metro travel times washington dc

DC Transit • Metro & Bus Times 4+

Live wmata transit tracker, transit now ltd.

• 4.6 • 195 Ratings
• Offers In-App Purchases

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Description.

Introducing the ultimate travel app for Washington, D.C.! Say goodbye to waiting for buses or trains with our real-time tracking feature that shows you exactly where your ride is and when it will arrive. • Our app offers up to five different route options to your destination, so you can choose the fastest or most convenient route for your trip • Never miss your stop again with our stop notifications, which alert you when your stop is approaching. • With live crowding information, you'll know whether to skip the next bus or train or wait for the next one. • Stay ahead of delays and diversions with our real-time updates, and enjoy the convenience of full seven-day schedules with live and offline map routes. • Need to find your way home? Our one-tap "get me home" feature and last bus or train information will make sure you never get lost again. Simplify your daily commute and download our app today! This app is not published, sponsored or approved by WMATA. -- Privacy Policy: https://travelwhiz.app/privacy Terms of Use: https://travelwhiz.app/terms

Version 2024.4.5

This release includes a number of bug fixes and improvements to the app, including: • Improved translations, especially for our Chinese travellers • If a trip includes different agencies or operators, we'll show their names below the route names • Better re-ordering of items in the Faves screen • You can now search for journeys up to 6 hours in the past • Improvements to the Trip map - which now includes stop labels and transfer details Your feedback means a lot - if you have any suggestions, or run into any issues, just tap on the Settings button and get in touch with us. If you can spare a moment, we'd love it if you could leave a review on the App Store - it means so much to us to hear from you, our customer. Thanks for using the app!

Ratings and Reviews

195 Ratings

Easy to Understand

The interface is easy to navigate and provides many options for determining the travel modes available. Designed to allow you to plan your trip in a way that makes sense to you. The menus and map are interactive so you can find options using the lookup, making selections in the menus or finding the destination on the map and selecting it to plan your trip. You can lookup destinations by name, or my finding it on the map. Apparently this app is new to the Washington DC area, but is well established in other metropolitan locations. Highly recommend.

Developer Response ,

Thanks so much for the kind feedback - we appreciate it!

Excellent app but the change to the app icon is comical. I almost want to uninstall the app tonight. Please provide other options users may choose from, if possible.

Hey there, we're trying out different app icons over the coming weeks to see which one customers like the most. Keep the feedback coming!

Quit requiring that I indicate like or dislike of your app

Sorry about that - we've taken your feedback on board and we will make sure you see less of those prompts in the future.

App Privacy

The developer, Transit Now ltd , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Health & Fitness
• Contact Info
• Search History
• Identifiers
• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

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• DC+ Annual $8.99
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Family Sharing

Some in‑app purchases, including subscriptions, may be shareable with your family group when family sharing is enabled., more by this developer.

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Navigating Washington, DC with Metro

Find out everything you need to know to ride dc’s world-class metrorail system, get a metro map, check operating hours, ride fares and more..

Washington, DC’s Metro   is one of the busiest public transportation systems in the country. Its expansive network of tunnels and above ground tracks connect all four quadrants of DC with suburban Virginia and Maryland. The system is heavily used by local commuters and it’s a popular, convenient and affordable way for visitors to DC to get around the region, now so more than ever. Metro has opened its new Silver Line extension, which allows riders to connect to Dulles International Airport and explore Loudoun County. Visit Metro's website for more information about the extension.  

Find information about the Washington, DC Metro system:

DC Metro Map

• How Metro Works & Metro Trip Planner  
• Metro Fares
• Metro Hours
• Metro Etiquette

Please download the touch-free SmarTrip app for iPhone and Android .

A Metrorail system map will help you navigate the nation's capital during your trip. Click the Washington, DC Metro map below to view a larger version.  

How does the Washington, DC Metro work? How do I plan my trip? 

The Metro consists of six color-coded lines: Red, Blue, Orange, Yellow, Green and Silver. The lines are connected to each other via transfer stations and many Metro stops are serviced by more than one color. Each train car has an exterior electronic sign that marks the color and the direction of the train. Direction is indicated by the final station of that line.

Popular sightseeing Metro stops include the Smithsonian (Orange, Silver and Blue lines), Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan (Red line) and Gallery Place-Chinatown (Red, Green and Yellow lines). You can plan your trip and find the best route using Metro's Trip Planner .

Worried about internet connectivity while traveling on Metro? Currently, most Metro stations have free Wi-Fi .

How much are Metro fares and how do you use SmarTrip?

