How to ride the bus in Raleigh

Raleighites can get around town and the greater area through GoRaleigh and GoTriangle. Learn how to ride the bus in Raleigh for public transportation at no cost.

A red GoRaleigh bus crosses a bridge in front of the Raleigh skyline as scooters and bicycles pass.

The City of Raleigh was named one of the 2023 Best Workplaces for Commuters.

Photo by the City of Raleigh

Table of Contents

Raleigh is home to nearly 40 bus routes through GoRaleigh, not to mention even more connections though other GoTriangle transit and local university bussing 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, a cheaper option, or just a break from behind the driver’s wheel.

GoRaleigh announced in March 2020 that fares will be suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This program has been extended through June 2024, so no need to worry about passes or fare.

Service routes

Most of the 30+ routes originate from downtown’s GoRaleigh Station, located near Moore Square at 214 S. Blount 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.

GoRaleigh’s bus tracker allows you to see your vehicle in real time to help you plan your route accordingly. The mobile app TransLoc also allows for easy travel + a system-wide view of buses.

As of January 2024, all routes are back to full service with many routes circulating every 30 minutes, which means your route is never too far away.

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.

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

Two upcoming projects, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and Raleigh Union Station Bus Facility (RUS Bus) are in progress in the 919.

BRT will provide speedy transportation throughout the city via high-capacity bussing and dedicated lanes starting in 2025. RUS Bus will join Raleigh Union Station and create another transit hub for Raleighites in the Warehouse District in 2026.