Tips from the Locals About Visiting the DC Area  

  1. Wear comfortable shoes! You do a lot of walking in the area and being comfortable is a must!
  2. Be prepared for security checks at various sites.
  3. Make sure you have a pocket Metro guide with you at all times. It can come in handy!
  4. If you're going to be doing a lot of Metro riding, invest in the one-day pass. For $6.50 you can travel all you want (starting at 9:30 am on weekdays and all day on Saturday and Sunday) and going until Metro closes (midnight on weeknights, 3:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays).
  5. Always stand to the right when on escalators at the Metro or elsewhere. Washingtonians are usually in a hurry and many people walk the escalators. If you are not walking them too, stand to the right to give others plenty of room to get by.
  6. Do not eat or drink anything on the Metro, even on the platform.
  7. When waiting to board a Metro train, stand to the side of the doors to allow space for those who are trying to get off. This makes the whole process easier and faster and helps cut down on frustrated comments from folks wanting to get on or off!
  8. If you have a question about how to get somewhere on Metro or once you get off, ask the Metro attendant at the station. They are very knowledgeable and usually very helpful and nice!
  9. When walking in groups don't spread out and take up the whole sidewalk/walkway. Leave room for people walking from the other direction or for those behind you to come around you if they are in a hurry.
  10. Don't venture off into unknown areas alone. If you want to go somewhere, ask someone beforehand to make sure that it's safe.
  11. Be mindful of your valuables.
  12. Have fun! The Washington , D.C. area is a wonderful place with lots of things to offer. Make the most of your visit!