tourist using nyc subway

How to Ride the NYC Subway

The absolute beginner's guide to the new york subway, by minh t. nguyen, introduction.

Let's face it --the most convenient, cost-effective way to travel in New York City is by subway. For many first-time visitors, tourists, and even locals, however, the complexity of the system can be very intimidating and confusing.

Time and time again, I see tourists step on the wrong train, wonder why a train does not stop at their desired destination, or become stranded at some station with no clue where to go.

I don't blame them. The New York subway system is not the simplest in the world. What many native New Yorkers take for granted can be very confusing and unintuitive to outsiders.

Seeing so many visitors struggle with the system, I decided to write a guide to set them at ease. I make absolutely no assumptions about what you know about taking public transportation in New York and explain how to use it from top to bottom, sometimes in excruciating detail. I've added a lot of photos to help illustrate the subway system. My goal is to make an easy-to-read, step-by-step guide that allows you to overcome your fear and frustration with taking the trains and maximize your time and money while you are here.

I very much welcome your suggestions, feedback, and corrections. Please e-mail me if you have ideas on how to improve this guide.

Cheers, Minh T. Nguyen (he/him/his) [email protected] New York, October 2013 This guide was last updated in February 2024.

Next: the Basics

How to Use the NYC Subway: A Step-by-Step Guide With Area Maps

by: Max Vishnev, founder of CityRover Walks NY and licensed NYC tour guide

Are you intimidated by the thought of getting around NYC using the subway? Fear not! We’ve got your covered.

Using this detailed subway guide for beginners you will learn how to use the NYC subway like a local!

Read on to learn how to buy a MetroCard or use the new OMNY payment system, how to navigate New York’s massive subway system without getting lost, what the different subway fare options are, and how to get subway directions. We also include detailed area maps with subway stations highlighted for added convenience!

So let’s jump right in with some subway FAQs to answer your most pressing questions and quell some of your fears:

Table of Contents

• 1 Subway FAQs
• 2.1 What is OMNY
• 3.1 NYC Subway fare options
• 3.2 Step-by-step guide for how to buy a MetroCard from a vending machine
• 3.3 Important note for international visitors
• 4.1 How to use the Metrocard like a pro
• 4.2 Figuring out “Uptown” versus “Downtown”
• 4.3 Figuring out “Local” versus “Express” subway lines
• 5.1 Two practical examples of navigating the subway
• 6 NYC Subway Helpful Tips For First-time Visitors

Subway FAQs

The short answer is yes.  The subway system (just like city parks) reflects the overall safety of the city.  Violent crime in the city peaked in the early 1990s and has been on a downward trend since. Like other large cities, there was an uptick in crime during Covid, and there was a couple of high-profile incidents of violence on the subway, but the subway remains safe. It is the most common way for New Yorkers to travel, and each day has several million passengers. There will often be as many people on the subway (in Manhattan) at midnight as there will be at noon – maybe more.  You might even spot the occasional superhero (see Captain America relaxing on the subway when you scroll down): The longer answer is that you still need to be vigilant, use common sense, and exercise caution.   The subway platforms and cars can get pretty crowded, especially during the morning and evening rush, so don’t stay near the platform edge, don’t put your phone and wallet in your back pocket (where a pickpocket can get to it easily on a crowded subway car), don’t stare at anyone (as hard as that may be, sometimes), and certainly don’t get involved in any arguments (if there is a crazy or disruptive passenger on the same subway car as you, just switch to another car at the next stop).

Yes. There are kids of all ages riding the NYC subway on any given day. In fact, for most of us in New York City who have children the subway is the most practical way to get around — whether that’s dropping our kid off with a grandparent or at school or taking them to the doctor. You’ll see New Yorkers (and tourists) with newborns in baby carriers, toddlers in strollers, and older kids taking the subway home from school in the afternoon — by themselves — gasp!

A lot of New Yorkers find reasons to complain about the subway fairly regularly. And we are no exception. It’s not fun when you’re already running late and the train you are on is stuck in the station (or worse, between stations) because of a signal malfunction, a sick passenger on the train ahead, or just unforeseen train traffic (yes, “subway traffic” is also a “thing”). But oftentimes, we take for granted the fact that we have an enormous, 24/7 transit system that carries up to 6 million riders a day, most of whom are getting in and out of the tiny island of Manhattan, which is only 2 miles wide (at its widest) and is always crammed with people, cars, and buildings. So the fact that we have 472 stations and 22 lines (and 3 shuttles) and that most of us can afford the fare and that on MOST days, it does get us to work and home on time, is something we should appreciate, despite the occasional “commute from hell” (which can also happen in a car, on a bus, or on a plane).

The best time is usually “off peak” hours Monday through Friday.  That means after the morning rush and before the evening rush.  But with over 4 million “swipes” each weekday, the term “rush hour” is stretched over 2 to 3 hours.  Morning “rush” is usually from 7am to 10am, while evening rush begins before 5pm and can last until 8pm. During these times, the subway cars can get pretty crowded and the commute can become somewhat stressful.  On the most crowded lines, it is not uncommon for a subway car to be so packed with commuters that you might be bumping into people to your left and right, with a backpack in your face and a stranger breathing down your neck with morning coffee breath — that is if you can squeeze in at all. So unless you are an experienced strap-hanger, love crowds, or have a timed ticket somewhere, avoid the busiest times – especially if you are a NYC subway rookie.

No. Let’s not sugarcoat it. The NYC subway system is very big, often crowded, experiences occasional delays (or frequent delays, if you listen to grumpy New Yorkers late for work), and could be very confusing for first-time visitors, especially for those who don’t have much experience with large metro systems.  With more than 22 subway lines (plus 3 shuttles), over 700 miles of tracks, and 472 subway stations, it’s easy to get intimidated, lost, or both. This is why we wrote this guide. It is designed to give you some basic knowledge and confidence in using the system correctly and to lower your stress level as you plan your first trip to NYC.

But if even after reading the Subway FAQs above you still don’t think you can navigate the NYC subway system on your own or you want to local guide show you the real New York, contact us about a custom private tour during your visit to New York City, which would include one or more subway rides (and an orientation).  We also specialize in one-day NYC Highlights private tours to help you get the most out of a short visit to NYC.

To boost your confidence a bit right now, here is a graph from Bloomberg News showing annual murder rates in NYC from 1985 to 2022:

Still, even if you won’t get killed on the subway these days, you can still get lost. The NYC subway is the largest transit system in the world in terms of number of stations (472), which means that you have to know what you are doing before you use it.  Because with over 700 miles of tracks, if you go the wrong way, it might take you a little longer to get to your destination.

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Before you do anything else:

You must download a subway map onto your phone before using the system.  The map is something you can’t do without if you are new to the NYC subway.

To download a high-resolution PDF, go to: http://web.mta.info/nyct/maps/subwaymap.pdf

Google Maps is a great resource, they give directions using public transportation, even incorporating service changes and delays. However, even if you download a map of New York to use offline, you cannot access transit directions offline. This may be an issue If you don’t have cellular service in New York or once you’re on a subway in a tunnel you may not have service.

In addition,   mta.info  is a very useful website to bookmark, because it provides real-time service status updates for each subway line right on the homepage.  This is especially useful nights and weekends, when the MTA does most of the repair and maintenance work.  You can also sign up for email or text alerts for service changes and the latest status updates by subway line on the same site (may not be very useful if you don’t know which lines you will be using the most).

How to enter the system. You need a MetroCard to swipe in, or tap contactless cards or digital wallets using the new OMNY payment system.

Which to use OMNY or MetroCard

To access the subway you can use a MetroCard (which you fill with money or can purchse a weekly pass) or with the new OMNY system which with a tap charges the $2.90 fare to your credit card through a contactless card of a e-wallet.

Read about the MetroCard and OMNY to see which is best for you.

What is OMNY

Using the OMNY payment system may be your best option. Just tap your phone, smart watch or credit card and you’re in! It’s really easy, you can avoid the lines at the MetroCard machines, and you save yourself a dollar by not purchasing a new MetroCard. It’s a perfect option for those taking advantage of our One Day NYC Itinerary .

Once you use the same payment method 12 times in a 7 day period, each tap is free! It is the equivalent of a 7-day metrocard ($34), but without the upfront cost.

Every subway turnstile has a reader that looks like this:

You can pay your fare by touching any credit card or debit card that has this contactless symbol on the front or back:

Or you can use an e-wallet like Apple Pay, Google Pay or Samsung Pay. Make sure as you hold your phone or smart watch near the reader. Ideally, you have data on your phone, but if not, every subway station has free wifi..

It’s easy and even lets you transfer to buses like a MetroCard. If you’re comfortable with technology, why would you ever go through the trouble of buying a MetroCard? A couple of reasons:

• While you can swipe multiple individuals per contactless card or e-wallet, you will only receive one weekly fare cap benefit. You can use multiple payment methods for a family but this might be less feasible.
• You can tap in four individuals per contactless card or e-wallet at each OMNY reader, but for a large group, it may be easier to buy several MetroCards. There are ways to buy MetroCards in bulk, contact us and we’ll explain how.

The next section is how to buy a MetroCard

How to buy a MetroCard

Enter any subway station and look for a vending machine that looks like this:

Using the NYC Subway vending machines is, unfortunately, not as intuitive or user-friendly as it should be. But don’t fret, we wrote this guide with you, the visitor, in mind, so we’ll take you through it one step at a time!

All machines take credit cards, but not all of them take cash.  Even the ones that do take cash only dispense coins as change, so keep that in mind if you only have a $20 bill and only want a MetroCard with $11 on it – expect to get $9 in dollar coins. e machines will not give more than $9 in change.

If you would rather pay in cash and speak to a human being, each station has a booth with an MTA (Metropolitan Transit Authority) employee in it (usually!).  They can answer your questions, sell you a MetroCard for cash, give you a paper map (if they have any on hand – which often they don’t ), and even give you change in bills instead of coins.

NYC Subway fare options

• First , if you only plan to ride the subway once — one way — and you are not going to use the OMNY payment, you can go to any vending machine and purchase a single-ride card for $3.25.  After swiping it through the turnstile, you can toss it, since these paper cards are for one-time use only.
• Second , if you plan to use the subway at least a couple of times and you’re not going to use the OMNY payment method, then buy a “Regular” MetroCard (more on this below). The minimum amount to put on a new card is $5.80 (plus $1 for a new card)
• Third , if you plan to use the subway several times a day and are visiting for 4 days or longer, then buy a 7-day “Unlimited” MetroCard.  This card allows you to use the subway as many times a day as you please, without incurring any additional charges.  The fixed cost of this weekly card is only $34 (plus $1 for a new card).

Each ride with a “Regular” MetroCard is $2.90

So the break-even number or rides, is 12.  In other words, if you plan to ride the subway more than 12 times during your visit (which is not very hard to achieve if you do at least 4 trips per day for 3 days), then you’re better off just buying the 1-week “unlimited” for $34 (plus $1 for the card) .  Again the OMNY payment system means you always receive the best price.

Before you decide on “Regular” vs. “Unlimited”, keep this in mind:

You can swipe a “regular” card up to 4 times at any given time, while an “unlimited” card cannot be used more than once in an 18 minute period . 

So if you are traveling as a couple, a group of friends, or a family of 4, and you don’t think you’ll use the subway at least 12 times each , then you’re better off getting one “Regular” MetroCard and passing it to each other (perfectly legal).  Otherwise, you would have to get an unlimited card for each member of your travel party.  In other words, you can share a “regular” but not an “unlimited” (unless you want to wait 18 minutes between swipes!).

Step-by-step guide for how to buy a MetroCard from a vending machine

Come up to any available vending machine (like the one we showed you above), and touch the “Start” button, then choose your preferred language.

Then select the “MetroCard” button.

If you don’t already have a MetroCard, choose “Get New card”

Now choose Regular or Unlimited (based on what we discussed earlier).

If you choose “Regular” you will see the following screen:

Before you choose an amount, use this simple calculation as a guide:

Given that the cost per ride is $2.90, a round trip per person will cost $5.80.  If you are traveling as a couple, you’d need $11.60 combined to make a round trip.  If you’re a family of 4, you’d need $23.20.

It’s very unlikely that you will know ahead of time exactly how many time you will ride the subway, so pick an amount that you think you’ll definitely use up, and if you run out of money sooner than expected, just refill your card any vending machine (for this, you’d choose “Refill card” instead of “Get New Card”).

Once you’ve picked an amount, you will be prompted to choose a payment method. Remember, not all machines accept cash, so have a credit card handy.

Note: The image above reflects the old price of $31.  Now, the 7-day unlimited is $32 (+$1 for a new card)

Assuming you choose Credit Card, you will be prompted to dip your card. Look for the card slot on the bottom left-hand side of the machine.

Insert your card all the way into the slot, then pull it out. If the machine has read the card, you will be asked to enter your billing zip code.

Important note for international visitors

If your credit card was not issued in the United States, you do not have to enter your zip code.  Simply press the # key to proceed.  Only American card users have to enter their billing zip code, followed by the # key.

That’s it!  You are now the proud owner of a brand-new MetroCard.

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How to use the NYC subway

OK, so you’re a master of the OMNY system or just bought a shiny new MetroCard.  Now what?

With OMNY just tap and go. Make sure you’re activating your e-wallet. You may need to press your thumb or type in a security key on your phone.

For the MetroCard, you have to swipe your way in, which sounds simple but can sometimes be tricky.  The card readers installed in the turnstiles are finicky.  You have to treat them just the right way for them to let you in.  If you swipe too fast, try again.  If you swipe to slow, try again.  If you bend the card as you swipe, you’re wasting your time (and the time of the now-angry people behind you).

So here is all you need to know to be able to swipe in like a local:

How to use the Metrocard like a pro

Hold the MetroCard with the word “MetroCard” facing you, with the black stripe down.  Come up to a turnstile with the MetroCard in your right hand (the card reader is always to the right of the turnstile).  Then swipe in a forward motion, while keeping the card flat against the strip and straight (don’t lift it as you swipe, it’s not an airplane).  Swipe it at a normal speed – not too slow, not too fast.  And if you don’t get it right the first time, don’t panic, just try again.

Note of caution:

There are two types of turnstiles.  There are the regular turnstiles found in most stations, where the bar is horizontal and at hip level (like the one below).

There are also vertical turnstiles that are as tall as a professional basketball player.  When you use these vertical ones (like the one below), please make sure you push the bars that are the closest to where you swipe.  In other words, don’t reach for the next set of bars, which would be to your slight left; otherwise, you will have wasted a swipe.

OK, assuming you’ve made it successfully through the turnstiles, you are ready to ride.

Figuring out “Uptown” versus “Downtown”

Well, you’ve made the rookie mistake of swiping the card before checking if you’re entering on the correct side of the platform.  When entering larger stations, you can swipe first then pick a direction (downtown vs. uptown).  But with smaller stations (and there are many more of these in the system), if you swipe on the downtown side of the platform but want to go uptown , you will not be able to switch sides.  In such a scenario, you would either have to take the subway in the wrong direction until the next “big” station where you can cross over, or you would have to exit, cross the street to the other side and swipe again.

So let’s take a step back and talk a bit more about this whole “Downtown” vs. “Uptown” concept:

Manhattan is a skinny island that’s only about 2 miles wide and 13 miles long.  The shape of this crowded island naturally led to a mostly linear subway system (in Manhattan).  That means that most of the subway lines in Manhattan generally run in a north-south fashion.  In NY parlance, north is “uptown”, south is “downtown” .  Piece of cake.  Even a pigeon can remember that.

In many other cities “Downtown” implies a commercial core or hub, which could be up, down, left, or right.  In New York City, however, “Downtown” literally implies down town .  So if you look at a map of Manhattan, Downtown would be towards the bottom.

Given this fact, most subway stations in Manhattan will have a “Downtown” side (trains heading south) and an “Uptown” side (trains heading north).  The side you need depends on two factors: Where you are and where you want to go.

To oversimplify things a bit:

If you are generally heading south, take the “Downtown” side.  If you’re generally heading north, take the “Uptown” side.

Again, we are only talking about Manhattan here.

Look for signs above the stairs to figure out what side of the platform you need to go down to.

Here is what a “Downtown” sign would look like:

And on the opposite side would be the stairs to the “Uptown” platform:

But we are still not done!

To complicate things even more, there are Local trains and Express trains!

Figuring out “Local” versus “Express” subway lines

Before we tell you which one to use, here is how you can figure out if you even have the choice:

Many subway stations just have one track for each direction (one track for Uptown, one for Downtown).  You can call these stations “Local”, in the sense that only trains making every stop will stop at that station.

So if you get down to the platform and you only have a wall on one side and one track on the other, you don’t have to worry about Local v. Express, because Local is your only option at that station (though you might see the Express train speeding by on the second track away from the platform).

On the other hand, if you enter a bigger station and get down to the platform level, you might see two tracks – one on your left and one on your right.  That means you now have a choice between an Express train and a Local train.

“But how will I know which one is which?”

Don’t worry, each train platform is marked clearly with black banners hanging above your head.  Unfortunately, there aren’t that many banners per station, so if you don’t see one in front of you immediately, just walk in either direction for a bit until you see one.  They are usually positioned close to the stairs.

Here is what an “Express” sign might look like:

This sign tells you two important things:

• The A train on this track is heading into Downtown Manhattan along 8 th Avenue, then going into Brooklyn.
• It is also running on the Express track.

Here is an example of a “Local” sign:

Here, you can see that this train is also going Downtown via 8 th Avenue, but that it is running on the Local track.

So which one should you use?

If you want to play it really safe then stick to the Local to avoid getting on the Express and skipping your stop.  Express trains often skip several stations at a time.  For example, the D train goes express from 59 th street to 125 th (no stops in between), so you would not take this train to the Natural History Museum at 81 st street (just to give you one example).

Sticking to the local track ensures that your train will make every stop.

However, if you are good with maps and want to shave a few minutes off your ride, you can refer to the subway map where local stations are marked with a black circle and express stops are marked with a white circle (obviously, local trains stop at the express stops as well) to see if the Express train makes sense for you on a case-by-case basis.

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But that’s not all:

With 22 regular subway lines plus 3 shuttle lines (these just go back and forth between two points), you also need to figure out which line is best to take each time you ride the subway.

That’s why it is very handy to have a city map with you (ask your hotel concierge for a free copy, or just use Google Maps, save it offline!).  Find your current location on the map and determine where you are trying to go in relation to your current position.  Most city maps (whether printed or online) will show the closest subway stations.  Look for the stations near you and check which subway line(s) would get your closest to where you need to go. 

How to use Google Maps for subway directions

Leverage your smartphone while visiting NYC for step-by-step navigation. Google Maps provides just that, including detailed subway directions.

Two practical examples of navigating the subway

Example #1: You want to go from your hotel, the Casablanca in Times Square, to the 9/11 Memorial

Open Google Maps on your phone, tablet or computer.

• Type in your hotel name (in our example, the Casablanca). You will now see the closest subway stations indicated with the “M” icon.  Zoom in to see which subway lines stop at that particular station.  For example, “Times Sq – 42 nd St [1, 2, 3] tells you that the 1, 2, and 3 lines stop there.
• Now click on the Directions icon (look for the right arrow in a white circle). Choose the train icon, which represents “Transit”, then click on the opposite arrows icon to reverse direction.  Then type in “9/11 Memorial” as your destination.  Your screen should look something like this:

5.  By default, Google gives you the “best route” on top, which is determined by total commute time, number of transfers, and walking distance. To view this route, click “Details” under the top choice.  Here is what you will see:

As you can see from the map, the 9/11 Memorial is almost all the way at the bottom of Manhattan island, so to get there from the Casablanca Hotel, you would need to take the subway Downtown (not Uptown).  To be exact, the subway signage you need to look for will say “Downtown & Brooklyn” which just means that the train is heading south (Downtown) in Manhattan, then going into Brooklyn.

According to Google Maps, your total commute would be around 17 minutes and would combine using the subway and walking.

Quick note:

The step with the red line that reads: “Flatbush Av – Brooklyn College” does not mean you have to take the 2 line to Brooklyn College.  The stop you have to get off at is “Chambers St”.  “Flatbush Av – Brooklyn College” is simply the last stop in the direction you need to take the 2 line.  The conductor (or recorded announcement) will say something like “Passengers, this is a ‘Flatbush Av – Brooklyn College’ bound 2 train.  The next stop is Chambers St.”  That’s what you want to hear.

Example #2: You want to go from the 9/11 Memorial to the Empire State Building

Again, pull up Google Maps, use “9/11 Memorial” as your starting point, “Empire State Building” as your destination, and make sure you have the “Transit” option chosen.

Walking to the R train seems to be the best route, even though it’s 3 minutes slower overall than the next best route.  That’s because there is less walking with this route.  Of course, if you don’t mind walking a bit more, you can choose the second option.

But for the purposes of this example, we’ll choose the first option.  The route details look like this:

Notice that this time we are traveling north or Uptown .  The “Forest Hills – 71 Ave” label is once again the final destination of the R train, not the stop you need to get off at.  The stop you need is “34 Street – Herald Sq Station”.

