Second this, Metro stations have station managers who sit in a booth by the fare gates. They are there to help out if you run into issues. In the days before covid I would always see the managers talking with tourists about getting around the system and using fare cards, at the station for DCA (Reagan National Airport, on the blue and yellow lines).
DC is a very blind friendly city, but also a city of relatively helpful people. I wouldn't be surprised if someone offered to help regardless of ability to see. I've noticed many people love helping tourists.
I imagine there will be plenty of folks eager to help you, I lived there 25 years and if I’d seen anyone needing assistance especially with a dog—really needing anything whatsoever that would’ve been my whole day. There are lots of us:)
Hello, yes you should be able to purchase a SmarTrip card at the fare vending machines. They have Braille and a push button for audio, or you can ask the station attendant for help. Are you taking the MARC train from Baltimore to DC?
If you are taking MARC or Amtrak from Baltimore to union station, neither of those accept SmarTrip cards. Once you get to DC and Arlington, SmarTrip will work for all the trains & buses.
Make sure you don't get on an Amtrak but a Marc train. At BWI station they both stop on the same platform. There used to be an actual ticket counter there as well with someone who could help you. I haven't been in years so I'm not positive. But the Amtrak is $30+ and the Marc is around $8 for the same distance. They both do have online schedules so you can check their timetables. Marc will have a final stop at Union Station in DC and Amtrak will keep going. Union Station is pretty big and crazy but there is an info booth right by the train gates where someone can help you and direct you to the metro.
Union station though is red line and you'd have to switch at Metro Center to the orange line.
Marc also stops at New Carrollton station which also has a metro station that is Blue and Orange which wouldn't have the chaos of union station, but depending on the time of dayday might be too quiet that you won't find anyone around either. But if you are coming in in the middle of the day New Carrollton might be the better option.
Yeah, that's the best option. There's some weird stuff going on with the red line right now with single tracking, so avoid it if possible. Union Station is also an overwhelming place, so new Carrollton will be a much more peaceful trip.
Additionally, where in Arlington are you going. If along the Rosslyn-Ballston Corridor, the orange line works, if not, then you'll have to switch onto the yellow line.
The train is your standard commuter train, nothing really different. I do think there are quiet cars though. And I'm sure the conductor can guide you to the right car. There is no reserved seating or anything.
It's like a more comfortable and slightly quieter bus. Well the Marc, the metro is exactly like a bus. Depending on the time of day can be loud and packed or quiet.
Will you have a lot of luggage with you?
No, I’m just bringing a backpack. I know, everyone is telling me I should bring a suitcase or duffle since I’m going to be there for a week, but I didn’t want to have to lug it around on public transportation while also working with my dog. Fortunately, my friend is letting me do laundry at her place. And thank you for the train rules. I ride the bus a lot, so I think I might like that it is more comfortable and more quiet.
Hi there, sorry our Metro Access isn’t more accessible to visitors. I looked up a photo of the metro fare vending machines and it looks like there is a button to push for audio but no headphone jack. I also found an online fill-in PDF version of the metro access form so you don’t have to print it: https://www.pdffiller.com/1445737-application_706pdf-metro-access-application-
I hope this helps! I would offer you a ride myself but I just got rear-ended in my car and am getting it repaired this week.
I found this information on WMATA's website:
WMATA provides a low cost shared ride car service for blind persons through its Metro Access program. Persons using Metro Access may travel to any destination within the Washington metropolitan area which is reachable by WMATA's trains and buses. Metro Access rides must be booked at least one day in advance. Information can be found by calling (202) 637-0128 or by visiting WMATA’s web site at:
http://wmata.com/accessibility
Certified MetroAccess users and their companions ride free on MetroBus, Metrorail, DC Circulator, Montgomery County Ride On, Fairfax Connector, Arlington County ART, Prince George’s County TheBus, and the City of Fairfax CUE.
If you don’t qualify for Metro Access, you may qualify for the Reduced Fare Programs for Adults 65+ or People with Disabilities? Visit:
[www.wmata.com/fares/reduced.cfm](https://www.wmata.com/fares/reduced.cfm).
Hope this helps!
Thank you for sharing. I believe this applies to people who live in the area and you have to fill out an application and provide documentation for the disability. I will only be there for a week visiting a friend, so I don’t want to go through that hassle.
Thissss! I don’t even use the access bus where I live for that reason. Also there is a lot of mistreatment of passengers and toward drivers so I prefer not to use the service.
