With the South Coast Rail project running and heading into its first weekend, locals may be curious how this whole train thing works.
The MBTA commuter rail’s extension through Middleborough now links Fall River with Boston for the first time since 1958. It’s a 90-minute ride that advocates say opens another transportation option for work commuters, students, day-trippers, long-term travelers and more.
But for people living in a region unused to public transit, using the system could be a little confusing. Here’s a helpful starter guide to buying tickets, finding the schedule and more.
What's the South Coast Rail train schedule?
Download a PDF copy of the timetable here.
- The MBTA's official app, MBTA Go, can show you a map with the next available departures and live information on trains. The app is free and available for iOS and Android phones.
- The app also has a link to the MBTA's trip planner, where you can plug in your start and destination, time you want to leave or arrive by, and get directions.
- The mTicket app also contains a link to all commuter rail schedules.
- Each station also has posted copies of the timetable and electronic signs with the next few departures.
What apps should I have on my phone for the commuter rail?
- The MBTA Go app has info on all the MBTA’s commuter rail, subway, bus and ferry services. It can tell you what’s near you, when the next ride is due, and how much it costs. (iOS and Android)
- The mTicket app is the most common method to buy and store tickets. Every ticket is good for 90 days after purchase. Keep in mind, travel to and from South Coast Rail stations is free on weekends through the end of April and on Patriots Day. (iOS and Android)
- The PayByPhone app is for people who will be leaving their cars at MBTA lots. Signs posted at each lot have a code for the app. You tell the app which lot you're parked at, enter your license plate number, and use a credit card to pay your parking fee. Keep in mind, parking is free at South Coast Rail parking lots through the end of April. (iOS and Android)
- MBTA's SeeSay app is a way for people to report suspicious activity on the T anonymously, monitored by the MBTA Transit Police. (iOS and Android)
- The Transit app contains info on almost all public transportation near you, including buses, and not just the MBTA. It’s free to use within a certain range, but certain features require a subscription. (iOS and Android)
Where is the commuter rail station in Fall River?
The address is 825 Davol St., Fall River.
There’s also Freetown Station at 153 S. Main St.
Where does the Fall River/New Bedford Line go?
The line passes through East Taunton, Middleborough, Bridgewater, Brockton, Randolph, Braintree, Quincy and Boston, ending at South Station.
How long is the ride on South Coast Rail?
A trip from Fall River all the way to South Station is a little over 90 minutes.
How much does a trip on South Coast Rail cost?
It depends on how far you’re going.
Going all the way in to South Station will cost $12.25 one way if you’re paying full-price fare.
The price is less if you’re getting off earlier, and is based on how many MBTA zones you pass through. For example, going to Bridgewater is $3.50 one way.
Fares to and from South Coast Rail stations are free on weekends through the end of April and on Patriots’ Day.
Is there a bathroom on the South Coast Rail train?
Yes, there are bathrooms on board.
Can I bring my bike or dog on South Coast Rail?
Bikes are allowed.
Service dogs are allowed anytime. Pets are allowed only outside rush hour, and can’t sit on seats.
How do I get back home from Boston?
Check your schedule to find outbound trains; there’s also an electronic sign in South Station that has all next departures listed, with times and info on where to board.
Trains back from South Station run as late as midnight.