When you get to the R station at Cortlandt Street, look for signs that say “Uptown & Queens”.  Why?  Because as we’ve established, you need to head Uptown, and the “& Queens” part just means that after going uptown, the R train will continue into Queens.  The alternative direction on the R train would be “Downtown & Brooklyn”, which is in the opposite direction of the Empire State Building.

By the way, Google Maps allows you to email or text your chosen route to yourself.  You can also print it if you have access to a printer.

OK, last thing before we get to Subway Tips:

The NYC subway system is pretty old.  Many stations in Manhattan are a century old or older (the first line opened in 1904, as we mentioned earlier).  And with nearly 6 million passengers a day and a system that never stops running, there is a lot of wear-and-tear.  Tracks need to be replaced, switches fixed, rats poisoned (no joke!), etc.

The Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) mainly cares about getting people to work and back home Monday through Friday. 

That means that the best times for them to do maintenance and repair work is weeknights and weekends.  Unfortunately, that’s also the time many tourists will rely on the subway to get around.  The good news is you can be prepared before you ride.

First , if you know where you’ll be headed Saturday morning and it’s Friday night, go to Google Maps and plug in your destination, but instead of “Leaving now” choose “Depart at” and pick a later date (say Saturday at 10am).  Google incorporates planned service changes into their route recommendations.

Second , you can also check the latest status of subway service (by line) on the homepage of mta.info :

But if you didn’t do any of that before you got to the platform, look for postings that look like this:

These service change announcements will tell you what’s happening and what your route alternatives are.

Look, we know all this may sound very intimidating, but you should get the hang of it pretty quickly once you start using it.  And if all else fails, ask someone who looks like a local (and isn’t talking to himself).  Most New Yorkers will be happy to give you directions.

OK, if you got this far, you should now have the confidence to use the NYC subway without getting lost (at least, not completely).  So in the last section of this post, we wanted to share with you a few tips that will make your subway experience more pleasant.

NYC Subway Helpful Tips For First-time Visitors

Use these tips to avoid pissing off locals when using the subway

If you are new to the MetroCard and haven’t figured out the right swiping speed yet, please be courteous during rush hour and let others pass if you can’t get it to work.  Don’t become a bottleneck, or risk the wrath of angry commuters grumbling and breathing down your neck.  But if you see the evil “ Please swipe again  at this turnstile ” message, take a deep breath, relax, focus, and swipe at a moderate speed (not too fast, not too slow).  But do not surrender your spot or you may lose your fare.

Step away from the edge of the platform.  Platforms are often crowded and there are a lot of New Yorkers in a rush to get somewhere.  The last thing you want is to have to climb out of the tracks with an oncoming train blinding you with its lights.  “Don’t become a statistic,” as they say.  Or a deer in headlights.

If you see a mostly empty subway car during rush hour, or one with all the people crowded to one side, there is probably a good reason for it.  So unless you have no sense of smell, then hustle over to the next car before the doors close.  Homelessness, poverty, and mental illness are a tragic reality for some New Yorkers, who sometimes find shelter and respite on the subways, especially in the colder months.

If there are no available seats and the train car is full, it’s OK to stand next to the doors, but please step off at each stop to let people off.  Don’t become those annoying riders who block the doors feigning ignorance while staring at their phone screens.

There are lots of talented musicians who supplement their incomes by performing on the subway – a cappella, guitar, drums, sax, a mariachi band, the occasional cello — you name it.  So if you like what you hear, feel free to tip.  They are not making up a sob story or using their kids as bait; they are simply there to entertain us as we ride.  And sometimes, a great song is exactly what we need for a little morning “pick-me-up”.

Don’t stare at anyone.  New York is full of interesting characters, and the subway is often the best place to spot them (because, by definition, we are all stuck in place for a while).  Glancing is OK, staring is not.  You never know who you might offend or set off.  Plus, in New York when we see a celebrity or someone unconventional, we play it cool!

It is also not encouraged to just start talking to strangers on the subway,  unless  you are asking for directions.  We are a city of 8.8 million residents, and we make it work because we follow certain unwritten rules.  We are willing to wait in lunch and coffee lines.  We patiently fan ourselves waiting for trains on stifling platforms in the summer heat.  We stand shoulder-to-shoulder, or sit hip-to-hip on rush-hour trains without uttering a word or even acknowledging each other’s existence.  Sometimes, we accidentally touch each other, like when a subway pole is full of hands and you place yours on someone else’s by accident.  The most you will hear is “sorry”, but more often than not, just a quick change in hand placement will placate the other party, preferably without eye contact.  We occasionally bump shoulders on crowded sidewalks full of rushed commuters and don’t even bother to turn around.  But the one thing many New Yorkers won’t tolerate is to be engaged in random small-talk on the subway.  Perhaps we haven’t had our morning coffee yet, or maybe it’s 7pm and we’ve had a long day at the office, hate our boss, our job, the crowded train, or life itself, and the last thing we need is to be engaged in conversation.

Now with all that out of the way, go out there and ride with confidence! If you wish to get a local’s view of the city along with an in-person intro to the subway, then contact us for a custom private tour , and we’ll show you the best of New York and teach how to use the subway on your personalized sightseeing tour.

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The Ultimate NYC Subway Guide for Tourists by a Local

April 18, 2017 By Thither Staff 2 Comments

Over 5 million people take the New York City subway every weekday. I’m one of them.

With over 400 stations, the NYC subway system, run by the MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) is one of the most complex in the world. This sentence from a TimeOut NYC article sums up my feelings about the NYC subway perfectly: “ New Yorkers like to boast that the NYC subway system is the best in the world (even as we complain about how crummy it is in the very next breath )”. If you want to get a feel of the ‘real’ New York City, taking the public transport is a must.

But how do you actually use the subway? What are the dos and don’ts?

This NYC Subway Guide has the answers, local tips and more.

Feel free to use the table of contents at the left when you need to quickly jump to a part of the guide.

NYC Subway Guide Contents

• Finding Your Way Around: How to Navigate the NYC Subway
• Express Trains and Local Trains
• Best NYC Subway App and Other Resources
• Subway Fares
• Etiquette and Unspoken Rules
• Safety: How not to fall onto the tracks and die & not get mugged by random crazy people
• How To Look Like a Local on the Subway

Bathrooms in the Subway

Wifi and cell phone reception, train lines and their reputations, wheelchair accessibility.

• Interesting Things To See In the Subway
• Subway Fun Facts
• Download a Printable Version

Infographic

Navigation basics: finding your way around.

There are lots of complex methods for navigating the subway, but the easiest thing to do is simply downloading an app. But there are a ton of apps. NYC Subway by Mapway  is the one I personally use, and the one which I think is the best. One crucial benefit is that it works perfectly while offline.

To find it just search “NYC subway” in the app store. It’s available for both Apple and Android .

Using it is simple. When you first view the app you are shown a NYC subway map which you can zoom in on.

By tapping on a station, you are brought up a screen with information about the station including what trains stop there.

Tap on the word “Route”, to route your trip – select a starting station, then select the station of your final destination. The app will then tell you if and where you need to transfer, how many stops it takes and approximately how long the trip will take.

Paying for a subway app is unnecessary – most of the good ones are completely free. There are ads within the app, which can be annoying, but they don’t work when you’re offline.

It occasionally gives you alerts when there are service changes or MTA travel alerts.

Also check out Citymapper for planning your NYC subway journey.

Things to keep in mind:

• Although the train colors might be the same, they can go completely different places. For example: the R and Q trains are both yellow lines, but the R train goes to Queens while the Q train doesn’t.
• On the weekends, most trains are inconsistent, slower and more annoying in general because of repair work.
• While the subway is technically operational 24/7, at night some trains don’t run or are very infrequent
• When transferring, look up at the signs. There are arrows pointing you towards where you’ll need to go and where the subway line you’re looking for is.
• Remember to make sure if you know you’re going Uptown or Downtown.

New York City Subway Map

With an app, like Mapway, you don’t need to download the subway map.

The subway map is the most essential item for navigating the subway. If you’re not familiar with the stops, it’s almost impossible to get anywhere without it. Even I, as a local, still need to refer to the subway map often since there are so many stops and there are many train lines which I almost never take.

There are subway maps within every train car, but only the confused tourists look at them. After reading this guide, you shouldn’t be one of them.

In addition to the official subway map published by the MTA, there are several visually appealing map design spinoffs. If you want to keep it simple, stick to the official MTA version, but for those interested here’s our list of the Best New York City Subway Map Designs.

Download this PDF version  of the official MTA map and save it to your phone so you can use it offline. You can also view this  high res JPG , although the PDF is the best quality.

Express vs Local Trains

Express trains – only stop at express stops, which show up on the subway map as black circles with white centers

Local trains – stop more often, slower, but will take you to the exact stop, smaller stations

Best NYC Subway Apps and Resources to Use

MTA.info – latest information about train delays

Mapway NYC – subway app as mentioned earlier

Subway Fares and Prices

The MTA is rundown and pretty low tech. In order to use the subway you need to buy a Metrocard, which is like a credit card but a lot thinner. In order to get into the subway, you have to swipe your card at the turnstile. (2020 update – finally, the MTA is working on rolling out OMNY – our very own contactless card or smart phone device payment to enter the subway. More on that when it actually works at all stations.)

Unlike in London, there are no zones for tracking how far you went. You pay the same fare once, regardless of how far you go.

• Subway (single fare)……………………………………………..$2.75
• Unlimited Ride MetroCard (30 days)…………………..$127.00
• Unlimited Ride MetroCard (7 days)……………………..$33.00

(The MTA offers some other packages – reduced fare, AirTrain, Express bus, but you’ll most likely not need them.) Also, check out MTA website for their official list of subway fares.

The MTA manages the New York City bus system as well as the subway system. They are somewhat interconnected and you can use the same Metrocard to pay for the bus as you do the subway. The bus is another complicated system which we won’t divulge into in this subway guide.

If you pay your fare with MetroCard, you may transfer free from local bus-to-subway, subway-to-local bus or local bus-to-local bus within two hours of the time you paid your fare. Unlimited Ride MetroCard includes all transfers free of charge. ( MTA )

There is a $1 fee for each new MetroCard purchase (on top of the fare). Metrocards expire after 1 year. If you’re a returning visitor to New York City and you want to use a MetroCard you bought from your previous trip, you won’t be able to refill your card if it’s going to expire soon. But you can ask one of the MTA workers at the manned booths at the station to swap your card for a new one.

Which should you buy?

If you’re staying in New York City for a week (or even 5 or 6 days) and want to see all the tourist attractions, I’d recommend buying the $33 unlimited. (2020 update – we have new fares for unlimited cards, check this MetroCard Calculator to calculate if its worth getting an unlimited card for your trip)

Think you can cheat the system and share an unlimited card? New Yorkers get frustrated when there’s delays or other issues with the subway and think the MTA is pretty dumb, but actually they’re not that dumb.

[ Unlimited MetroCards ] Cannot be used again at the same subway station or the same bus route for at least 18 minutes. Cannot be used by or transferred to another person until the completion of a trip for which entry was obtained.

If you aren’t sure how many times you’re going to take the subway, then get the pay-per-ride option. Since there’s a $1 fee per new MetroCard, if you’re traveling as a family or group, simply buy one MetroCard then share it.

Where to buy a MetroCard

Buy your MetroCard inside the subway station, before entering the turnstile, either from the vending machines or the person who works inside the booth. They accept cash or credit.

The art of the Metrocard swipe

Learn the skill well. You might need it when you’re  running for president .

“With the MetroCard name facing toward you, quickly swipe your MetroCard through the turnstile in one smooth move.” – MTA

The subway. The transportation mode of choice for New York City’s mortals is accessible via one and only one method: the MetroCard swipe. Although seemingly straight forward, when pulling back the curtain it is revealed that swiping a MetroCard is more than a method of payment – it is an art. Something that can be done a right way and a wrong way. So how exactly do you properly execute this nuanced task? According to NYC locals, the perfect swipe falls in line with the characteristics most valued in this city: speed and efficiency. “People should swipe while walking. You shouldn’t have to stop, swipe, then walk. No one has time for that”, notes Susan, a public relations executive in Manhattan. “I’ve already got to commute for an hour from Williamsburg. Let’s make this quick for all of us.” Walk, swipe and pass the turnstile – all in one motion. Now let’s move on to the next task.

Subway Etiquette and Unspoken Rules

Eating in the subway is fine, but just don’t be annoying about it. Don’t eat anything that smells bad or is messy. Also, there will be lots of interesting things that people do or wear in the subway. Try your best not to give anyone eye contact.

If you see a subway car that’s empty, don’t get too excited. It’s usually because there’s (sadly) a homeless person living in there or it just smells bad. Also, do not lean on those poles that are used for balance if the subway suddenly stops. Other people need to use it too. Oh and please if you’re riding the subway during rush hour on a Monday morning, no one wants to hear your loud conversation. Read the room (subway car) and keep the conversation to the street.

Subway Safety

Is the subway safe? Yes. I’ve seen elementary aged children riding the subway by themselves.

But can you die? Yes as well. Here are some examples .

Safety in the subway can be broken up into two parts: (1) safety from the train/tracks and (2) safety from people within the train.

The MTA is one of the oldest subway systems in the world and hasn’t been updated in ages. Unlike the subway systems in St. Petersburg or London, the tracks are completely open, and there are no barriers. If you aren’t careful, it’s very possible to fall off the platform onto the tracks. Gawker (RIP) has a useful piece on what to do if you fall onto the subway tracks .

As for safety from other people, in a city of over 8 million, there are bound to be a number of crazies. In the event that you’re traveling at night, just exercise caution and don’t be stupid. Try to go in train cars where there are people and choose train cars either in the middle, or where the conductor is.

More likely than getting mugged by random people or getting hit by a train is getting sick from the subway. Most stations are almost 100 years old, so the subway is a pretty nasty, grimy place.

There’s usually a lot of trash and stagnant water along the tracks. It’s not uncommon to see rats scurrying around either. As for keeping the stations clean, the MTA staff do an ok job, but there are just so many humans that its impossible to always keep it clean. I once saw a MTA worker pouring bleach directly onto the tracks. Prepare to encounter smells ranging from the bizarre to repugnant.

NBC News reported a while back on just how dirty the NYC subway is. Here’s an excerpt from the article , referring to public bus handrails, but the same applies for those in the subway:

Gerba [a microbiologist at the University of Arizona] found e-coli (a bacterium often responsible for food poisoning); MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus , a staph infection that’s resistant to most first-line antibiotics); and fecal matter on handrails.

A study from Weill Cornell Medical College came to the conclusion that the NYC subway has an ecosystem of microbes but at the end of the day, “[t]here is no reason to be alarmed” and “[t]he majority of the things there are harmless”.

Basic but essential tip : Wash your hands well after getting out of the subway. Also, bring hand sanitizer with you.

Looking Like a Local

Please refer to our NYC Packing List Guide for tips on how to blend in.

Don’t expect to use a bathroom in the subway. If you do find one, more often than not it’ll be locked . Here’s a blurb from an article in UntappedCities.com :

Out of NYC’s 468 subway stations, only 129 of them claim to have restrooms. With the help of YouTube user Eron Watt, we’ve verified that only 48 of these lavatories were unlocked.

The subway has a network called “TransitWirelessWiFi”. The WiFi is only available within stations, so once the train leaves the station, you won’t have any more WiFi. It’s pretty annoying. I usually get cellphone reception in the stations, but not between stations while on the train. I believe it depends on your carrier.

These are based off of personal observations and general stereotypes. Take them with a grain of salt.

• 7 Train – very packed, passes through mainly Hispanic and Asian neighborhoods, so that is the primary train rider demographic
• E Train – smells bad
• 6, 5 and 4 Trains – always packed, train cars slightly narrower than those on other lines
• R Train – usually uses the old trains with orange seats
• C Train – widest train cars
• A Train – the longest

The New Yorker compiled and organized data on median household income from the U.S. Census Bureau to create this very cool interactive infographic . The infographic displays the income inequality within New York City according to the average income at each subway stop.

As you can see from the screenshot of the infographic above, the median income rises as the B train enters Manhattan from Brooklyn, then falls as it enters the Bronx.

There are  472 MTA subway stations according to the official MTA website, however only over 100 of those are wheelchair accessible.

In 2015, Matthew Ahn , a lawyer and the guy who “ holds the Guinness World Record for fastest time to travel to all New York City Subway stations” published an article with an image of what the New York City subway system would look like with only the stations that are wheelchair accessible (in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act).

The edited map (below) was reported on by numerous publications including  Business Insider  and Gothamist .

What the NYC subway map looks like to a disabled person:

Scroll up to our ‘Subway Map’ section to compare this map to how the subway map looks normally.

Interesting Things To See In the NYC Subway

• Churro sellers
• Subway performers from all over the world
• Murals along the walls of some stations
• Abandoned City Hall Station
• The A train is the longest train line, spanning 31 miles according to the New York Times

MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) Facts

• Subway Ridership Facts http://web.mta.info/nyct/facts/ridership/
• New York City Transit History http://web.mta.info/nyct/facts/ffhist.htm
• Subway Facts http://web.mta.info/nyct/facts/ffsubway.htm

Infographic credit: Visual News . Click here to see a full size version .

Have any questions? What do you think of the NYC Subway? Leave a comment below.

More NYC Resources

• What to Wear in NYC: Packing List and Travel Advice from a Local

Thanks for reading our New York City Subway Guide by a local. If you found the NYC Subway Guide helpful, please share it!

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November 5, 2019 at 4:56 pm

Hi! Short question … If we are 3 people traveling to New York for three days and after a week return for another three days, should we buy a regular ticket to the subway for the three of us or twice a weekly ticket at $ 32 each? Guess we’ll drive pretty much in subway. Thanks in advance – Zohar

November 5, 2019 at 6:27 pm

Hi Zohar. Depends on how much you plan on using the subway. A 7-day unlimited pass is now $33 and one ride is now $2.75. So if you plan on each person taking more than 12 rides during your trip, it may be worth getting an unlimited. If not, stick with paying as you go. Hope this helps!

[…] Navigating the NYC subway system can be daunting for first-time visitors. I recommend reading The Ultimate NYC Subway Guide. […]

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How to ride the NYC subway: Essential subway tips by a New Yorker

April 18, 2018 by Karen Turner 23 Comments

I grew up in New York City, so it perplexes me when visiting friends tell me they don’t understand the New York City public transportation system. Let’s fix this now.

In this NYC subway guide by a native New Yorker, you’ll find essential tips on how to ride the New York City subway, how not to get on the wrong subway, what not to do on the New York City subway, how to get from JFK to Manhattan by subway, and other insider tips for the New York city subway by a New Yorker.

• 0.1 What’s covered in this New Yorker’s guide to NYC Transit:
• 1.1 Figure out where you are and where you’re going via a NYC transit app.  Check which direction of the train that you need first.
• 1.2 Get a Metrocard
• 1.3 Swipe your metrocard
• 1.4 Get your train
• 1.5 Get off the subway
• 2.1 What do the NYC subway directions mean?! WHAT IS UPTOWN AND DOWNTOWN?
• 3 Express Train v. Local Train!?
• 4 NYC Subway Fare hacks / need to know facts
• 5 New York City Subway Etiquette: Don’ts of taking the NYC Subway
• 6 What happens when the NYC subway isn’t working due to construction or delays?
• 7 The Best New York City Transit Apps for Tourists
• 8 How to get from JFK to Manhattan by Airtrain AND Subway
• 9 Have you taken the New York City Subway? Any questions?

What’s covered in this New Yorker’s guide to NYC Transit:

• How to ride the New York City subway in 5 basic steps
• What do the NYC subway directions mean?! What does it mean to take the NYC subway downtown?  Your answer with a quick visual explanation.  
• NYC Subway Fare Hacks
• NYC Subway Etiquette
• How to deal with New York City subway when the MTA is doing construction or anything terrible has happened that messes with your journey ( Before you skip this part: you’d be surprised how much this happens…)  

The Best New York City Transit Apps for Tourists

How to get from jfk to manhattan by airtrain and subway.

I dedicate this blog post, which will hopefully answer many of your questions about the NYC public transportation system (which includes more than subways), to my late grandfather who would spend his childhood riding the New York City subway all day just to see more of the various trains in service.  Subway Photo by: Elzbieta Sekowska/Bigstock.com

How to ride the New York City subway in 5 easy steps

Before we get into service changes, the difference between express trains/local trains, let’s cover the basics here.  I swear, this part is easy.  The rest is where it goes wrong.

If you’re lost on the subway or unsure about anything, ask someone who doesn’t look like they’re in a rush (it might take a bit) and ask.  N ew Yorkers don’t bite most of the time .

One more thing: the subway is perfectly easy to master with the help of a transit app …and some hand sanitizer, so don’t be afraid to take the subway around while you’re in New York.

The subway is the best way to get around New York City.  Onwards to your touristy cheat sheet for the New York City subway.

Figure out where you are and where you’re going via a NYC transit app.  Check which direction of the train that you need first.

