DC Metro Offers $6.75 Rides to Wizards Game

Metro offers $6.75 maximum fare for Wizards vs Nuggets game using contactless payment

2026-01-23, Moovit News Team

Metro Offers $6.75 Rides to Wizards Game

Basketball fans heading to Capital One Arena for the Wizards vs Nuggets game can ride Metro for $6.75 or less, transit officials said. The transit agency announced the affordable option Wednesday, encouraging riders across DC, Maryland, and Virginia to skip driving and take public transit to the game. Metro's promoting contactless payment across its bus and rail network to make game-day travel easier.
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Contactless Payment System Simplifies Travel

The transit agency's highlighting its "Tap. Ride. Go." contactless payment system for fans traveling to the arena. Officials said the system works across both Metro bus and rail services, eliminating the need for physical tickets or cash. Transit agencies nationwide have been adopting contactless payment technology to streamline boarding and reduce transaction times. The system allows riders to pay with credit cards, debit cards, or mobile wallets directly at fare gates and bus readers.

Game-Day Transit Details

Metro didn't specify which rail lines or bus routes serve Capital One Arena, though the venue's located near Gallery Place-Chinatown station in downtown DC. Officials said the $6.75 maximum fare applies to trips across the system, making it affordable for fans traveling from suburbs in Maryland and Virginia. The transit agency didn't provide details about extended service hours for the game or whether additional trains will run after the final buzzer. Specific game time and date weren't included in the transit announcement.
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Implementation Timeline

The transit promotion was announced January 22, 2026, though officials didn't say whether the $6.75 fare represents a special game-day discount or standard Metro pricing. The contactless payment system's already operational across Metro's network, according to the agency. Officials didn't provide information about how long the promotion will last or whether similar offers will be available for other arena events.

Rider Benefits and Information

Transit officials said taking Metro helps fans avoid parking costs and traffic congestion around Capital One Arena on game nights. The contactless payment option means riders don't need to plan ahead or purchase fare cards before traveling. Moovit provides real-time Metro schedules and trip planning for riders heading to Capital One Arena and other DC-area destinations.