About Minnesota Avenue Station
Minnesota Avenue station opened on November 20, 1977, as part of the original Orange Line extension into Ward 7, Washington DC, east of the Anacostia River. The station is the first stop in the Orange Line's journey through DC's far northeast quadrant toward the Maryland suburbs.
The surrounding neighborhood is a dense urban residential and commercial community anchored by the Minnesota Avenue corridor. Local businesses, grocery stores, community health centers, and social services cluster around the station, making it one of Ward 7's primary transit access points. Multiple Metrobus routes converge at the station, connecting riders to neighborhoods not directly served by Metrorail.
Ward 7 is a predominantly residential ward with strong community ties, local recreation centers, and neighborhood parks. The station serves as the neighborhood's primary link to jobs in downtown DC and Maryland, with fast service to Metro Center in under 20 minutes during rush hour.
Lines & Service
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Nearby Destinations
Rider Tips
- Multiple Metrobus routes connect at Minnesota Avenue station, including routes serving Benning Road, East Capitol Street, and Minnesota Avenue south toward Anacostia. Check WMATA trip planner for bus connections.
- The Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens — the only national park site dedicated to water lilies and lotus — is accessible by bus or bicycle from this station. Best visited in July when lotuses are in peak bloom.
- Minnesota Avenue is in Fare Zone 1, meaning the minimum $2.25 peak fare applies for all trips here. It is one of the most affordable DC stations for commuters traveling to downtown.
- The Marvin Gaye Park trail system begins near the station and follows a greenway corridor north through Ward 7. It connects to the Watts Branch stream valley trail for extended walking or running routes.
Adjacent Stations
Frequently Asked Questions
What neighborhood does Minnesota Avenue Metro serve?
Minnesota Avenue station serves the Minnesota Avenue corridor in Ward 7, Washington DC, a dense residential neighborhood east of the Anacostia River. The area has a mix of row houses, apartment buildings, local businesses, community health facilities, and schools along and around Minnesota Avenue NE.
How far is Minnesota Avenue from downtown DC?
Minnesota Avenue is approximately 15–20 minutes from Metro Center on the Orange Line, passing through Capitol Hill and crossing the Anacostia River. It is in Fare Zone 1, so the minimum fare applies for trips to downtown DC stations.
Is there parking at Minnesota Avenue Metro?
WMATA does not operate a parking facility at Minnesota Avenue station. The station is primarily accessed by bus, on foot, or bicycle by local residents. Street parking is available in the surrounding neighborhood.