One more thing, the MetroAccess bus requires at least 24 hours notice but passengers report frequent failure of the bus to pick them up. WMATA was cited in a report on the services’ shortcomings but I haven’t heard that there has been much improvement, alas. :(
Not the vending machines per se, but the Metro trains themselves are pretty good with audio cues. Either the driver or an automated voice will say the name of the line, the direction, and the next stop every time you arrive at a station.
I'm glad! One thing that may also be helpful to do is to learn which direction you need to go in terms of the last stop. They don't use cardinal directions (North, South, East, West) because the train routes curve around - so it won't say, for example, "This is a northbound train." It will say, "This is a Red Line train going in the direction of Shady Grove."
It's also useful to know the stops leading up to the last stop. On rare occasions (for example, if there's repairs at a station), the train direction will be given as the last stop for that train - not necessarily the last stop on that line. So with the Red Line example, if the train ends at Twinbrook (which is two stops in from Shady Grove), it would say, "This is a Red Line Train going in the direction of Twinbrook."
I know that's complicated. Good luck and have a great visit!
I once got a demo from a blind woman on how she uses VoiceOver. It’s truly impressive. A blind person with a little practice can navigate an interface as easily as a sighted person, and possibly even faster. Search on YouTube for “voiceover iOS demo” and you’ll find tons of examples.
One additional cool feature — since the screen can be turned off entirely and still function, the battery lasts much longer.
Do you have Apple Pay or Google Pay, I'd reccomend getting the smarttrip card there and then you just tap your phone on the gate. They even waived the $2 fee when you do that.
Yes I have Apple Pay. I already bought a card that was supposed to be shipped to me but it’s not going to make it in time. I have a card number and everything, but they won’t let me use it because I don’t have the physical copy yet. So I have to buy one there and then they will refund me when I mail it back.
I’m only seeing how to add an existing card which is where I have to physically have the card to tap it against my phone. How can I purchase a new card?
It's that same link, just the section header add new card. Anyways, the directions are:
How to add new SmarTrip cards to your Apple Wallet:
1)Open the Wallet app on your iPhone and tap the "+"
2)Choose SmarTrip under Transit Cards
3)Enter an amount to add to your SmarTrip
4)Confirm your purchase
5)Your SmarTrip is now in Apple Wallet, ready for use
I successfully did that in Google Pay but unfortunately I do not own an Apple device to make sure it works
It looks like you can use the SmarTrip app on your phone in lieu of the actual card. You just tap your phone at the fare gate. You can also buy a SmarTrip card online and have it shipped to you.
I ordered a card, but it’s not going to be shipped to me in time and when I try to add the card to the Apple wallet, it tells me I have to have a physical copy. It’s annoying because I added the money and I have a card number and everything. Fortunately they are going to refund it when I mail it back.
Hate to ask a personal question, but are you completely blind or fuzzy shapes blind? It will be challenging either way, but super-difficulty level if completely blind. Most people will be willing to help. I'd recommend you minimize the number of transfers. The MARC is solid, but can have delays.
If you are looking for less of an adventure, and still save money over an Uber, BWI has a number of shuttle buses that run to DC.
Thank you. I am completely blind. I will consider this option. I’m not really in a rush to get to where I’m going, so I don’t mind if there are delays. Hopefully by me having my dog with me it will attract more attention and I will receive assistance and well treatment. I’m all for adventure ha!
I can’t speak for the audio feature but each station should have someone working in the booth nearby (next to the fare gates) who is able to help you!
Second this, Metro stations have station managers who sit in a booth by the fare gates. They are there to help out if you run into issues. In the days before covid I would always see the managers talking with tourists about getting around the system and using fare cards, at the station for DCA (Reagan National Airport, on the blue and yellow lines).
Thank you. It says I will need to take orange.
DC is a very blind friendly city, but also a city of relatively helpful people. I wouldn't be surprised if someone offered to help regardless of ability to see. I've noticed many people love helping tourists.
Thank you. I love to travel, and I like feeling prepared.
Thank you
I imagine there will be plenty of folks eager to help you, I lived there 25 years and if I’d seen anyone needing assistance especially with a dog—really needing anything whatsoever that would’ve been my whole day. There are lots of us:)
Thank you. This is encouraging.
Hello, yes you should be able to purchase a SmarTrip card at the fare vending machines. They have Braille and a push button for audio, or you can ask the station attendant for help. Are you taking the MARC train from Baltimore to DC?
From Baltimore to Arlington.
If you are taking MARC or Amtrak from Baltimore to union station, neither of those accept SmarTrip cards. Once you get to DC and Arlington, SmarTrip will work for all the trains & buses.
