Getting around New York City might seem like a daunting task. Traffic and crowds, combined with the fear of getting lost can make it seem overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be that way! The information below will help you navigate the New York City's subway and buses like a native New Yorker.
Introduction to the New York Subway and Bus System
New York City mass transit generally falls into two categories: buses and subways. For most visitors to New York City, the New York City Subway will make getting around New York City easy, efficient and inexpensive. 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 that can get you where you need to go.
New York City Subway and Bus Fares
New York City subway and bus fares are $2 per trip. (Express buses, which primarily serve commuters from the outer boroughs, run directly into the city for $5 each way.) There is a one-day "Fun Pass" that offers unlimited subway and bus rides for $7.50. For visitors staying for a longer time, you can buy a one week unlimited MetroCard for $25, a two week unlimited MetroCard for $47 or an unlimited monthly MetroCard for $81. The one day MetroCard is valid from first use to 3 AM the following day; the 7-day, 14-day or 30-day unlimited cards run out at midnight on 7th, 14th or 30th day of use. You can buy MetroCards at subway stations with cash, credit or ATM/debit cards. Be aware that buses only accept MetroCards or exact fare in coins -- drivers cannot make change.
New York City Subway Maps and Routes
In general, New York City subways run every 2-5 minutes during rush hour, every 5-15 minutes during the day and approximately every 20 minutes from midnight until 5 a.m.
- New York subway map
- Manhattan bus map(You'll need Adobe Acrobat to see this map.)
- Subway and Bus Map Index for maps of the outer borough buses and the Staten Island Railroad
- New York City Subway Schedule
- New York City Bus schedules
