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Getting Around New York City, USA

Globetrotter

18 May 2023 - 4 min read

New York City (NYC) is famous for its tall buildings and busy vibe, attracting both tourists and locals. With over 8 million people, it's important to have a map or guide to navigate the city and avoid getting lost or taking the wrong train.

Fortunately, there are multiple transportation options in the city, including the subway, bus, taxi, driving, biking, or walking. Choose the option that works best for you and enjoy this lively city!

Also read: Itinerary & Budget: 4 Weeks in the US with Family

Transportation Recommendations in New York City

The following are options for public transportation in New York City to get around the city.

1. Subway

Source: Unsplash @gcoppa

General information: The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) manages the NYC subway system, which spans over 665 miles, has 25 lines, and includes infrastructure and signals from the 1930s. At times, alternative transportation may be necessary during repairs and maintenance.

Operational hours: The subway operates 24/7

Fares: Each ride costs around $2.75.

Tips: Use the MYmta app or follow MTA on Twitter to receive real-time notifications of any schedule changes or closures. You can also plan your route using Google Maps.

2. NYC Commuter Line

Source: Unsplash @themcny

General information: To travel around the New York City area, you can use commuter trains in addition to the subway. Commuter train options include LIRR, Metro North, NJ Transit, PATH, and AMTRAK.

Pros: Trains are an inexpensive and convenient mode of transportation that provides access to remote areas.

Operational hours: Trains operate 24/7.

Fares: Fares depend on distance and transportation mode. The minimum fare for a MetroCard is $2.75.

3. Bus

Source: Unsplash @yekauk

General information: The Metropolitan Transportation Authority operates not only trains, but also subways and buses. One type of bus service is Select Bus Service (SBS), which has its own lanes and makes fewer stops. Limited Buses (LTDs) can be identified by their purple bus stops and the LTD logo. Additionally, there are express buses available during rush hour and on weekends.

Fares: In order to use the SBS bus, payment must be made in advance. Local, SBS, and LTD bus rides are $2.75, while express bus rides cost $6.75.

Tips: To avoid penalties for lost tickets, even if the driver does not check, pay your fare with cash or a MetroCard and keep your ticket safe.

4. Ferries

Source: Unsplash @maxwellridgeway

General information: The Staten Island Ferry, also known as the New York ferry, provides a scenic way to view the city as it travels down the river, connecting Manhattan, South Brooklyn, the Rockaways, Western Queens, and the Bronx.

Routes: During the summer, you can take a ferry from Manhattan to Staten Island, Governors Island, or Coney Island. Moreover, New York City offers the NY Waterway, which connects the two states via the Hudson River. It stops both at lower Manhattan (Battery Park City and Wall Street) and upper Manhattan (Jersey City, Hoboken, Weehawken, and Edgewater); the New York Waterway crosses the Hudson River.

Fares: Ferry rides in New York City range from $2.75 (one-way on NYC Ferry) to $21.50 (one-way on New York Waterway ferries on weekdays). To save money, monthly passes for NYC Ferry can be purchased for $121 through the ferry app or at the landings.

5. Taxi

Source: Unsplash @andyhenderson

General information: Yellow taxis are an iconic symbol of New York City and can be hailed by looking for a cab with its top light on and holding out your hand. If a driver passes you, they may be too busy or may have left the station.

Fares: A taxi ride fare starts at $2.50. If you're outside of Manhattan, the fare is $0.50 for each mile for the first 12 miles. If traffic is slow, an extra charge of $0.50 for every 1/5 mile is added. Other fees, like tolls, may also be charged.

Tips: Consider choosing a taxi based on its color. Green and some yellow cabs can travel beyond the five boroughs of New York City, but availability may be limited to certain areas.

6. Roosevelt Island Tramway

Source: Unsplash @patricktkindt

General information: Roosevelt Island is accessible by cable car and was once home to hospitals, asylums, and prisons. However, it has now become a popular tourist destination. The tram ride from Manhattan to the island takes between 7 to 15 minutes.

Operational hours: The cable car is open every day from 7AM to 2AM (Sun-Thu) and from 6 AM to 3:30 AM (Fri-Sat).

Fares: Passengers over 4'4" tall will be charged $2.75 for one-way and $5.50 for round trip.

Tips: Avoid peak hours including 7:00-10:00 AM and 3:00-8:00 PM.

7. Bicycle

Source: Unsplash @danieltadams

General information: New York City is bike-friendly with 1,375 miles (2,213 kilometers) of dedicated bike lanes, as well as bike riding options in parks and natural areas. CitiBike, a bike-sharing program, offers 20,000 bikes for rent at 1,300 stations.

Pros: You can use a mobile app on your smartphone to unlock bikes instead of needing a key.

Fares: Riding a bike for 30 minutes costs $3.50, while a daily pass is priced at $15.

Tips: Be cautious when riding due to heavy traffic. It's important to wear safety gear, such as helmets.

8. Walking

Source: Unsplash @vladhilitanu

General information: Walking is a great way to get around New York City, as there are always plenty of people making their way from Brooklyn to Manhattan 24/7.

Tips: Be cautious and aware of your surroundings in crowded areas to avoid getting lost or ending up in an unsafe place. Dress warmly during winter due to slippery and cold roads.

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