MANY public transit systems allow you to switch directions if you mess up.  Going towards Times Square from the Village, but realizing that you’re waiting for the wrong train?

In some NYC subway stations, you actually have to leave the subway station–and cross the street above ground before re-entering the subway station for the other direction.  Annoying, right?  ALWAYS CHECK FIRST before you lose money and time. (What does uptown and downtown mean? Covered below…)

Get a Metrocard

Note: In some subway stations, you can pay with a contactless card or your phone. This is new and it’s expected that this will be rolled out to more stations in the near future. For now, buy a Metrocard!

It’s best to buy a reloadable metrocard.  A single-use is a rip-off and you need to pay $1 extra for  every  extra metrocard you buy beyond your first one, so don’t lose it.  I recommend one Metrocard per adult/teen.  

The subway costs $2.75 (2019 prices), so use the machines in the subway station to add money to your Metrocard via a credit/debit card.  It’s best to do this not during rush hour.   Put your wallet away and leave the Metrocard out.

Swipe your metrocard

Depending on the station, you’ll see turnstiles near your waist OR really high rotating gates.

Don’t swipe your Metrocard too fast or too slow.  (Watch people first before if you’re not sure).

Don’t push immediately  while swiping and if it’s not working after three tries, try a different turnstile and let other people go through.  Sometimes it’s the turnstile.

If you’re in a wheelchair, with a stroller, or with a family, ask an employee (in the booth) to open the gate for you.

Just do it.  Cheating the system is a bad idea.  

Get your train

Look first for the number/letter of your train .  (We usually don’t call them by colors, so instead use the letter/number.)

You might need to walk 15+ minutes to get to your platform if it’s a major station.  Once there, look for the subway direction you need.  Before you get on the train, CHECK if it’s a  local train or an express   train that skips most stops.

Wait for your train and let people get out before you push on.

Get off the subway

You don’t need to swipe out, but just exit the subway station (typically through gates).  The hardest decision of your day will be figuring out where to eat and which subway exit to go out of.

(The second part: it doesn’t matter much and it’s easier to find your way once you’ve left the subway station and you’re above ground).

Tips for the New York City subway

What do the nyc subway directions mean what is uptown and downtown.

You’re probably staying mostly in Manhattan , however remember that Manhattan has a grid imposed on it.  The streets are horizontal and the avenues are vertical on the map below (for Manhattan).

From ANY point that you want to go North, you’re going uptown.  So if you’re on 42nd street in Times Square (the red dot) and you want to go to 59th street? You’re going  UPTOWN .From any point that you want to go South, you’re going downtown (e.g. 42nd street to 14th street).

Sometimes you’ll see that the subway direction is UPTOWN & THE BRONX or UPTOWN & QUEENS.  This means the train is  still  going uptown, but if you stay on that subway train, you’re going to end up in the Bronx or Queens. 

The same logic applies to DOWNTOWN & BROOKLYN.  If you stay on the train, you’re going to Brooklyn.  Simply, the direction matters; the final destination doesn’t as long as it stops off at your stop.

Express Train v. Local Train!?

If you’re about to catch the subway, you might accidentally end up on an express train, which skips most of the non-major subway stops. 

If you’re looking at an NYC subway map, keep an eye out for the white circles, which are express AND local stops.   This means that both express and local trains stop here.  

Typically, these are transfer points, so if you miss your stop, try to pick a transfer point to switch directions in.  Some smaller stations require you to exit to switch directions while bigger stations allow you to just to walk over to the downtown direction.  If it’s a black circle, it’s a local stop and express trains will skip this stop.

At night, some trains switch tracks, so read the sign for your track carefully.  (You can see on this photo above that it’s typically an express train, but it runs a local train on late nights.)

I recommend taking the local train until you get the hang of the New York City Subway.  Once you do, enjoy getting around more easily!

NYC Subway Fare hacks / need to know facts

Get a Metrocard and don’t lose it ($1 + all the money you had).  The New York City subway fare costs $2.75 (2019).

Your NYC subway fare includes MTA buses  and the subway.   The New York City Metrocard does not include New Jersey Transit, the Long Island Railroad, the Airtrain (JFK), or MetroNorth.  If you’re coming from JFK airport, you’ll need to pay the extra $5 fee for the Airtrain.

Your Metrocard swipe is valid for two hours for transfers to buses from the subway, bus to bus, OR bus to subway.   Basically, if you want to take advantage of this, you need to take a bus at some point.

If you decide to leave a subway station, get a coffee/take a photo, and then swipe back in at the same subway station, you don’t get a free transfer.  (Instead take a bus for free!)

If you want more bang for your buck and you’re planning on just stopping off for a few minutes before heading somewhere else, take the bus to your next destination after getting off the subway.  As long as you’re within the two hour period, your journey will be  free .

In theory, you can spend the WHOLE day on the subway as it does not track when you exit the subway.

Parents swipe first and young kids are free!   Up to three children under 44 inches (111cm) get on the NYC subway for  free every single time.  They can just duck underneath the turnstile and/or you can ask an employee to open the gate for you all (especially if you have a stroller).  So, if you’re a family of 4 with two young kids, you only need  two  unlimited Metrocards.

There’s no daily NYC subway pass. (There used to be.) 🙁

If you’re in NYC for more than 4 days, I recommend the NYC unlimited week subway pass for $32.00, which gives you  unlimited subway rides for 7 days.

If you swipe with an unlimited Metrocard, it’s 18 minutes until you can swipe your card again.

You can save  a little  by putting the perfect amount on your Metrocard  to get a bonus if you’re into life hacks. $19.05 gets you 6 subway rides without the $1 fee for a Metrocard.  Any amount of $5.50 or more added to your Metrocard gives you a bonus.

Listening for the stops is kind of terrible as the speakers sometimes make it just sound like garbled nonsense and if you’re not used to a strong New York accent… It’s best to have an alternate method.

I recommend to count how many stops you’ll be on that train and know the name of the stop 1 or 2 before yours.  Then you’ll be ready to get off the train and next to the doors just in time for the closing doors!

New York City Subway Etiquette: Don’ts of taking the NYC Subway

LET PEOPLE GET OFF THE TRAIN BEFORE YOU GET ON.   Trust me, you will get anywhere faster if you block the exits.

Don’t stare directly at people and if someone catches you, look away quickly.  We ALL stare at others on public transit, but be subtle.

Sometimes you see really crazy stuff or people carrying KITTENS on the subway.   ON THEIR SHOULDER. That’s New York.  (You never know what will happen. 😉 )

Don’t talk to people unless it’s to verify it’s your stop.   Most people commuting are just tired or in a rush.  I promise New Yorkers aren’t rude most of the time, but sometimes we’re just tired after commuting 1.5 hours one-way to work and not in the mood to chat.

Don’t get in an empty car, especially on a crowded train.   Wondering why it’s empty? Once, it was because it was basically a biohazard. Another time,  the air conditioning was out and it was summer.

Don’t put your bags on a chair that someone can sit on.

Don’t man-spread (aka spread your legs so much that it takes up 2 seats).

Don’t wear your backpack on the subway,  especially on a crowded train.  You’ll be banging into people, so take it off and put it in between your legs to minimize space.

Don’t fall asleep.   You never know where you’ll end up. 😉

Keep an eye on your stuff.   Pickpocketing isn’t a huge issue in New York, but it happens.  I still think it’s good to keep an eye on your stuff and keep it close to you, even just to ensure you don’t leave anything on the train.

If there’s a bunch of seats free, don’t sit next to someone .   I think this is pretty standard public transportation logic, but well, doesn’t hurt to repeat it.

Hold onto the railing.   Seriously, it’s really annoying when someone doesn’t understand that the subways move  a lot  and they’re falling into everyone around them.  It takes time to learn how not to move when the subway jots.

If  your swiping is not going well, let the person behind you go ahead.  The machine is probably fine; your swipe speed is probably not.

Keep your metrocard loaded up if you have a busy day ahead.   It’s best to do this NOT during Rush Hour.

Don’t eat on the train and don’t carry coffee unless it’s in a secure container.  It’s one thing to drink your morning coffee in a secure container that is spill-proof….but come on people.  Nobody wants to have  your  BBQ or hot coffee spilled on them.  It’s rude and get a granola bar.

Give your seat up for the elderly and the pregnant.   Manners matter.

Don’t get in JUST as the doors are closing if you can.   It holds up the WHOLE train and you don’t want your fingers getting caught!

Don’t play in the tracks and stay away from the edge until the train comes .  People die this way as the third rail is deadly.

Don’t carry your luggage during rush hour.  It’s going to be really tough to get on the train with a huge suitcase when everyone else is packed as sardines.

Have your metrocard ready! Don’t make other people wait for you!

Avoid the doors if you’re not getting off soon.   Unless you’re ready to be pushed as people try to enter/exit, only get near the doors if the train is full OR you’re about to get off.

Don’t stop in the middle of the station, especially during rush hour.   Nobody will be expecting you to stop to take photos, so you’ll be pushed.

Plan properly for a transfer .  Some transfers can take up to 20 minutes as the station is so HUGE.

Wash your hands after you leave the subway  before you touch your face or eat anything.   Let’s  not  talk about the research into the germs found on subway handrails.

Don’t take out your giant subway map.  Check the one in the station OR on the train.  Just save the official MTA subway map on your phone.

What happens when the NYC subway isn’t working due to construction or delays?

Service changes are a MAJOR issue, especially on nights and weekends.   The MTA does most of their construction then, so you’ll sometimes encounter stuff like, “This F train is running the A track until X destination” as the tracks normally available aren’t working.  Instead of the train stopping off at its normal stops, it will function as if it’s an A train instead of an F train.  Annoying and confusing, right? 

As much as I love Google Maps, it’s not great for various service changes with the NYC Subway for now.    As a result, it’s really best to have a good NYC Transit App installed on your phone before you go. 

You can check the signage in the subway, but that’s more of a desperation move for when you realize that the train isn’t coming as you need to go to a totally different track (e.g. go to the express train track instead of the local) to get your train.

Usually people will give you a heads-up.  That said, Google Maps does the job well 90% of the time, but I recommend having a back-up if you see a sign that there’s construction on the line that you’ll be taking every day.

 I find that Citymapper  and Transit are your best options for New York City subway apps.I think that Citymapper is pretty good for tourists as it allows you to see a HQ version of the subway map, so if you’re just trying to figure WHERE you’re going even when you’re not sure. 

Transit is super simple to use and incorporates all the subway construction/delays into its easy-to-use interface, so follow the app.

Some apps I haven’t mentioned here are very handy for commuters, but as a tourist, I think simplicity is best. 😉   (I’ve tested a bunch and these two are my favorites. No affiliation. )

Apparently the most confusing things for many first time tourists is how to how to get from JFK to Manhattan using public transit.

As soon as you exit JFK, follow the signs towards the Airtrain.  Go to the booth and get your combined Airtrain + Subway ticket.  (The Airtrain costs $5 per way).

Take the Airtrain towards Jamaica Station .  At this point, get on the E train towards Manhattan or the A train towards Brooklyn and Manhattan.  The E is faster if you’re going to midtown Manhattan, but it depends on your destination.

From JFK Terminal 2 to Times Square, it will take about hour.  Voila you got it, $7.75 to get from from JFK to Manhattan by subway.  Save that cab money for good food.

Sidenote: My favorite subway is is the above ground part of the N (in Astoria) and the 7 (when it’s working) as you see so many neighborhoods from the window.  Similarly, I love the above ground part as you cross from Queens into Manhattan.

Enjoyed this? I have more helpful articles about New York City, including the perfect itinerary for five days in New York City , tips for visiting NYC on a budget , NYC for Christmas/the holidays , what to wear in New York for every season , and assorted insider tips for New York City.

Have you taken the New York City Subway? Any questions?

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

December 27, 2017 at 12:32 pm

Lol! “Don’t talk to people unless it’s to verify it’s your stop. Most people commuting are just tired or in a rush.” haha no small talk it is 😉

February 17, 2018 at 10:13 am

As a native New Yorker reading this was quite entertaining. And even though the subway comes naturally to me, there are actually quite a lot of things to be aware of! But it’s definitely the easiest way to get around the city – unless, sadly, you’re in a wheelchair or have mobility issues. Although I also love the bus and recommend a ride on it at some point during your stay. You get to see the city while you get to your destination. Great guide and tips (and a lot of them made me laugh)!

February 17, 2018 at 12:07 pm

I didn’t think I’d ever find a post about trains interesting – yet here we are! Train systems abroad can be so confusing! (To this day we still have no idea if we paid the right amount on the tramline). Bookmarking this so I don’t forget when I make it over the pond! x

February 18, 2018 at 9:57 pm

Great tips. I’ve been there with trouble swiping. Love that your grandfather rode the subways so much. Thanks for the tips.

July 23, 2018 at 2:46 pm

Even with the best preparation in the world, the first time you come to NYC and use the subway, you WILL: 1. Find yourself on the wrong train 2. Find yourself on the right train going in the wrong direction 3. Find yourself totally confused 4. Walk right past a subway entrance four times for every one time you actually spot one 5. Give up on using any of the freakin’ Apps 6. Use the subway three or four times a day, regardless

March 7, 2019 at 6:58 am

How to get from JFK to Queens?

March 7, 2019 at 9:44 am

JFK is in Queens. I don’t know where you’re going, but take the Airtrain to Jamaica Station and see what Google Maps tells you to do! You’ll probably end up taking another bus or train from Jamaica.

March 10, 2019 at 1:46 am

What is the best way to get from LGA to Brooklyn? Specially red hook

July 29, 2019 at 7:42 pm

Great information! Thanks.

August 5, 2019 at 3:49 am

While NYC subway system is massive, some of these tips apply to any subway in the world, really. Let people exit the train before going in, do not stay close to doors before you reach your stop, etc etc. Anyone who use public transportation daily will be able to do it. You may get lost by the number of lines or direction, but a few days in and you’ll feel like at home. Riding a subway wether it is in America, Europe or Asia is pretty much a streamlined experience. Buy ticket, find line and direction, get in and get out.

August 20, 2019 at 12:50 pm

Great tips thanks. I lived in NYC for a year in the early 90’s but thought I should refresh my knowledge for a trip in September. Sounds like not a lot has changed other than the demise if the old subway token. Thanks again for the great guide.

November 2, 2020 at 9:59 pm

I grew up on the lower Eastside in the 1950s. When I left it was a pretty unsavory area and when I visited it again in 1999 that was still the case. Has it changed? Is it safe to walk about. In particular I’m interested in the area around 10th St. and Avenue D.

March 19, 2021 at 3:06 pm

Things are very different these days

February 3, 2023 at 5:21 pm

Headed to NYC with my son for first time. Was 100% convinced I would walk or taxi and not attempt the subway mostly out of fear of safety, has anything with your recommendations changed since 2019? We’ll only be in Manhattan.

April 3, 2023 at 3:21 pm

I am going home soon, but the subway is a major form of public transit for a while. I promise that it is not scary! 🙂

May 17, 2023 at 4:02 am

Let’s talk fundamentals. How do you know which train just pulled up at the platform when there are multiple trains listed on the sign? Some trains have better markings than others …but there is always an identifying sign on the end of the train as it approaches you …so pay close attention. Also while some trains have wonderful maps inside that light up as the train comes to each station …most don’t. You need to know in advance what station you are looking for outside the windows as you pull in …the names are in tile on the walls. Don’t know if the platform is going uptown or downtown …best to have the MTA app’s optional subway map already downloaded before you go subterranean otherwise you are screwed. If you can’t find a helpful New Yorker …go back up to broadcast signal reception and do that download. I speak as someone who’s gotten confused, taken the wrong train, gone the wrong direction, and survived to recover and ultimately make it to the intended destination. Its very intimidation albeit efficient system.

October 12, 2023 at 11:30 pm

This will definitely apply to me and my daughter when we visit NYC in a couple of weeks time

November 24, 2023 at 10:06 am

we are happy that you found the information helpful:) Safe travels and enjoy your stay in the Big Apple!

Your Wanderlustingk Team

[…] If you’re on the East Coast, you can take Megabus directly to Manhattan.  Otherwise, you will fly into JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark.  JFK is easily accessible via the Airtrain & A train and/or LIRR.  LaGuardia requires a bus and a train, but it’s a quick hop to Manhattan. Newark International AIrport is in New Jersey, so plan on 30 minutes on NJ transit.  You can click here for tips on how to use the NYC subway. […]

[…] How to get the US Open by subway or LIRR. You’re better off taking the subway (7 train towards Main St.) or taking the Long Island Rail Road from Penn Station (Manhattan) to Mets-Willets Point. It is a very short walk to the US Open from the train/subway stop, so save the environment and your money by taking public transit.  Click here for a detailed guide to the New York City subway. […]

[…] While looking at the subway may, newcomers will also notice little white and black dots next to the street stops. These refer to express and local trains. […]

[…] Whereas wanting on the subway might, newcomers can even discover little white and black dots subsequent to the road stops. These discuss with specific and native trains. […]

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How to Use the Subway in NYC – Your Ultimate Guide for 2023/2024

Posted on Last updated: October 26, 2023

Categories Plan your trip , Transportation

When it comes to getting around in New York City, using the subway is unquestionably the best, fastest, and most budget-friendly option, costing just $2.90. With over 400 subway stations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island, it’s easy to navigate the entire city.

New York’s subway operates 24/7, 365 days a year, and is managed by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).

In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the essential information on using the subway in NYC, including reading subway maps, purchasing tickets, understanding the difference between local and express trains, and subway etiquette.

Before you take the subway in NYC

Plan your trip.

When using the NYC subway, it’s essential to account for potential delays, especially if you have a schedule to keep. Rush hours can be particularly crowded, so consider planning your trip to avoid these peak times.

If you’re new to taking the subway in New York, try to plan your route to avoid transfers, which can be a bit tricky. It’s easier to walk a little further to a station where you can take a direct train to your destination.

Download useful apps

To navigate the NYC subway effectively, consider downloading the “MYmta” app, which offers an offline subway map and trip planning. Google Maps is another excellent tool for planning your subway trips. Both locals and tourists find these apps invaluable for getting around the city. Even New Yorkers use these tools to get around.

Mask recommendations

Although it’s recommended to wear a mask while using the subway, it’s not mandatory. Respect any COVID-19 guidelines in place during your visit.

How to purchase a ticket or MetroCard

You have two options for paying your subway fare in New York. You can either get a traditional subway card called MetroCard , which is available at ticket machines or ticket booths at each station, or you can use their new OMNY system.

I would recommend using OMNY as the traditional MetroCards are set to be phased out by 2024.

Option 1 – OMNY: A convenient choice

If you plan to use the subway in New York, this is the easiest way to pay for your trip. OMNY is a new system that allows you to pay for your journey using your phone or a payment card directly at the turnstiles. See photo below.

You can make payments by tapping your payment card or using the OMNY app at the same location where you’d usually swipe a MetroCard. To use the OMNY app, you need to input your details and payment method in advance, which is best done at your hotel or residence before heading to the subway.

An advantage of OMNY is that it might save you money. Each time you pass through the turnstiles, it change you $2.90, but only until you reach an amount equivalent to a 7-day MetroCard, which costs $34. Once you reach $34, you can ride the subway for free for the rest of the week.

You can find more information about OMNY on omny.info.

Option 2 – MetroCard: Still an option

MetroCard is a subway card that you can purchase at every subway station from ticket machines or the ticket booth at the turnstiles. MetroCards can be used on all subways and buses in New York City. There’s a $1 fee for obtaining a new MetroCard, but you can reuse and refill it during your stay.

Don’t forget that MetroCards are going to be removed in 2024.

MetroCard fare options:

You can choose from a SingleRide (one-time use), Pay-Per-Ride (add a specific amount to the card), or an Unlimited MetroCard (unlimited travel for 7 or 30 days).

When you make your payment, you will be asked for a ZIP code. If you are not from the USA and don’t have a U.S. ZIP code, you can enter “99999.”

Swiping your MetroCard

To use your MetroCard, swipe it at the subway turnstiles by holding the card with the black magnetic strip facing you and downward. Swipe the card at a moderate speed, similar to how you’d use a debit card. If the machine displays “please swipe again,” it means you didn’t swipe the card correctly, and you need to try again at the same turnstile. These machines are sensitive, so this can happen frequently.

Remember that you must wait 18 minutes after swiping a MetroCard to use it again

Discounts for seniors and children

Free for children : Children under 44 inches tall can ride the subway and buses in New York for free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Senior discounts: If you are over 65 years old or have a disability, you can get a 50% discount when riding the subway in New York.

Make sure to check metro.info for the latest updates.

Understanding the NYC subway

The New York subway is typically most crowded during rush hour, which is usually Monday to Friday between 7:00 AM – 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM. If possible, avoid these times for a more comfortable ride. In contrast, midday and weekends are usually much less crowded.

The different numbers, colors, and letters

The subway lines in New York are initially categorized by different colors and then with numbers or letters. Each color represents 2-3 different lines that go in slightly different directions.