Metro fares are calculated by how many stops you travel and vary during peak and off-peak hours. During peak hours, most fares range from $2.25 to $6 per trip. During off-peak hours, fares typically range from $1.85 to $3.85. 

Metro riders must pay via  SmarTrip card  or the  SmarTrip app on  iPhone and Apple Watch . SmarTrip cards are plastic, rechargeable fare cards that can be purchased by cash or credit at any Metro station or in advance on  wmata.com . You can calculate your fare between two stops using Metro’s  Trip Planner .

The SmarTrip app can be used anywhere the SmarTrip card is accepted, including rail, buses and Metro-operated parking lots. Metro is the first rail system in the U.S. to offer a full-service, touch-free payment option at every single stop. See below for more information about how to use SmarTrip in your Apple Wallet .

What are the Metro's hours and when does it close?

DC Metro trains run Monday - Thursday, 5 a.m. until 12 a.m.; Friday, 5 a.m. until 1 a.m.; Saturday: 7 a.m. until 1 a.m.; Sunday: 7 a.m. until 12 a.m.

Metro etiquette

The Washington, DC Metro serves thousands of commuters and visitors each day. Because the train system is so heavily used by busy local commuters, there are a number of unspoken rules that visitors should be aware of. If possible, you may want to ride at off-peak hours when the train system is much less hectic.

When riding the escalator, stand to your right, walk to your left. Standing in a twosome that blocks the left side is strongly (and often loudly) discouraged by your fellow Metro riders.

When waiting to board a train, let riders exit the train first before trying to board. If the train is particularly crowded and you are standing in a doorway, step just outside the train doorway to allow your fellow riders room to exit.

Another important note if the train is crowded: move to the middle of the car so others can board. You will have time to exit when you arrive at your stop.

During peak hours, trains arrive often. Don’t try to board a train that is too full. The automatic doors are very sensitive and if they can’t close, the train operator may offload the entire train because a door stopped working.

Each car usually has several seats for handicapped riders. Please don’t use these seats if there is a rider that needs to sit down.

Be sure and have your SmarTrip card out and ready to swipe when you go through the gate. Riders move through quickly and holding up the line is discouraged.

While the Metro can be a very busy place, most of your fellow riders are friendly and will point you in the right direction. There is also a station manager at each station. Don’t be afraid to ask if you have questions about navigating the Metro!

Now that you have read up on the Metrorail experience, learn about other ways to navigate DC. Check out the best transportation options  for getting around the District.

More About DC

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Guide to Washington, DC-Area Airports

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Getting to Washington, DC

Washington DC's Metro system is a great way to get to hundreds of popular locations and attractions in and around Washington DC. Metro's six lines and 91 stations are located in Washington DC and neighboring Virginia and Maryland. With over 700,000 trips every weekday, the rail system provides easy access to popular attractions including the National Mall , National Zoo , White House , Washington Nationals Park, and much more. The system also provides access to other area transit options, including a station at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Union Station (with Amtrak , MARC , and VRE train service), and MetroBus express routes to to Dulles International Airport and Baltimore Washington International Airport .

10 Metro Stops for Top DC Attractions

If you’re visiting the Nation’s Capital, chances are pretty good that you’re looking forward to take it all on. See our list of the top 10 metro stations you need to know to visit the area's most popular attractions.

DC Metro Map

The first step to planning your trip is the DC Metro Map. Find the stations near your destination and learn about the Metro System on DC Transit Guide's Metro Map.

Metro Lines

Explore Metro's six lines, and plan your route. Select individual stations to view live next train predictions, learn about nearby attractions, and see parking details for each station.

Pay for your trips with the convenient and reusable SmarTrip card. SmarTrip cards offer an convenient and cost saving way to pay for DC area transportation systems.

Rider Details

Details on Metro's hours, price stricture, taking your bike, and more.

10 DC Metro Tips and Tricks

Check out these 10 tips that everybody should know before they get to the nation's capitol and onto the DC Metro.

A collection of some of the most common questions about riding and navigating the DC Metrorail system.

• 5am - 11:30pm (Monday-Thursday)
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Guide to Washington DC Metro for Beginners

If you’re traveling to Washington, DC and feeling a little unsure about using public transportation, don’t worry! The fact that you are here is a great first step. We pulled together some important tips to help explain DC Metro for beginners.

What is the DC Metro?

The DC Metro usually refers to the MetroRail system (to distinguish it from the MetroBus system). MetroRail is the third busiest system in the country, after the New York City Subway and Chicago El. Downtown, DC Metro is an underground subway. However, outside of downtown there are also above-ground sections.

