Cash on Seattle Buses: Your Guide to Not Getting Kicked Off (Unless You're Doing the Running Man)
Let's face it, Seattle is a pretty darn progressive city. We've got flying fish markets, a giant troll under a bridge, and enough coffee to fuel a small nation. But what about those times when you're feeling a little old school and want to pay for your bus ride with cold, hard cash?** Fear not, fellow traveler, for Seattle buses do accept cash! But just like that time you tried explaining cryptocurrency to your grandma, there's a few things to keep in mind.
Can You Use Cash On Seattle Buses |
Cash is King (But Only With the Exact Change)
That's right, forget about using your crumpled up fives and hoping for the best. Bus drivers are not walking ATMs. They won't be able to break your twenty for your measly $2.75 fare (as of July 2024, subject to change, just like your horoscope). So channel your inner Boy Scout and be prepared!
Pro Tip: Heading to Seattle and know you'll be using cash for bus rides? Hit up a convenience store and ask for a roll of quarters. You'll be the coolest cat on the bus, jangling that metal like a boss.
The Fare is the Hair (Don't worry, it's a metaphor)
While Seattle may be known for its grunge scene, your bus fare doesn't have to match. The current fare is a manageable $2.75, but it never hurts to double-check King County Metro's website just in case inflation decided to play a game of Monopoly and buy everything.
QuickTip: Every section builds on the last.
Remember: This is just the base fare. If you're planning on transferring to another bus, you might need a transfer or pay another fare.
So How Exactly Do I Pay with Cash? (Asking for a Friend)
Alright, alright, enough with the suspense. Paying with cash is simple, but timing is key.
- Hop on the bus: This might seem obvious, but hey, it happens to the best of us.
- Head to the farebox: It's that shiny contraption near the driver. Avoid the temptation to throw your cash at the driver like you're at a bachelorette party.
- Deposit your exact change: Seriously, they can't make change.
- Wait for that satisfying clunk: That's the sound of your fare being accepted (and maybe the driver judging your questionable taste in music blaring from your headphones).
- Grab a transfer if you need one: Ask the driver politely, unless you enjoy the scenic route (which can be pretty nice in Seattle, to be fair).
Easy peasy, lemon squeezy! Now you can relax, enjoy the ride, and maybe avoid making eye contact with anyone who might be silently judging your questionable dance moves (because hey, sometimes you gotta bust a move on the bus, no shame in that game).
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
FAQ: Cash on Seattle Buses - You Got This!
How to check the current fare?
King County Metro's website is your best friend:
How to get a transfer with cash?
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
Just ask the driver politely when you pay your fare.
How to avoid getting kicked off the bus?
Pay your fare, be respectful, and avoid synchronized swimming in the aisle (it's been tried, trust me).
Tip: Stop when confused — clarity comes with patience.
How to impress everyone on the bus?
Have the exact change ready and do the Macarena perfectly. Trust me, it's a crowd-pleaser (results not guaranteed).
How to find out more about Seattle's public transportation system?
King County Metro has all the info you need:
Now you're a Seattle bus cash pro! Go forth and conquer those public transportation journeys!
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