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Getting Around New York City

Getting Around New York City

New York City New York, USA Travel Guide

Public Transportation Overview

The NYC Subway is an AROUND-THE-CLOCK/7 rapid transit system with 24 lines and 472 stations. It mainly serves Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx. This system is the fastest way to navigate the city, especially for longer distances or during heavy traffic.

An extensive bus network applies to all five boroughs, complementing the subway and reaching areas not served by trains. Many routes operate 24/7. Buses are useful for shorter trips and offer street-level views.

Transit Options

  • Subway: 24/7, 472 stations, fastest for city travel.
  • Buses: Extensive network, includes all boroughs, 24/7 on many routes.
  • Roosevelt Island Tramway: Aerial tramway, scenic views, integrated into MTA.
  • Route maps: Available at stations, MTA website/app, Google Maps, Citymapper.

Ticketing & Fares

OMNY (tap-and-go) or MetroCard. Single ride: $2.90. 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard: $34. OMNY offers fare caps.

Hours & Frequency

Subway runs 24/7; frequency varies (2-20 mins). Buses operate regularly during the day, reduced overnight.

Accessibility

Many older subway stations are not ADA compliant. All MTA buses have wheelchair access. Check MTA app for accessible stations.

Tips for Navigating Public Transit

Efficient Travel
  • Use Apps: Citymapper and Google Maps provide excellent real-time directions.
  • Avoid Rush Hour: Subway is extremely crowded during morning (7-9 AM) and evening (5-7 PM) commutes.
  • Stand Clear of the Doors: Always allow passengers to exit before you board.
  • Know Your Direction: "Uptown" for north, "Downtown" for south trains.
  • Local vs. Express: Differentiate between local (stops at all stations) and express trains (skips some stops).
  • Check Service Changes: Weekend and late-night service changes are common.

Important Transit Hubs

Times Square

42nd Street.

Grand Central

42nd Street.

Penn Station

34th Street.

Atlantic Ave

Barclays Center.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services provide convenient, door-to-door transportation, especially when carrying luggage or traveling late at night.

Licensed Taxi Services

  • Yellow Cabs: Iconic, licensed, mainly Manhattan and the airports. Hailed on street with rooftop light on.
  • Green Boro Taxis: Licensed, outer boroughs (except lower Manhattan and airports).
  • Apps like Curb and Arro allow e-hailing and payment for cabs.
  • Metered pricing for rides (start $3.00), plus surcharges for peak/traveling at night, tolls, and tips. Flat fare for JFK-Manhattan yellow cabs ($70+).

Ride-Sharing & Safety

  • Uber and Lyft are widely available; book via smartphone apps.
  • Fares vary by demand, with surge pricing common.
  • Safety: Always confirm driver's name, license plate, and car model. Avoid unmarked cars.
  • Designated taxi stands are available at all airports and major transportation hubs.

Rental Options for Flexibility

Car Rental

Not recommended for Manhattan. For day trips, major companies (Hertz, Enterprise, etc.) are available. Valid driver's license and credit card needed. Check DiscoverCars.com.

  • Minimum age 21-25.
  • Heavy traffic, expensive parking, tolls.
  • Complex one-way street systems.
Bicycle Rentals

Citi Bike: Largest bike-share system. Thousands of bikes at docking stations across boroughs. Offers a single journeys, day passes, annual memberships.

  • Numerous bike rental shops.
  • Located in Central Park, Hudson River Greenway.
  • Hourly, daily, weekly rentals.
Driving Laws & Safety

Follow standard U.S. Traffic laws; speed limits typically 25 MPH. Right turn on red is generally permitted unless posted. Roads can be congested, aggressive driving is common.

  • Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Pay attention to parking rules.
  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals are limited.

Walking & Cycling Safety

Pedestrian Safety
  • New York City is highly pedestrian-friendly, especially Manhattan.
  • Popular routes: Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, The High Line, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Wall Street.
  • No-go areas: Generally safe in tourist areas. Use common sense in less-trafficked areas late at night.
Cycling Safety
  • Dedicated bike lanes are expanding.
  • Cyclists must follow traffic laws. Wear a helmet.
  • Be aware of pedestrians, taxis, and car doors opening unexpectedly.

NYC Transportation Tip

For scenic and efficient travel, consider using the NYC Ferry for unique perspectives of the skyline.

The free Staten Island Ferry is a popular, budget-friendly sightseeing activity.

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