When planning your route, focus on the specific number or letter of your train, not the color. For example, the blue trains are divided into three lines called A, C, and E.

Exceptions : There’s one exception to this rule when taking the subway to JFK Airport. To reach the airport by subway, take the A train toward Brooklyn. The A train splits at the end and goes to three different destinations. To get to JFK, make sure you board the train headed for the Far Rockaway or Rockaway Beach terminus.

Express vs local

This is a common mistake made by first-time subway riders in New York. Trains are divided into express or local . Local trains stop at all stations, while express trains have fewer stops and skip some stations. Boarding an express train instead of a local one might lead to missing your stop.

The subway map will show you the express stations with white circles and local stations with black circles. Which lines that goes to each station are also clearly marked. Look at the picture below, and you’ll see an arrow pointing to Spring St, which is a local station with a black circle. To reach there, you can take the C or E train.

Uptown vs downtown

Every subway line always runs in two directions: uptown and downtown . For example, if you’re taking the A train, you can choose to go uptown or downtown. This direction is clearly marked on the subway platform.

Sometimes, the directions also have separate entrances, so it’s a good idea to note these signs before swiping your card and entering the platform. See the pictures below.

Connecting tunnels between stations

Some stations have underground passageways, allowing transfers between subway lines without leaving the system, which can be convenient if the weather is bad. See the picture below for an example of where you can find these connecting passageways.

Staten Island Ferry

To get to Staten Island, you’ll need to take a ferry. After arrival, you can continue your journey using the subway. Your MetroCard or OMNY is accepted.

Subway etiquette in NYC

Riding the subway in New York involves following specific etiquette rules to respect your fellow passengers and ensure a smooth journey. Here are some essential points to remember:

• Don’t stare at people : Respect others’ privacy and avoid staring at fellow passengers. Eye contact is fine, staring can make people very upset.
• Don’t block the turnstiles : If you need time to find your MetroCard or phone, do so before reaching the turnstiles. Blocking the turnstiles frustrates other travelers.
• Stand on the right : If you’re using escalators, stand on the right side so that those in a hurry can pass on the left.
• Let others exit before you enter : Before boarding the train, allow those who want to get off to do so. Ensure you don’t block the doors when they open so that people can exit the car comfortably.
• Move into the car : During rush hour, make sure to move as far into the car as possible when boarding. This way, more people can fit.
• Offer your seat : If you are seated and someone needs it more than you, such as a pregnant woman, someone with a children, or an elderly person, stand up and offer your seat.
• Avoid using handicapped spots : Handicapped spots are reserved for individuals with disabilities. If you don’t have a valid reason to use them, don’t block these spaces.

Announcements in the NYC subway

During your subway journey, you may hear announcements, often related to delays or train cancellations. It’s sometimes difficult to understand these messages as they can sound like they’re being transmitted through an old sci-fi microphone, with muffled sounds like “fjsf dfhfj dtjyjd.” You may need to ask someone nearby if they understood the message.

If you can’t understand the message, follow these guidelines:

• If everyone is exiting : If you notice that everyone is starting to leave the train, do the same. The conductor probably announced that the train is no longer in service, and you’ll need to wait for the next train.
• Delays : Sometimes, the conductor may announce delays due to technical issues or other reasons. If the train stops at the platform with the doors open, it typically means they are waiting for the issue to be resolved, and you can stay on the train.

Avoid empty subway cars

Sometimes, you might see that all subway cars are full except for one. Here are a few reasons why you should avoid that particular car:

• Unpleasant odors : Something in the car might smell bad.
• No air conditioning : The air conditioning might not be working.
• Safety concerns : There could be something unsafe in the car.

Subway safety in NYC

Safety is always important when using the subway. Here are some things to think about:

• High noise levels : Be prepared for noise, especially on platforms and during train arrivals. Consider using headphones.
• NEVER jump onto the tracks : It’s dangerous to jump onto the subway tracks, even if you drop something. Look for an MTA employee if something falls onto the tracks.
• Don’t stand too close to the tracks : When standing on the platform, keep a distance from the edge.
• Keep an eye on your valuables : Be attentive to your belongings, especially phones and wallets. Use inner pockets for added security.
• Don’t walk between cars: Never move between subway cars while the train is moving. This is extremely dangerous. You might see some people doing this anyways, but don’t let that fool you.
• Hold onto something when standing on the subway : The subway can be very bumpy, so make sure to hold onto a handrail or pole to avoid falling.

Weather impact

New York’s subway operates 24/7, 365 days a year, regardless of the weather. However, extreme weather conditions such as snowstorms or flooding can lead to disruptions in subway service. Stay updated on MTA’s website and social media for information on weather-related service changes.

Extremely high temperatures in the summer

During the summer months, the subway can become extremely hot. Some days, it can feel like you’re in a sauna, with passengers starting to sweat within minutes.

There’s no air conditioning on the subway platforms, but the subway cars themselves have air conditioning – most of the time! It’s a good idea to bring water with you.

Taking the subway with kids

Taking the subway with children can be a unique experience. Make sure you have everything you need, such as a stroller or baby carrier. If your child is old enough, encourage them to hold on securely.

If you plan to take the subway with a stroller, it’s smart to check the subway map in advance, as not all stations have elevators . If there’s no elevator, you’ll need to carry the stroller up and down stairs, which can be challenging if you’re alone. Luckily, New Yorkers are very friendly and someone will most likely offer to help you.

You can see which stations have elevators by checking the subway map for the handicap symbol. See example below.

Common questions about how to use the subway in NYC

Is the subway the easiest way to get around new york.

Yes, the subway is the easiest, cheapest, and fastest way to get around in New York City.

How late does the subway run in New York?

The subway operates 24/7, 365 days a year.

Do children ride the subway for free in New York?

Yes, children under 44 inches tall can ride the subway for free when accompanied by a paying adult.

How old is the New York subway?

The New York subway is one of the world’s oldest and first opened in 1904.

Can I bring my dog on the subway in New York?

Yes, you can bring your pet on the subway as long as they are in a carry bag. This rule does not apply to service animals.

Is it worth buying a weekly subway card when visiting New York?

If you plan to stay for several days, you will usually benefit from buying a weekly card. You often use the subway more times than you think. You can calculate whether a weekly card is worthwhile for your stay. If you plan to take the subway at least 12 times during your visit, it’s usually cost-effective to buy a weekly card, and it saves you the hassle of frequently refilling your card.

How many subway lines are there in New York?

The New York subway system has a total of 493 subway stations scattered across the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island.

When did the New York subway first open?

The New York subway first opened on October 27, 1904.

What to do if you lose your MetroCard:

If you have registered your MetroCard online, you can get a replacement. Otherwise, you’ll need to purchase a new one and load it with the appropriate amount.

How was your experience on taking the subway in NYC? Feel free to leave a comment!

New York Travellers

Your favourite NYC guide and blog

The complete New York City subway guide for beginners

If you are planning to go to NYC soon, then you have an important question to ask yourself! Do you know how the NYC subway works? If so, you’re very lucky. If not, you’re going to have some work to do! Because the New York subway is not really easy to use. Let me tell you a little anecdote….. After dropping off our luggage at the hotel on our first trip, we wanted to go to Times Square to fully immerse ourselves in the NYC vibes. We took the subway and…

From Chelsea, we visited all of southern Manhattan to Chinatown, before heading back in the right direction towards Times Square! So, to avoid wasting time while riding the subway, I suggest you to discover this special NYC subway guide ! You will find the main operating rules as well as some useful tips to avoid the pitfalls 🙂

Riding the New York City subway : some rules to remember

➜ to identify the subway lines, we do not use the terminus station but the running direction (uptown or downtown)..

Uptown is indicated for lines going towards Upper Manhattan, the Bronx and Queens. Downtown is indicated for lines going towards Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn.

➜ The subway station you are entering doesn’t necessarily serve both directions.  

Sometimes, you find a station for one direction (Uptown) and the other station across the street for the other direction (Downtown). There are also stations that serve both directions. In any case, this information is mentioned at the entrance of subway stations.

➜ Several subway lines run on the same platform.

This is the most common mistake! Remember to look at the subway number or letter when entering the platform to make sure that you get in the right one! Otherwise, you may run in the wrong way.

➜ Subways do not necessarily stop at all the stations they are supposed to serve.

I know, it’s getting a little bit complicated! Each line is served by two types of trains :

• The local train which stops at all stations of the subway line.
• The express train which only stops at the main stations of the subway line.

In general, there are more local trains than express trains, but don’t forget to pay attention to this detail! Express train is therefore faster than local train but you have to be sure it’ll stop at the station you want to go to.

To identify express trains and local trains :

• When entering the platform, a soundtrack informs passengers whether it is a local or an express train.
• The information is also visible on the display screens located on the platforms.

➜ During weekends, many subway lines are modified.

These changes affect both schedules and itineraries. It is not uncommon for some lines not to serve certain stations on weekends.Temporary line modifications are mentioned at stations and on platforms with posters (unfortunately not really visible!). If you notice a white poster filled with black text and the logo of some subway lines, I advise you to read it!

Are you ready to take the subway in NYC ?

Let’s check now if you have remembered these few rules 🙂

What information is displayed here ?

We will probably access two platforms:

• A first platform that serves A, C, B & D lines in the downtown direction.
• A second platform that serves the 1 line in the uptown direction.
• If you have to take the A line, remember to check the train you are getting on! Don’t forget that there are 3 other lines on this platform! Don’t either forget to check if it is an express or a local train.

NYC subway map

Honestly, it takes a few training trips to master the New York subway and not just enter the first subway! But once you understand how it works, the NYC metro is particularly effective. Take a look at the plan and see how many lines are in circulation!

There is also nothing to say about subway safety: even at the quietest hours of the night, the lines running in Manhattan are generally safe. During the day, some large stations are under police surveillance. Of course, as in all big cities, beware of pickpockets who can be anywhere!

Finally, while the overall aspect of the subway network is quite old, there is nevertheless wifi access in a very large number of stations.

Metrocards and fares

Subway tickets are called metrocards in New York City.

• Where to buy tickets? Metrocards can be purchased at ticket offices and distributors in metro stations.
• What are the different Metrocards? The standard ticket purchased by most tourists in New York is the 7-Day Unlimited Ride (or more if you stay longer).

Trip planner and schedules

If you need some help to plan your subway trips, the TripPlanner tool is made for you. Enter the starting point and the point of arrival and it will tell you what to do!

New York City’s subway schedule is extremely flexible : it never stops and runs 24 hours a day! In other words, if you go out late at night, you can return to the hotel at any time! Be careful: there are fewer trains at night than during the day, so travel times can be extended.

Useful links

➜ Website :  Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)

➜ App :  New York Subway MTA Map (App Store)

➜ App :  New York Subway MTA Map (Google Play)

I’m a french travel blogger, crazy about New York City! Since I discovered NYC in 2014, each trip is an opportunity to learn more about the secrets of this fantastic city. I wish you a pleasant visit on my blog, with I hope, a lot of beautiful discoveries!

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You should also read:

Best time to visit New York City: + and – of each month

Is it legal to book an Airbnb in NYC? The rules for tourists and visitors

▷ How to plan a NYC trip? The complete guide

NYC Attractions & Landmarks

Top Things to Do in NYC

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Best Museums in NYC

Theater in NYC

NYC's Best Live Music Venues

One Day in NYC: Itinerary

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NYC Public Transportation

Getting Around New York City: Guide to Public Transportation

Everything you need to know to get around New York City

Wikipedia Commons

The easiest, most affordable way to get around New York City is by public transportation. New York City mass transit generally falls into two categories: buses and subways. The city has 36 subway lines (that go to 472 stations) and 5,725 buses that can take you anywhere you want to go. Once you know how to use them, you'll find them efficient, reliable, and easy. The only problem is you must learn the system.

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about navigating your way around New York City's public transportation. You'll feel like a local in no time, maybe even venturing to far away places you never thought you would.

Watch Now: Riding the Subway in New York City

How to ride the new york city subway.

Most visitors will find themselves wanting to get around the city by subways. Subways serve most of Manhattan and the outer boroughs very well, and they take you directly to many popular tourist destinations.

• Before you ride the New York City subway you need to buy a MetroCard. You will swipe this card every time you enter a subway station at the turnstiles. MetroCards cost $1 to purchase. Once you buy your MetroCard you can add money to it.
• MetroCards may be purchased and refilled at subway station booths, MetroCard vending machines, and at  other vendors . You can use cash, credit, or debit cards to make your purchase.
• New York City subway fares are $2.75 per trip. For visitors staying more than a couple of days you can buy a one week unlimited MetroCard for $33 or an unlimited monthly MetroCard for $127.00. People who are 65 or older or who have qualifying disabilities can get a reduced fare, which is half price. You must see an attendant at a station to purchase one.
• Because New York City has so many subway lines, it's impossible to memorize them all. Even locals have to look up directions on occasion. The best way to plan your trip is to consult Google Maps or the MTA website . There are also a variety of apps that you can download before your trip to easily look up subway directions. You simply type in your point of origin and your destination, and the app will tell you the route.
• New York City has some subways that run express. Your trip planning app will tell you exactly which line to take. If it tells you to take the 1, for example, don't get on the 2 or 3 even though it looks like it's going in the same direction. Those trains are express and won't stop at the station you need.
• The New York City subway operates 24 hours a day, but service is more sporadic between midnight and 6 am and on weekends. If you're traveling on the weekends or late at night, you should be aware of service interruptions that might impact your trip. Taking a few minutes to review the planned service changes can save you a ton of hassle. Trip Planning apps like Google Maps are aware of these disruptions and can help you plan your route.
• In every station there is an information booth where you can press the green button and talk to an attendant. If you are confused or need help it's a great tool to use.
• MTA has a list of accessible subway stations on its website.

Other Transit Options

Subways serve most of Manhattan and the outer boroughs very well, but in those areas where the subway service is not ideal there are buses, trains, bikes, and boats that can take you where you need to go.

New York City Buses

The city has around 5,000 buses, and you'll find they are particularly helpful when you need to travel to the far east or west portions of Manhattan.

New York City bus fare is $2.75 per trip. Be aware that buses only accept MetroCards or exact fare in coins—drivers cannot make change. There are also some buses along major routes in Manhattan & the Bronx that have you pay your fare before you board to speed the process of boarding. It's called "Select Bus Service" and the kiosk for pre-paying your fare is usually very obvious and easy to use.

Google Maps and MTA Trip Planner can tell you the best buses to take (and whether you should take one instead of the subway.) You can also look up New York City Bus schedules.

The NYC Ferry Service

In the past few years New York City has launched new ferry services taking commuters and visitors to Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, & Bronx. Ferries are particularly advisable if you are traveling to places along the water (perhaps you are going from the South Street Seaport to Brooklyn Bridge park.)

The ferries are fun to ride because they offer incredible views and refreshments on board (even local wine and beer!) During warmer seasons you can sit on the outer decks and enjoy the sunshine. They are also relatively inexpensive at $2.75 a ticket. You can look up routes and ticket information on the website.

Railroad Services

If you need to get to the suburbs or areas around New York City you might need to take railroads. Metro North trains take you to Connecticut and Westchester. They leave from Grand Central Station.

Long Island Railroad takes you into Manhattan, and New Jersey Transit takes you to New Jersey. Both train services leave from Penn Station. Google Maps will tell you which service to take.

All train services are reliable and run frequently, but they can get crowded at rush hour. Sometimes it's standing room only during morning and evening commutes. Avoid those times (8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.) if possible.

Taxis and Ride Shares

Many New Yorkers prefer to take taxis or private cars, especially late in the evening when subway service is more sporadic. Yellow taxis are the iconic New York City cars. You can flag them down when you need them. If you are in Brooklyn or another outer borough, the taxis are green.

New York City has a variety of ride-sharing apps. Uber and Lyft allow you to book a private car or share a car with passengers traveling in a similar direction. Both are reliable services and usually arrive very quickly.

One of the best ways to get around New York City is by Citi Bike, New York's bike share system. There are stations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens & Jersey City where you can unlock a bike with your credit card and return it when you get to your destination. Download the Citi Bike app to find the docking stations closest to your location.

While many parts of the city have bike paths, be careful when riding bikes in the city. Lanes can get congested, and sometimes bike paths are close to speeding cars. Accidents happen regularly so vigilance is key.

Rental Cars

While New York City has ample car rental places, it's not advisable. It's difficult to drive in New York City. There is usually heavy traffic, and taxis are used to swirling in and out of lanes. Parking a car can also be difficult especially in Manhattan.

Tips for Getting Around New York City

• If you are traveling around Manhattan during the day, a subway is your best option.
• Between midnight and 6 am and on weekends check trip planning apps to determine how to travel to your destination. Routes and lines get changed during those times.
• Buses are your best option if you are traveling from East to West across the city.
• If it's a pleasant day try to rent a bike or ride a NYC ferry. You will see more of the city and have fun.
• NYC has many ride sharing options. If you are in a hurry choose a private car. If you have time and want to meet new people order a shared car. You never know who you will meet!
• Driving is tough in the city. It's also hard to park. Avoid a rental car if possible.

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Taking the Subway: Helpful Transportation Tips for Tourists

One of the best ways to explore a new city is navigating its diverse neighborhoods on foot—taking in all the sights and sounds as you walk past its historic landmarks and iconic eateries.

When it comes to New York City, however, traveling on foot isn’t just easy on the wallet. Given the city’s growing population, diverse boroughs, and innumerable hot spots, it’s practical as well as crucial to a “complete New York experience”.

Whether you’re visiting the Big Apple during your summer or winter holidays, you don’t want to ruin your trip by being stuck in traffic, losing your reservation at a fancy restaurant or worse still, arriving late to a Broadway show!

Luckily, New York City offers one of the oldest, largest and most reliable public transportation systems in the world, which operates 24/7.

From locals and wide-eyed tourists to celebrities such as Sarah Jessica Parker and Kevin Bacon, literally everyone takes the subway simply because it’s the simplest and quickest way to get from point A to point B.

What You Should Know

Despite its quick and convenient label, however, taking the subway in New York City can be overwhelming for visitors. This is because of the multiple lines and trains that go “Uptown” or “Downtown”, based on different letters and numbers that are ultimately responsible for making your transit even easier.

If you’re not able to make sense of the map, you may have to rely on random strangers to guide you—which isn’t particularly helpful if you don’t speak the language, or end up asking a busy New Yorker who’s running late for a meeting.

If given a fair chance, you will find that NYC’s subway system is one to embrace; not to be intimidated by. Take a deep breath, relax and ensure yourself a safe and stress-free experience by keeping these tips in mind.

Get a MetroCard

First things first, no matter which card you choose, you should know that a paying adult can ride the subway with up to 3 children (max height of 3 ft, 8 in. or 112 cm tall) for free.

As for your MetroCard, you have a choice between “Unlimited”, “Regular Pay-Per-Ride” and “Reduced Fare for Seniors and Disabled People”, all of which can be purchased at vending machines located within each station. You’ll be prompted to provide the amount, the decision for which you should make based on the duration of your stay, and how extensively you’ll be riding the subway. Don’t purchase more than what you intend to use up!

Tip: If you are visiting for 3-7 days and intend make use of the subway frequently (figure greater than 4 fares per person, per day), then a 1-week UNLIMITED MetroCard might be a more economical option than a single ride pass or adding a preset dollar amount onto the card. Note: if you opt to purchase the 1-week UNLIMITED MetroCard, your card will activate with your first use and it will deactivate at the end of the 7-day period, whether or not you use it again.

Bear in mind, not all machines accept cash, so you might want to carry a credit card, just in case. If you’re not well-versed in English, you’ll find a “Select Language” dropdown button located on the LOWEST LEFT SIDE of the website, www.mta.info/nyct , to help you to better understand the subway system, using a language that you are most comfortable with.

Plan Ahead with the MTA TripPlanner

Part of the reason why most tourists struggle with the subway is their lack of itinerary planning. Take advantage of your smartphone and go to the MTA TripPlanner website . After entering your current location and destination, you’ll get 3 different routes to help you decide which train to take.

Pretty easy, right?

Fair warning: Wi-Fi signals may be weak underground, so always keep a subway map handy.

Don’t Be Afraid to Transfer between Trains

You’ll know which lines are transferable based on the black and white bars on the map, which indicate multiple lines at a specific station. Look for numbers and letters listed on the route, and keep an eye out for pedestrian tunnels that are designed specifically to connect two stations. If you should miss your stop, don’t panic. Stay on the train until to reach the next stop from which you can change your travel direction.

Know the Difference between Uptown and Downtown

If you’re in Manhattan, just remember: Uptown = North, Downtown = South. This terminology generally applies while traveling within the borough of Manhattan but it is not used outside of this borough.

If you are planning travel to any of the following outer boroughs (Brooklyn, Queens or the Bronx), look for signage on subway platforms and/or listen to train announcements that announce the general direction of the train. For example, “This is a Brooklyn-bound R local train making all local stops”, “This is a Bronx-bound #2 express train”, etc.

