The Metrobus system encompasses 12,435 stops on its 1,489-square-mile route (it operates on all major D.C. arteries as well as in the Virginia and Maryland suburbs). You'll know the stops by their red, white, and blue signs. However, the signs tell you only what buses pull into a given stop, not where they go. Furthermore, don't rely on the bus schedules posted at bus stops, as they are often way out of date. Instead, for routing information, visit www.metroopensdoors.com or call (202) 637-7000. Calls are taken Monday through Thursday from 6:00 am to 10:30 pm, Friday 6:00 am to 11:30 pm, Saturday 7:00 am to 11:30 pm, and Sunday 7:00 am to 10:30 pm. Call this same number to request a free map and time schedule, information about parking in Metrobus fringe lots, as well as for locations and hours of the places where you can purchase bus tokens.

Base fare in the District is $1.25; bus transfers are free and valid for 2 hours from boarding. There may be additional charges for travel into the Maryland and Virginia suburbs. Bus drivers are not equipped to make change, so be sure to carry exact change or tokens. If you'll be in Washington for a while and plan to use the buses a lot, consider buying a 1-week pass ($11), available online and also at the Metro Center station and other outlets. Buy tokens at the Metro Center Sales Office, at 12th and F streets, the 12th Street entrance.

Most buses operate daily almost around the clock. Service is quite frequent on weekdays, especially during peak hours. On weekends and late at night, service is less frequent.

As with Metrorail, up to two children ages 4 and under ride free with a paying passenger on Metrobus, and there are reduced fares for seniors and people with disabilities. If you leave something on a bus, a train, or in a station, call Lost and Found at (202) 962-1195.

TRANSFER INFORMATION
If you're on the subway and plan to continue your travel via Metrobus, pick up a free transfer at the station when you enter the system (not your destination station). Transfer machines are on the mezzanine levels of most stations. With the transfer, you can subtract 85¢ from your bus fare, which means you'll probably pay 35¢ when you board a bus upon exiting your Metrorail station. There are no bus-to-subway transfers.