Metro Transit050

Metro operates buses throughout King County, and a waterfront streetcar (temporarily closed; the route is served by bus as of Fall 2005 - go to www.metrokc.gov for more information) and water taxi in downtown Seattle.

The system is generally very accessible - buses are frequent and there are numerous routes - especially for travel throughout downtown and the urban neighborhoods. The entire fleet is equipped with bike racks, which may be used at any time except in the Ride Free Area between 6am-7pm. Check Metro's website for alternatives and instructions.

Rider Information: Online, access the Trip Planner, which gives riders detailed information about all routes and stops, and routes between any two locations. The Customer Service office is open weekdays, 8am-5:30pm. [206.553.3060]

Bus Time gives automated schedule information daily, 24 hours. [206.287.8463] Toll-free route and schedule information is also available. [1.800.542.7876]

Bus Tunnel: The 1.3 mile bus tunnel stops at locations close to downtown attractions and other transit stations. NOTE: The bus tunnel is temporarily closed as of Fall 2005; go to transit.metrokc.gov for more information and alternate routes.

Metro Ride-Free area: Ride free between 6am and 7pm in downtown Seattle from Battery Street (north) to South Jackson Street (south), and 6th Avenue (east) to the waterfront (west). Bus tunnel stations are included in the ride-free zone, but the Waterfront Streetcar is not. Check Metro's website for a map of the Ride Free Area.

Metro Transit System maps may be picked up at timetable kiosks, or by emailing Metro, or you can download them from the website.

Fares: When you travel into downtown Seattle, pay as you board. Traveling out of downtown, pay as you exit. Payment is deposited into fareboxes, which accept coins and paper currency; drivers do not make change. If you need to change buses, ask the driver for a transfer. These are valid for up to an hour after issue, on any Metro bus or the Waterfront Streetcar.