Free Mata Bus Rides: Still Available?

Memphis has a highly affordable and energy-efficient public transportation system, MATA, which consists of 47 bus routes and three trolley lines. While the lines can be challenging to navigate, MATA provides a user-friendly trip planner on its website. Bus tickets are priced at $1 for a single journey, with discounted rates for senior citizens. MATA has also recently introduced a 'Smart Card' system, which functions like a reloadable gift card, allowing riders to pay their fare by simply tapping the card on a machine when boarding.

MATA bus costs: $1 for a regular ticket, $0.50 for seniors

MATA, Memphis' public transportation provider, offers an affordable way to get around the city. While MATA buses are not free, they are a cheap way to travel, with tickets costing just $1 for a regular fare and $0.50 for seniors. This makes it a cost-effective option for locals and tourists alike, especially when compared to the cost of car-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

MATA operates 47 bus routes and three trolley lines, covering a wide area from downtown Memphis to the suburbs. The trolley line runs on a historic track through the city centre, while the bus routes provide extensive coverage across the city.

For those planning to use the MATA buses extensively during their stay, there are also unlimited-ride passes available. A FastPass costs $3.50 and offers unlimited rides for a day, while an unlimited 7-day pass is available for $16.00.

MATA has recently introduced a new ticketing option, the GO901 Smart Card, which functions like a reloadable gift card. This card can be loaded with up to $200 and can be topped up with deposits as small as 50 cents. The card can be tapped on machines when boarding the trolley or bus to pay the fare, offering a convenient and secure way to pay for rides. The smart card can be purchased for $2 at any MATA transit station, and users can load money onto the card through the GO901 app or kiosks located across the city.

While MATA continues to accept cash payments when boarding, the introduction of the GO901 Smart Card provides riders with a safer and more efficient payment option, bringing Memphis' public transportation system on par with other large U.S. cities.

MATA FastPass: $3.50 for 1 day, $16 for 7 days

Memphis has a cheap and efficient public transport system, which consists of 47 bus routes and three trolley lines. The trolley line runs on a historic track through downtown Memphis, while the bus routes cover the whole city, from downtown to the suburbs.

MATA offers a FastPass for unlimited rides. This costs $3.50 for a day pass or $16 for a 7-day pass. The day pass is ideal for tourists who want to get around the city without the hassle of buying individual tickets. The 7-day pass is perfect for tourists staying a little longer or locals who need to get around for a week.

The MATA FastPass is a great option for those who want to save money and avoid the hassle of buying individual tickets. It's also a more energy-efficient way to get around the city, helping both your wallet and the environment.

MATA also offers reduced fares for students enrolled in Shelby County Schools. The student daily FastPass costs $2.75, the 7-day pass is $13, and the 31-day pass is $40. To receive the discounted fare, students need to present a MATA ID card when boarding the bus.

MATA bus times: most run sunrise to sunset (5 am-7 pm)

MATA, Memphis' public transportation provider, offers an affordable and energy-efficient way to get around the city. Consisting of 47 bus routes and three trolley lines, MATA provides extensive coverage across Memphis, connecting downtown to the suburbs.

Most MATA buses operate during daylight hours, typically running from sunrise to sunset, which is approximately 5 am to 7 pm. It's important to note that there is no public transportation service available in the evenings. Each route has its own unique timetable, so passengers are advised to check the schedule before their journey to avoid any inconvenience.

To plan your trip effectively, MATA offers a user-friendly trip planning service on its website. Additionally, you can utilise resources like Google Maps or contact MATA's customer service line at (901) 274-6282 for assistance in navigating the bus system.

Tickets for the bus can be conveniently purchased onboard, with regular tickets priced at $1 and senior citizen tickets at $0.50. For frequent travellers, MATA offers a FastPass for unlimited trips, with options for a one-day pass at $3.50 or a 7-day pass at $16.00.

When riding the MATA buses, it's recommended to arrive at the bus stop at least 10 minutes early. You can also track the real-time location of your bus through the website https://mata.transloc.com/ to better manage your time.

MATA buses are a convenient and environmentally friendly way to get around Memphis, connecting you to various neighbourhoods and attractions across the city.

MATA bus planning: use the MATA traveller tool or Google Maps

MATA, Memphis' public transportation provider, offers an affordable and environmentally friendly way to get around the city. With 47 bus routes and three trolley lines, MATA covers a large area, from downtown Memphis to the suburbs.

To plan your trip on MATA buses, you can use the MATA traveller tool or Google Maps. The MATA traveller is the government's official trip planning tool, which is easily accessible online. Simply enter your starting point and destination, and the tool will guide you on your journey. Similarly, Google Maps also provides the option to plan your trip on MATA buses. If you prefer speaking to a customer service representative, you can call MATA at (901) 274-6282.

It is important to note that most Memphis buses operate from sunrise to sunset, around 5 am to 7 pm, and there is no evening service. Each route has a unique timetable, so it is advisable to check the schedule before your journey. You can purchase tickets directly on the bus or trolley, but you must have the exact change. Regular tickets cost $1, while senior citizens pay $0.50. For frequent travellers, MATA offers a FastPass for $3.50, providing unlimited trips for a day, or an unlimited 7-day pass for $16.00.

To ensure a smooth journey, MATA recommends arriving at the bus stop about 10 minutes early. You can track the bus's real-time location through https://mata.transloc.com/. When boarding, stand a few feet away from the curb as the bus approaches. For those with bikes, all MATA buses have bike racks, but be sure to inform the driver before boarding and exiting. Lastly, always keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded buses.

MATA Smart Card: a new, convenient payment option

The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) has recently introduced a new 'Smart Card' system, providing a new and improved way to pay for public transportation in Memphis. The GO901 Smart Card is a modern and efficient payment method, bringing MATA up to speed with other large U.S. cities. This new system offers riders a more convenient and secure way to pay their fares, enhancing their overall public transit experience.

The MATA Smart Card functions similarly to a reloadable gift card. Riders can easily load money onto their cards through the GO901 app or at kiosks located across the city, including at various retail stores like Walgreens and CVS. The cards can hold up to $200, with a minimum deposit of just 50 cents, making it accessible and flexible for all users. When boarding a trolley or bus, riders simply tap their card on the machine, deducting the fare instantly. This tap-and-go technology speeds up the boarding process, saving time for riders and reducing congestion.

Benefits of the MATA Smart Card

One of the biggest advantages of the Smart Card system is the added convenience and security it offers. With the card, riders no longer need to worry about carrying cash or having exact change for fares. The card is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for those on the go. Additionally, registering your card provides peace of mind, as lost or stolen cards can be replaced, and any remaining balance transferred to a new card. This feature ensures that your money is always protected.

The Smart Card system also brings MATA closer to its goal of providing efficient and safe public transportation. By expediting the fare collection process, buses and trolleys can operate more smoothly and securely, benefiting both riders and MATA personnel.

Availability

The MATA Smart Card is currently available for the trolley and bus systems, with plans to expand it to the entire MATA fleet in the future. The cards can be purchased at any MATA transit station for a nominal fee of $2. It's important to note that while MATA embraces this new technology, they continue to accept cash payments as well, ensuring that all riders have a choice in how they pay for their fares.

Frequently asked questions