Using SEPTA Public Transit
Philadelphia’s vast and diverse transit system is not only convenient but also an inexpensive way to navigate the city and beyond. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority — or SEPTA for short — stands as one of the most comprehensive local transit networks in the United States, serving Philadelphia and its surrounding counties: Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia itself.
A Comprehensive Network
SEPTA’s expansive network comprises commuter trains, subways, elevated trains, buses, trolleys, light rail, and paratransit services. What’s more, these services are accessible for riders with disabilities and bicycle-friendly, making it a viable option for many types of travelers. Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring local attractions, or simply getting from point A to B, SEPTA can get you there.
SEPTA Subways and Commuter Rail
Broad Street Line
One of the main arteries of the transit system is the Broad Street Line (B-Line). This underground subway operates north/south between the Fern Rock Transportation Center in North Philadelphia and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park in South Philadelphia. The line also includes a spur that stops near the Historic District.
This route is an excellent choice for catching a game or concert at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, exploring attractions along Center City’s Avenue of the Arts, or visiting historic sites like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
Market-Frankford Line
Another notable line is the Market-Frankford Line (L-Line), colloquially known as "The El." It primarily runs west/east, traveling through Center City and into Northeast Philadelphia. This line provides a quick and efficient route to popular destinations, making stops near Fishtown, Northern Liberties, and the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
Regional Rail
For those needing to go further out, SEPTA’s Regional Rail network operates 14 distinct lines, extending across the region with over 150 stations. It reaches as far north as Doylestown, Pennsylvania, and south to Newark, Delaware. With convenient access to areas like University City and various suburbs, it’s easy to achieve a far-reaching commute or make day trips outside the city.
The Airport Line makes traveling to Philadelphia International Airport seamless from Center City, while the Trenton Line connects to New Jersey Transit, offering more options for those heading to New York City.
Local Bus Routes
SEPTA’s extensive local bus network is another vital component, featuring over 1,000 buses operating on 115 routes across the five-county region. Covering over 1,200 miles, the bus routes connect to local neighborhoods, major transportation centers, and other forms of transit.
For late-night travelers, the L1 OWL bus runs service from midnight into the early morning, specifically covering Northeast and West Philadelphia.
Trolley Lines
SEPTA’s trolley lines complement the bus routes, utilizing tracked vehicles on the Subway-Surface Trolley Lines. Some of these routes run above ground through West and North Philadelphia and connect to the subways in Center City. A classic choice, the Route 15 Girard Avenue Line uses restored 1947 cream-and-green trolley streetcars, providing a nostalgic route from Port Richmond to West Philadelphia.
Additionally, the Route 101 and 102 Media-Sharon Hill Line serves parts of Delaware County, showcasing the breadth of SEPTA’s servitude in the region.
SEPTA Fares & How To Pay
SEPTA Key
One of the key innovations in the SEPTA system is the SEPTA Key fare program. This digital transformation replaces traditional tokens, passes, and paper transfers with a plastic smart card that simplifies fare payment.
By using an RFID chip, riders can easily pay by tapping their card at validators, and the stored value can be loaded via the SEPTA Key app, website, or at station kiosks. Plus, the cards offer discounts at various local businesses.
Contactless Payments
SEPTA now also accepts contactless payments for single rides on subways, buses, trolleys, and Regional Rail lines. Riders can tap an RFID-enabled credit card or mobile payment solutions such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Venmo for quick and easy fare payment.
Standard Fares
The standard fare for bus, trolley, and subway rides is $2.90 when using a SEPTA Key Card. Contactless payments and cash (exact change required) are also accepted. Importantly, both the Key Card and contactless payments offer two free transfers within a two-hour window.
Regional Rail fares vary based on travel zones, ranging from $5 to $11 when using a Key Card or contactless payment, and $7 to $13 if purchased onboard. Special provisions allow free rides for children under 12 with a fare-paying adult and for seniors with a valid fare card.
FleX Passes
To promote exploration, SEPTA offers the One Day FleX Pass, available for $16.25, which covers up to 10 rides across multiple modes of transport. A three-day version is also available at a bundled rate.
New SEPTA Metro Wayfinding System
In an effort to improve user experience, SEPTA is rolling out a Metro wayfinding system that simplifies naming conventions for subway, elevated train, and trolley routes. This rebranding endeavor includes super simple single-letter names that correspond to color schemes for easier navigation.
As SEPTA transitions to “SEPTA Metro,” this modernization effort not only revamps the system’s image but also enhances clarity for both newer riders and seasoned commuters.
Whether you’re venturing through the historic streets of Philadelphia or navigating suburban landscapes, SEPTA provides an integral service that adapts to the needs of everyone in the region.