How do you know where to get on and get off?

When a business provides Metro directions, they will ask you to ride to a certain station and then provide walking directions from there. For example, if you want to visit the White House, the DC Metro directions would ask you to ride the orange, blue or silver line to the McPherson Square station and then walk two blocks to the south.

When navigating the Metro, the system map is your best friend.  Click here to view and then download a Metro map on your phone. That way, you will have access to the map no matter where you are or how strong your cell signal is.

A helpful app for navigating the city is CityMapper . With this app you can enter your destination and it will find where you are and give you step-by-step directions to get to your destination. It will tell you how to walk to the closest Metro station, which line to ride, whether to transfer, if necessary. And lastly, it will tell you how to walk from the destination Metro station to your final destination. 

How do you pay for the DC Metro?

When it comes to DC Metro for beginners, paying is often the most confusing part of the experience. There is only one way to pay for Metro rides: a SmarTrip card. Everyone in your group needs their own SmarTrip card. There is no sharing allowed.

You can buy a SmarTrip card at any DC Metro station. Look for one of the blue and orange fare machines. Go up to the machine and select either “purchase single card” if you’re traveling by yourself or “purchase multiple cards” if you’re in a group. The physical cards cost $2.00 and then you add value to the cards beyond that. For a typical visitor, you should push the “purchase value” button. This will add the default $8.00 value to start. You can pay with cash, credit or debit card.

The most confusing part of this process is when the machine asks if you want to buy a pass. For most visitors, passes aren’t worth it. It’s simpler and easier just to add value to your card and it deducts from your balance as you ride.

Time to ride!

Once you have your SmarTrip you are ready to go. Walk up to the fare gate and find the target on your right side. Tap your SmarTrip card against it. The gate will open and can go through. It is important to remember that you tap, not swipe. This is a mistake beginners tend to make. All you need to do is physically touch your card right on the target. When you get to your destination station you will do the same thing to exit.

Now that you’ve got the basics down check out our 10 Dos and Dont’s for riding on Metro .

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• Countries/Regions
• United States
• Washington, D.C. - Baltimore, MD
• line METRORAIL RED LINE

Metrorail Red Line

Wmata metrorail red line metro line map - towards glenmont.

WMATA METRORAIL RED LINE Metro Route Schedule and Stops (Updated)

The METRORAIL RED LINE metro (Towards Glenmont) has 23 stations departing from Shady Grove and ending at Takoma.

Choose any of the METRORAIL RED LINE metro stations below to find updated real-time schedules and to see their route map.

View on Map

Direction: Towards Glenmont (23 stops)

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Services on the METRORAIL RED LINE metro start at 5:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday.

What time does the METRORAIL RED LINE metro stop working?

Services on the METRORAIL RED LINE metro stop at 12:27 AM on Friday, Saturday.

What time does the METRORAIL RED LINE metro arrive?

When does the Metrorail Red Line metro line come? Check Live Arrival Times for live arrival times and to see the full schedule for the Metrorail Red Line metro line that is closest to your location.

Is there a METRORAIL RED LINE metro station near me?

Click here to view the nearest METRORAIL RED LINE metro station.

METRORAIL RED LINE Metro Schedule

METRORAIL RED LINE metro line operates everyday. Regular schedule hours: 5:00 AM - 11:27 PM

WMATA Metro Service Alerts

See all updates on METRORAIL RED LINE (from Shady Grove), including real-time status info, metro delays, changes of routes, changes of stops locations, and any other service changes. Get a real-time map view of METRORAIL RED LINE (Towards Glenmont) and track the metro as it moves on the map. Download the app for all WMATA info now.

METRORAIL RED LINE line metro fare

WMATA METRORAIL RED LINE (Towards Glenmont) prices may change based on several factors. For more information about WMATA tickets costs please check the Moovit app or WMATA’s official website.

METRORAIL RED LINE (WMATA)

The first stop of the METRORAIL RED LINE metro route is Shady Grove and the last stop is Takoma. METRORAIL RED LINE (Towards Glenmont) is operational during everyday. Additional information: METRORAIL RED LINE has 23 stations and the total trip duration for this route is approximately 55 minutes.

On the go? See why over 1.5 million users trust Moovit as the best public transit app. Moovit gives you WMATA suggested routes, real-time metro tracker, live directions, line route maps in Washington, D.C. - Baltimore, MD, and helps to find the closest METRORAIL RED LINE metro stations near you. No internet available? Download an offline PDF map and metro schedule for the METRORAIL RED LINE metro to take on your trip.

