Raleigh is home to nearly 40 bus routes through GoRaleigh, not to mention even more connections through other GoTriangle transit and local university busing systems. Learn how to ride the bus in Raleigh like a pro with this simple guide — save this for the next time you want a night out in downtown without the Uber, a cheaper + greener option, or just a break from the driver's seat.

Service routes

Most of the 35+ routes originate from downtown's GoRaleigh Station, located near Moore Square at 214 S. Blount St. or the new RUS Bus Station at 525 W. Hargett St. From there, routes include Capital Boulevard to Triangle Town Center, Falls of Neuse to Strickland Road, South Saunders into Garner + more. Plus, take a bus to other transit hubs, including Durham, Cary, and Chapel Hill.

For those looking to maximize their time in downtown Raleigh, the R-Line is a handy circulator running every 15 minutes. The route starts at Raleigh Union Station and ends at the Raleigh Convention Center. Unlike previous iterations of the R-Line, riders have to pay standard fare.

GoRaleigh’s bus tracker allows you to see your vehicle in real time to help you plan your route accordingly. Mobile app Umo also allows for easy travel, a system-wide view of buses, and trip planning with a variety of options. Plus, track your bus's live location online.

Hours

GoRaleigh buses run from 4:30 a.m. to midnight on weekdays, from 5:30 a.m. to midnight on Saturdays, and from around 5:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Sundays, but individual routes may vary.

Fares

Standard single day fare is $1.25, and you can purchase a seven-day or month-long pass for a better bang for your buck.

For a cash- and card-free ride, commuters are encouraged to use the new Umo app to pay their fares, and those ages 13-18 and 65 or older will ride free through Umo. You can also purchase passes at the GoRaleigh Station, and day passes can be purchased as you board your bus.

Transit pro tips

For the commuters: If you have a bike, you can bring it at no extra charge. Read up on how to fasten your bike to the bus in less than 20 seconds. Additionally, take advantage of Park and Ride lots, where you can drive and board a bus to your location if you don't live near a stop.

Buses are additionally equipped with wheelchair lifts + accommodations for riders with disabilities.

Coming soon

Next up: Bus Rapid Transit, AKA BRT. With four corridors, this system will provide speedy, high-capacity busing and dedicated lanes. According to the City of Raleigh, construction is set to begin on the New Bern Avenue corridor this year, and the other sections are in planning phases.