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How do most people travel in Boston?

The MBTA is Boston's public transportation system, and it's a great way to get around quickly and cheaply. The “T” refers to the subway, which runs throughout Boston, into Cambridge, and into nearby suburbs, providing access to all the attractions located in Boston. Just look for the big T in a circle to find a stop.



Boston is one of the few major U.S. cities where a significant portion of the population relies on something other than a private car. While driving remains common for those commuting from the suburbs, "Bostonians" themselves have the highest walking rate of any major American city. The city's compact, historic layout makes it exceptionally pedestrian-friendly. For longer distances, most people use the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), locally known as "The T." This system includes the nation's oldest subway lines (Red, Orange, Blue, and Green), an extensive bus network, and a commuter rail that fans out across eastern Massachusetts. Additionally, cycling has exploded in popularity, supported by the Bluebikes bike-share program and an expanding network of bike lanes. During the summer, water taxis and ferries provide a scenic alternative for those traveling across the harbor to East Boston or the Seaport. Overall, the "average" traveler in Boston likely uses a combination of the subway and their own two feet to navigate the "Hub."

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Boston is a friendly, walkable city with a great public transportation system known as the T (MBTA). All of Boston's downtown areas and neighborhoods are accessible by train, bus, trolley, or water transportation.

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Not only is the New York City public transportation system the most extensive in the country, but it's also one of the few that operates all night long. Both subway trains and bus services run 24/7.

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Boston's subway system - locally we call it the T - is the easiest and cheapest way to get around the city, aside from walking. It can also be the most frustrating. Trains get crowded, and sometimes break down.

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Almost three-quarters of current and former riders report feeling unsafe while using MBTA services. A poll conducted by the Boston Herald shows that 70 percent of current and former users of Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) public transit services express having felt unsafe while using the system.

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Boston (No. 50) is considered the least risky overall for drivers. Massachusetts' biggest city also ranked last in motor thefts per 100,000 people and last in DUI arrests per capita.

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There are several options for buying tickets or loading up your CharlieCard. You can buy or renew 1-day, 7-day, cash value, and monthly passes at fare vending machines. They are located at all subway stations. Fare vending machines accept credit, debit, and cash payments.

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Starting March 1, 2022, Route 23, 28, and 29 bus riders are able to board at all doors without paying a fare for two years. From March 1, 2022 through February 29, 2024, MBTA Routes 23, 28, and 29 will be free for all riders.

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You can use this remaining amount to pay your fare on another mode of transit, or reload it at a fare box or fare vending machine. On all MBTA buses, you can pay your fare in cash with coins or bills, up to $20. To pay your fare, tell the driver you are paying in cash, and insert the amount displayed on the fare box.

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Subway / Bus / Commuter Rail Public transportation via bus, subway, and commuter train serves as a vital link between Downtown and surrounding neighborhoods and the greater Metro-Boston area.

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New York New York has subways, buses, and commuter rail systems that connect all five boroughs. New York City has one of the best public transportation in the US, with over 400 stations and 650 miles of track.

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In general, subways and metros are an affordable way to travel in American cities. Some rapid transit systems charge a flat fee, while others may charge by distance or time of day.

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