Living in a bustling city like Atlanta comes with numerous advantages, one of which is the accessibility of public transportation. The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, commonly known as MARTA, plays a pivotal role in the city’s transit system.
Whether you’re visiting Atlanta for a thrilling concert or a sports event, or perhaps you’re a local looking to explore the city, MARTA is an efficient and convenient option for getting around without the hassle of parking.
For those who might be intimidated by public transport, particularly if you’re used to systems like New York’s subway, let’s break down how to seamlessly navigate the MARTA train system.
First and foremost, to board the MARTA trains, you will need to purchase a ticket. New users or those who don’t travel on MARTA frequently are advised to opt for a Breeze Ticket. This can be obtained at kiosks located at the entrance of each MARTA station, just before you pass through the turnstiles.
One-way tickets are available for $2.50, and it is customary for first-time riders to buy a round-trip ticket to ensure a smooth journey back to where they started.
For those planning to use MARTA more frequently, a Breeze Card can be acquired, or you can download the Breeze Mobile 2 app to load money for rides. The kiosks allow you to load money onto your card or ticket, and if choosing the app, be aware that increasing your phone’s brightness can improve the odds of successfully scanning your QR code.
Once you have secured your ticket or card, the next step is to access the train. You’ll approach the turnstiles and scan your ticket or card as indicated. If done correctly, this will grant you entry into the train station.
MARTA’s train system operates in multiple directions—North, South, East, and West—with Five Points serving as the central hub for all train lines in Downtown Atlanta.
The red and gold lines run north and south, while the blue and green lines facilitate east and west travel. Stations are clearly marked with directional indicators for Northbound, Southbound, Eastbound, and Westbound rides.
Head towards the area near the train tracks to find the information screen that provides wait times for the next arriving train. Here’s a plus: MARTA trains stop at every station, allowing for easy boarding without needing to flag them down.
When the train arrives, let existing passengers disembark before boarding. Inside, there is ample space for both sitting and standing, making the experience comfortable.
As you travel, each stop will be announced by the train’s announcer, and the stations are visible through windows or on digital display screens.
Depending on your destination, you will either exit at your designated stop or transfer at Five Points if your journey requires it. For instance, if you are traveling north but need to change to a westbound line, Five Points is your connecting point.
Once you reach your stop or make your transfer at Five Points, the last step is exiting the train. This is also done by swiping your ticket or Breeze card at the exit gates, completing your use of the MARTA system.
With this guide, navigating MARTA can be a breeze, allowing you to concentrate on enjoying all the wonderful attractions Atlanta has to offer. Taking advantage of MARTA provides a more relaxed and environmentally friendly way to travel throughout ATL.
Whether you’re a visitor catching a show or a resident commuting to work, MARTA serves as a vital artery in the heart of the city, making public transit an enjoyable experience.
image source from：secretatlanta