METRORAIL RED LINE near me

Line METRORAIL RED LINE Real Time metro Tracker

Track line METRORAIL RED LINE (Towards Glenmont) on a live map in real time and follow its location as it moves between stations. Use Moovit as a line METRORAIL RED LINE metro tracker or a live WMATA metro tracker app and never miss your metro.

Use the app as a trip planner for WMATA or a trip planner for metro, bus, train, light rail or ferry to plan your route around Washington, D.C. - Baltimore, MD. The trip planner shows updated data for WMATA and any metro, including line METRORAIL RED LINE, in Washington, D.C. - Baltimore, MD

METRORAIL RED LINE - Alternative Directions

• METRORAIL RED LINE - Towards Shady Grove / Schedule

WMATA Lines in Washington, D.C. - Baltimore, MD

• METRORAIL ORANGE LINE / Schedule
• METRORAIL GREEN LINE / Schedule
• METRORAIL BLUE LINE / Schedule
• METRORAIL SILVER LINE / Schedule
• METRORAIL YELLOW LINE / Schedule
• Español (Latinoamérica)

How to Ride the Washington DC Metro Like A Local

The Washington DC metro system may not have the storied history of some of the country’s other subterranean trains, but any newcomer to the city will be pleased with its efficiency and convenience.

Metro stations are surprisingly clean, modern-looking affairs with highly accurate arrival boards and spacious turnstiles that won’t grip you like an arcade claw machine. (Looking at you, MTA.)

Don’t be alarmed at the seemingly never-ending entrance escalators; these trains will whisk you away to your destination ahead of schedule. Once you have the hang of the system, a single SmarTrip card can take you across the city and even beyond its borders.

Metro Basics

The DC metro is made up of six different colored lines: orange, silver, blue, red, green, and yellow. They all intersect at several key stations near the center of town: Metro Center, Gallery Place, and L’Enfant Plaza.

You’ll notice that most of the lines run on the same tracks closer to the center of town and then diverge as you go further out. Zooming out, the red, green, and yellow lines run generally North to South, and will take you into Maryland eventually, to Bethesda and Glenmont on the red and to College Park on the green or yellow.

Silver, Blue, and Orange will be your go-tos in Virginia.

SmarTrip Cards

A SmarTrip card is a must have for any traveler hoping to navigate the streets and rails of DC. The easiest method to purchase a new card is at the big blue boxes labeled “Fare Vending” located at the entrance of every Metro station.

You can also buy a card at a number of Commuter Stores scattered across the tri state area, as well as the central Metro Sales Office on 12th and F Streets. A full list of all locations is available on the official website of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA).

You can even order a card online and have it delivered wherever you like on the same site’s SmarTrip store page.

Each new card costs $10 in total: $2 for the card itself, and $8 preloaded value. Once you have used up those first few trips, you’ll have a few options to reload:

Pay As You Go

The same blue boxes you used to purchase your card are also the place to reload. After tapping your card to the reader, you will be prompted to choose “Add Value” or “Add Time.” If you choose to add value, you can select an amount to on the next screen using the toggle keys next to the card reader and then pay for that amount using cash or card.

If you’re visiting the city and plan to use public transportation multiple times a day, a timed pass will be the best option. After selecting “Add Time,” you can choose a 1, 3, or 7 day unlimited pass, which cost $13, $28, and $58 respectively.

Another good option for travelers is the 7 day short trip pass, which will cover any fare at an off peak time, or a peak time up to $3.85, and takes $2 off the fare for a Metrobus Express or airport shuttle.

Those sticking around even longer can look at the monthly unlimited pass, which ranges anywhere from $72 to $216, depending on the length of your usual commute. WMATA’s Monthly Unlimited Pass Calculator will give an estimate of the cost.

Lastly, 7 day bus-only passes are also available for $12, but I advise that car-less travelers will probably want to hop a train sometime, especially when DC rush hour hits!

Tap and Go: How to Get Through the Turnstile

To get through the turnstiles, all you’ll need to do is tap your card on the reader. On Metrobuses, you’ll see the same reader next to the driver where you get on. The readers are powerful enough to scan through a wallet, so there’s no need to pull your card out. (Yes, I am still picking on MTA.)

When riding the train, you’ll also need to tap your card on the reader again to exit the station. If your card doesn’t have enough value for a longer ride and the exit turnstiles won’t let you out, don’t panic! The “Exit Fare” boxes next to every exit will allow you to add the remaining amount.

