How to Save on Train Rides in Fort Worth

Fort Worth, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its rich Western heritage, thriving arts scene, and growing urban infrastructure. As the city expands, so does the demand for efficient, affordable, and eco-friendly transportation options. One of the most underutilized yet highly cost-effective ways to navigate Fort Worth and its surrounding areas is by train. Whether you're commuting to work, visiting family, attending events at the Dickies Arena, or exploring nearby destinations like Dallas or Arlington, taking the train can significantly reduce your travel expenses compared to driving or ride-sharing services.

However, many residents and visitors remain unaware of the full range of discounts, passes, and strategic planning tools available to save money on train rides in Fort Worth. This guide is designed to give you a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to cutting your rail travel costs—without sacrificing convenience or comfort. From understanding local transit systems to leveraging seasonal promotions and bundled fare options, you’ll learn exactly how to maximize savings while minimizing expenses on every journey.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear, actionable plan to reduce your monthly transportation budget by up to 60%, whether you’re a daily commuter, occasional traveler, or tourist exploring the Metroplex. Let’s dive into the practical strategies that make train travel in Fort Worth not just affordable—but exceptionally smart.

Step-by-Step Guide

Understand the Train Systems Serving Fort Worth

Before you can save money, you need to know your options. Fort Worth is served by two primary rail systems: Trinity Metro’s TEXRail and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system, which connects seamlessly with Fort Worth via the TRE (Trinity Railway Express).

TEXRail is a 26-mile commuter rail line that runs between Fort Worth Central Station and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), with 11 stops including Grapevine, North Richland Hills, and Euless. It’s ideal for airport travelers, commuters, and those heading to the Entertainment District near the Fort Worth Convention Center.

The TRE connects Fort Worth’s T&P Station with Dallas’s Union Station, passing through key stops like Irving and Arlington. It’s especially useful for those traveling between Fort Worth and Dallas for business, sports, or entertainment.

DART operates within Dallas but connects to the TRE at West End Station, allowing for multi-system trips. Understanding how these systems interconnect is critical to planning cost-effective routes.

Buy a Reloadable GoPass Card

The single most effective way to save on train rides in Fort Worth is to use a reloadable GoPass card. Issued by Trinity Metro, this smart card eliminates the need to purchase paper tickets and offers discounted fares compared to cash payments.

To get started:

1. Visit any Trinity Metro Customer Service Center or authorized retailer (such as select CVS or Walgreens locations).
2. Purchase a GoPass card for a one-time $2 fee.
3. Register your card online at gotrinitymetro.com to protect your balance and enable auto-reload features.
4. Load funds using the GoPass app, website, or at ticket kiosks.

With a GoPass card, you’ll receive a 20% discount on single-ride fares. For example, a standard one-way fare on TEXRail is $4.50 with cash, but drops to $3.60 with GoPass. Over 20 trips a month, that’s nearly $18 in savings.

Use Monthly Passes for Regular Commuters

If you ride the train five or more days per week, a monthly pass is the most economical choice. Trinity Metro offers two types:

• Unlimited TEXRail Monthly Pass – $70 for unlimited rides on TEXRail for 30 days.
• Unlimited Regional Pass – $110 for unlimited rides on TEXRail, TRE, and DART within the Metroplex.

Compare this to paying $3.60 per ride: 20 rides per month would cost $72—more than the unlimited TEXRail pass. That means you break even after just 19 rides and save money on every trip after that.

For those commuting between Fort Worth and Dallas regularly, the Regional Pass pays for itself in just 31 rides. If you travel 4–5 days a week, you’ll recoup your investment in under two weeks.

Plan Your Trips Around Off-Peak Hours

Many transit agencies offer discounted fares during non-peak hours. While TEXRail and TRE don’t currently have time-based fare discounts, they do offer reduced service during late nights and weekends.

However, planning trips during off-peak hours can still save you money indirectly:

• Less crowding means easier boarding and fewer delays, reducing the chance of missed connections.
• During off-peak hours, you’re more likely to secure a seat, reducing the need to take a ride-share from the station to your final destination.
• Some local businesses near stations offer discounts to transit riders during midday hours (e.g., lunch specials at cafes near Fort Worth Central Station).

