During our recent trip to Washington DC, we didn’t rent a car, and had no problem navigating public transportation. For the kids that’s part of the adventure, and they enjoyed reading the subway maps and helping us remember which stops we’d get off on. I appreciated the cleanliness and architecture we found in the Metro’s tile-floored platforms.
Using public transportation, we were able to get back and forth from the airport, and travel all the way to Mount Vernon, from our Hotel Harrington. We took the Metro Rail’s Yellow Line Train to Huntington Station in Virginia, then caught the Fairfax Connector bus (#101) to Mount Vernon . The Metro and bus together took about one hour one-way and only cost about $4 round-trip for each of us.
There’s also a DC Circulator bus that travels around the National Mall all day long. It only costs $1 per ride and you can get off and get on anyplace on the National Mall route. It’s a frugal way to get your first view of the city too.
And although it’s pricey ($25 each per day,) renting bikes is an healthy and fun way to see the monuments on a beautiful day. I wouldn’t recommend the tandem bike I rented with my husband though. It was a little scary when he zigged and I zagged in traffic!
Bottom line? I recommend skipping the car rental in DC. Use public transportation!
Washington DC series:
View from Washington Monument
Mount Vernon
National Archives – Declaration of Independence
Sculpture Gardens
Arlington Cemetery – Unknown Soldier
Washington DC Subway – Metro
Tags: Subway, transportation, Washington DC
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5:19 am
I live in the DC Suburbs and I love taking the Metro when I am going to be in the district. It is often much easier than parking and my kids love it!
6:51 am
Efficient public transit is the way to go. I wish we had it where we live, especially with the high price of gas!
7:30 pm
So that was you I saw taking pictures on the subway! LOL
I’ve lived in the D.C./MD area my entire life! We rode the subway as kids; I took it to work for many years and still take it any time we go downtown. Our subway system is definitely something we’re proud of here! Glad it was a positive experience for you!
8:17 pm
I actually enjoy public transportation when I travel. I have found most cities keep them clean and safe and affordable.
It’s the best way to know a city and its inhabitants really.
9:25 pm
Can a family share a 7-Day Fast Pass ($39, unlimited rides) for the Metro?
11:32 am
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