsible for maintaining the Metro system. This system includes Metro trains that travel on over 100 miles (160 km) of tracks, both above and below ground. These trains connect Washington to the neighboring suburbs in Maryland and Virginia.
Explore the Washington DC subway map showing all stations, interchange stations, parking near metro station and metro lines with color. The subway is a great way to get around Washington, and with this subway map, you can plan your trip around Washington.
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Washington DC Metro Rail Routes:
Red Line: Glenmont to Shady Grove Orange Line: New Carrolton to Vienna/Fairfax-GMU Blue Line: Franconia-Springfield to Largo Town Center Green Line: Branch Avenue to Greenbelt Yellow Line: Huntington to Fort Totten Silver Line: Wiehle-Reston East to Largo Town Center.
Washington Metro
Washington Metro, often called Metro, is the public transportation system that serves the Washington, D.C., area. It includes both subway lines and bus routes, making it a key part of daily life for residents and visitors. The Metro makes it easy to get around the city and the surrounding communities in Maryland and Virginia.
The system has several color-coded subway lines: Red, Blue, Orange, Yellow, Green, and Silver. Each line connects different parts of the city and beyond, ensuring that many neighborhoods and key sights are accessible. The stations are clean, well-lit, and marked with clear signs, helping travelers find their way.
Metro operates every day, with varying hours. Monday through Thursday, it runs from 5 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., Fridays from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m., Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m., and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. These hours can change, so it's a good idea to check the latest schedule before planning a trip.
Fares for the Metro depend on how far you travel and the time of day. Peak times, usually during rush hours on weekdays, have higher fares. You can pay for rides using a SmarTrip card, a rechargeable card used for both Metro and bus fares. Cards can be purchased and reloaded at machines in every station.
The Metrobus service complements the subway, reaching areas that the trains do not cover. Buses run on a schedule, and the same SmarTrip card works for bus rides.
For those new to using the Metro, there are maps and helpful guides available online and at stations. The Metro website and mobile app provide real-time updates on train and bus schedules, service changes, and station alerts, making it easier to plan your journey.
Remember, eating, drinking, and smoking are not allowed in Metro trains or stations. Always stand to the right on escalators, allowing others to pass on the left.
Using the Washington Metro is a convenient, efficient way to explore the city and its suburbs, whether you're commuting to work, heading to a museum, or visiting friends.
History of Washington, D.C. Metro
The Washington, D.C. Metro, known for its distinctive brutalist architecture and color-coded lines, has a rich history that reflects the growth and development of the nation's capital. The idea of a rapid transit system for Washington, D.C., emerged in the early 20th century, but it wasn't until the 1960s that plans began to take shape, leading to the system that residents and visitors use today.
Construction of the Metro system started in 1969, marking the beginning of an ambitious project to create a comprehensive network of subway lines and stations. The first segment of the Metro opened on March 27, 1976, connecting five stations on the Red Line from Rhode Island Ave to Farragut North. This initial opening marked a significant step forward in public transportation for the city, providing a fast, reliable way to travel across the downtown area.
Over the years, the Metro system expanded significantly. New lines and stations were added to connect more neighborhoods and even reach into nearby Maryland and Virginia. The introduction of the Blue, Orange, Yellow, Green, and Silver Lines connected key areas such as the National Mall, government buildings, and regional airports, making the Metro a crucial part of the city's infrastructure.
The Metro was designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind. The stations are known for their spacious, clean, and modern design, featuring exposed concrete, dramatic lighting, and large open spaces. This design approach was chosen to make the stations appear welcoming and safe for passengers.
Throughout its history, the Metro has faced challenges, including maintenance issues and the need for system upgrades to meet the demands of a growing population. In response, Metro has embarked on various improvement projects aimed at increasing capacity, enhancing safety, and improving the overall passenger experience.
Today, the Washington, D.C. Metro remains one of the busiest public transportation systems in the United States, serving hundreds of thousands of commuters and tourists daily. It plays a vital role in the daily life of the city, connecting communities, supporting economic development, and reducing traffic congestion.