Tech savvy travelers will be happy to hear that SmarTrip cards can easily be transferred to your phone’s Apple Wallet or Google Pay account. (Note: your physical card won’t be usable once you transfer it to a digital wallet.) There’s also a SmarTrip app, which allows you to see your card’s balance and add more value or passes on the go.

Fares and Peak Times

Here’s where it gets slightly trickier: the fare for each ride will depend on how far and when you’re riding. Fares will be more expensive at rush hour, or peak times, between 5 am and 9:30 am in the morning and between 3 pm and 7 pm in the afternoon. Peak fares run anywhere between $2.25 and $6, while off peak fares won’t net you more than $3.85.

The Metrobus, on the other hand, is just $2 for any ride, and $4.25 for any express route. You can find the cost of any ride from your current station from a chart on the top of the same “Fare Vending” boxes used to buy SmarTrip cards.

Even better, you are free to transfer between buses as many times as you want in a two hour period without any extra charge. Going train to bus, on the other hand, will incur a slight fee, but less than a regular ride.

Those commuting from outside the city proper will also be happy to know that SmarTrip cards work with almost any regional bus systems in Virginia and Maryland.

Travel Tips

Navigation apps like Google or Apple Maps sometimes don’t have accurate train or arrival times. I recommend downloading one of several apps that receives direct information, like the DC Metro and Bus app. There, you can search any station or route and receive real time arrival estimates.

Waiting for the bus? Take a look at the bus stop sign and you’ll see a 7 digit number code. You can plug this into either an app or the WMATA website to get real time arrivals for that specific stop!

Lastly, I’ll put a second emphasis on checking arrival times directly from WMATA as of the winter of 2021. The city began renovation efforts after a minor accident at Arlington Cemetery in October, and although trains have supposedly resumed running on schedule, I’ve noticed that wait times at some stations still seem a little longer than usual.

Now, you’re ready to hit the rails and roads with your Washington DC Metro SmarTrip card in hand!

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Cybele Mayes-Osterman

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Metro Between Dulles Airport and Washington DC

When planning your trip to Washington DC, you’ll find plenty of options for airports.

One of them is the Dulles International Airport. Originally designed to relieve congestion at the National Airport, Dulles offers an excellent gateway to the city.

But if it’s your first time traveling to the city, you may wonder how to get from Dulles Airport to Washington DC via Metrorail.

Should you take a taxi, a bus, or a private shuttle?

Today, we’re going to share with you the easiest and most convenient way of traveling between the two – the Metro.

• Why Use the DC Metro Rail
• Tickets and Schedule
• How to Get to Dulles by Metro
• Guide to using the DC Metro
• Things to Do in DC

WHY TAKE THE METRO TO AND FROM DULLES

By taking the Metro, you can save time, money, and effort. It’s fast, efficient, and it can take you to any part of the city.

DC travelers have a choice of airports ( Baltimore-Washington is also accessible by Metro but it is much longer and DCA Reagan National Airport is the prime location for short travel to and from DC) but Dulles is a main airport for international flights.

With the recently opened Silver Line extension, passengers can get to Washington Dulles International Airport at a low-cost and quickly.

Silver Line can only take about 30-40 minutes from Dulles International Airport to the heart of DC.

To get from Dulles International Airport to Washington DC, you’ll want to take the Silver Line.

You can access the Silver Metro Line from a dedicated Metro station called the Dulles International Airport Station.

The station is right at the airport and easily accessible by shuttle bus or on foot.

A Silver Line train runs from past Dulles station through Tysons and Arlington, downtown DC and ends in Largo Maryland on the other side of Washington DC.

Among the famous tourist attractions on the route are the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the Washington Monument, and the White House.

You can change to another Metro rail line at five stations along the route:

• (Orange Line) - East Falls Church
• (Blue Line and Orange Line) - Rosslyn
• (Red Line) - Metro Center Station (this will take you to Union Station the main hub for Amtrak in DC)
• (Yellow Line and Green Line) L'Enfant Plaza

With the Metro app, you can always know where you are on the system and how long it’ll take you to get to your destination. There's even a specific trip planner for commuters. The app can also tell you what station is closest to your hotel, restaurant, or attraction.

It will be a long journey, but you won't be trying to switch crowded train cars with a bunch of luggage.

When taking the Metro is NOT the best option:

A downside, however, is that the Metro is not the best experience if you have lots of luggage or a lot of young kids.

Crowded Cars : While the subway cars are large, the Metro can get crowded during peak hours.

Elevators : There are elevators at each station, though there are often outages due to maintenance.

Transfers: If you're going to a station that is NOT on the Silver line, you'll need to transfer.

