Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States, a planned federal district occupying 68 square miles on the Potomac River between Maryland and Virginia. Home to the three branches of the U.S. federal government, world-class Smithsonian museums, iconic monuments, and a vibrant multicultural dining and arts scene, the city draws more than 24 million visitors annually. Most of the capital's major museums and memorials are free, making it one of the most accessible great cities on earth.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) operates the Metro rail system and Metrobus. Metro has six lines (Red, Blue, Orange, Silver, Green, Yellow) covering central DC and suburbs. A SmarTrip card ($10 including $8 credit, purchased at any Metro station) is required for Metro travel. Fares range from $2.00–$6.75 USD depending on distance and peak/off-peak timing. The DC Circulator bus ($1.00 per ride) fills gaps not served by Metro.
Transport tips
Travel smarter, not harder.
Buy a SmarTrip card upon arrival at the airport or first Metro station — it saves money over single-ride paper tickets.
Metro fares are distance- and time-based; travel before 9:30am or after 3pm (off-peak) for lower fares.
Free shuttle buses run between the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall in summer.
The National Mall is 2 miles long and relatively flat — excellent for Capital Bikeshare or rented bikes.
Avoid driving into DC during weekday rush hours (7–9:30am, 4–7pm) — traffic is severe.