Boston

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Buses

Both city commuter buses and intercity bus services are important for navigating Boston and connecting to nearby areas.

Sections

Overview of the Bus System in Boston

Bostonโ€™s bus system is operated by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), commonly referred to as the "T." The MBTA bus network is extensive, covering Boston and its surrounding suburbs, and serves as a vital part of the cityโ€™s public transportation system. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to travel to areas not directly served by the subway or commuter rail.

Ticket Costs and Payment Methods

  1. Ticket Costs (as of October 2023):

    • Standard Bus Fare: $1.70 (with a CharlieCard) or $1.80 (with a CharlieTicket or cash).
    • Transfers: Free transfers between buses or from a bus to the subway when using a CharlieCard. Transfers are not available when paying with cash.
    • Monthly Pass: $90 for unlimited bus rides (or $90 for unlimited subway and bus rides combined).

  2. Payment Methods:

    • CharlieCard: A reusable, plastic smart card that offers the lowest fares. You can load money or passes onto it at MBTA stations, retail locations, or online.
    • CharlieTicket: A paper ticket that can be purchased at MBTA vending machines. Itโ€™s slightly more expensive than the CharlieCard.
    • Cash: You can pay directly on the bus, but exact change is required, and no transfers are included.

    Tip: If you plan to use public transportation frequently, get a CharlieCard for convenience and savings. These are available for free at MBTA customer service locations, such as the Downtown Crossing station.

How to Use the Buses

  1. Finding Your Bus:

    • Use the MBTA website (www.mbta.com), the MBTA Bus Tracker, or apps like Google Maps or Transit App to plan your route and find bus schedules.
    • Bus stops are marked with signs displaying the route number and destination.

  2. Boarding the Bus:

    • Wait at the designated bus stop. Some stops have shelters, while others are simple signs.
    • When the bus arrives, check the route number and destination displayed on the front of the bus to ensure itโ€™s the correct one.
    • Enter through the front door. If youโ€™re paying with a CharlieCard or CharlieTicket, tap it on the fare reader. If paying with cash, insert the exact fare into the farebox.

  3. During the Ride:

    • Hold onto the handrails or grab a seat if available.
    • Stops are announced over the speaker system and displayed on digital screens inside the bus. Pull the yellow cord or press the "Stop" button near your seat to request a stop.

  4. Exiting the Bus:

    • Exit through the rear door to allow new passengers to board more easily.

Key Routes and Stops for Major Attractions

Here are some popular bus routes that connect to Bostonโ€™s major attractions:

  1. Route 1 (Harvard Square - Dudley Station):

    • Connects Cambridge (Harvard Square) to Bostonโ€™s South End and Roxbury.
    • Stops near the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Boston Medical Center.

  2. Route 39 (Forest Hills - Back Bay Station):

    • Passes through Jamaica Plain and the Longwood Medical Area.
    • Stops near the Museum of Fine Arts and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

  3. Silver Line SL1 (Logan Airport - South Station):

    • A bus rapid transit route that connects Logan International Airport to South Station (a major transit hub).
    • Free when traveling from the airport to South Station.

  4. Route 66 (Harvard Square - Dudley Station):

    • Connects Harvard Square to Allston, Brookline, and Roxbury.
    • Stops near Coolidge Corner and Harvard University.

  5. Route 57 (Watertown Yard - Kenmore Station):

    • Passes through Brighton and Allston.
    • Stops near Boston University and Fenway Park.

Timing and Schedules

  • Frequency: Most buses run every 10-30 minutes during peak hours (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM). Off-peak service may be less frequent, with buses arriving every 30-60 minutes.

  • Operating Hours: Most routes operate from around 5:00 AM to midnight. Some routes, like the Silver Line SL1 and SL5, offer 24-hour service.

  • Weekend Service: Bus frequency is reduced on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly.

    Tip: Always check the MBTA website or a transit app for real-time updates, as schedules can vary due to traffic or weather conditions.

Accessibility Features

The MBTA bus system is designed to accommodate passengers with disabilities:

  1. Wheelchair Accessibility:

    • All MBTA buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair users.
    • Buses have designated spaces for wheelchairs.

  2. Audio and Visual Announcements:

    • Stops are announced over the speaker system and displayed on digital screens inside the bus.

  3. Priority Seating:

    • Seats near the front of the bus are reserved for seniors and passengers with disabilities.

  4. Service Animals:

    • Service animals are allowed on all MBTA buses.

    Tip: If you need assistance, donโ€™t hesitate to ask the bus driver.

Tips and Considerations for Travelers and Immigrants

  1. Plan Ahead:

    • Use apps like Google Maps or Transit App to check bus routes, schedules, and real-time arrival information.
    • If youโ€™re unfamiliar with the area, ask the driver to let you know when your stop is approaching.

  2. Avoid Rush Hours:

    • Buses can get crowded during peak commuting hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM). Travel during off-peak times for a more comfortable experience.

  3. Carry a CharlieCard:

    • Itโ€™s the most cost-effective and convenient way to pay for bus rides. Load it with enough funds for your trip to avoid delays.

  4. Be Prepared for Delays:

    • Traffic in Boston can be unpredictable, especially during rush hours or bad weather. Allow extra time for your journey.

  5. Stay Safe:

    • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially on crowded buses.

  6. Learn the Local Etiquette:

    • Offer your seat to seniors, pregnant individuals, or passengers with disabilities.
    • Avoid loud conversations or phone calls to respect other passengers.

Conclusion

Bostonโ€™s bus system is an affordable and efficient way to explore the city and its surrounding areas. With a little preparation and knowledge of the system, you can easily navigate to major attractions, neighborhoods, and transit hubs. Whether youโ€™re a visitor or a new resident, the MBTA buses are a reliable option for getting around Boston. Safe travels!