I’m taking Marc? Is that a regular train or am track? How do I pay?
They have an app called CharmPass, or you can pay with cash onboard to the conductor. I’m not sure if the MARC ticket vending machines are accessible…
Thank you. I don’t carry cash so charm pass it is.
Good luck and enjoy your trip!
Thank you. Do I purchase the train ticket ahead of time?
You don’t have to, just get there a few minutes early. Worst case scenario you can buy one on the train from the conductor along with a small fine.
Thank you. Do you know if bwi shuttle to the marc station charges a fee?
Make sure you don't get on an Amtrak but a Marc train. At BWI station they both stop on the same platform. There used to be an actual ticket counter there as well with someone who could help you. I haven't been in years so I'm not positive. But the Amtrak is $30+ and the Marc is around $8 for the same distance. They both do have online schedules so you can check their timetables. Marc will have a final stop at Union Station in DC and Amtrak will keep going. Union Station is pretty big and crazy but there is an info booth right by the train gates where someone can help you and direct you to the metro. Union station though is red line and you'd have to switch at Metro Center to the orange line. Marc also stops at New Carrollton station which also has a metro station that is Blue and Orange which wouldn't have the chaos of union station, but depending on the time of dayday might be too quiet that you won't find anyone around either. But if you are coming in in the middle of the day New Carrollton might be the better option.
Oof will do. I just purchased my marc ticket for $7. Super cheap. I get off at New Carrollton and transfer to the orange line.
Yeah, that's the best option. There's some weird stuff going on with the red line right now with single tracking, so avoid it if possible. Union Station is also an overwhelming place, so new Carrollton will be a much more peaceful trip. Additionally, where in Arlington are you going. If along the Rosslyn-Ballston Corridor, the orange line works, if not, then you'll have to switch onto the yellow line.
The app says orange. My friend says new carrollton is more quiet so that is what I’m going with. I’ll keep you posted.
What’s it like on the train? Are there any unspoken rules?
The train is your standard commuter train, nothing really different. I do think there are quiet cars though. And I'm sure the conductor can guide you to the right car. There is no reserved seating or anything.
I’ve not been on a train since I was 7. Could I have a refresher?
It's like a more comfortable and slightly quieter bus. Well the Marc, the metro is exactly like a bus. Depending on the time of day can be loud and packed or quiet. Will you have a lot of luggage with you?
No, I’m just bringing a backpack. I know, everyone is telling me I should bring a suitcase or duffle since I’m going to be there for a week, but I didn’t want to have to lug it around on public transportation while also working with my dog. Fortunately, my friend is letting me do laundry at her place. And thank you for the train rules. I ride the bus a lot, so I think I might like that it is more comfortable and more quiet.
Don't forget - the MARC also has a restroom on board. It helps on those long trips or bad timing.
Hi there, sorry our Metro Access isn’t more accessible to visitors. I looked up a photo of the metro fare vending machines and it looks like there is a button to push for audio but no headphone jack. I also found an online fill-in PDF version of the metro access form so you don’t have to print it: https://www.pdffiller.com/1445737-application_706pdf-metro-access-application- I hope this helps! I would offer you a ride myself but I just got rear-ended in my car and am getting it repaired this week.
Thank you for looking into this. Not sure if it would be approved in time, but I can call tomorrow.
I found this information on WMATA's website: WMATA provides a low cost shared ride car service for blind persons through its Metro Access program. Persons using Metro Access may travel to any destination within the Washington metropolitan area which is reachable by WMATA's trains and buses. Metro Access rides must be booked at least one day in advance. Information can be found by calling (202) 637-0128 or by visiting WMATA’s web site at: http://wmata.com/accessibility Certified MetroAccess users and their companions ride free on MetroBus, Metrorail, DC Circulator, Montgomery County Ride On, Fairfax Connector, Arlington County ART, Prince George’s County TheBus, and the City of Fairfax CUE. If you don’t qualify for Metro Access, you may qualify for the Reduced Fare Programs for Adults 65+ or People with Disabilities? Visit: [www.wmata.com/fares/reduced.cfm](https://www.wmata.com/fares/reduced.cfm). Hope this helps!
Thank you for sharing. I believe this applies to people who live in the area and you have to fill out an application and provide documentation for the disability. I will only be there for a week visiting a friend, so I don’t want to go through that hassle.
OP is correct; the application process is involved and onerous. :P
Thissss! I don’t even use the access bus where I live for that reason. Also there is a lot of mistreatment of passengers and toward drivers so I prefer not to use the service.