Also know that “streets” run from east to west, while “avenues” run north to south. Some streets, like those appearing south (downtown) from the neighborhood simply known as “The Village”, and all the way down to Manhattan’s southernmost tip (Battery Park) are named, while most in Uptown streets are simply numbered. North of “the Village”, numbered streets increase as you travel further north (uptown) and decrease as you travel south (downtown). Fifth Avenue divides Manhattan’s east and west side regions, so if traveling uptown along the east side, street numbers will be preceded with the letter “E”; if west, “W” (Ex. E34 St, E35 St, W34 St, W35, etc.) The “L” train is the one Manhattan subway line that travels east-to-west, a term that we call “crosstown”. On subway maps, it appears as a gray-colored line.

All this information may seem a bit overwhelming at first, but there really is no reason to get stressed. In a City with over 8 million people, we can assure you that there will always be a helpful someone to assist you in navigating your way around our subways!

Tip: It’s not bad idea to add the “MyTransit NYC Maps” application to your smartphone. This way you will always have a subway map handy. The “MyTransit NYC” is another very useful app to add to your smartphone. This app provides useful information about subway delays and route changes (changes often occur during nights and weekends when track maintenance is conducted).

Local Or Express?

Be aware that the MTA Transit System also runs local and express trains. Local trains make every stop in one direction (Uptown or Downtown). An express train may also run Uptown or Downtown, skipping many stops, normally made by local trains, and thus being the faster option for those in a hurry to be somewhere. As a NYC subway system newbie, you might want to stick to use of local trains that make all stops, just until you get the hang of subway navigation. When traveling, via local or express train lines, always pad your travel time to allow enough time for reaching your destination a little earlier or at least, on time.

More general information for stress-free subway travel

Yellow colored lines: N & Q trains (express) and R &W trains (local) & GENERALLY run almost along Manhattan’s north/south midline before turning east towards the borough of Queens. These lines operate in Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens.

Blue colored lines: A (express) and C & E (local) run north/south furthest along Manhattan’s west side. These lines also run through the boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens.

Red colored lines: 1 (local) and 2 & 3 (express) trains run north/side along Manhattan’s west side though not as far west as the blue colored train letter described above. These trains operate in Manhattan and the Bronx.

Orange colored lines: B & D (express) and F & M (local) trains. In Manhattan, these lines run slightly east of the yellow colored train routes. These trains operate in the boroughs of Brooklyn, Manhattan & Queens.

Green colored lines: 4 & 5 (express) and 6 (local) trains run along the easternmost side of Manhattan. These trains operate in Manhattan and the Bronx.

Gray colored line: Connects between Manhattan’s east/west sides. Train operates in Manhattan and Brooklyn.

There are a few other train lines and shuttle lines but the ones shown above are the ones that you are most likely to use.

As local New York City tour guides, we highly encourage you to learn more about the subway before planning your trip. With walking tours being one of our most popular tour packages, the subway may be occasionally used as a part of our tour services—and it’s an experience in itself that should not be missed!

For more information, visit the MTA website, and book an exclusive walking tour with friendly Guides who know the City like the back of their hands!

Guide to New York City Subway – Maps & Cards

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The New York City subway is the best way to get around the Big Apple. It’s no secret that traffic in NYC is a nightmare, so you’ll save yourself the headache if you opt for public transportation.

While the NYC subway system can seem complicated at first, it’s actually the easiest way to navigate the city. If you want to get the full experience and enjoy all the top attractions in New York , take the subway (or as locals call it, the train).

In this guide, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about using the different NYC subway lines , the fare, how to pay, and tips on subway safety and etiquette. You’ll also learn how to read the New York City subway map , so you can travel just about anywhere without any problems.

Before we begin, keep in mind that this article is specifically about the subway. If you want information about NYC’s airport shuttles and transfers , or an overview of New York’s transportation network , check out our guides on those topics.

How the NYC subway works

The New York subway opened in 1904, and as the number of daily commuters grew, so did the number of train lines. Today, there are over 20 subway lines in NYC , which you can identify by color, letter, and number. This network of lines connects the boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx. Staten Island is the only NYC borough that isn’t connected via the subway.

This guide is divided into sections to help you learn how to use the subway in NYC :

New York City subway maps

Subway fares in New York City

New York City subway schedule

NYC subway lines

Tips for using the subway in NYC

New york subway app, new york city subway map.

To start, let’s take a look at a map of the NYC subway to see how the different lines interconnect and travel throughout the city. You can download this map or pick up a paper map at a New York City subway station or tourism office.

Notice that the last stop on each line doesn’t indicate which direction the train is traveling. It’s important to understand that some lines go north (Uptown), while others go south (Downtown). If you look at the name of the last stop or the district the train goes to, you can orient yourself and figure out which direction the line is traveling.

It also helps to familiarize yourself with some New York City maps so you can better determine which NYC subway routes you need to take .

Again, taking the subway in NYC will allow you to quickly move around the city, and it’s a cheap form of transportation. If you’re going to take several trains during your visit, I recommend getting the NYC MetroCard , which you can buy at the station and recharge if needed. This way, a one-way ride will cost $2.75 rather than the $3 for a single-ticket purchase.

The MetroCard is currently being phased out and replaced with OMNY, a contactless form of payment. Through 2023, you can use either method of payment. Speaking of cards, you may also be interested in getting a New York tourist card , especially if you plan on visiting the city’s main attractions.

Using the NYC MetroCard

The New York City MetroCard is easy to use, and it works on the city’s trains and buses. All you have to do is swipe the card through the card reader at any subway station, or at the card reader next to the bus driver.

The MetroCard costs $1, and you can buy it at an NYC subway station kiosk or customer service window. You can pay by card and reload the MetroCard with more money if you’re going to need any additional subway fare.

You’ll save money with the MetroCard since it reduces the one-way fare from $3 to $2.75. For longer stays in the city, you can pay $33 for unlimited subway rides for a week, or $127 for unlimited trips for a month. This New York City subway card works for all lines and most local buses, so you’ll be able to get around quickly.

Keep in mind that if you’re paying for your subway rides one by one, you can share the MetroCard with up to 4 people. However, if you opt for unlimited weekly or monthly trips, you can’t share your card with anyone. When you buy your MetroCard (or reload it), just indicate which option you prefer. For example, you can choose unlimited rides for one week, or load the card with $10 for several individual rides at $2.75 each.

Finally, be aware that the MetroCard is being phased out and replaced with OMNY. Throughout 2023, both New York City subway passes are valid and in use.

OMNY, a new way to pay for the NYC subway

By early 2024, OMNY will be the primary New York City subway card . It’s more of a virtual card since it’s a contactless form of payment that you can access via your smartphone or smartwatch.

One of the main advantages of OMNY is that it has a fare-capping system. So, while rides will still cost $2.75 each, the maximum you’ll spend in a week is $33, which is equivalent to 12 rides. Any additional trips you take will essentially be free. This system works on a weekly basis, starting on Monday and ending on Sunday.

OMNY is designed to be an easier and cheaper way to use the NYC subway . Like the MetroCard, OMNY can be shared with up to 4 people, but only for up to 12 trips. A key difference is that OMNY doesn’t offer a monthly pass like the MetroCard does.

One of the most common concerns about the New York City subway is the subway schedule and hours of operation. The NYC subway is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week .

While the NYC subway hours are 24/7, the frequency of the trains varies. During the day, the trains typically arrive every 2-5 minutes, although it could be every 5-10 minutes depending on the line. At night, the time between trains can be up to 10-20 minutes. You can look at the countdown clocks at the station to see how much longer until the next train arrives, as well as which direction it’s heading.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some NYC subway routes go to less touristy areas that can be more dangerous at night. If you plan on exploring the city after dark, I recommend reading our guide to visiting NYC at night to find some safe attractions and activities .

New York has 24 subway lines and 472 stations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx. Staten Island is the only NYC borough that doesn’t have a subway line, although it does have a train, bus, and ferry.

Each subway line in NYC is indicated with a number or letter, as well as a color. These indicators will help you identify the different trains and routes across the city. Remember that different trains can travel on the same track and stop at the same station, so it’s important to pay attention to the numbers, letters, and colors.

To find out which direction the train is going, there are some indicators you can look for. Check if the line says Uptown (north) or Downtown (south), or if it lists which borough it goes to. You can also look at the name of the last stop, and that can let you know which direction it’s going.

This is especially important because you want to be sure you’re using the correct subway station entrance. Even if you have identified the right line, you need to make sure it’s going in the direction you want. Otherwise, you’ll be wasting your New York City subway fare .

The loudspeakers inside each New York City subway station will announce the arrival of the next train. There are also loudspeakers and screens inside the train that will announce the next stop. However, I recommend staying alert and paying attention to your surroundings since the subway can get crowded and noisy, which can drown out the announcements .

Hopefully, the NYC subway system feels less like a mystery now. Below, I’m sharing some tips that will make taking the subway in NYC less stressful.

How to know which way the NYC subway is going

Before boarding the New York City subway , remember to check which direction the train is going. Look at the signs at the station’s entrance or inside the train to see whether it’s going Uptown (north) or Downtown (south), or if it’s going to Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, or The Bronx. You can also determine the direction by looking at the name of the last stop.

My recommendation is to first check the information at the subway station entrance since some NYC subway lines only travel in one direction. If you enter one of these stations and discover it’s going in the opposite direction you want, you’ll have to exit that station and enter another one, wasting your subway fare.

Once you’re on the train, keep an eye out for the signs and listen for the loudspeaker announcements so you get off at the correct stop.

Where to find the NYC subway line number or letter

As you enter a New York City subway station , you’ll see signs indicating the numbers, letters, and colors of the trains that pass through that station. The number or letter of the next train is usually announced over the station’s loudspeaker (for example, Line 1), although if there is a lot of noise, you might not hear it.

As the train approaches, you’ll be able to see the number or letter on the front and sides of the train. In my experience, it’s easier to use the numbers and letters as a guide, rather than the colors since multiple lines can share the same color.

Local and express trains on the New York City subway

Another thing to keep in mind is that there are local and express trains. Local trains stop at all NYC subway stations , while express trains only stop at the most important ones.

The express train is very useful for traveling long distances in a shorter time, although you should make sure that it stops where you want to go. You can find this information on the New York City subway map since express trains are marked with a white dot, while local trains have a black dot.

Using connections and transfers on the NYC subway

Depending on where you’re going, you may have to make a transfer within the NYC subway system . This isn’t as complicated as it sounds, especially if you use Google Maps. This app can show you the fastest NYC subway route , including transfers.

All subway stations have free Wi-Fi, so you should be able to connect to Google Maps. However, if you need mobile data in the U.S., I recommend the Holafly eSIM card . You can learn more about this service in our Holafly review .

Other tips for navigating the NYC subway system

The best way to avoid delays, crowds, and other problems is to avoid rush hour. The busiest NYC subway hours are from 7:00 – 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 – 7:00 p.m. During these hours, there are tons of people, mostly commuters, and very crowded trains, so you could end up waiting in line to board.

If you can, avoid these rush hours, especially if you’re new to the subway and get overwhelmed by crowds. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re not sure whether you’re on the right platform.

Another thing I want to stress is that everyone gets lost at some point. We’ve had times when we’ve confused one line with another, even in our own city! If this happens to you, stay calm, get off the train, and consult your New York City subway map to find a route to your destination .

I mentioned that Google Maps is a convenient app for the New York subway since it can show you the most convenient way to get from one place to another, even if you need a connection or transfer.

While there is no specific NYC subway app, there are some other applications that you might find useful. MyTransit NYC Subway, Bus, Rail is available on Google Play and can show you different maps of New York’s public transportation network. If you have an iPhone, a good alternative is New York Subway MTA Map and Route Planner .

Is the NYC subway safe?

Even though some people believe the New York City subway is dangerous, the reality is that it’s similar to public transportation in any big city. In other words, it’s important to be sensible and use common sense while you’re riding the subway. This means staying alert and keeping your personal belongings close.

Also, there are some neighborhoods that are known to be rougher than others. For example, The Bronx is an area that I only recommend visiting during the day, perhaps with an NYC contrasts tour . In general, the subway is used by locals and tourists on a daily basis, so you should be fine. We’ve used the subway several times during our visits to the Big Apple, and we’ve never had any trouble.

FAQs – New York City subway

If you still have concerns about riding the subway in New York City , here are the answers to some commonly asked questions:

Is the NYC subway wheelchair accessible?

Most New York City subway stations only have stairs, so it can be difficult for people with reduced mobility. If you’re using a wheelchair, I recommend taking the bus or checking this link to find the subway stations that have ADA ramps or lifts.

Can you bring a dog onto the New York City subway?

You can bring a dog on the NYC subway if it’s in a carrier.

Does the NYC subway go to all New York neighborhoods?

You can take the NYC subway to different neighborhoods in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx. Staten Island is the only borough that isn’t accessible by subway.

Do you need a MetroCard to use the New York City subway?

Yes, it is now required for all passengers to have a New York City MetroCard to ride the subway. You can also use OMNY, which is expected to replace the MetroCard by 2024.

Are there several NYC subway lines at the same station?

Yes, you can access several different NYC subway lines on the same platform, although it varies depending on which station you go to.

Is the NYC subway 24 hours?

Yes, the New York City subway runs 24/7, except in the case of accidents or construction.

Yes, New York’s subway is just as safe as any other large city. In other words, you will be fine as long as you keep your personal belongings close, and you avoid certain neighborhoods at night.

Are there any NYC subway lines to avoid?

It’s safe to take any NYC subway line during the day, although you should avoid the rougher neighborhoods at night.

Does the New York City subway run on time?

In general, the NYC subway runs smoothly, so you can expect your train to be on time. During the day, trains arrive every 5 minutes or so, although certain ones can take up to 10 minutes. In the overnight hours, the frequency between trains is longer, about 10-20 minutes. You can see all this information on the countdown clocks at every station.

Can kids use the NYC subway for free?

Kids under 3 feet 6 inches can ride the New York City subway for free when accompanied by an adult. Anyone over this height must pay the regular fare.

That’s it for this guide to the NYC subway . I hope this cleared up any confusion or doubts you had about how to use the subway in NYC . If you have any other questions, leave me a comment below, and I’ll be happy to help.

Have an amazing time in the city that never sleeps!

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How to Use the NYC Subway: 10 Tips from Locals You Must Read

Trying to figure out how to use the NYC subway can feel overwhelming, especially your first couple of times in the city!

There are loads of different lines going in all different directions; it can be a lot to wrap your head around. 🤯

In this quick guide, we’re going to lay out 10 tips to help you on your journey of navigating New York City! Here are 10 tips for effectively using the NYC subway:

• Use Google Maps to navigate
• Green lamps indicate subway entrances 
• You don’t need a metro card, use a phone or tap-enabled credit or debit card
• Double-check the entrance
• Look up & follow the signs
• Stay safe & pay attention
• Let people off before you get on
• Learn to ask a local
• Check before you sit
• Don’t stand by the door or block the entrance/exit

Let’s dive into each subway tip below! 👇

Note: This article was written by a real live human being, not artificial intelligence. 🥸

How to Use the NYC Subway Podcast Episode

Want to hear more podcasts like this?   Head here.

1- Use Google Maps to Navigate

Many navigation maps are available, but we’ve always found Google Maps to be the most reliable.

And that’s especially true when it comes to train times!

Google Maps makes it easy to see upcoming trains, plan a future trip, and even see exactly what exit you should choose when you arrive at your destination’s subway stop.

Tools like Live View also make it much easier to find your bearings when coming out of the subway.

Our Ultimate NYC Navigation Guide has an entire section about using Google Maps and Live View efficiently!

Maximize your time in NYC by demystifying the art of navigating the subway, taxis, walking, and biking around the Big Apple!

Free Guide to Getting Around NYC 🗽

2- green lamps indicate subway entrances.

In a city with so many buildings, street corners, and signs, it can sometimes be hard to find the subway entrance. 😅

Luckily, nearly all the subway stations are marked by large lamp posts with a green ball-shaped light!

So, if you’re trying to find the subway entrance to get to the Upper West Side neighborhood , for example, look for the green lamps.

3- You Do NOT Need a Metro Card, Use Your Phone or Tap-Enabled Credit or Debit Card

Gone are the days of being forced to use the finicky Metro Cards. Now, you can simply use tap-to-pay on your smartphone or any tap-to-pay-enabled debit or credit card.

If you’re using a smartphone, just unlock your phone and activate your wallet. Then, hold it up against the reader. Easy!

Here’s a quick video showing how to pay for the subway without a Metro Card. 👇

You can still buy an unlimited pass; they offer 7-day or 30-day options. Those can only be done via a Metro Card…

But, you can actually use the same device or credit card to get a pseudo-unlimited pass.

Pay for 12 rides in a 7-day period, and the rest of your rides in that same 7-day period are free!

Here’s how that works ( sourced from the Omny website ).

Once you’ve paid $34 for fares in a 7-day period, you can ride free for the rest of the week. Here’s an example:

• A rider uses the subway to get to and from work and takes it on weekends to go into Manhattan to meet friends. They also use the local buses in their neighborhood to run errands.
• They use their smartphone to pay the fare, so each ride is $2.90.
• After they have paid $34 in fares — the rest of the rides for the week will be free!

So before buying a 7-day unlimited pass, ensure you will ride at least 12 times. If not, you’re losing money!

All that to say, you don’t have to use the antiquated Metro Card machines, just tap your phone or credit card!

4- Double-Check the Entrance

Once you’ve found your subway entrance, double-check the sign before going in.

Some entrances are only for uptown, and others are only for downtown.

Many entrances are for both directions but double-check before entering. You often cannot get to the other direction’s platform if it’s a direction-specific entrance!

5- Look Up & Follow the Signs

All the subway stations are filled with signs indicating what trains stop at each track, the directions they’re heading, and often a live board showing when the next trains will arrive.

Again, if you know you need the N, Q, or R train to head to Central Park, check the signs!

If you’re coming from Soho, you’d want the platform that says ‘Uptown’.

Signs are your friend in the subway.

And that includes once you’re on the train! You can often step in and verify you’re on the right train by viewing the boards showing upcoming stops.

This Episode’s You’ll Have to Check It Out Segment: Grace Street Coffee and Desserts

Grace Street Coffee and Desserts is one of our all-time favorite spots in NYC.

Their Mango Madness shaved ice dessert is out of this world! And don’t forget to try the Matcha Beignets.

Located on Korea Street, this bustling dessert spot offers a variety of cold treats, delicious coffees, and a friendly atmosphere. Plan on waiting in line if you come on a weekend evening!

Check out Grace Street Coffee and Desserts here.

6- Stay Safe & Pay Attention While Riding the Subway

Fear-mongering aside, sketchy things do happen on the New York City subway. While that doesn’t always mean a violent crime, it doesn’t change the fact that you should stay alert while using the subway.

Note: Crime on the subway system is down in 2023 compared to 2022 and 2021.

Here are some ways to stay safe on the NYC subway:

• Don’t stand right by the subway tracks
• Ideally, don’t travel alone at night
• Don’t use noise-canceling headphones; stay alert and aware of your surroundings
• Scan the train cars before you get on one to look for potential hazards 
• Don’t be afraid to change trains at the next stop if someone or something makes you feel uneasy
• Opt for the middle train car; it’s the most crowded and usually the safest because it’s closest to the conductor

Again, the subway is generally safe. Stay alert, be aware of your surroundings, and trust your gut!

7- Let People Off Before You Get On

For the love of everything, do NOT try to bust onto the train as soon as the doors open.

Let people off the subway first, then and only then, get on!

You will have enough time to get on. The train doors don’t automatically close; a human being looks to see that people are on and then closes the doors.

Disregarding this rule is an easy way to get yelled at. Be respectful and let others off before you get on. 😄

8- Learn to Ask a Local or MTA Employee

New Yorkers are assholes, blah blah blah. 🤪

This is a stereotype we’ve found not to be very accurate. Most New Yorkers are just in a rush and are looking for courtesy from the people around them. See our article about NYC sidewalk rules for more context!

On that note, do not be afraid to ask someone who looks like a local for directions or help with the subway. Most people in the city are more than happy to offer help, especially regarding directions.

Here are a few good ways to determine if someone is a local you can ask for help from:

• They’re carrying groceries
• Their walking speed seems like a light jog
• They have a dog with them
• They don’t look lost

Those are just a few ways of knowing if someone is a local and can help.

A simple “Excuse me, is this train going uptown?” will almost always warrant a helpful response from people around you.

Many stations also have an MTA booth where you can get help, so keep your eyes peeled for those.

9- Check Before You Sit

Before you sit down on the subway, just look.

Look for weird liquids.

Look for dirt.

Look for an exploded ballpoint pen.

Look for literal human shit. 💩

Consider yourself warned!

10- Don’t Stand By Doors or Block the Entrance/Exit

The entrances and exits of subway stations are high-traffic areas. Just like you wouldn’t stop and park in the middle of an intersection in your car, you shouldn’t stand in high-traffic areas.

When you go down the stairs to the subway platform, move 10 feet away from the bottom of the stairs.

When you exit the subway and pop out onto the street, move 10 feet away from the exit.