This usually means exiting the train and navigating the station's escalators and platforms. This can be stressful for visitors even without luggage to carry!

Metro Tickets from Dulles to Downtown DC

Using the Metro to get to or from Downtown DC to Dulles Airport is the most cost-effective way to travel.

We also have a post that covers how to purchase tickets for the DC Metro .

OPENING HOURS of the Metro Station (the station opens 10 minutes before the first train)

• Monday - Thursday, 5:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m.
• Friday, 5:00 a.m. - 1:00 a.m. ·
• Saturday: 7:00 a.m. - 1:00 a.m.
• Sunday: 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m.

NOTE : Sometimes, especially on weekends, there may be updated hours or closed lines due to scheduled maintenance. Be sure to check the WMATA website for a particular station status.

How much is a Metro ticket from Dulles to Downtown?

DC's Metro system charges based on what time of day and how long of a journey you'll have.

The most you will ever be charged is $6 per rider (travel during peak service for a long trip) - due to the distance of Dulles Station from downtown DC, it will almost always be $6 unless you're staying closer to the airport.

Metro Fares (as of May 2024)

A few examples of how much it cost to get from Dulles to metro stations near popular hotels during off-peak hours.

If you're looking for a place to stay, be sure to read our post on where to stay in DC.

How to pay for a Metro ticket at the Airport?

There are Metro fare cards available for purchase at the entrance of the station at the Airport.

You may purchase a SmartTrip Card ( find out more about those ) or top up an existing card.

You can also use contactless payment if your SmartTrip Card is loaded into Apple Wallet or Google Wallet

How to get to the Metro Station from the Airport?

The Dulles International Airport Metro Station is connected to the main terminal by an indoor pedestrian tunnel with moving walkways.

You can easily get to both ticketing and baggage claim levels and Parking Garage 1 via this underground walkway.

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When Does the Silver Line's Phase 2 Open? What to Know About Metro's Latest Expansion

On nov. 15, 2022, metro will open its first-ever stations in loudoun county, including a landmark stop at dulles international airport, by carissa dimargo • published september 28, 2022 • updated on november 2, 2022 at 4:43 pm.

The long-awaited expansion of Metro's Silver Line is getting close to becoming reality for commuters and travelers in the D.C. area. The transit agency recently announced an opening date of Nov. 15 , which will bring six new stations into play in Northern Virginia.

But where, exactly, are the new stations? Will they have parking? How much will it cost to ride Metro all the way to the end of the line?

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What Is the Silver Line's Phase 2, Exactly?

Metro's Silver Line extension will add another 11.4 miles of track west and northwest from the Wiehle-Reston East station, extending to Washington Dulles International Airport and beyond, ending in Ashburn, Virginia.

The extension — also referred to as "Phase 2" of the Silver Line — will add six new stations in Fairfax and Loudoun counties.

Where Does Metro's Silver Line Currently Go?

The Silver Line runs with the Blue Line in Maryland, and with both the Blue and Orange lines in the District and into Northern Virginia.

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But the Silver Line splits off from the Blue Line at Rosslyn, Virginia, and from the Orange Line at East Falls Church, Virginia. From there, it hooks northwest through the Tysons area and to eastern Reston. Five initial Silver Line stations — also known as Phase 1 — opened in 2014 in Northern Virginia.

When Phase 2 does open, it will include Metro's first-ever stations in Loudoun County, including that long-awaited stop at Dulles International Airport.

In September, Metro released a new version of its rail map, showing the six upcoming stations.

Your new Silver Line stations coming soon with a new Metrorail map! 📍🚇 #wmata Check it out: https://t.co/aU1SEdHaJ0 pic.twitter.com/gVEg6qi9ZA — Metro (@wmata) September 23, 2022

When Does Metro's Silver Line Phase 2 Open?

The opening of Phase 2 has been pushed back multiple times . Finally, Metro announced on Oct. 31 that Phase 2 will open Nov. 15, just in time for Thanksgiving travel.

The news came after Metro had to negotiate its way through yet another snag in planning. In September, Metro's board voted to give new General Manager Randy Clarke the authority to set an opening date — but at the time, Clarke warned it would be vital to get more of Metro's sidelined 7000-series railcars back on the tracks.

"It's just a simple math equation," Clarke said in September. "We need x amount of trains to deliver x amount of service, and now we are adding even more miles of track for new service — so we need to bring more trains back to the system."

Earlier this month, Metro announced it had gotten approval to bring more of those railcars back to the tracks, provided they perform rigorous safety inspections. That cleared the way for Clarke to set the long-awaited opening date for the Silver Line extension.

