Washington, DC’s Metro system isn’t just the backbone of public transport—it’s a gateway to the city’s most iconic destinations. Whether you’re a tourist, commuter, or a local rediscovering the city, understanding the 6 Metro lines will make your ride smoother and smarter.
Here’s your clear, line-by-line guide to the Red, Blue, Orange, Silver, Yellow, and Green lines of the Washington Metro (WMATA).
🔴 Red Line: The City’s Lifeline
Route: Shady Grove (MD) ↔ Glenmont (MD)
Key Stops: Union Station, Metro Center, Dupont Circle, Bethesda, Rockville
The Red Line is the oldest and busiest line in the DC Metro system. It travels mostly through Maryland and central DC, making it vital for daily commuters. Union Station, a major Amtrak hub, is a key stop.
Fun Fact: It’s the only line that doesn’t connect directly with the Yellow or Green lines.
🔵 Blue Line: Linking the Pentagon to Paradise
Route: Franconia-Springfield (VA) ↔ Downtown Largo (MD)
Key Stops: Pentagon, Arlington Cemetery, Smithsonian, Capitol South
The Blue Line is perfect for history buffs and federal workers. It connects key government landmarks and extends to residential suburbs in Virginia and Maryland.
Best For: Visiting national monuments and federal buildings.
🟠 Orange Line: East Meets West
Route: Vienna (VA) ↔ New Carrollton (MD)
Key Stops: Ballston, Foggy Bottom, L’Enfant Plaza, Eastern Market
The Orange Line slices through DC from Virginia to Maryland. It overlaps much of the Blue and Silver lines in the core city area, offering flexibility for riders traveling to Capitol Hill or cultural destinations.
Popular With: George Mason University students and downtown professionals.
⚪ Silver Line: DC to Dulles in Style
Route: Ashburn (VA) ↔ Downtown Largo (MD)
Key Stops: Dulles International Airport, Tysons Corner, Reston
The Silver Line is the newest addition to the network. It connects the city to Northern Virginia’s tech corridor and Dulles Airport, making it ideal for business travelers and shoppers.
Did You Know?: Tysons Corner has one of the largest malls in the Mid-Atlantic region.
🟡 Yellow Line: Fastest Way to National Mall
Route: Huntington (VA) ↔ Mount Vernon Square (DC) (Service subject to changes)
Key Stops: Reagan National Airport, Pentagon, L’Enfant Plaza
Though sometimes limited in service, the Yellow Line offers a quick north-south connection, especially convenient for travelers heading to Reagan National Airport.
Pro Tip: It’s the fastest Metro line for getting across the Potomac River.
🟢 Green Line: Urban Culture & College Vibes
Route: Branch Avenue (MD) ↔ Greenbelt (MD)
Key Stops: Navy Yard, U Street, Columbia Heights, College Park-U of MD
The Green Line is vibrant and full of personality. It runs through some of DC’s most dynamic neighborhoods, making it popular with students, young professionals, and locals.
Highlights:
- U Street: Historic music & nightlife district
- College Park: University of Maryland access
🎯 How the Lines Connect
Many lines share transfer points such as:
- Metro Center: Red, Blue, Orange, Silver
- L’Enfant Plaza: Blue, Orange, Silver, Green, Yellow
- Gallery Place-Chinatown: Red, Green, Yellow
These transfer hubs make navigating across lines quick and seamless.
🚉 Tips for Metro Riders
- SmartTrip Cards: Essential for smooth entry/exit
- Peak Hours: Weekdays 7–9 a.m. and 4–6:30 p.m.
- Real-Time Info: Use the WMATA app for delays & live train updates
- Airport Access: Use Yellow for DCA and Silver for IAD
- Free Transfers: No extra cost when changing lines
Mastering the Metro is the key to unlocking Washington, DC’s energy, culture, and history. Each line offers a unique flavor of the city, from political landmarks to local neighborhoods. Whether you’re catching a flight, heading to class, or museum-hopping, DC’s 6 Metro lines are your best travel companions.