The Broad Street Subway, also known as the Orange Line, is a vital north-south subway route in Philadelphia, efficiently connecting various parts of the city along Broad Street. From the bustling sports complex in South Philadelphia to the northern reaches of the city, the Broad Street Subway offers a convenient way to travel for both residents and visitors. Understanding how to use this subway line is key to navigating Philadelphia like a local. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to confidently ride the Broad Street Subway.
Getting Started: Your SEPTA Key or SEPTA Key Tix
To ride the Broad Street Subway, you’ll need to pay your fare, and the easiest way to do that is with a SEPTA Key card or SEPTA Key Tix. The SEPTA App is your first stop – download it for real-time schedules, detailed maps of the Broad Street Subway and other lines, and much more.
For occasional riders or tourists, SEPTA Key Tix, available within the SEPTA App, is a fantastic option. It allows you to purchase a QR-code “ticket” on your smartphone using a credit or debit card. This digital ticket can be scanned at fareboxes and turnstiles, making it incredibly convenient, especially for groups of up to five people traveling together on the Broad Street Subway. It’s a paperless and efficient way to pay your fare without needing a physical card.
If you are a more frequent rider or plan to use the Broad Street Subway and other SEPTA services regularly, consider getting a physical SEPTA Key card. With a SEPTA Key card and a Travel Wallet, each ride on the Broad Street Subway costs just $2, and you get free transfers to connecting transit within a specific timeframe. While cash is accepted, it costs more at $2.50 per ride and requires exact change, making SEPTA Key or Key Tix far more convenient and economical for navigating the Broad Street Line. Various passes, like Monthly and Weekly TrailPasses, TransPasses, and day passes, can also be loaded onto a SEPTA Key card for unlimited travel.
Finding Your Station and Entering the Platform
Broad Street Subway stations are easily identifiable by SEPTA signage. Use the SEPTA App or online maps to locate the station closest to you. Once at the station, and if you need to purchase a SEPTA Key card or reload your Travel Wallet, look for the Fare Kiosk. These machines are user-friendly and accept cash and cards.
To access the subway platform for the Broad Street Line, you’ll need to go through the turnstiles. If you have a SEPTA Key card or SEPTA Key Tix, tap your card on the validator located on top of the turnstile or scan your QR code. Listen for the chime and ensure the gate opens before proceeding. Before tapping or scanning, always double-check the overhead signs to make sure you are entering the platform for the correct direction – Northbound towards Fern Rock Transportation Center or Southbound towards NRG Station. Entering the wrong platform will require you to exit and re-enter on the correct side.
Riding the Train
Once you are through the turnstile and on the platform, stand behind the yellow line to ensure your safety while waiting for the Broad Street Subway train. When the train arrives, practice good passenger etiquette: allow passengers to exit the train before you attempt to board. Once on board, find a seat and pay attention to the station announcements or the route map displayed in the car to track your stop. Many Broad Street Subway trains also have digital displays indicating the next stop.
Exiting the Station
When you reach your destination stop on the Broad Street Subway, exit the train and follow signs for station exits. Unlike entering, you do not need to tap your SEPTA Key or scan your Tix to exit the station. Simply walk through the open turnstiles or gates.
Quick Tips for a Smooth Ride on the Broad Street Subway
- Stroller and Shopping Cart Awareness: Be mindful of others and ensure strollers and shopping carts are not blocking aisles or doorways.
- Courtesy Seating: Yield priority seats to senior citizens and riders with disabilities.
- Snacks and Drinks: Enjoy beverages in resealable containers and small snacks, but be considerate of cleanliness.
- Headphones are Key: Use headphones or earbuds to listen to music or videos; avoid sharing your audio publicly.
- Phone Call Etiquette: Keep phone conversations brief and quiet; avoid speakerphone use and silence your ringer.
- Check Your Belongings: Before leaving the train, double-check you have all your items and be aware of any unattended items.
- Operator Cab Door: Do not block the Operator Cab Door for safety reasons.
- Staying Safe: Do NOT move between subway cars while the train is in motion.
By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the Broad Street Subway with ease and confidence, making your Philadelphia travels smoother and more enjoyable. Remember to check the Broad Street Line schedules online to plan your trip effectively.