The history of the Washington, D.C. Metro is a testament to the city's commitment to providing a high-quality public transportation system. It continues to evolve, with plans for further expansion and upgrades to ensure it meets the needs of the city's residents and visitors for years to come.
Opening Dates
Date
Current Lines
Line at Time of Opening
From
To
Miles
Stations
March 27, 1976
Red
Red (service created)
Farragut North
Rhode Island Avenue
4.6
5
December 15, 1976
Red
Red
Intermediate station (Gallery Place)
Intermediate station (Gallery Place)
-
1
January 17, 1977
Red
Red
Farragut North
Dupont Circle
1.1
1
July 1, 1977
Blue, parts of Yellow, Orange, and Silver
Blue (service created)
National Airport
StadiumArmory
11.8
17
February 4, 1978
Red
Red
Rhode Island AvenueBrentwood
Silver Spring
5.7
4
November 17, 1978
Orange, part of Silver
Orange (service created)
StadiumArmory
New Carrollton
7.4
5
December 1, 1979
Orange and Silver
Orange
Rosslyn
BallstonMU
3
4
November 22, 1980
Blue and Silver
Blue
StadiumArmory
Addison Road
3.6
3
December 5, 1981
Red
Red
Dupont Circle
Van NessUDC
2.1
3
April 30, 1983
Yellow, part of Green
Yellow (service created)
Gallery Place
Pentagon
3.3
1
December 17, 1983
Yellow, part of Blue
Yellow
National Airport
Huntington
4.2
4
August 25, 1984
Red
Red
Van NessUDC
GrosvenorStrathmore
6.8
5
December 15, 1984
Red
Red
GrosvenorStrathmore
Shady Grove
7
4
June 7, 1986
Orange
Orange
BallstonMU
Vienna
9
4
September 22, 1990
Red
Red
Silver Spring
Wheaton
3.2
2
May 11, 1991
Yellow and Green
Yellow
Gallery Place
U Street
1.7
3
June 15, 1991
Blue
Blue
King StreetOld Town
Van Dorn Street
3.9
1
December 28, 1991
Green
Green (service created)
L'Enfant Plaza
Anacostia
2.9
3
December 11, 1993
Green
Green (separate segment)
Fort Totten
Greenbelt
7
4
June 29, 1997
Blue
Blue
Van Dorn Street
FranconiaSpringfield
3.3
1
July 25, 1998
Red
Red
Wheaton
Glenmont
1.4
1
September 18, 1999
Green
Green (connecting segments)
U Street
Fort Totten
2.9
2
January 13, 2001
Green
Green
Anacostia
Branch Avenue
6.5
5
November 20, 2004
Red
Red
Infill station (NoMaGallaudet U)
Infill station (NoMaGallaudet U)
-
1
December 18, 2004
Blue and Silver
Blue
Addison Road
Downtown Largo
3.2
2
July 26, 2014
Silver
Silver (service created)
East Falls Church
WiehleReston East
11.6
5
November 15, 2022
Silver
Silver
WiehleReston East
Ashburn
11.4
6
May 19, 2023
Blue and Yellow
Blue and Yellow
Infill station (Potomac Yard)
Infill station (Potomac Yard)
-
1
Date
Number of Trips
January 20, 2009
1,120,000
January 21, 2017
1,001,613
April 2, 2010
891,240
April 1, 2010
877,890
April 10, 2013
871,432
April 7, 2010
867,624
January 19, 2009
866,681
June 8, 2010
856,578
July 11, 2008
854,638
April 8, 2010
852,103
Architecture of Washington DC Metro
The architecture of the Washington, D.C. Metro stands out for its unique design and aesthetic appeal, setting it apart from other public transit systems around the world. The system's design was led by Chicago-based architect Harry Weese, who envisioned a space that was both functional and visually striking. His designs have given the Metro its iconic look, recognized for its simplicity, elegance, and the use of modern materials.