Where Will Metro's Phase 2 of the Silver Line Go?

The Silver Line extension will run west and northwest from Fairfax County into Loudoun County, Virginia.

It will start from the current end-of-the-line station, Wiehle-Reston East, and will travel through Reston and Herndon to Dulles International Airport and beyond. It will end at Route 772 in Ashburn, in eastern Loudoun County.

Where Are the New Silver Line Metro Stations?

Phase 2 of the Silver Line extension includes six new Metro stations in Northern Virginia — three in Fairfax County; three in Loudoun County.

The new stations are:

• Reston Town Center (12023-A Sunset Hills Road, Reston)
• Herndon (585-A Herndon Parkway, Herndon)
• Innovation Center (13747-A Sunrise Valley Drive, Herndon)
• Washington Dulles International Airport (44920 Saarinen Circle, Sterling)
• Loudoun Gateway (22505 Lockridge Road, Sterling)
• Ashburn (43655 Ashburn Metro Drive, Ashburn)

How Much Will It Cost to Ride Metro to Dulles Airport?

Well, it depends on what time you're traveling, and the distance you're covering. Fares cost more during peak times and if you have farther to travel.

Overall, Metrorail fares range from as low as $2 to as much as $6. During peak hours (5 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.), fares range from $2.25 to $6. During off-peak hours, they're $2 to $3.85. On weekends and weekdays after 9:30 p.m., Metro charges a flat fee of $2 for a one-way trip.

You can use Metro's Trip Planner to calculate your fare cost, but note that the not-yet-opened stations are not included in that tool.

What About Parking and Bike Storage at the New Silver Line Stations?

Four of the stations — Herndon, Innovation Center, Loudoun Gateway and Ashburn — will have commuter parking available. Those stations will also have Kiss & Ride drop-off locations, bike racks and bike lockers. In addition, Innovation Center and Herndon will have secure bike storage rooms, repair stations and bottle-filling stations.

Reston Town Center Station will not have commuter parking available. It will have bike racks and bike lockers, and Capital Bikeshare stations are planned for the future.

Dulles International Airport will not have commuter parking, but short- and long-term parking are available around the airport . However, no bike parking will be available on-site.

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How to Travel From BWI Airport to Washington, DC, by Train, Taxi, and Shuttle

Baltimore/Washington International Airport—commonly known as BWI—is one of the three different airports that serve Washington, D.C. Located about 45 miles north of Washington and just south of Baltimore, Maryland, BWI is a major hub for Southwest Airlines, and likely where you'll be flying into if that's who you're flying. While it's a little farther out from the city center than Washington National or Dulles airports, it's well-connected by public transit and easy to get to.

In general, taking a car or taxi from BWI to DC or vice versa is more expensive to than other airports in the area because of the distance. In fact, the Amtrak train will get you from the airport to the city center much faster than a taxi can and for a fraction of the price. The MARC train is nearly as fast as Amtrak and costs even less. If you're traveling in a large group, a shuttle is a great way to cut down costs and travel together.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From BWI to DC?

The MARC train is the local commuter train that shuttles passengers from Washington, D.C., to other parts of Maryland. The BWI Airport stop is located just outside of the airport and brings passengers directly to Union Station in Washington . Tickets cost $8 and the journey takes about 40 minutes so in addition to being the cheapest method, it's also one of the fastest.

BWI Airport station is located outside of the airport but there is a free shuttle that brings passengers from the lower level of the airport—outside baggage claim—directly to the station. Shuttles run frequently throughout the day and it takes 11 minutes to get from the airport to the train station.

MARC trains run from BWI to DC (and back) about once every hour on weekdays and once every two hours on weekends. The last train is 10:40 p.m.; the first train is 5:40 a.m. Make sure to look at the schedule before your trip so you can coordinate your plans.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From BWI to DC?

Taking a train is the fastest way to get from BWI to Washington, D.C., but if you're in a hurry, use Amtrak instead of the MARC train. Amtrak trains depart from the same BWI Airport station as the MARC train but completes the journey in 30 minutes instead of 40. It's an ideal option if you just miss a MARC train and don't want to wait an hour or two for the next one. You can use the same free shuttle as with the MARC train to get from the airport to the train station.

When booked in advance, Amtrak tickets start at $7 for the earliest train and then €11, but on the day of expect to pay at least €15. High-demand times such as rush hour or holidays are usually even more expensive, so reserve tickets in advance if you can.