This small courtesy makes a huge difference for the hundred or so people behind you trying to reach their destination.

Respect gets respect!

How to Use the NYC Subway Recap & Next Steps

Riding the subway in New York City can be an efficient means of getting around the massive city!

For only $2.90, you can get from the beaches of Coney Island all the way up to Yankee Stadium. Public transportation is one of the best parts of getting around New York City as a tourist .

So, be respectful, follow the signs, and stay alert and attentive when riding.

Access our guide today for the ultimate deep dive into all things NYC transportation and navigation. It’s full of even more tips about using the subway, getting to and from the airports, and even hacks for quickly hailing a taxi.

Get the Ultimate NYC Navigation & Transportation Guide here!

Have more questions about how to use the subway? Ask in the comments, and we’ll help out.

Devin Stagg

As long-time lovers of New York City we made the plunge to move across the country to NYC in early 2021... with our 3 dogs at the time (RIP Buddy). We consider ourself experts in exploring new restaurants, finding the best-rated bars, and activities actually worth doing. Plus, my Google Maps organizational skills are 2nd to none. 😜

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How to Use the NYC Subway

Navigating the New York metro system can be very daunting, especially for visitors to NYC who don't use mass transit in their daily lives.

And, as local walking tour guides who incorporate the NYC subway into our tours, we show visitors every day that it's actually easy to use.

We used our experiences to help craft this post, which provides helpful tips on how to use the NYC subway system to turn first-time visitors into locals. 

Or, you could let Katie, a tour guide with us, Free Tours by Foot, show you these tips in a video we produced just for you.

And, if you would like to have someone show you how to use the subway in NYC, then consider taking our subway tutorial.

Like most of our tours, it's free to book and runs on the pay-what-you-wish model.

OK. Let's get to the tips.

• Our Top 10 Tips
• Which MetroCard to Buy?
• NYC Subway Tutorial Tours
• Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus vs. Subway
• Which Subway App is Best?
• Things to Do in NYC

The New York City transit system is one of the most comprehensive metro systems in the world, and the subway is its heart.

You can use it to travel to and around Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) runs a rapid transit train system on Staten Island.

It runs 24 hours a day, something you can't say in cities like Paris or London.

But to use it wisely, there are ten things to consider.

1. Choosing what type of MetroCard to buy.

There are two types of cards to choose from: a regular Pay-Per-Ride card and an Unlimited Ride card. 

An Unlimited 7-Day MetroCard costs $34 (plus a $1 fee for a new card if you don't already have one). You can use the subway and bus as many times as you want within that 7-day period.

With a regular Pay-Per-Ride card, every subway ride costs $2.90 (plus a $1 fee for a new card if you don't already have one). With a Pay-Per-Ride, you get one free transfer to a bus within 2 hours.

If you decide to go with a Pay-Per-Ride you can skip buying a MetroCard and use the OMNY Tap-To-Pay option.

Just tap the display screen with a credit or debit card. You can even tap from your phone wallet!

Read our full post on MetroCards to learn more.

2. Make the subway map your best friend.

We are serious, your life will become a lot easier if you have a map handy, and don’t worry.

Even people living in NYC for a long time, take a look at the subway map from time to time.  

So take a minute and search for a subway map inside the station (there is one in each station) or ask the station attendant for a free subway map to go.

Click here for an NYC subway map PDF   

Before we continue, we are running this poll in our NYC Travel Tips Facebook group.

Would you like the option of a 1-hour subway tutorial tour? Click the link to vote or email us .

Our group consists of locals, like us guides, expats, regular visitors to NYC, as well as newbies to the city.

There's no need to join in order to search for and read the posts, comments, and suggestions.

3. Use letters and numbers, not colors!

When looking at the map, you will see the different lines in different colors and numbers.  

New Yorkers don't call the train lines by their colors, so make sure you are choosing the subway line that you need by letter or number.

That's because even though the blue line shows lines A, C, and E, these train routes eventually split up and you may end up somewhere completely different from where you intended to go.

4. Choose between local or express trains – black or white dots?

When looking at the subway map you will see that some stops have black dots and others have white dots.  

Black dots are "local" stations and the only trains that stop here are trains that make every stop on the line.

White dots are "express" stations and all trains on a line stop here.  

In the image above  you can see two circles, the blue circle around 86th St. Station and the black circle around 96th St. Station.

You can see that 86 St. Station has a black dot with a 1 underneath it.

This means that 86th St. Station is a local stop and that the 1 Train is a local train (because it stops there).  

Notice now that the 96th St. Station has a white dot underneath it and lists the 1 the 2 and the 3 trains?  

This means that the 2 and 3 Trains must be express trains because they are only stopping at the stations with a white dot. 

Most Common Tourist Mistake: Getting stuck on the express train, when you need the local train. 

Let's say you are planning on visiting the Natural History Museum on 81st Street.

As you can see in the image below , 81st Street is serviced by both the B and C trains.  

Since there is a black dot , this is a local station and both the B and C are local trains.  

The red circle is around 125th St. Station. This station is serviced by both the B and C trains, but also the A and D trains.

Since 125th Street has a white dot, it means that the A and D trains must be express trains since they do not stop at 81st St. Station or any of the other stations with black dots following 81st Street.  

If you are getting on the subway at Columbus Circle/59th St. Station to head north to 81st Street Station, then you must only take the B or C train.  

If you were to take the A or D train, then you would be stuck on the subway all the way to 125th St. Station.

This is very time-consuming as you can imagine.

5. Decide Uptown or Downtown?

Another important thing you have to figure out is whether you need to go uptown (generally meaning north), or downtown (generally meaning south) - for those staying in Manhattan.  

This means that you will have to choose the correct platform.  

Also, some subway stations (usually local train-only stations) have separate entrances for uptown ( see image above ), or downtown-bound trains ( see image below ).

This means that you might have to cross the street to get down to the direction you want to go.  

Most express stations will have entry to both platforms accessible from every entrance to the station.

6. Find the correct station.

The station names make it relatively easy to locate them.  

ALERT - if you are planning on meeting your friend at the subway stop on Canal Street though, think again, because there are 5 possible meeting spots, as there are different subway lines with a stop named Canal Street.  

Also, many stations tend to have a front and back entrance/exit.

7. What do those red and green globes mean?

Also, you will notice that most subway stations have either a green globe or a red globe.  

Historically, these were installed to tell riders which stations are open 24 hours (those are marked with a green globe) and which stations are closed at night (those marked with a red globe).  

The red globes were also supposed to mark exit-only stairs, but 99% of New Yorkers and visitors ignore that.  

To simplify things, just remember that red globe station entrances are not likely to remain open after the evening rush hour.

With that said, there are fewer and fewer red globes remaining and it's possible you won't see any in your time in NYC.

8. Utilize Pedestrian Tunnels to Transfer from one train line to another.

Another mistake that newbies to the NYC subway system make is to exit from one station to head to another station to catch a different train, thus having to pay for another ride.

Some stations have pedestrian tunnels that connect them to other stations.  

For example, many visitors who are on the A, C, or E 8th Ave line (that's the blue line) heading to the Mets game at CitiField in Queens will exit the system at Port Authority Terminal and walk east on 42nd St. and reenter at Times Square to take the 7 Train to the game.  

It is much quicker, and it's cheaper, to take the pedestrian tunnel between the two stations, as you can see in the image above.

9. Understand the general train timetables.

During peak hours, subway lines typically run every 2 to 5 minutes (from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.). 

They run every 5 to 10 minutes during the day and every 5 to 15 minutes until midnight.

You can expect most trains to run roughly every 20 minutes after midnight.

Of course, you should consider getting a good subway app , such as CityMapper or Google Maps, as a route planner to use when in NYC.

These apps are also excellent sources to check the service status of lines and to see which stations are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, which have working elevators and escalators, etc.

10. Simply Ask Somebody.

If you are still not sure whether you are getting on the right train or standing on the right side of the platform, just ask somebody.

You will be surprised to find that many New Yorkers like to help you find your way.

And why not ask the conductor?

At each station, there are black and white striped boards that conductors on the train must point at (to prove they didn't fall asleep).

While you can have fun like the people in the video, you can also ask your conductor if the train is the one you need.

Consider listening to an episode of our NYC Travel Tips podcast that covers tips on riding the NYC subway.

  This podcast offers bite-sized audio clips with tips on how to plan your trip to NYC. You can get our podcast on Apple , Google , or wherever you get your podcasts.

SUBWAY TUTORIAL TOURS

We at Free Tours by Foot offer several tours that utilize the NYC subway (and buses) to get around the city.

While these are not specifically subway tours, your tour guide will assist you in learning how to master the system.

Your guide will also discuss the history of the subway and its role in the lives of New Yorkers as well as in popular films.

NEW YORK IN ONE DAY TOUR

This tour, which runs several days each week @10 am, is a 6-hour tour that visits the Financial District, Lower Manhattan, the 9/11 Memorial, Chinatown, Little Italy, SoHo, Greenwich Village, and the High Line, with a 45-min lunch break. 

You will ride the subway at least 2 times with either a 3rd ride or one ride on the bus. We use this time to explain and demonstrate how to master the system.

Watch the short video below or visit the tour page for more information , or just book the tour now .

We also offer a 3-hour version of this tour, called the Downtown Manhattan Tour , that uses the subway once and covers the Financial District and Lower Manhattan, the 9/11 Memorial, Chinatown, and SoHo.

MIDTOWN MANHATTAN NIGHT TOUR

From March through October, we offer this evening tour 3x a week. You will ride the NYC subway 2x during this tour.

Another bonus is that this tour begins at Grand Central Terminal, which is within walking distance to most Midtown Manhattan hotels.

If you arrange an early arrival with your tour guide, he or she can help you sort out purchasing a MetroCard ( which you can learn more about here ).

Learn more about this tour or go straight to our booking page . 

HOP-ON-HOP-OFF BUS VS. NYC SUBWAY

If you are visiting NYC and aren't sure about using the NYC subway, then we hope our 8 top tips above, as well as our guide to choosing a subway Metrocard , have made you more confident and willing to use the subway to get around the Big Apple.

Still, we understand that some people may still be apprehensive or are torn between the benefits of both the subway and the tourist double-decker buses.

So, we have included a few pros and cons of each service to help you make up your mind.

Hop-On-Hop-Off buses are really useful for getting an overview of the city or for enjoying a stress-free night tour.

However, we strongly feel that they are not an efficient way to get around NYC if you are here for multiple days.

Be sure to read our post on NYC bus tours to compare the different bus tours available to you.

Pros of a Bus Tour

• easy to understand routes
• convenient stops at the most popular tourist attractions
• climate controlled all year
• tickets often include night tours, boat cruises or free attractions.
• commentary along the routes

Cons of a Bus Tour

• more expensive than riding the subway
• routes are only one-direction
• wait times can be long in high season due to traffic
• buses can be crowded
• bad weather is always a risk

Pros of Riding the Subway

• inexpensive
• flexible routing
• very warm in the winter
• you get to meet real New Yorkers
• faster than tour buses in most instances

Cons of Riding the Subway

• trains can change direction without notice (though not common)
• not all stations are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers
• can be really hot and sweaty in summer
• can be really crowded during rush hours
• no commentary (unless you are on one of our tours )

Related Posts

• As a backup plan, there are always hop-on-hop-off buses to get you around the Big Apple.
• Check out our comparison post on New York boat tours and cruises .
• Many of these options are included free with an NYC discount tourist pass .

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

Stephen Pickhardt

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

How to Use the Subway in NYC (Easy to Follow NYC Subway Guide)

So you’re wondering how to use the subway in NYC? When you’re in the Big Apple, navigating the city can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the hustle and bustle. That’s where the NYC subway comes to the rescue and I am going to break down the ins and outs of the New York subway, making it a breeze!

The New York subway is not just a way to get around: it’s the best way to get around New York City. It operates 24/7, 365 days a year. There are 36 subway lines (and more coming soon) that stop at close to 500 stations across 4 of the 5 NYC boroughs. That means that you’ll never be left stranded in the City that Never Sleeps.

Plus, riding the subway in NYC is the most affordable option. You’ll be spared the wallet-draining costs of taxis and rideshares or the endless waits in traffic. And riding the subway in NYC is definitely easier than driving a car in NYC or searching for where to find parking in NYC .

And for those scared or apprehensive about riding the subway, don’t worry, I will cover all the best tips for riding the subway. Nearly 3.2 million people ride the NYC subway every day – so it’s really not as scary or bad as you might have heard on the news. But more on that later.

You might be a visitor looking to explore, a newcomer to the city, or maybe you’re a local who hasn’t quite mastered the subway system yet. This NYC subway guide will give you the inside scoop on how to make the most of this convenient mode of transportation. Let’s dive in and demystify the art of how to use the NYC subway!

How Much Does the NYC Subway Cost & How to Pay

First up in our NYC subway guide is, of course, the money. Understanding the cost and how to pay for your subway rides is crucial for making the most of your New York subway experience.

The basic subway ride is $2.90 per ride. (And if you’re 65 or older, or if you’re a person with disabilities, you might be eligible for a discounted fare rate.) That means that for less than $3, you can get from one end of the city to the other!

This fare includes not only your initial ride but also any necessary transfers between different subway lines (as long as you don’t leave the station).

Do you need to switch from one line to another to reach your destination? Don’t worry – it’s all covered under that one fare.

How to Pay for the Subway

There are two options to pay for the subway. By a MetroCard and by a credit/debit card that has tap as a payment option.

Here’s how to get a MetroCard . This is a reloadable card that you’ll use to pay every time you ride the subway. There’s an initial $1 fee each time you get a new card, so don’t lose it unless you want to pay for another card! (You also don’t want to lose your funds on your card!)

You can purchase MetroCards at special vending machines located inside subway stations, near the entrance to the train platform. Some of the machines accept cash, all accept credit card as payment.

Once you have a MetroCard and it’s loaded with funds, just slide your card along the strip at the top of the turnstile, listen for the click, and head through to the platform!

Now for the tap payment option . This payment option is through OMNY, the new tap-to-pay system that’s now available at the turnstiles of all regular subway stations.

You can simply tap your credit or debit card, or your favorite banking app, wherever you see the OMNY readers at turnstiles and gates. This offers a more modern, convenient, and contactless way to pay for your rides.

Bonus: OMNY offers  free transfers and trips ! Just use the same payment method at OMNY readers to transfer for free. Or if you use the same card or app to pay for your trips 12 times (once you’ve spent $34) over 7 days, all rides the rest of the week are free!

Unlimited Ride MetroCards

For anyone spending a significant amount of time exploring NYC via the subway, you might consider an unlimited week or month pass. These passes are an affordable option for regular subway riders.

Also, it’s important to note that Unlimited Ride MetroCards are for individual use only. Once you swipe it, there’s an 18-minute delay before you can use it again. So, while you could technically use it to pay the fare for 2 people, you’d have to wait 18 minutes between swipes, which isn’t worth it!

It’s better just pay per ride. Still, Unlimited Ride Metrocards are a great deal if you’ll be using the subway frequently.

Note: If you just have a regular MetroCard (not an Unlimited ride MetroCard) you can swipe multiple people in through the turnstile if you have the funds loaded on that card.

Kids Ride for Free

For those traveling with little ones, the subway in NYC can be accommodating, but you have to know the rules . Up to 3 children under 44 inches in height can ride for free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. It’s a family-friendly feature that makes exploring the city more accessible for everyone!

Still not sure if you’re up for riding the subway in NYC with kids? The key is to be prepared and enjoy the ride. we’ll share tips for navigating the MTA with kids later on in our NYC subway guide!

New York City’s AirTrain is a convenient train service that’s sole purpose is to connect John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) that connects the airport’s terminals, parking, and transportation options. It links to the New York subway and Long Island Railroad, helping travelers reach the city and region easily.

It’s cheaper than taxis and convenient if you have luggage. And it’s a great time-saving time option if you’re heading to JFK, especially during rush hour.

You usually transfer to the subway or train from the AirTrain to get to wherever you’re going in the city.

AirTrain rides are $8.50 a ride, on top of your regular train or subway fare. You can pay this with a regular MetroCard, you just need to make sure you have enough funds. Or you can use OMNY and tap your credit card.

The unlimited week or month pass doesn’t include AirTrain rides , so plan accordingly for your airport transfers.

The easiest way to pay? You’ll find MTA’s OMNY Readers located inside both the Howard Beach and Jamaica subway stations that connect you to AirTrain.

What About Transfers?

You may think you can learn how to use the NYC subway without dealing with transfers, but they’re an important aspect for anyone riding the subway in NYC. This means you can transfer seamlessly between subway lines as long as you don’t leave the subway system. 

Also, once you swipe your MetroCard, you can transfer to an MTA bus for free within two hours . This allows you to transfer from subway to bus, bus to subway, or bus to bus. This flexibility makes it easy to reach your final destination without additional costs!

Not sure if the subway line near you will connect you to your desired destination? Many of the subway lines connect on same the train platform or through connecting train stations. This means you can transfer to different subway lines without leaving the system (i.e. without going outside the subway turnstiles where you swipe your Metrocard and have to pay again to re-enter).

To make your trip a piece of cake, consider using an app, like The MTA App or Citymapper, which will lay out every step you need to take to get to where you’re going. Next, we’ll go over all the best NYC subway apps and how they benefit you.

Just keep in mind that if you exit the subway quickly and try to re-enter, you’ll be charged another fare! If you think you’ll need to re-enter the subway system to switch lines, it might be more cost-effective to take a bus instead. This way, you can still enjoy a free transfer.

Best NYC Subway App & Navigation

If you’ve ever looked at a map of the New York subway, it looks like a colorful bowl of spaghetti. It’s a user-friendly system, but it’s vast and intricate, so it’s crucial to have the right tools at your disposal.

These days, no NYC subway guide would be complete without going over the best NYC subway apps! We’ll go over those first, and then share valuable tips for navigating the subway like a seasoned New Yorker.

Google Maps  – For thousands of travelers, Google Maps is a trusted companion for getting around NYC. You probably use it for driving, but it’s also an excellent choice for the NYC subway. Simply enter your current location and your destination.

Google Maps will provide you with detailed instructions on which subway lines to take and where to transfer. It’s user-friendly and the best NYC subway app for first-time subway riders. Just be aware that GPS can be unreliable when you’re underground between stations.

The MTA App  – The MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) offers an official app for New York City’s public transit. This app was made to provide accurate and real-time information on subway schedules, service alerts, and planned service changes.

However, it’s still in beta and has been known to be down for hours or days at a time. Check back in the future with this one, because it has some great ideas for locals and visitors riding the subway in NYC!

Citymapper  – This is a fan favorite among New York subway riders. Many people think it’s the best NYC subway app because of its user-friendly interface and thorough transit data. It offers detailed subway information and includes real-time arrival data, like service disruptions and down-to-the-minute notifications on when your train will arrive at the station. It includes walking directions to nearby stations, transfer options, and information on accessible stations. Citymapper also includes ride- and bike-sharing options.

Transit App  – If you’re looking for a real-time companion, the Transit App is your best bet. It not only provides you with subway schedules and service alerts but also helps you get better timing information. We also love the way it’s streamlined to look and feel like the signage in the subway system. It’s truly the best NYC subway app for both vetted and first-time subway users who want to minimize wait times and make the most of their MTA experience.

Navigating the New York Subway

Now that you have the best NYC subway apps at your fingertips, we’ll share our best advice for navigating the New York Subway. The key here is paying attention to signs.

Understanding the Subway Lines

The New York subway is a network of lines that crisscross the city. When planning your route, pay close attention to the different lines, their colors, and their destinations.

Be cautious about express trains because they skip some stops. These can be faster, but might not take you exactly where you want to go.

To figure out which direction/platform you need, look for signs indicating Uptown or Downtown . The “Uptown” direction generally means heading north or to Manhattan, while “Downtown” means heading south or away from Manhattan.

This also depends on where you’re at in the city, if you’re at the World Trade Center and you want to get to the Empire State Building, you’ll need to head Uptown.

If you’re still confused, you can always consult your handy-dandy NYC subway app of choice. It’ll confirm the correct platform and direction for your destination.

Transferring Between Lines

Transfers are a common part of navigating the New York subway when your destination requires you to take 2 (or more) different train lines.

For example, let’s say you’re in the Financial District, and you want to go to the MET on the Upper East Side. The train station closest to you is the J, and that train won’t take you to Museum Mile. However, the NYC subway system connects the J to the 6, and then you just have to walk a few blocks to the MET!

The important thing to remember when making transfers is to follow signs and be prepared for lots of walking. There might be a long walk from one platform to the other, so don’t dilly-dally around. Time is of the essence in the NYC subway system! And pay close attention to signs, because you may need to switch platforms, but you don’t want to accidentally leave the station.

For beginners, if you have the choice between a direct route with no transfers and one with transfers that don’t add much travel time, go with the most direct route without transfers.

Consider our scenario where you’re going to the MET. You could skip transfers and just do a little extra walking by just taking the 6 train all the way Uptown. Once you gain confidence and experience, you can explore more intricate routes that involve transfers.