One of the most distinctive features of the Metro's architecture is its use of exposed concrete in a style known as brutalism. This choice was not just for durability but also for the visual impact, offering a clean, unified look across the system. The concrete structures are complemented by dramatic lighting, which highlights the geometric shapes and spacious interiors.
The vaulted ceilings of many Metro stations are another key aspect of their design. These arching ceilings create a sense of openness and space, making the stations feel larger and more welcoming. The coffered design allows for indirect lighting, which softens the interior environment and enhances the overall passenger experience.
Attention to detail is evident throughout the Metro system. The platform edges are marked with tactile paving for safety, and the signage is clear and straightforward, helping passengers navigate the system with ease. The choice of materials, including granite and stainless steel for benches and fixtures, adds to the durable yet refined interior of the stations.
Beyond functionality, the design of the Metro reflects a commitment to creating public spaces that are aesthetically pleasing and accessible to all. This approach has made the Washington, D.C. Metro not just a means of transportation but also a notable architectural achievement in its own right.
The design philosophy of the Metro emphasizes the importance of public transportation as a vital part of urban infrastructure. It shows that practical spaces can also be beautiful, enhancing the daily commute for thousands of passengers. The architecture of the Washington, D.C. Metro continues to be celebrated for its visionary design and its impact on public transit design worldwide.
Washington DC Mtero System
The Washington D.C. Metro System, commonly known as the Metro, is a key mode of public transportation in the Washington, D.C. area. It serves the District of Columbia, as well as neighboring areas in Maryland and Virginia. The system includes both subway trains and a fleet of buses, making it one of the most convenient ways to get around the city and the surrounding regions.
The Metro system is made up of six color-coded train lines: Red, Blue, Orange, Yellow, Green, and Silver. These lines connect major points of interest, residential areas, and business districts, making it easy for commuters, visitors, and residents to reach their destinations. The system is designed to be user-friendly, with clear maps and signage to help navigate the vast network of routes and stations.
Metro trains run regularly, with varying schedules depending on the time of day and week. During peak hours, trains are more frequent to accommodate the higher number of passengers commuting to and from work. Off-peak hours see a reduction in frequency but still offer reliable service for those traveling outside of the usual rush hours.
Fares for the Metro are based on the distance traveled and the time of day. Peak hours, typically weekday mornings and evenings, have higher fares compared to off-peak times. Passengers use a reloadable card, known as a SmarTrip card, to pay for rides. These cards can be purchased and reloaded at vending machines located in all Metro stations.
In addition to the subway, the Metrobus service extends the reach of public transportation to areas not serviced by the subway lines. Buses run on a fixed schedule and cover a wide range of routes, providing a vital link to communities and destinations beyond the subway network.
Safety and accessibility are top priorities for the Metro system. Stations and trains are equipped with features to assist passengers with disabilities, including elevators, escalators, tactile paving, and audio announcements. Security measures, such as surveillance cameras and emergency intercoms, are in place to ensure a safe environment for all passengers.
The Metro is not just a means of transportation; it's an integral part of the community it serves. It supports local businesses by providing access to customers, reduces traffic congestion by offering a reliable alternative to driving, and helps in lowering the environmental impact of commuting by providing a cleaner mode of transportation.
Current Service Patterns of Washington Metrorail
Line Name
Stations
Service Introduced
Distance in Miles
Distance in km
Termini Eastern / Northern
Termini Western / Southern
Red Line
27
March 29, 1976
32
51.3
Glenmont
Shady Grove
Blue Line
28
July 1, 1977
30
48.8
Downtown Largo
Franconia-Springfield
Orange Line
26
November 20, 1978
26
42.5
New Carrollton
Vienna
Silver Line
34
July 26, 2014
41
66.1
Downtown Largo
Ashburn
Green Line
21
December 28, 1991
23
37
Greenbelt
Branch Avenue
Yellow Line
13
March 30, 1983
11
17.2
Mount Vernon Square
Huntington
Stations
Busiest Stations by Total Passenger Entries in a Year