Public Transportation: Explore Houston Sustainably
Rice University is perfectly positioned for easy access to Houston’s public transit network, making it simple for students, faculty, and staff to explore the city without a car. Whether you're heading to class, the Museum District, or downtown, public transportation offers a convenient, eco-friendly way to get around.
METRO Light Rail Access
Rice sits adjacent to the METRO Red Line, Houston’s light rail corridor that connects:
- Downtown Houston
- Midtown
- Museum District
- Texas Medical Center
- NRG Park (Reliant Park Complex)
With a station just steps from campus, the Red Line makes it easy to commute, explore, and attend events across the city. You can view the METRO Light Map on the METRO website here.
METRO Bus Routes
Several METRO bus lines stop within walking distance of campus, including:
- Routes 8, 26/27, 34, 73, and more
These routes provide direct access to neighborhoods, shopping centers, and cultural destinations throughout Houston. You can view local METRO bus route on the METRO website here.
METRO QCards
Through the Bursar's Office, students are able to access low to no cost METRO QCards:
- Undergraduate students receive a free METRO Q Card for unlimited rides on METRO buses and light rail during the academic year.
- Graduate students can purchase a $250-value METRO Q Card for just $55, making public transit affordable and accessible.
This program encourages students to engage with Houston’s vibrant communities while reducing their carbon footprint. You can learn more about Rice's METRO QCard Ride Sponsor partnership and request your card by going to the Bursar's Office website here.
Plan Your Trip
For real-time tracking, route maps, and schedules, visit METRO’s website here.