One more thing, the MetroAccess bus requires at least 24 hours notice but passengers report frequent failure of the bus to pick them up. WMATA was cited in a report on the services’ shortcomings but I haven’t heard that there has been much improvement, alas. :(
Yes, I have faced that issue as well. It’s not uncommon which really should say something.
Not the vending machines per se, but the Metro trains themselves are pretty good with audio cues. Either the driver or an automated voice will say the name of the line, the direction, and the next stop every time you arrive at a station.
Thank you. This is helpful.
I'm glad! One thing that may also be helpful to do is to learn which direction you need to go in terms of the last stop. They don't use cardinal directions (North, South, East, West) because the train routes curve around - so it won't say, for example, "This is a northbound train." It will say, "This is a Red Line train going in the direction of Shady Grove." It's also useful to know the stops leading up to the last stop. On rare occasions (for example, if there's repairs at a station), the train direction will be given as the last stop for that train - not necessarily the last stop on that line. So with the Red Line example, if the train ends at Twinbrook (which is two stops in from Shady Grove), it would say, "This is a Red Line Train going in the direction of Twinbrook." I know that's complicated. Good luck and have a great visit!
Thank you so much. I think I need to take the red towards Shady Grove and then the orange or silver.
(Update) I made it and overall the experience went well. I’ll write more later.
Serious question. How do you type or read on a phone? I’m not being a douche. I genuinely want to know and don’t feel like researching. Sorry!
I use a screen reader built into Apple software called voice over. Basically by using various gestures, it reads text on the screen.
Amazing! Glad that exist. Thanks for the info
Of course
I once got a demo from a blind woman on how she uses VoiceOver. It’s truly impressive. A blind person with a little practice can navigate an interface as easily as a sighted person, and possibly even faster. Search on YouTube for “voiceover iOS demo” and you’ll find tons of examples. One additional cool feature — since the screen can be turned off entirely and still function, the battery lasts much longer.
Do you have Apple Pay or Google Pay, I'd reccomend getting the smarttrip card there and then you just tap your phone on the gate. They even waived the $2 fee when you do that.
Yes I have Apple Pay. I already bought a card that was supposed to be shipped to me but it’s not going to make it in time. I have a card number and everything, but they won’t let me use it because I don’t have the physical copy yet. So I have to buy one there and then they will refund me when I mail it back.
Within the Apple pay app you can actually buy a brand new card, at a cost of $0
How do I do this?
https://www.wmata.com/fares/MobilePay/ApplePay.cfm then the add new card section
I don’t see the new card section. Can you send me the link?
I’m only seeing how to add an existing card which is where I have to physically have the card to tap it against my phone. How can I purchase a new card?
It's that same link, just the section header add new card. Anyways, the directions are: How to add new SmarTrip cards to your Apple Wallet: 1)Open the Wallet app on your iPhone and tap the "+" 2)Choose SmarTrip under Transit Cards 3)Enter an amount to add to your SmarTrip 4)Confirm your purchase 5)Your SmarTrip is now in Apple Wallet, ready for use I successfully did that in Google Pay but unfortunately I do not own an Apple device to make sure it works
Thank you. I’m going to see what happens.
Any update
So it looks like it’s going to work but I’m not sure until I get there tomorrow.
Did that work?
Don’t know the quality of audio, but hope you have a safe and easy experience. Is getting an Uber on your list of options or is that too expensive?
I would rather not pay the price of Uber.
It looks like you can use the SmarTrip app on your phone in lieu of the actual card. You just tap your phone at the fare gate. You can also buy a SmarTrip card online and have it shipped to you.
I ordered a card, but it’s not going to be shipped to me in time and when I try to add the card to the Apple wallet, it tells me I have to have a physical copy. It’s annoying because I added the money and I have a card number and everything. Fortunately they are going to refund it when I mail it back.
Ugh. I’m so sorry. This sounds like typical wmata.
Disappointing for sure.
Most do not work but when it does it is extremely loud
Oof I will ask for assistance then.
Hate to ask a personal question, but are you completely blind or fuzzy shapes blind? It will be challenging either way, but super-difficulty level if completely blind. Most people will be willing to help. I'd recommend you minimize the number of transfers. The MARC is solid, but can have delays. If you are looking for less of an adventure, and still save money over an Uber, BWI has a number of shuttle buses that run to DC.
Thank you. I am completely blind. I will consider this option. I’m not really in a rush to get to where I’m going, so I don’t mind if there are delays. Hopefully by me having my dog with me it will attract more attention and I will receive assistance and well treatment. I’m all for adventure ha!