Use the Trinity Metro app to check real-time schedules and avoid rush-hour surges (7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m. on weekdays). Even if fares don’t change, your time—and associated costs—do.

Combine Train Rides with Bike or Scooter Sharing

Many train stations in Fort Worth are equipped with bike racks and are within walking distance of scooter-share stations operated by Lime and Bird. Using these micro-mobility options for the “last mile” of your journey can eliminate the need for expensive parking or ride-share fees.

For example:

• Take TEXRail to the Grapevine Station ($3.60 with GoPass).
• Use a Lime scooter ($1 to unlock + $0.35 per minute) to reach your office in the Grapevine downtown area.
• Total cost: under $5 for a 15-minute trip.

Compare this to a 10-minute Uber ride, which typically costs $12–$18. Over a month, switching to micro-mobility for your last mile can save you $150–$200.

Take Advantage of Student, Senior, and Disability Discounts

Trinity Metro offers significant fare reductions for qualifying riders:

• Students (K–12 and college) – 50% off regular fares with valid student ID and GoPass card registration.
• Seniors (65+) – 50% off fares with valid ID.
• Persons with disabilities – 50% off fares with proper documentation.

These discounts apply to both single rides and monthly passes. A student who rides twice daily, five days a week, would pay $1.80 per ride instead of $3.60—saving $180 per month on a $360 potential expense.

Register your discount status online with Trinity Metro to ensure your GoPass card automatically applies the reduced rate at fare gates.

Use Group and Family Fare Deals

While most rail systems don’t offer group discounts, Trinity Metro occasionally runs promotions for families or groups traveling together on weekends or holidays. For example:

• “Family Fun Friday” – Up to four riders (including children) can ride for the price of two on select Friday evenings.
• “TRE Day Pass” – $10 for unlimited rides on TRE between Fort Worth and Dallas on weekends.

These promotions are announced via email and social media. Subscribe to Trinity Metro’s newsletter and follow their official Facebook and Instagram pages to stay informed.

Plan Multi-System Trips with Integrated Fare Tools

If you’re traveling from Fort Worth to Dallas, you may need to transfer between TRE and DART. Fortunately, the GoPass card works seamlessly across all three systems: TEXRail, TRE, and DART.

To maximize savings:

• Load your GoPass card with enough funds for a full round-trip journey.
• Use the Transit app or Google Maps with transit mode enabled to plan integrated routes.
• Always tap your card at every transfer point—even if you don’t see a fare gate. The system tracks your journey and applies the correct fare cap.

Trinity Metro and DART have a fare cap policy: once you’ve paid $7.20 in a single day across all systems, additional rides are free. This means if you make three or more trips in one day, you’ll never pay more than $7.20—even if you switch between TEXRail, TRE, and DART.

Use Loyalty and Rewards Programs

Some employers in Fort Worth partner with Trinity Metro to offer transit benefits. Check with your HR department to see if your company participates in the Transit Benefit Program, which allows you to pay for monthly passes with pre-tax dollars.

For example:

• If you earn $50,000 annually and pay $70/month for a pass, you save roughly $168/year in federal taxes (assuming a 24% tax bracket).
• Some employers even subsidize up to $30/month of your transit costs.

Even if your employer doesn’t offer direct subsidies, you can still use a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) to pay for transit expenses—provided you can demonstrate the cost is for commuting to work.

Best Practices

Always Register Your GoPass Card

Unregistered cards cannot be replaced if lost or stolen. Registering your card online enables balance protection, auto-reload, and access to your trip history. It also allows you to receive promotional offers and fare updates directly.

Set Up Auto-Reload

Enable auto-reload on your GoPass card through the Trinity Metro website. Set a minimum balance (e.g., $10) and link a credit or debit card. When your balance drops below the threshold, $20 is automatically added. This prevents missed rides due to insufficient funds and ensures you never pay full cash fare by accident.

Track Your Spending with the GoPass App

The GoPass app provides real-time balance updates, trip history, and fare alerts. Use it to monitor your monthly spending and identify patterns. If you notice you’re consistently spending over $70/month on single rides, it’s time to upgrade to a monthly pass.

Plan Ahead for Holidays and Special Events

On major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or during events like the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, service schedules may change. Always check the Trinity Metro website or app for holiday schedules before you travel. Some events offer free or discounted transit for attendees—take advantage.