Often times transfers might only save 10 minutes, if you’re unfamiliar with the subway you could spend that trying to navigate to your next train.

General NYC Subway Tips

Now you know how to pay for your New York subway trip, you have your favorite app handy, and you have a good idea of how to navigate the train system! You should feel confident in how to use the NYC subway, even as a newbie. Still feeling nervous? We’ve got some essential tips and insider knowledge so you can conquer the NYC subway like a pro.

In this section of our NYC subway guide, we’ll dive into general tips that will help you make the most of your subway experience. It’s full of invaluable information that everyone riding the subway in NYC can use, whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned commuter!

NYC Safety Tips for Everyone

Avoid Empty Cars  – If you encounter an empty subway car during rush hour when other cars are crowded, there’s usually a reason. Don’t believe us? You might be in for an unpleasant surprise! It’s best to steer clear and find a more populated car.

Don’t Talk to Strangers  – Despite our unsavory reputation, New Yorkers can be quite welcoming and helpful! But when you’re on the train, it’s wise not to engage in lengthy conversations with strangers, especially if you’re unsure of their intentions.

You can ask a fellow traveler for directions but keep it short, people will help guide you in the right direction. If you need more assistance, ask an MTA attendant.

Keep an Eye on Belongings  – The subway can get crowded, making it essential to keep a close eye on your belongings, especially valuables like smartphones, wallets, and jewelry. Don’t mindlessly wait on the platform with your phone out unless you want to risk it getting swiped.

Use bags with secure closures, don’t leave them unattended, and keep your items out of sight when not in use. If you’re carrying a backpack, don’t keep valuables in the front pocket, and consider wearing it on your front to save space.

Stay Alert  – Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. If you’re waiting for a train, standing in well-lit areas is safer, especially at night. It helps deter potential wrongdoers and allows you to see your surroundings clearly.

Stand Away from the Edge  – While waiting for the subway, always stand away from the edge of the platform, at the open tracks. Pay attention to the yellow-painted safety lines on the platform and try to have your back closer to the center of the platform, or against a pillar or wall. Don’t cross the safety lines until the train has come to a complete stop and the doors have opened.

Riding with Kids  – If you’re traveling with children, keep them close and wait for the train near the center of the platform. You might want to plan ahead and bring some quiet toys to keep them occupied on the train. Also, think about using a folding stroller that you can collapse if you end up boarding a packed train car. Or just use a sturdy baby carrier. Also, try to avoid traveling during rush hour when the subway is most crowded.

Avoid Late-Night Travel Alone  – If possible, avoid traveling alone on the subway late at night. There’s safety in numbers, so consider using a rideshare service or taxi if you’re concerned about safety during the late hours.

Look for the Car with the Conductor  – If you need to travel alone or find yourself in a position where you don’t feel safe, one option is to stay near the train conductor. They ride in the first subway car or in the middle one. For the middle car, look for the black & white-striped board over the center of the platform . When the train comes into the station, they’ll open their window under this board.

Wait Near the MTA Station Agent  – Another option when you’re by yourself is to wait near the customer service booth at the entrance of every train station. These agents are there to help you purchase MetroCards and to assist if you need help.

Don’t want to enter an empty platform late at night? Wait near the station agent. Already paid your fare and got a weird vibe on the platform? You can always wait on the other side of the turnstile, which is in full view of the service agent.

Use Headphones Wisely  – You might want to listen to music or podcasts with headphones while you enjoy a long subway ride. But you should be cautious of high volume levels and noise-canceling features. You need to remain aware of your surroundings, so don’t crank up the volume to a point where you can’t hear important announcements or potential issues.

Beware of Subway Performers  – On some subway rides, you might encounter subway performers. Most are completely harmless and just want to offer entertainment to travelers for the occasional tip! But some can be unaware of the hassle they cause. While they can be entertaining, be cautious if they begin their routines in crowded cars. Maintain a safe distance to avoid getting bumped or injured.

Report Suspicious Activity  – If you notice any suspicious activity or unattended bags, report it to transit personnel or call 911. These days, stations have pretty good cell service. It’s always better to be cautious!

Trust Your Instincts  – If something or someone makes you feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts. Move to another subway car or a busier area and consider alerting the conductor or an MTA station agent if you feel unsafe.

Subway Etiquette

Let’s address this touchy subject: There’s a right and wrong way to act on the subway! The subway is user-friendly and made with tourists in mind, but it’s also the main way locals commute to and from work and school every day.

When you’re riding the subway in NYC, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep others in mind as you move about. Here are a few tips from some seasoned subway pros when it comes to good subway etiquette:

Let People Exit First  – When the subway doors open, allow those inside to exit before boarding. It’s a simple but crucial way to keep the flow of passengers moving.

Stay to the Right  – Also remember to be aware of the flow of traffic when walking on the platform, down corridors, and riding escalators. This usually means staying to the right. You might take your time as you experience the subway system, but you don’t want to slow down someone on their way to work!

Consider Pregnant Passengers  – If you see a pregnant passenger, do them the courtesy of offering your seat. This is as much for safety as it is for comfort.

Let’s Talk About Some Important Topics

When you’re learning how to use the NYC subway, there are a few important things to keep in mind. We wanted to spend a little more time on these particular topics since they’ll make the biggest difference when it comes to your subway experience.

Riding the Subway on the Weekends

On the weekends, the New York City subway can be a bit less predictable, due to maintenance and construction work. And many trains run on an alternate weekend schedule, where there’s reduced train service (fewer trains running compared to weekdays).

This is where the best NYC subway apps come in handy. You can use your favorite app to stay informed on what trains are running near you on the weekends, as well as about any real-time service changes or disruptions.

Read the Signs

As soon as you enter the subway station, before you go through the turnstiles and to the subway platform, take a moment to read the signs. They’ll tell you which way is Uptown, Downtown, and to specific boroughs. It’s essential that the train you’re about to board is going in the direction you want.

This is usually something to look out for when you’re heading to your train from the turnstiles, or when you’re switching platforms for a transfer. There are also a few subway stations with trains that only go in one direction. The last thing you want is to pay your fare only to find out you’re in the wrong station!

If you’re using an NYC subway app or map, they should tell you where the correct station, platform, and train are located.

Transferring!

Transfers are common in the NYC subway system, allowing you to switch between different lines to reach your destination. If you think you might have a transfer, be prepared for the long walks, multiple stairways, and complex station layouts. Read directions and signs carefully before entering another train to avoid confusion. If you need help, you can ask an attendant (locals are usually willing to help, too!).

Accessibility!

It’s true, that New York Transit has major room for improvement when it comes to accessibility. While the MTA has a goal of  95% of subway stations being accessible by 2055 , most currently are not, and it’s a problem.

Even at the current 25% of stations that are considered ADA-accessible, you might find the only elevator might be out of service (or just miserable to be inside of). Or there just might not be an accessible station near you. Both stations and subway cars are also supposed to be ADA-friendly and include signage and technology for those who are low-vision, blind, hard of hearing, and deaf. But they often don’t.

For travelers with mobility issues, it’s important that you know where accessible stations are located, and you can connect to a list of them  through this link . You can also get up-to-date information on elevators and escalators for the MTA and LIRR  by going to this link . If you enter a station and find that it’s not as accessible as it should be, you can ask the ticket booth attendant for help.

If you’re a wheelchair user or someone with mobility challenges and you’re looking for the best NYC subway app, we suggest either the Transit App or Citymapper.

Both also include information on wheelchair access at train stations, trains, and buses. Citymapper has app settings that modify walking times for those with disabilities, so you have an accurate ETA when you plug in your location and destination. And Transit App includes screen readers for blind and low-vision users.

Express vs. Local Trains: Know the Difference

Express trains skip some stops, making them faster but with fewer station options. They’re great for getting from one end of the city to the other the fastest. Local trains stop at every station along their route. If you’re going a short distance, stick to a local train.

If you’re not sure which one you need, ask an MTA station agent or check your subway app. It should give you accurate information when you plug in your destination.

MTA vs. LIRR vs. NJ Transit

The MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) operates the subway and buses across all 5 boroughs (there’s no subway service on Staten Island). To use MTA services, you typically purchase a MetroCard for the subway and buses.

The MTA doesn’t include the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) and New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit). The LIRR is part of the larger MTA family but is separate from the subway and bus services. It provides a convenient way for you to go between Long Island and New York City.

NJ Transit is the state-owned public transportation system in New Jersey, providing bus and rail services across the state and into neighboring areas, including New York City. While NJ Transit services extend into New York City, it operates independently of the MTA.

All 3 services require separate tickets, which you can purchase through their respective apps or at designated kiosks.

Step-By-Step Recap for How to Use the Subway

• Look at directions and see what train/station you need to go to. Read the signs at the entrance before going in.
• Pay your fare (swiping a MetroCard sometimes requires practice as you can’t go too fast or too slow. The same goes for the tap method). If it won’t work, try another turnstile, as some are just wonky sometimes!
• Get to your subway. Read signs carefully and follow based on what train number/letter you have to go to. Also, note if you need to go Uptown or Downtown. Before getting on the train, make sure it’s not going express, unless you need to go express (as it skips many stops).
• Get off the train. You can see if your navigation tells you the most efficient exit. Sometimes it’s easiest just to get outside of the subway and navigate once you’re on the street and have signal again!

NYC has a Ferry Too!!

Depending on where you are and where you are going, there’s a ferry too! For visitors to New York City, the  NYC Ferry  provides an accessible, convenient, and scenic way to explore the city. It’s an excellent way to experience the city’s iconic skyline, bridges, and waterfront attractions. Here’s a breakdown of how to navigate the ferry in NYC.

How to Use the NYC Ferry

First, determine your destination and which ferry route serves that location. NYC Ferry offers multiple routes connecting different neighborhoods and boroughs. Popular routes include the East River route, the South Brooklyn route, and the Rockaway route.

NYC Ferry operates on a fixed schedule. Be sure to check the schedule for your chosen route to plan your departure and arrival times. And especially during peak times, you’ll want to arrive a little early so you can guarantee your spot on the boat. Ferries can fill up quickly.

Note: The NYC Ferry is separate from the  Staten Island Ferry , which is free and only goes between Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan to St. George Ferry Terminal in Staten Island. You don’t need a ticket, just simply board!

Note: A common NYC scam is that people might try to sell tickets to the Staten Island Ferry, don’t do it! You don’t need one as it’s free.

How to Pay for the NYC Ferry

You can buy tickets at the ferry terminal or use the NYC Ferry app. For visitors, the easiest thing to do is get a single-ride ticket for $4 (it costs less for those 65 years and older or individuals with disabilities).

With a single-ride ticket, you can make free transfers between ferries for up to 2 hours. You also can purchase a ticket at the ferry terminal at the small kiosk or use the NYC Ferry app to load funds onto a digital card for contactless payment.

Frequent riders can also save by purchasing a monthly pass that allows unlimited travel within a calendar month.

Popular NYC Ferry Routes

NYC Ferry routes are a great way to see different parts of the city and soak in some fantastic views along the way! Here are a few you might want to check out:

East River Route  – This is a fantastic choice if you want stunning views of Manhattan. It connects neighborhoods like Long Island City in Queens, Murray Hill/Midtown East, Greenpoint , Williamsburg , DUMBO , and Lower Manhattan . You’ll be treated to iconic skyline sights as you glide along the East River.

Governors Island Route  – This quick 8-minute ferry journey from Lower Manhattan to Governors Island offers a peaceful, car-free oasis in New York Harbor. Once there, you’ll discover green spaces, historic buildings, art installations, and more. You’ll also enjoy stunning views of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline!

South Brooklyn Route  – Take a ferry ride along Brooklyn’s waterfront, with must-see neighborhoods like Red Hook , Sunset Park , Bay Ridge , Brooklyn Heights , Lower Manhattan, DUMBO, and the Lower East Side . The views are simply beautiful, and it’s a unique way to see this borough.

Soundview Route   – Travel to the Bronx, where you can explore the scenic waterfront and check out local attractions. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but worth the visit and connects from the Bronx down to Midtown and Lower Manhattan.

Helpful NYC Guides

Are you traveling to New York for the first time? We have more guides you might find helpful!

• 15 Ways for How to Spend a Day in NYC
• How to Spend 3 Days in NYC Itinerary
• How to Spend 4 Days in NYC Itinerary
• How to Spend 5 Days in NYC Itinerary
• How to Spend 7 Days in NYC Itinerary
• Best Areas to Stay in NYC
• Essential Visiting NYC Tips

To pay for the NYC subway, passengers can purchase MetroCards at vending machines or booths or use a tap payment option using a bank app or credit/debit card. For MetroCards you can choose between pay-per-ride or unlimited ride options. After loading value onto the card, they swipe it at turnstiles for entry.

You do not need a credit card to ride the NYC subway. Passengers can use cash to pay for and load a MetroCard to ride the subway and swipe it at the turnstiles for entry.

Yes, the NYC subway is generally safe, but travelers should remain vigilant, especially late at night. It’s advisable to stay alert, keep belongings secure, and avoid empty cars. Using well-lit stations and traveling in groups can enhance safety.

Yes, the NYC subway is relatively easy to use with a comprehensive network of routes and signage. Maps are available in stations, and digital apps offer real-time updates. Staff and fellow passengers often provide assistance if needed.

OMNY is a contactless payment system, allowing riders to tap and pay with a linked account or contactless card with tap payment. The MetroCard is a magnetic stripe card requiring swiping, with options for single or multiple rides and various fare types that can be purchased and loaded within the subway stations.

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New York City Subway Guide Riding the NYC Subway Made Easy

Planning to Use the Subway

Riding the New York City Subway System is easier than it has even been before thanks to the MTA TripPlanner . Now, all you have to do is turn on your smart phone, go to the TripPlanner website, plug in your current location and your destination, and the TripPlanner will give you three different routes to get you where you're going by subway, bus or a combination of the two. You will also be able to print a customized map.

Reading the Subway Map

Express and local trains, transferring between trains, uptown or downtown.

• Make note of the station before... - If you keep in mind the station before the one you plan to get off at, you won't have to wait till you see your station to move towards the doors. Very helpful if the train is crowded or you're traveling with a group.
• In Manhattan, the Bronx is up, Brooklyn is down - Bronx bound trains are always heading uptown and Brooklyn bound trains are always heading downtown.

Subway Instructions Part 2 - How much, where to stand, more...

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6 Tips for Riding the New York City Subway like a Pro

The NYC subway is one of the most convenient ways to negotiate your way around the Big Apple. However, just like the train stations in Japan , there are plenty of tricks of the trade to learn about the workings of the NYC subway which will save you precious time and money during your stay.

Below are our six top tips to enjoy the NYC subway, either as a solo traveller or with your loved ones.

Understand the Difference Between Express and Local Trains

The first rookie error tourists make on the NYC subway is hopping aboard an express train instead of a local train. Express trains skip out the majority of low-traffic subway stops. Any subway stop that’s marked as a black circle on the subway map is deemed a local station. All express trains will go through these stations without stopping. Subway stops with white circles and black edging serve both express and local trains.

Get Yourself a Reloadable MetroCard

When it comes to the price of journeys on the NYC subway, it’s important to remember that single-use tickets are the most expensive way to use the system. The most cost-effective way of getting around is via a MetroCard. You can pay for seven-day or 30-day MetroCard passes which give you unlimited “swipes” at stations on the subway as well as local bus routes.

If you choose to pay-per-ride, you will pay approximately $2.75 per trip. A seven-day Unlimited MetroCard pass costs just $33, so you only need to ride the subway a dozen times a month just to make this the value option for your stay.

Avoid Wall Street Station Early in the Morning

Wall Street station was unsurprisingly a part of the initial phase of plans for New York City’s inaugural subway line, approved in 1900. The heartbeat of NYC’s financial district, it remains a global leader in stocks and shares. Although little has changed at Wall Street station in the last century, technology has changed the face of the financial trading world. The advent of automated forex robots has become a dominant tool in the high-liquidity world of forex. Trades are placed for and against the US dollar and many other currencies at high volume and scale.

Around the time of the 2008 financial crash, some 200,000 people were employed in the Wall Street district. Although that figure is significantly reduced today, there’s still tens of thousands of people that commute in daily. So avoid Wall Street rush-hour if you can – unless you like being packed in with strangers! 

Learn Your Uptown from Your Downtown

Most tourists base themselves in the Manhattan area of New York. If that’s the case, you’ll need to get to grips with the concept of going “Uptown” and “Downtown” on the NYC subway. From any point on the subway network, if you are planning on moving north, you will be traveling Uptown. However, if you are in Times Square on 42nd Street and you are planning on travelling to 16th Street, you’ll need to head on a subway service heading Downtown i.e. towards Brooklyn Bridge.

Download the NYC Transit App and Don’t Always Rely on Google Maps

One of the biggest bugbears of using the NYC subway is the last-minute service changes due to construction works. These are most common at night and at the weekends. If you are thinking of relying on Google Maps to update you on service changes, don’t. Although it’s a useful app, it’s not always accurate when it comes to where the subway is and isn’t working.

Instead, it’s a good idea to download the NYC Transit app on your smartphone. This handy app provides step-by-step navigation for all trips across the city, day and night. It will list all available routes and allow you to pick your favoured option.

Use the Pedestrian Tunnels to Walk to Nearby Stations

A classic mistake that many tourists make when navigating NYC’s subway system is exiting a station to go to another nearby station and catch another train on a different line. This can prove a costly error for newbies, as you’ll have to pay to re-enter the nearby station to travel again. Fortunately, some subway stations are connected to one another via pedestrianized tunnels.

One of the most common walkway connections between stations is Port Authority Terminal and Times Square. This is a well-trodden path for many New York Mets fans, who will change from the blue line at Port Authority Terminal and move onto the 7 Train at Times Square straight to the stadium.

If in doubt, ask someone. Most New Yorkers are extremely friendly and will be more than happy to guide you the right way. Alternatively, the subway conductors are also on-hand to make sure you’re on the right train.

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New York City Subway System

Popular Subway Destinations in New York City

The following are the most popular New York Subway destinations in New York City, all of them are accessible from New York subway stops and they all show that the New York Subway is a not only a great way to move around the city for these popular New York tour destinations but also great value. Here are some popular New York Subway destinations to visit on your next trip to the Big Apple.

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How to use the NYC subway

29/08/2020 by Roobens 4 Comments

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This is when I started traveling that I realized how fast, efficient and clear the subway in Paris (my hometown) is. When traveling elsewhere… It immediately gets more complicated! “ How to use the New York subway? How does it work? I don’t understand all the signs… ” Those are questions many travelers ask themselves and it’s normal: you’ll have to take the subway when visiting New York . Moreover, when you don’t know how to take the subway in NYC, it’s a real headache! The subway is big, noisy, sometimes dirty, intimidating, confusing and overwhelming at the same time (there are more than 400 subway stations!). Here’s a beginner’s guide! After reading, you’ll know how to take the subway in New York!

Table of Contents

Getting around by subway in New York

First off, you probably won’t escape the New York subway. It’s the cheapest means of transportation and the most practical to get around. It’s also the fastest. Taxis are expensive and you’ll waste of time in traffic. Buses are as cheap as the subways but once again, the ride will be longer because of the traffic and the red lights… Therefore, taking the NYC subway is the solution!

The NYC subway works 24/7. It’s very useful, you don’t need to rush after a night out to catch the last subway. Obviously, the subways are less regular nighttime but it’s still useful. Moreover, the subway covers the five boroughs of New York (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Staten Island). Sometimes, some stations are closed for renovation (mostly on weekends) but in this case, there are bus shuttles.

The subway stations in New York

So you’re outside and you want to take the subway! You’ll spot the the subway stations entrances thanks to the small black sign with subway written on it, the name of station and also the colored display of the subway lines of the station. You’ll notice that sometimes the subway lines are either numbers or letters. Some of them share the same color (those lines share a common itinerary).

Some stations have a green ball to the level of the entrance, others have a red ball. The green ball means there’s a vending machine to buy a metrocard in the station, the red ball means there’s none and you must already have a metrocard to be able to take the subway.

Buying a New York metrocard

Here you are in the subway station. Head to the vending machines to buy your subway ticket ( Metrocard ). If needed, it’s possible to change the language of the vending machine. Anyway, the vending machine is first going to ask you if you want to get a new card (that will be the case if you haven’t taken the subway yet) or refill your card.

If you want to buy a new card, you’ll be able to:

• buy a single ride ticket, it’s $2.75. The ticket is valid for two hours after its first use. I suggest you not buy one cause you’re gonna take the subway very often in New York. It’s gonna get expensive buying numerous single ride tickets!
• buy a pay-per-ride metrocard . You refill your card with the desired amount and they’ll debit $2.75 from the balance everytime you’ll take the subway. Unless you stay three days or less (or if you don’t take much the subway), I don’t recommend buying one. You’ll lose money, you’ll always take the subway! However, you need to know one pay -per-ride metrocard can be used by up to 4 people!
• finally, you’ll be able to buy an unlimited metrocard. That’s the one I recommend buying! It’s $32 dollars for a week and you’ll be able to use the subway as often as you want for seven days! Take the subway at least 12 times in one week (it will be the case!) and you’ll make the metrocard profitable. There’s a $1 fee the first time you’re buying a metrocard.

