Getting around DC with little ones does not have to be stressful. Here is what the official transit pages say about fares, strollers and accessibility, so you can plan before you leave the house.
Riding Metro with Kids
- Up to two children age 4 and younger ride free with each fare-paying adult.
- Children age 5 and older pay the regular fare and need their own payment method.
- Free transfers between Metrobus and Metrorail are available within a 2-hour period.
Source: Metro fares and “Riding Metro with children”. Fares change, so check the page before your trip.
Strollers on Metrobus
Metro announced in March 2023 that open strollers are welcome on Metrobus. You no longer have to fold the stroller before boarding. Read the announcement.
Elevators and Accessibility
Metro says all Metro Rail stations and rail cars are accessible, which is good news for strollers (Metro accessibility page). Metro’s elevator safety tips include a simple one for parents: hold children by the hand.
Kids Who Go to School in DC
Metrorail and Metrobus trips are free for DC students who attend public, private, charter or parochial schools through the Kids Ride Free program. It covers getting to school and school-related activities. The DDOT program page explains eligibility. Ask your child’s school about the SmarTrip card.
One Thing to Know
The DC Circulator stopped running on December 31, 2024 (DDOT announcement). If an older guide or map mentions it, plan your trip on Metrobus or Metrorail instead.
Plan Your Trip Like a Pro
- Check the Metro trip planner for delays before you leave.
- Pack snacks and water.
- Give little ones a job, like spotting the station name or counting stops.
- Start with a short ride so a new rider feels confident.
Ready for an outing? Try the 4 Historic Capitol Hill Parks to Visit with Kids or Civil War Forts of DC.
Sources are linked above. Details checked October 17, 2026. Fares and policies can change, so check the official pages before you travel.
Elizabeth Redd, the Publisher of this website, grew up in a small town called Newhall, West Virginia, before moving to Washington, DC, in 1964. She worked in Prince George's County Public School System in Maryland for 40 years, opened a wig shop, made clothes, and participated in fashion shows during the '70s and '80s. She worked part-time as a caterer for a couple of years. Hand dancing has been one of her passions. She has also worked in Internet marketing for the last ten years. She also has a passion for learning new things.
She has learned that success is measured not so much by the position one has reached in life but by the obstacles one has overcome while trying to succeed. One thing is for sure: she is living her best life.
