DC Metro Hours: The DC Metrorail is scheduled to meet the needs of both commuters and tourists alike. Trains run from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM Monday through Thursday, and until 1:00 AM Fridays and Saturdays, which is great for nightlife and late events. On Sundays, service begins at 7:00 AM and ends at 12:00 AM, with slightly reduced frequency.
When travelers ride trains every 8–12 minutes based on off-peak hours, fares are lower; by using these off-peak hours, travel will occur more smoothly. Metrobus, which works in the additionally at that point during the time found pivot to entryways, similar to path 70, 90 and S2, rides starting at 5 AM to midnight, and a few offices going nonstop. The rail framework is supplemented by Metrobus, which after that capacity time span and days fills in as another path to entryways. Hours may vary on holidays or during maintenance, and these should also be noted by visitors. Make real-time checks before you travel WMATA.
DC Metrorail Hours
The Metrorail system runs on different schedules depending on the day of the week. Here’s a breakdown:
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday – Thursday | 5:00 AM | 12:00 AM | Last trains depart right before midnight |
| Friday | 5:00 AM | 1:00 AM (Sat) | Extended late-night trains |
| Saturday | 7:00 AM | 1:00 AM (Sun) | Best for nightlife & weekend events |
| Sunday | 7:00 AM | 12:00 AM | Reduced frequency, perfect for leisure |
Dc Metro Operating Hours
DC Metro operating hours vary by day to meet commuter and tourist needs. Metrorail runs Monday to Thursday from 5 AM to 12 AM, Friday and Saturday till 1 AM, and Sundays from 7 AM to 12 AM. Metrobus services typically operate from 5 AM to 12 AM, with several 24/7 routes on busy lines. Plan ahead during peak hours (5–9:30 AM & 3–7 PM) for faster trains but higher fares.
DC Metro Service Frequency
| Time Period | Red Line | Blue / Orange / Silver | Green / Yellow |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekday Rush | 4–5 minutes | 10–12 minutes | 6 minutes |
| Weekday Off-Peak | 6 minutes | 12 minutes | 6 minutes |
| Weekend Day | 6 minutes | 12 minutes | 8 minutes |
| After 9:30 PM | 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 7.5–8 minutes |
DC Metro Bus Hours (Metrobus Schedule)
Metrobus is the lifeline for 24-hour connectivity across the capital. It covers areas not directly accessible via train and operates longer hours.
| Day | Standard Service | 24-Hour Routes |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Yes – on major corridors (e.g., 70, 90, S2) |
| Saturday & Sunday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Select routes run all night for late-night travelers |
🚍 Popular 24/7 Bus Lines:
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Route 70: Georgia Avenue–7th Street Line
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Route 90: U Street–Garfield Line
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Route S2: 16th Street Line
DC Metro Peak Hours
DC Metro’s peak hours are typically Monday to Friday, 5:00 AM – 9:30 AM and 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM. During these times, trains run more frequently, but they can be crowded—especially on major lines. Plan your travel outside these hours for a smoother, less rushed commute.
| Period | Time | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Peak | 5:00 AM – 9:30 AM (Mon–Fri) | Higher fares, more frequent trains, heavy crowds |
| Evening Peak | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Mon–Fri) | Same as morning – avoid if you prefer quiet travel |
| Off-Peak Hours | All other times & weekends | Lower fares, trains every 8–12 mins |
Washington DC Metro Hours by Day
Monday to Thursday
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Metrorail: 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM
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Metrobus: 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM (some 24/7)
Ideal for commuters, early meetings, or getting to work on time.
Friday – Extended Hours
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Metrorail: Until 1:00 AM
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Metrobus: Standard hours + 24/7 lines
Perfect for dinner outings, nightlife, or late office shifts.
Saturday Metro Hours DC
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Metrorail: 7:00 AM to 1:00 AM
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Metrobus: 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM + overnight routes
Enjoy your weekend events, shopping, and evening hangouts.
Sunday DC Metro Hours
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Metrorail: 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM
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Metrobus: 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM, select routes 24/7
Use this for brunch, museums, church, or sightseeing—but expect less frequent service than weekdays.
Maintenance & Alerts
DC Metro often performs maintenance work during late-night hours, especially on weekends. This can impact train frequency or cause delays.
Always check real-time updates using:
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Metro Pulse App (by WMATA)
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Google Maps or Transit App
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Twitter: @wmata
DC Metro Rush Hour
Weekday DC Metro rush hour runs 5:00 AM to 9:30 AM and 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. At these peak periods, more often trains run to make for an easier commute throughout Washington, DC and the nearby suburbs. But, the crowds are heavier and the fares are higher than they are on off-peak hours. Lines that attract the most congestion — especially those Red, Orange, and Blue — remember their tattered workhorses. For travelers looking for a less expensive, relaxed ride, outside of peak hours, Transit Metro should be considered. Timing your visit accordingly can help make getting around the capital a much less stressful experience.
