San Diego Trolley

San Diego Trolley next to the Westgate Hotel

The San Diego Trolley is very safe and easy to use. You can generally expect a very pleasant experience when using the Trolley to get around, regardless of where you are or the time of day. As with any public transit system, you should always be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Many of the Trolley stations are in very walkable areas. Some also have attached transit centers where you can transfer to local bus lines. Some of the MTS transit centers also have park and ride centers where you can safely leave your car.

Before you ride the Trolley, you’ll need to purchase a Pronto Card. A Pronto Card is reusable and can store both individual fares and long-term passes. The Pronto Card can be used on both the Trolley and San Diego’s bus system.

There are two ways to purchase a Pronto Card. The first is to purchase one at the station from a self-serve kiosk ticket vending machine. The kiosks are clearly marked. Here, you can pay with either cash or card. You can also download the Pronto Card app and purchase fares on your mobile phone with a credit or debit card. I personally like the Pronto App as it makes it easy to reload the card and use it at anytime without forgetting your card.

Old Town Trolley Station is a Hub for San Diego

Once you have your pass, you’ll be able to board the Trolley. There are no fare gates or conductors at the stations, although you will need to tap your card at the fare box for validation. Conductors may come through and check your fare while you’re on the train, which is why it’s so important to have a ticket before you board. If you’re caught riding without a ticket, you could be subject to fines.

Before getting on the train, be sure to check and make sure you are on the right platform. Each platform is labeled with the direction of the train. Each train is also labeled with its final destination on the front and side of the cars. As you ride, listen for the voiceover that announces the name of each station as you arrive.

Trolley Passing Through Core Columbia

The San Diego Trolley runs from approximately 4:30 AM until 12:30 AM. During most of the day, trolleys arrive every 15 to 20 minutes. Early in the morning and late at night, trolleys run every 30 minutes. The Blue Line, which sees the most ridership, runs approximately every 7 minutes between 6 AM and 7 PM.

It’s best to ride the Trolley during the day and early evening, when the trains come most often. Trains are likely to be most crowded during the morning and afternoon rush hours, but you’ll likely still be able to get a seat. You can still use the Trolley at night to get to your destination, you’ll just need to plan for additional travel time.

Be sure to check the Trolley schedule before you go to give yourself enough time to get to your destination. You can check the Trolley schedule using the Pronto app or the MTS website. There are also timetables posted at each station.

Erika at the Santa Fe Depot in Downtown San Diego

The San Diego Trolley is a very affordable way to get around town. One-way fares are $2.50 for adults and kids and $1.25 for senior, disabled, and Medicare customers. There is also a $2 fee for purchasing a new Pronto card.

Self-Serve Service

Remember that the San Diego trolley is self-serve service. Meaning you buy your tickets from kiosks that are located at stations.

If you’re going to be using the Trolley multiple times in one day, you may want to consider purchasing a day pass. Day passes cost $6. Those who are going to be in San Diego for an extended period of time can also purchase a regional 30-day pass, which is $72. The MTS also offers discounted 30 day passes for seniors and disabled customers as well as students and youth customers. These monthly passes are $23.

Be sure to always double check directly with the Metropolitan Transit System for any updates to the latest pricing for the San Diego Trolley.

If you’ve never taken the San Diego Trolley before, it’s important to be prepared. Luckily, the Trolley is very accessible and easy to ride. Here’s what else you should know before you take the San Diego Trolley.

Pronto App Has the San Diego Trolley Schedule

Download the Pronto App Ahead of Time

While you can get a physical Pronto Card at any Trolley station, you can save time and paper by using the Pronto app. This app is available for both Apple and Android devices. With the app, you can purchase fares from anywhere on your mobile phone using your credit card, debit card, or PayPal account.

With the app, you can purchase passes ahead of time and activate them when you ride the Trolley. The Pronto app will also save your payment information for future purchases. If you need to check the Trolley or bus schedules, you can do so easily through the app.

San Diego Trolley Waiting with Its Doors Open

Accessibility for Disabled Riders

The San Diego Trolley is set up to be accessible for riders that are in wheelchairs or otherwise have limited mobility. The station platforms line up with the floor of the Trolley cars, so disabled customers can board without climbing any stairs. There is also Braille signage at every station.

There are designated areas for disabled and senior riders in every Trolley car. Riders should be prepared to give up their seats for disabled and senior riders as needed.

Parking Lot at the Balboa Station Just Outside Pacific Beach

Parking Near the San Diego Trolley

Many San Diego Trolley stations have park and ride areas. This is a great option if you do not want to search or pay for parking in San Diego’s crowded downtown area. Parking at these Trolley stations is free. Note that you can only park at these Trolley stations for up to 24 hours.