If you pay by cash, you need to know the vending machines dispense $9 maximum so make sure to have the right change. If you pay by credit card, you will be asked to enter your billing zip code. If you’re not a US citizen, just type 99999 (that means non-US citizen). Finally, you need to know you won’t be able to pay more than two metrocard with one credit card.

Don’t even try to cheat, you’ll face a huge fine and if you’re not a US citizen, they may send you back to your country of origin! But kids measuring up to 44 inches (112 centimeters) can take the subway for free, no matter how old they are.

New York subway map

Let’s get down to business. You have your metrocard, you know where you are and you know where you need to go. First off download the New York Subway MTA Map app or the Citymapper app. You’ll have the subway map with you (it’s not everywhere in the subway…).

Uptown or downtown direction

Unlike many subways in the world, they don’t display the name of the terminus to know which direction to take. You’ll either have to go uptown or downtown. The subways going uptown are heading to the north (Upper Manhattan, Harlem, Bronx), those going downtown are heading to the south (Lower Manhattan). Thanks to the subway map, you know where you need to go, so take the right direction.

There’s a little snag. Sometimes, when you’re outside and you want to take the subway,  there are separate entrances for trains running uptown and downtown. It’s not always the case but keep an eye open.

You’ll see it if that’s the case (it’s written), the entrances are in the same street but on a different sidewalk. If you mistakenly swipe your card at the wrong entrance, sometimes you’ll have to get outside to get in the right entrance. Frustrating because when you swipe your card to take the subway, you have to wait 18 minutes before using the card again…

Local and express subways

Ok so you bought your ticket and you’re on the subway platform. You think it’s over. Nope! There are two types of subways in New York : local subways and express subways. The local subways make every stop on the line while the express subways skips several stations. Yeah but which ones? Have a look at your subway map, the express subways only stop at the stations with a white dot.

When the subway arrives, check the number or the letter written on it. Yep, one single platform can be shared by several subway lines! Don’t rely on the color, but the number or the letter. One color corresponds with different subway lines.

If you wanna know if the subway coming is a local one or an express one, you can either check the noticeboard on the platform, or directly check the subway, it’s written on it. There’s also an announcement. Otherwise some subway lines are local (1, C, F…), others are express (5, B, J…).

In the subway, there’s free WiFi and it’s working really well! Your metrocard is also valid if you want to take the bus. It’s a good thing to do in Manhattan because unfortunately, the subway lines go from the north to the south (and vice versa), but not from the east to the west…

That’s it! Now you know everything about how to use the NYC subway smoothly! If you wanna know more about the history of the New York subway, head to the New York Transit Museum! It’s interesting and fun, you shouldn’t miss it if you’re looking for unique things to do in New York City !

New York subway tips

• If you plan to visit many monuments and museums in New York,  get a New York Pass . You get access to many places with the pass, including the access to the New York Transit Museum. Click here to buy it .
• Here are the best hotels in New York City .
• Traveling soon? Check out my travel resources page! This list of travel accessories can also be useful!
• Do not go to the US without a travel insurance ! Here’s why get a travel insurance !
• Likewise, if you arrive from abroad, you’ll have to provide proof of onward travel !
• Want a tailor-made trip to the US?  Get a free quote here !
• Always use a VPN when traveling. I use ExpressVPN and I love it. Here’s why use a VPN when traveling .

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Reader Interactions

07/09/2020 at 23:25

I have been to NYC as well and yes it is a complicated system of transportation that definitely need sometime to adjust to. I lived in Boston for 4 years prior to visiting NYC and Boston has a less complicated subway.

08/09/2020 at 13:38

Yes it seems easy for the locals, but it’s not that simple to use the NYC subway.

08/09/2020 at 02:12

and make sure you wear a mask on the subway and social distance! (I live in NYC)

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The Challenge of Making New York’s 472 Subway Stations Safer

Three million people a day ride trains in a system with more than 400 stations and 6,000 train cars. Officials hope pouring in more resources and officers can keep them safe.

The scale of the New York City subway system is vast.

Some 472 subway stations , depending how they’re counted. Nearly 6,500 train cars. Roughly three million people crisscrossing through, 24 hours every day.

The effort to protect it has sought to be expansive, too.

Officers had already been working an extra 1,200 daily overtime shifts to patrol the system when officials roughly doubled their presence by deploying an additional 1,000 officers . Then another 1,000 National Guardsmen , State Police troopers and transit officers were added this month, and 800 more police officers this week.

But recent subway attacks have been impossible to predict. Some occurred on moving trains and others on platforms far from the center of Manhattan. Some have happened in the still of night and others during busy rush hours.

Public officials have sought to tamp fears about a string of frightening crimes in the transit network by flooding it with wave after wave of police officers, mental health workers and cameras. But after every deployment, another violent event has followed — statistically rare within the huge system, but still terrifying to individual riders.

Those episodes, the most recent on Monday, when a man was shoved off a platform into the path of a moving train by a stranger and killed, have raised questions about the effectiveness of those tactics and illustrated the impracticability of patrolling every inch of the continent’s busiest transportation network.

At least $89 million has been spent on police overtime alone during the pandemic to make New Yorkers feel safe in the subway. Another $20 million was budgeted this month for teams of mental health workers to move mentally ill homeless people out. Thousands of surveillance cameras have been installed in the past two years, adding up to a total of about 16,000 .

And yet, some passengers say it’s not enough. They want more officers inside stations and train cars, as well as bigger platform barriers to block off train tracks and better surveillance at the fare gates to keep potential criminals out.

“It’s really getting dangerous,” said Neryha Guzman, 17, a high school student from the Bronx, as she waited for a train at the 191st Street Station to visit her sister in Manhattan. “What more can we do?”

Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams have made announcement after announcement about their efforts to add more officers and safety equipment. On Wednesday, Janno Lieber, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s chairman and chief executive, said during a board meeting that the most recent deployment of the 800 officers, who will carry out a fare enforcement crackdown, would prevent bad actors from entering the subway, though it is unclear how often people who evade the fare commit serious crimes.

“We are not surrendering our city to anyone,” Mr. Lieber said. “Not to criminals, and not even to the people who have severe mental health issues, although we feel a ton of compassion for them.”

Law enforcement experts have said that reining in petty offenses like fare evasion minimizes disorder in the subway, and, as a result, can act as a deterrent and make riders feel less likely to be victimized.

“That kind of theory makes perfect sense in the subway because you’re in a confined area,” said Dorothy Schulz, a retired captain with the Metro-North Police Department and emeritus professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. “It’s easy for people to be frightened.”

Some transit advocates argue that the issue of subway safety has become politicized in a way that risks creating an outsize portrayal of violence in the system. Though some categories of crime appear to be on the rise, the chances of anyone becoming the victim of a crime are statistically remote.

There were 570 felony assaults recorded in the subway last year, which was higher than in previous years. But those occurred during the course of a billion rides. There were five homicides in the system last year, down from 10 the previous year but up from one in 2018.

Rider opinions, more than actual crime rates, have driven recent safety policies in the subway, officials have said. The cramped spaces of the subway amplify some of New York’s most intractable problems — untreated mental health issues, illegal guns, homelessness — and many riders have reported feeling unsafe.

In a survey conducted in February by the M.T.A., the state agency that operates the subway, more than 15 percent of riders said they would ride the subway more often if there were fewer people behaving erratically in the trains and stations; 10 percent said they would do so if they could see more police officers and security guards in the system.

Some riders said they wished officers would be deployed more effectively. Lou Marek, 73, who lives in California but was visiting his father at his retirement home in New York this week, said that he would like to see more officers patrolling platforms and trains instead of checking bags at the turnstiles or standing at one edge of a platform. He said that would make him feel safer than other features the M.T.A. has experimented with, like metal barriers.

“I think it’s ridiculous to have this be deterrent,” Mr. Marek said, gripping a metal barrier behind him at the 191st Street station on the No. 1 line in Manhattan, where rows of waist-high, canary-yellow screens made of perforated metal were bolted onto the platforms this year. The fences block some empty space between pillars, but leave openings in which riders could reach or be pushed onto the tracks.

At the urging of many transit advocates and riders, transit leaders have said they will put more protective platform barriers , known as platform screen doors, in a handful of stations.

Some transit and public safety advocates have urged officials to invest less on law enforcement and more on the drivers of crime, such as mental health issues and poverty.

Officials have responded by sending dozens of mental health workers to the system to help homeless people and move them from the subway, sometimes forcibly. Over the past two years, state and city officials said that workers had moved more than 1,000 homeless people out of the subways and into shelter, health care or housing.

Ms. Hochul has committed to putting more workers in the system to target some of the most severely mentally ill people in the system. In her announcement about the National Guard deployment earlier this month, she proposed sending 10 additional teams of mental health clinicians and police officers.

Transit leaders have also tried making the system feel safer and less claustrophobic by adding bright lights. The M.T.A. announced last month that it would convert all 150,000 fluorescent light fixtures in the system to LED lighting by the middle of 2026. The new fixtures will also help capture better video using the subway’s roughly 16,000 security cameras. By the end of this year , cameras will be installed inside every train car.

Still, some riders are unimpressed.

“They are not doing a good job,” said Ida Shema, 67, who was waiting for the F train at Bryant Park on Tuesday afternoon.

Olivia Bensimon contributed reporting.

Ana Ley is a Times reporter covering New York City’s mass transit system and the millions of passengers who use it. More about Ana Ley

Crime in NYC subway drops 25% in March vs. last year amid surge of cops on trains, NYPD says

N EW YORK — Crime in New York City’s subway system fell by 23% in March compared to the same period last year as the NYPD sent hundreds of additional officers to ride the rails and keep straphangers safe, the department’s latest statistics show.

Following several high-profile shootings and random attacks in the subway, the NYPD sent nearly 2,000 additional officers underground this year to deter crime. About 800 new cops were assigned to transit late last month as part of a new initiative to crack down on fare evasion . Gov. Kathy Hochul also sent the National Guard into the city’s subway stations to conduct bag checks at major transit hubs .

The extra cops will stay on the subways indefinitely, City Hall spokeswoman Kayla Mamelak told the New York Daily News on Wednesday, adding that there’s no end date or crime benchmark that will trigger their removal.

The immediate results from the increased police presence had Mayor Eric Adams crowing during a press conference with NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban at police headquarters regarding quarterly crime stats.

“We’re down in crime in the subway system folks,” Adams told reporters. “Can we please stop saying we’re up in crime in the subway system? We are not. We are down in crime in the subway system.”

Police recorded 166 felony crimes at city train stations in March, 51 less than the 217 recorded in March 2023, NYPD officials said.

Cops also saw a 51% drop in robberies, a 10% drop in felony assaults and a 15% drop in pickpocketing and thefts of cellphones, credit cards and other items with a value of over $1,000 compared to the same month last year.

Arrests in the subway were up by 53% and 22 guns have been taken from straphangers, 10 more than last March, NYPD statistics show.

March’s decline in crime, however, did little to balance out the spikes the subways suffered earlier in the year.

Crime in the subway system was only down by 1% in the first quarter, with just six fewer crimes than the 544 reported by the end of March a year earlier, according to NYPD statistics. Transit cops were also still fighting a 4% jump in felony assaults, from 135 last year to 141 as of March 31, as well as increases in homicides and shootings.

Four people have been killed on the rails this year, police said — three more than last year. Eight straphangers have also been shot , seven more than last year, cops said.

Public safety fared a bit better above ground, with a 17% drop in homicides, from 99 last year to 82, and an 18% drop in shootings, which plummeted from 222 by the end of March 2023 to 181.

Cops were still fighting a jump in robberies and felony assaults, which saw a 4% and a 3% jump respectively for the year, cops said.

Three out of the city’s five boroughs saw a reduction in shootings, and more than 1,500 guns have been taken off the streets, said Caban.

“It is highly encouraging to see the tangible results of our hard work,” Caban said. “The investments we are making is clearly paying dividends.”

Caban said crime would be reduced even further if something would be done about recidivist criminals who are constantly rearrested and then released without bail.

The constant rearresting of career criminals have driven up arrests to “a 25-year high,” Caban said.

“In many cases we arrest the same people over and over again,” Caban said. “It’s incredibly frustrating to law enforcement. It’s unfair to law-abiding citizens and has a negative impact on both actual and perceived public safety.

“It’s past time we start taking this seriously,” Caban said. “New York is fed up with the revolving door.”

Adams also bashed recidivist criminals, encouraging judges to use the power they sway to order defendants held on bail.

“We know the biggest challenge that we are facing as I say over and over again is in three areas — recidivism, recidivism, recidivism,” the mayor said. “There are too many bad people who are doing bad things to the good people of this city, and they believe they have the right to do that. A small number of people are committing a large number of crimes.”

But according to the City Council, the mayor has slashed some of the very programs that could address recidivism.

“Many of these programs have been the target of cuts or have lacked investment over the past year,” Council Speaker Adrienne Adams said Monday. “All of these help reduce recidivism and deserve resources. The city has a responsibility to invest in programs that reduce recidivism rather than cutting them.”

(With Graham Rayman and Chris Sommerfeldt.)

©2024 New York Daily News. Visit nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

New York tries to curb subway violence with more security and homeless sweeps

The heavily criticized measures have failed to prevent shootings and people being pushed onto the tracks.

Nearly three million people ride the subway in New York City every day. It’s a massive rail system with over 470 stations and 6,500 train cars. Operating 24/7 (except for overnight closures for disinfection during the pandemic), these numbers are typical for a city with over eight million residents. Though the incidents are few considering its size, the dramatic recent violence has sparked safety concerns. There have been sporadic shootings on trains and passengers pushed onto tracks by people with untreated mental health conditions .

The New York subway is currently under scrutiny by authorities who reacted by deploying more police and National Guard soldiers for security. However, some incidents are more preventable than the sudden pushes that surveillance systems can’t predict. The New York City Transit Authority is testing scanners to detect weapons , and also plans to add sliding doors on subway platforms that open only when the train has come to a complete stop. However, these measures would only be feasible in 27% of its stations and would cost around $7 billion. The city’s peace of mind hangs in the balance, as does its reputation among the 60 million tourists that visit every year.

“I cross all of Manhattan on my way home, usually in the early hours, depending on my shift,” said Morris, a 28-year-old nurse. “I’ve seen it all on the trains, from a close call with a fentanyl overdose to knife fights and plenty of injuries. There are lots of stressed folks and homeless people not getting the psychiatric care they need, who could just snap at any time .” Like the person who recently pushed a 54-year-old man onto the tracks as the train was entering the station, one of the many such deaths in the past two years. “I never used to do this, but now on the platform, I always make sure to stay away from the edge of the tracks until the train comes. I try to stick close to the wall because I do feel scared, and I know I’m not the only one,” said Morris. The only thing Morris hasn’t seen is a subway car shootout , like the one a month ago that ended in a death. The shooter was not charged by the police, as it appeared to be a case of self-defense. The viral video made the New York subway look like a scene from a bad B movie.

A persistent problem in the New York subway is the many homeless people with mental health issues living in the stations. Another factor is the increase in gun permit applications by New Yorkers following a 2022 Supreme Court ruling that relaxed the state’s strict gun laws. Last year, New York received 13,369 gun permit applications, an 80% surge from 2022 and almost triple the 2019 number.

Soldiers in the subway

But the recent deployment of 750 National Guard soldiers to the subway and the forcible removal of homeless people — a controversial move by the mayor in late 2022 — appear to have had little effect so far. “I was more scared passing by armed soldiers than the actual possibility of a shootout,” said Anne Delmare in the Times Square station, one of the system’s central hubs. The deployment of National Guard soldiers alongside local police drew heavy criticism, leading Governor Kathy Hochul to prohibit them from carrying rifles while they search bags for weapons. “I always carry several bags and backpacks full of stuff for work. When I was searched, they were still carrying rifles and it was scary to see that up close,” said Delmare.

Local mental health services have struggled to take in and treat all the homeless people who were taken off the streets and sent there against their will. For example, the person who was accused of murder in the recent deadly incident had stayed in a special homeless shelter for people with mental health problems for months but never received any treatment. The city has 38 such centers with about 5,500 beds and an annual budget of $260 million. This is theoretically sufficient per the official 2022 census, which identified over 3,700 homeless individuals with mental health diagnoses, out of a total of 63,000.

The real numbers could be much higher than the official census count. Furthermore, activists and NGOs say this measure is a clear criminalization of the homeless and, even worse, of the mentally ill, who generally have a much higher likelihood of harming themselves than others. Adding to the problem is the huge influx of irregular migrants over the past two years, which makes it harder to find beds for everyone. An analysis of these specialized facilities revealed frequent violence and unruly behavior, as well as sporadic patient treatment and high suicide attempt rates.

Private hospitals have cut the number of beds in their psychiatric units to boost profits, while public ones are overwhelmed by the nearly 50,000 psychiatric patients they handle every year. In 2021, the NYC subway saw a spike in violent incidents with eight murders in 12 months. The following year was no better, with another deadly push onto the tracks making headlines. By January 2024, subway violence had surged by 47% over the previous year.

New York City is closely watched by other U.S. cities dealing with similar problems. Transportation worker unions in Chicago and Philadelphia have requested the deployment of the National Guard in their troubled systems, a measure rejected by local lawmakers. But putting soldiers in subways hasn’t done much to deter the violence anyway.

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NYC subway testing out weapons detection technology, Mayor Adams says

By Marcia Kramer

Updated on: March 29, 2024 / 5:32 AM EDT / CBS New York

NEW YORK -- New York City plans to use new technology to detect weapons in the subway system . 

With subway violence top of mind for many riders, Mayor Eric Adams announced the plan to purchase mobile weapons detectors for the transit system Thursday. 

Adams has launched a global search for the best system, which he hopes to have for a pilot program in 90 days. 

A wild shooting at the Nostrand Avenue station in Brooklyn recently and random acts of violence have added to the perception that the subway is unsafe. 

"Would I prefer us not having to walk through this to come on our system? You're darn right I do. But we have to live life the way it is and work to make it what it ought to be," said Adams. 

The technology-loving mayor is seeking bids from tech companies around the globe, but he had police demonstrate one system in which a red box appears on an iPad if there's a weapon, and shows where it is. 

"We'll be publishing the impact and use policy for electromagnetic weapons detection systems here in New York City," Adams said. "This kicks off the 90-day waiting period before this type of technology can be tested and used in our city to help keep New Yorkers safe."

Officials sought to allay fears of civil rights groups of false alarms and overly aggressive cops. Officials insist that if an alarm goes off when your walk through the device, cops can only search the exact area were a weapon is detected. 

But false alarms can happen. CBS New York's Marcia Kramer tried a weapons detection system installed at City Hall in May 2022 as part of a pilot program. The device pinged, and an orange box showed up on her backpack. It turned out that part of her iPad resembled the cylinder of a gun. That may be why the Legal Aid Society called the move "dystopian." 

"This administration's headstrong reliance on technology as a panacea to further public safety is misguided, costly, and creates significant invasions of privacy," Jerome Greco of Legal Aid said in a statement.

Adams said he'll make sure the new systems get the kinks worked out. 

"We're going to do an analysis," Adams said. 

The idea got mixed reviews from straphangers. 

"I think that'll be helpful. That'll make people feel safe," one subway rider said. 

"It sounds like it costs millions of dollars that could be used in a better way," said another. 

Officials said deployment will be determined based on need. 

New York state and local leaders have been trying to improve safety underground, Gov. Kathy Hochul deploying  the National Guard and State Police to help with random bag checks , and Caban riding the rails  to hear from riders  last week. Officials say transit crime is up 4% so far this year compared to last year, and up 8% compared to 14 years ago.

On Monday, the NYPD announced plans to assign 800 additional officers for a week-long crackdown on subway fare evaders. The city is also hiring more clinicians to help those suffering from mental illness. 

• Metropolitan Transportation Authority

Marcia Kramer joined CBS2 in 1990 as an investigative and political reporter. Prior to CBS2, she was the City Hall bureau chief at the New York Daily News.

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NYPD Seeking Subway Perv After Indecent Act on 2 Train

NEW YORK, NY – A distressing incident of indecent exposure occurred early Sunday morning on the NYC subway, prompting an ongoing search for the perpetrator. At approximately 4:15 AM, a 21-year-old female passenger encountered the incident while aboard a southbound “2” train.

An unidentified man exposed himself to the victim before exiting the subway at the President Street-Medgar Evers College station, subsequently fleeing the scene. Fortunately, no physical injuries were reported during the incident.

The suspect is described as a 25-year-old male, standing 6 feet tall. He was last observed wearing a black facemask, a black hooded jacket, blue jeans, and multicolored sneakers. Authorities are actively investigating the incident and seeking any information that could lead to the identification and apprehension of the individual involved.

Man Scooterjacked at Gunpoint in Brooklyn

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