DC Metrorail Holidays and Special Days Operating Hours
| Occasion / Date | Service Hours | Service Pattern | Fare Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular (Mon–Thu) | ~6:00 AM – 11:30 PM | Standard weekday schedule | Standard fares |
| Friday & Saturday | Opens ~6:00 AM, closes ~2:00 AM | Weekend-extended service | Standard fares; after 8 PM on NYE, free fares |
| Sunday | ~6:00 AM – Midnight | Standard Sunday schedule | Standard fares |
| New Year’s Eve | ~6:00 AM – 2:00 AM (next day) | Extended service | Free fares after 8 PM |
| New Year’s Day | 7:00 AM – Midnight | Reduced Sunday schedule | Standard fares |
| Christmas Day & Day after | 7:00 AM – Midnight | Reduced Sunday schedule | Standard fares |
Tools to Check DC Metro Hours Live
If you’re ever unsure about train/bus timings, use these tools:
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WMATA Trip Planner – Custom route & fare planning
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Transit App – Live train and bus arrivals
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Google Maps – Real-time schedules & delays
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Station Displays – Accurate “next train” timings
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a daily commuter, understanding Washington DC Metro hours will make your travel more efficient, affordable, and enjoyable. From early morning trains to 24/7 bus routes, WMATA keeps the city moving—no matter the hour.
Always check live updates, plan around peak hours, and explore the best of D.C. without any transit surprises. Safe travels!
Metro DC Holiday Hours
| Holiday | Metrorail Hours | Metrobus Service | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Sunday schedule (7:00 AM – 12:00 AM) | Sunday schedule | Reduced frequency |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Weekday schedule | Weekday schedule | Regular service |
| Presidents’ Day | Saturday schedule | Saturday schedule | Lighter service |
| Memorial Day | Sunday schedule | Sunday schedule | Early closing possible |
| Independence Day (July 4) | Holiday/Sunday schedule | Holiday schedule | Extra service for events |
| Labor Day | Sunday schedule | Sunday schedule | Limited late-night trains |
| Thanksgiving Day | Sunday schedule | Sunday schedule | Reduced buses |
| Christmas Day | Sunday schedule (7:00 AM – 12:00 AM) | Sunday schedule | Reduced service |
Happy Hour Near Metro Center DC
The Metro Center area is steps away from boisterous bars and restaurants with great Happy Hour specials. However, there are popular spots such as Penn Quarter Sports Tavern and City Tap House, which offer discounted bites alongside specialty craft beers. Bar Deco and The Hamilton offer style and specials on drinks for cocktails. Capitol City Brewing Company provides local beers and shareable plates if you are looking for a more casual vibe. These spots are just steps away from the Metro Center station, making it easy for people to take a time-out, hangout, and feast on inexpensive food and drinks right in the middle of downtown Washington, D.C.
Metro DC Hours Friday
The Washington DC Metro (WMATA) has extended hours every Friday, Open for commuters and evening travelers. Metrorail operates from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM (the following Saturday morning) on all six lines — Red, Orange, Silver, Blue, Yellow and Green — on Fridays. Trains typically come every 4–6 minutes during peak hours and every 8–12 minutes off-peak, and intervals are longer late at night. Stations are open until the last train is scheduled to depart (trains from terminal stations leave their track before closing). Riders should also be aware that closing times can be changed for special events, track maintenance or holidays. Travelers can access the most updated schedule by visiting the website or the Metro app before making trip plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques 1: What are the general DC Metro hours?
Ans: Metrorail runs from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM on weekdays, and until 1:00 AM on Fridays & Saturdays. Metrobus generally runs 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM, with 24/7 service on key routes.
Ques 2: What do people mean by “Metro hours DC”?
Ans : It refers to the daily schedule of both Metrorail and Metrobus, including start times, end times, and frequency.
Ques 3: What are DC Metro operating hours on Saturday?
Ans : On Saturdays, Metrorail operates 7:00 AM – 1:00 AM, and Metrobus runs from 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM, with overnight service on major lines.
Ques 4: What are the DC Metro hours on Sunday?
Ans : Metrorail runs from 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM, while Metrobus operates from 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM, with some routes running 24/7.
Ques 5: What’s the best time to avoid crowds?
Ans : Travel during off-peak hours—midday or late night (after 9:30 AM or after 7:00 PM) for less crowded trains and cheaper fares.
