The DC Circulator: Your Guide to Navigating Washington, DC
The DC Circulator provides inexpensive, frequent bus service around Washington DC. This relatively new bus service significantly enhances access to Washington, DC attractions, consequently making it easier for visitors, federal workers, and local residents to travel around the downtown area. Moreover, the DC Circulator represents a partnership among DDOT, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), and DC Surface Transit, Inc. Since its launch in 2005, the Circulator has experienced substantial growth, supplementing Metro’s bus and rail service while connecting numerous DC neighborhoods and activity centers. Each route operates on different hours, tailored to the demand in each area. (Note that the hours listed below are subject to change.)
DC Circulator Routes
- National Mall – This route starts at Union Station and travels along Louisiana Avenue, NE, looping around the National Mall via various key streets. With 15 stops, it is conveniently located near notable attractions such as the Lincoln Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, and Smithsonian museums.
- Hours: (October – March) Weekdays 7am – 7pm; Weekends 9am – 7pm. (April – September) Weekdays 7am – 8pm; Weekends 9am – 7pm.
- Dupont Circle – Georgetown – Rosslyn – This route starts at 19th Street NW and N Street in Dupont Circle, continuing along M Street to Georgetown and onto the Rosslyn Metro station.
- Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 7 am – Midnight; Friday and Saturday: 7 am – 2 am.
- Georgetown – Union Station – Beginning at Wisconsin Ave and 35th Street, this bus travels through major streets to reach Union Station.
- Hours: Daily: 7 am – 9 pm.
- Union Station – Navy Yard – Starting at Columbus Circle in front of Union Station, this route travels through Capitol Hill to the Navy Yard.
- Hours: (October – March) Weekdays 6 am – 7 pm; (April – September) Weekdays 6 am – 9 pm; Saturdays 7 am – 9 pm.
- Woodley Park – Adams Morgan – McPherson Square – This route begins at Connecticut Avenue and 24th Street, proceeding through Adams Morgan to McPherson Square.
- Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 7 am – Midnight; Friday and Saturday: 7 am – 3:30 am.
Cost and Payment Options
The Circulator bus costs $1 per ride, and $0.50 for seniors. Payment options include:
- Cash – Exact change required
- SmarTrip Card – Metro’s farecard
- Transfers from Metrobus or between Circulator buses are free for up to two hours
- Tickets can be purchased at fare meters or parking meters located at Circulator bus stops. Machines accept change or credit cards.
Website: www.dccirculator.com
