All of the underground stations in the downtown area have signs with information about when the next trains (separate for MUNI and BART). Option 2: On the street If you're out and don't have time to check this stuff, or just are too lazy or drunk, just head to your stop and look for electronic signs telling you when your next train is. And while you're at it, subscribe to BART's service advisory system so you can make other plans if your normal train gets stalled somewhere.

You can get static schedule information about BART on your PDA too. BART has an estimated arrival tool too on its Web site. You can also sign up for pop up web and PDA alerts through myNextBus. It gives you the updated predicted time for the arrival of many, though not all, routes.

Check MUNI's NextMUNI page before you even think about leaving your house or office. Don't put much faith in the 511.org claims about when a train will arrive. Tip: bookmark the trip planner on your computer now.

After you've ridden your recommended route a few times, you may notice that it's easier to walk further or bike to a different station to make the trip faster or more pleasant. But keep in mind that that system only factors in allowing you to walk up to a mile. Option1: In front of a computer or with your PDA Use 511.org to plan your best route, including times. If you live in San Francisco, you're mostly like to either take the MUNI light rail or buses, which operate in San Francisco, or the BART trains, which go throughout the region (or the CalTrain, which I'm not covering in this Instructable).

The Bay area has scores of transit systems.

Bart ride planner