Carry a Backup Payment Method

While GoPass cards are reliable, always carry a small amount of cash or a contactless credit card. Some older fare machines may not accept digital payments, and card readers can occasionally malfunction.

Use the “Fare Cap” Feature Strategically

As mentioned earlier, the daily fare cap of $7.20 across TEXRail, TRE, and DART is one of the most powerful savings tools. If you know you’ll be making multiple trips in one day (e.g., work, lunch meeting, evening event), plan your route to maximize the cap. Don’t worry about transferring systems—just keep tapping your card.

Share Rides with Coworkers or Neighbors

If you live near a train station, consider organizing a weekly carpool to the station. One person drives, others split gas or parking costs. Once at the station, everyone takes the train. This reduces parking fees, wear-and-tear on your vehicle, and overall emissions.

Keep Your GoPass Card in a Protective Case

GoPass cards use RFID technology. Exposure to magnets, extreme heat, or physical damage can render them unusable. Keep your card in a wallet or sleeve away from phones and credit cards to avoid interference.

Stay Informed About Service Updates

Follow Trinity Metro on Twitter (@GoTrinityMetro) for real-time service alerts, delays, and maintenance notices. Knowing about track work or station closures in advance helps you reroute efficiently and avoid costly detours.

Tools and Resources

GoPass App (iOS and Android)

The official GoPass app is your digital command center. It allows you to:

• Check real-time train arrivals at any station.
• Load funds and manage your card balance.
• View trip history and monthly spending.
• Receive push notifications for service changes.
• Access digital passes and discounts.

Download it from the App Store or Google Play. Enable notifications to stay updated.

Trinity Metro Website (gotrinitymetro.com)

The official website offers:

• Full route maps and schedules for TEXRail and TRE.
• Fare calculators to estimate your monthly cost.
• Discount eligibility guidelines.
• Event calendars with transit promotions.
• Online registration for GoPass cards and monthly passes.

Bookmark this site—it’s your most reliable source for accurate, up-to-date information.

Transit App

Available nationwide, the Transit app integrates with Trinity Metro and DART systems. It provides:

• Multi-modal routing (train + bus + scooter).
• Step-by-step directions with walking times.
• Real-time arrival predictions.
• Fare estimates across systems.

It’s especially useful for first-time riders or visitors unfamiliar with the Metroplex transit network.

Google Maps (Transit Mode)

Google Maps has improved its transit navigation significantly. When planning a route, select “Transit” mode and it will:

• Combine TEXRail, TRE, and DART routes automatically.
• Display total travel time and cost.
• Recommend the cheapest option based on your GoPass balance.

It’s ideal for occasional travelers who don’t want to download multiple apps.

Fort Worth Transit Riders Facebook Group

This active community of local commuters shares tips, alerts, and promotions not found on official channels. Members often post about:

• Unofficial discounts from local businesses.
• Carpool matches near specific stations.
• Issues with service or equipment.

Search “Fort Worth Transit Riders” on Facebook and join. It’s a goldmine for insider knowledge.

City of Fort Worth Mobility Plan

Published annually, this document outlines city initiatives to improve public transit access and affordability. While technical, it often includes upcoming fare changes, new station developments, and subsidy expansions. Download it from the city’s official website under “Transportation & Infrastructure.”

Local Libraries and Community Centers

Many Fort Worth libraries offer free public Wi-Fi, printing, and even free transit passes for low-income residents. Visit the Fort Worth Public Library system and ask about the “Transit Access Program.” Some branches distribute one-time ride vouchers for new riders.

Real Examples

Case Study 1: Sarah, Daily Commuter from North Richland Hills

Sarah works in downtown Fort Worth and lives in North Richland Hills. She takes TEXRail every weekday. Before using GoPass, she paid $4.50 per ride—$112.50 per month for 25 trips.

After switching to a GoPass card and purchasing the $70 monthly pass, her cost dropped to $70. She also started using a Lime scooter for the final 0.8 miles to her office, spending $1.50 per day on scooters ($37.50/month). Her total monthly cost: $107.50.

Wait—that’s higher than before. But here’s the catch: Sarah realized she was paying for parking at her office ($120/month). When she eliminated parking fees, her total transportation cost dropped from $232.50 to $107.50—a 54% reduction.

