good things come to those who ride.

The bus is a really easy way to get from Point A to Point B. But one of the best things about taking public transit is the fact that it means so much more to so many people.

• It's a ride, not a drive. Going places by bus is a lot less stressful than sitting behind a steering wheel. You can settle into a seat, stare out the bus window and find five minutes of peace. Plus, there’s free WiFi on board.
• It's sustainable for our city. Public transit is good for the planet. When more of us ride the bus, there are fewer vehicles on the road and fewer emissions, so the air around Des Moines becomes cleaner to breathe.
• It's accessible for all. No matter where you’re from or where you’re going, you can always take public transit. That’s what’s beautiful about a bus ride: Everybody can go places. Some people depend on DART for a way to work or school. Some people simply want to explore the city.

how to have a nice ride.

The bus is so simple to ride, the whole how-to is five steps:

1. Look at our route map to spot your bus stops. Or have our Trip Planner do it for you.
2. Arrive at your bus stop a few minutes early. 
3. Board on of three ways: Swipe your bus pass, scan your MyDART app, or deposit money in the fare box. 
4. About a block before your stop, pull the cord above the window or press the stop button on the handrail. This lets the driver know someone's stop is coming up.
5. Exit through the back door of the bus (if possible).

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a free ride to free your mind.

The D-Line goes round and round downtown, every 15 minutes. And it’s free to ride. Like, literally zero dollars. Hop on at any of the stops along Locust, Grand and Walnut. When it’s Farmers’ Market season, the D-Line will drop you off near the entrance.

Also, ask about Unlimited Access. If your employer or university is an Unlimited Access partner, you can ride DART for free. Just show an employee ID to the driver.

Is the bus really cheaper than owning a car or taking an Uber?

You bet! Let’s take the example of navigating from Caribou Coffee on Ingersoll Ave. to the Iowa State Capitol (less than 4 miles). How much would it cost?

• Uber: $9.50 
• Car: $2.19*
• The Bus: $1.75**

* Based on the Federal Mileage Reimbursement rate of 65.5 cents per mile. This doesn’t factor in additional costs such as your car insurance, monthly parking pass or metered parking rates.
** Of note, DART bus passes are available by the week or month, making for an even more cost-effective way to ride than a single ride rate.

How long would it take to get to my destination?

Riding the bus is quick and easy! Use the TripPlanner for a real-time look at buses heading to and from your desired destination. And, if you’re just curious what to expect, here are a few examples:

• The Sculpture Park in Western Gateway to Zombie Burger in the East Village: 11 minutes 
• The Drake University to DART Central Station in the center of Downtown: 13 minutes 
• Caribou Coffee on Ingersoll to the Iowa State Capitol: 15 minutes

I’m anxious to ride. Got any tips to make my first ride stress-free?

Give it a test. Have a destination and timeframe in mind, but allow yourself to learn as you go! A practice run will give you the confidence you need so next time you can take the bus to meet up with friends for brunch, a festival, concert or the Farmers’ Market without the worry.

Ask your Operator! DART bus operators are the best around and happy to help you get to your destination.

Bring a friend. Fun fact: You can even pay for you and your friend’s ride using the MyDART app.

Pick the perfect playlist! If you still need a self-esteem boost while you try something new like riding the bus, throw on your headphones and favorite soundtrack — you’ll be feelin’ good in no time at all! Or take our Transit Tunes playlist for a spin. 

What do people do while riding the bus?

Look: Take in the scenery around Des Moines including art sculptures and murals, historic architecture, trees and flowers, new restaurants and stores — there’s a lot to see while you’re riding along!

Listen: Enjoy music, a show, your favorite podcast or audiobook (headphones recommended).

Read: Catch up on your email, the latest news or dig into a book.

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