San Diego Transit is making it easier and safer to celebrate New Year’s Eve by offering free trolley rides and expanded late-night service throughout the county.

The Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) and the North County Transit District (NCTD) will provide free rides starting at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 31, and continuing until 3:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
This initiative ensures revelers can enjoy the festivities and return home safely. Free services include MTS buses, the Trolley’s fixed-route lines, and NCTD’s Coaster, Sprinter, and Breeze services. Additionally, those traveling to or from North County can take advantage of extended service between Escondido and Oceanside provided by NCTD.
For detailed information on New Year’s Eve service, including routes like the Green, UC San Diego Blue, Orange, and Copper lines, visit the SDMTS official website.
Tips for a Safe Journey in San Diego Trolley
To make the most of the free transit services, keep the following tips in mind:
- Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions while commuting.
- Check the special New Year’s schedules, as regular hours may change at the last minute.
- Download the MTS app or visit the website to plan your trip efficiently.
- Travel in groups if you’re using nighttime services.

Exploring San Diego’s Public Transit
San Diego, with its vibrant attractions and diverse landscapes, offers plenty to explore. For those looking to travel economically and efficiently—or simply avoid the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets—the city’s public transit system is an excellent option.
Here’s everything you need to know about San Diego’s public transportation and how to make the most of it.
The Metropolitan Transit System (MTS)
At the heart of San Diego’s transit network is the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), which operates an extensive network of buses and trolleys across the city.
Trolleys: Ideal for navigating downtown San Diego and surrounding areas. The trolley system serves the metropolitan region with three main lines (Blue, Orange, and Green) and additional lines that operate on specific days or during special events.
MTS Buses: Cover a wide range of routes, making it possible to reach nearly any destination. Be mindful of peak hours, as traffic can sometimes slow bus travel.
Tickets and Fares
Using San Diego’s public transit requires a valid ticket, which can be purchased at vending machines at bus stops and trolley stations. For convenience, download the MTS mobile app, where you can buy and store digital tickets. Fares are generally affordable and vary depending on travel distance.

Route Planning
To ensure a smooth trip, plan your route ahead of time using online tools like Google Maps or the MTS app. These platforms provide detailed directions, nearby stops, schedules, and estimated arrival times. Keep in mind potential delays and allow extra time to avoid last-minute stress.
Benefits of Public Transit
Choosing public transit in San Diego comes with many advantages:
- Cultural Experience: Public transit allows you to connect with the local community and experience the city’s vibe firsthand.
- Cost-Effective: Save money on gas, parking, and rideshares.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduce traffic congestion and your carbon footprint.
- Convenient: Enjoy a relaxed journey where you can read, listen to music, or simply take in the sights without worrying about driving.

Public transit is your gateway to exploring San Diego without the stress of navigating traffic or finding parking. Get ready to discover all this incredible city has to offer, and make the most of your New Year’s celebrations with free and extended transit services.
Happy New Year, and happy travels!