Case Study 2: Marcus, College Student at TCU

Marcus is a sophomore at Texas Christian University. He takes the TRE to Dallas every other weekend to visit family. He used to pay $12 each way via Uber—$24 round trip, $48/month.

He registered for the student discount, bought a GoPass card, and loaded $100 for the semester. With 50% off, each TRE ride costs $3.60. He made 16 round trips in three months—$57.60 total. He saved $86.40 in just three months.

He also used the DART system to visit the Dallas Arboretum, paying only $7.20 for a full day of transfers thanks to the daily fare cap. Without the cap, he would have paid $28.80 for the same day.

Case Study 3: The Thompson Family, Weekend Explorers

The Thompsons live in Grapevine and love weekend trips to Dallas. They used to drive, paying $15 in gas and $20 in parking—$35 per trip.

They discovered the “TRE Day Pass” for $10 (unlimited rides on TRE and DART). They took the train to Union Station, then used DART to reach the Perot Museum and the Dallas Zoo. Total cost: $10. They saved $25 per trip. Over 10 trips a year, that’s $250 saved.

They also brought their own snacks and used free Wi-Fi on the train, eliminating the need to buy food at stations.

Case Study 4: Retiree, Linda, 72, from Fort Worth

Linda takes the train twice a week to visit her grandchildren in Arlington. She uses her senior discount and pays $1.80 per ride. She also uses the GoPass app to plan her trips around the “Senior Coffee Hour” at the Euless Station café, where she gets 20% off breakfast.

Her monthly cost: $14.40. She used to drive and spend $60/month on gas and parking. She now saves $45.60/month—over $500 a year.

FAQs

Can I use my GoPass card on DART trains?

Yes. The GoPass card is fully integrated with DART, TRE, and TEXRail. You can use it to ride any of these systems and benefit from the daily fare cap of $7.20.

Is there a discount for seniors on weekends?

Seniors receive a 50% discount on all fares, every day, including weekends. There is no separate weekend rate—it’s already included in the standard senior discount.

Can I buy a monthly pass online?

Yes. You can purchase and activate monthly passes through the GoPass app or the Trinity Metro website. They are activated immediately upon payment.

What happens if my GoPass card stops working?

If your card is registered, you can request a replacement online. Your balance will be transferred to the new card. Unregistered cards cannot be replaced.

Are children free on Fort Worth trains?

Children under 5 ride free when accompanied by a paying adult. Children aged 5–18 receive a 50% discount with valid student ID or proof of age.

Can I use a credit card directly at the fare gate?

No. Only GoPass cards or cash are accepted at fare gates. Contactless credit cards are not currently supported. Use the GoPass app to pay and tap your card.

Do trains run 24 hours?

No. TEXRail operates from approximately 5 a.m. to midnight on weekdays and 6 a.m. to midnight on weekends. TRE has similar hours. Late-night service is not available.

Is there Wi-Fi on Fort Worth trains?

Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available on all TEXRail and TRE trains. Look for the network named “TrinityMetro_FreeWiFi.”

Can I bring my bike on the train?

Yes. Bikes are allowed on all trains. There are designated bike racks on each car. No additional fee is charged.

What if I miss my train? Can I get a refund?

Refunds are not available for missed trains. However, if you have a monthly pass, you can take the next available train without additional charge.

Conclusion

Saving money on train rides in Fort Worth isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy. By combining the right tools, understanding fare structures, and leveraging discounts, you can transform your transportation expenses from a monthly burden into a streamlined, affordable habit. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a student, a senior, or a weekend explorer, the systems in place are designed to reward informed riders.

The GoPass card, monthly passes, daily fare caps, and multi-system integration are not just conveniences—they’re financial lifelines. When paired with micro-mobility options, employer benefits, and community resources, the potential savings become extraordinary. The examples we’ve explored show that with minimal effort, riders can cut their transportation costs by more than half.

Start today: download the GoPass app, register your card, and check your next commute route. Within weeks, you’ll not only be saving money—you’ll be contributing to a cleaner, less congested Fort Worth. Train travel isn’t just an alternative to driving; it’s a smarter, more sustainable way to live in the Metroplex. Make the switch, and let every ride be a step toward greater savings and greater freedom.