Tip: While MARC tickets are set at $8 regardless of when you buy them, Amtrak prices fluctuate with demand. Buy them early if possible to get the best deals.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

While going in a private vehicle may be convenient, it isn't necessarily the fastest method. Driving from BWI Airport to Washington takes about 40–80 minutes depending on traffic and where in DC you're coming from or going. If you happen to arrive during the rush hour commute, going by car may take over an hour driving along the Baltimore-Washington Parkway. In addition to traffic, if you're driving your own vehicle you'll also have to deal with complicated parking in Washington, D.C., which is limited to private parking garages and can cost upwards of $30 per day. Unless your trip to the capital is brief and you'll continue on to somewhere else, having a car in D.C. is usually not worth the hassle.

Using a taxi is convenient for passengers who want door-to-door transportation and to avoid the hassles of using the train. If you are traveling with a family or group, a taxi may even be more affordable than four or five separate Amtrak tickets. And if you have lots of luggage, carrying it on and off the train isn't always feasible.

Not surprisingly, taxis are also one of the most expensive methods of transportation, especially if you're traveling solo. Official cabs typically cost about $90 from the airport to downtown Washington, D.C., but all taxis are metered so the price varies. Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft tend to be cheaper, with rides starting at about $60 depending on demand and time of day.

Is There a Shuttle That Goes From BWI to DC?

Companies such as GO Airport Shuttle offer transportation services 24/7 from BWI to D.C., and you can choose to reserve a seat in a shared van or reserve an entire van. If you reserve a seat, it will be more expensive than taking a taxi. These shuttles are not a good value for a group that can otherwise fit in a cab.

If you're traveling in a group that's too large to fit in one taxi, then booking a van for everyone in your party may be the most cost-effective and time-efficient way to travel from the airport. Compare prices of companies to see which one offers the best deal.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Washington, DC?

Thousands of commuters make the daily journey from Baltimore to Washington, D.C., and weekday travel car can be complicated. Traffic is always a problem on this popular route, but weekday mornings and evenings are especially exasperating. If you're going by car or taxi, expect long delays and bumper-to-bumper traffic during rush hour. The trains will get you into Washington, D.C., much faster when there's traffic, but they can fill up to uncomfortable levels. If you arrive during commute times, Amtrak prices may be more expensive, but since you have a reserved seat it's convenient for travelers with big suitcases.

The train is the most popular method of transportation for passengers arriving at BWI Airport, but MARC stops running at 10:40 p.m. and the last Amtrak train is around 1 a.m. If you arrive in the early hours of the morning—before the first MARC train at 5:40 a.m.—you'll need to drive or take a cab.

Washington can be frigid cold in the winter and oppressively muggy in the summer, so the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn. May, June, September, and October are the most pleasant months for exploring the city and walking around the National Mall from monument to monument. If you visit in April, not only is the weather starting to warm-up but you can also experience the annual Cherry Blossom Festival which takes over the entire city. In the fall, the summer heat starts to disappear and crowds have die down as well.

What Is There to Do in Washington, DC?

As the nation's capital, Washington, D.C., is full of history and culture that is unmatched by any other American city. All of the federal government buildings—from the Capitol Building to the Supreme Court to the White House—are all obligatory stops for anyone interested in government. But many of Washington's most-visited attractions are the monuments that circle the National Mall, such as the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument. The Smithsonian Museums is a network of museums that would take months to explore in entirety, and they are all completely free to visit. Apart from the sightseeing, Washington, D.C., is full of trendy neighborhoods that are great for barhopping, eating out, and shopping around.

Frequently Asked Questions

Passengers looking to get from D.C. to BWI or vice versa can take the MARC train, the local commuter train that shuttles passengers from Washington, D.C., to other parts of Maryland. The BWI Airport stop is located just outside of the airport (there is a free shuttle) and brings passengers directly to Union Station in Washington .

Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft tend to be cheaper than metered cabs, with rides starting at about $60 depending on demand and time of day.

Tickets cost $8 and the journey takes 40 minutes, so in addition to being the cheapest method, it's also one of the fastest.

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Caught on camera: Flames burst through rear of charter bus in downtown DC, no injuries

by Winston Rogers

WASHINGTON (7News) — D.C. fire crews combatted flames and heavy smoke pouring from the rear engine compartment of a charter bus as work commuters made their way through Northwest D.C. Thursday morning.

It all happened at the intersection of 12th and H Streets in Northwest, which reportedly impacted some traffic near Metro Center for a brief period. D.C. crews were called to the scene just before 9 a.m. and extinguished the fire with no injuries, according to a D.C. Fire and EMS Department spokesperson.

7News Dave Lucas captured video of crews combatting the fire, which can be watched in the media player above.