First Timer's Guide to the NYC Subway
In the city that never sleeps, it's no surprise that the Subway doesn't either. In contrast to London's underground system, NYC Subway runs 24 hours a day – and even on Christmas Day (again, unlike the Tube).
Owned by the City of New York and leased to the New York City Transit Authority, the Big Apple's Subway first opened in 1904 and is now the busiest system of its kind in the Western world – and the seventh busiest of all.
Where does it run?
As a way to get around, the Subway can get you to most parts of the city. It runs in four of the five boroughs (Staten Island's railway is separate) and is connected to the Port Authority Trans-Hudson and the AirTrain JFK, although these last two systems are not technically part of the Subway. You can, however, use a Subway MetroCard to ride the train to JFK or travel under the Hudson River.
Planned works
While the Subway does have a 24 hour schedule, as you would expect some lines and stations are affected by planned works, up-to-date details of which are published on https://www.mta.info/.
How much is the Subway?
Subway and Local Bus fares start at $2.75 a ride, but there are a host of ways to reduce this. If you're lucky enough to be staying in New York for a week, a 7-day ticket is a good idea, currently costing $31.00.
Is the Subway the fastest way to get around?
For the most part, it is the fastest, cheapest and most convenient. However, at night you might be better off in a famous NYC cab if you need to get somewhere quickly, or if you're in a less salubrious neighbourhood.
Is the Subway safe?
In the 70s and 80s the NYC Subway suffered from petty crime and graffiti. Today it is much better, but is usually regarded as a little more sketchy that London's system. While safe, it pays to be smart when travelling on the Subway, slightly more so if you're female. Tracysnewyorklife.com wrote a useful guide on safe NYC Subway travel for women.
Do I need insurance?
New York is generally safe, but the UK government recommends taking out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before visiting anywhere overseas, including the USA (where medical bills can be extremely high). Here at starttravel.co.uk we offer a range of holiday insurance policies for different needs and budgets.
Planning a trip to New York over Christmas?
Riding the Subway in NYC could be even more fun this winter, since the MTA are laying on vintage trains and buses – perfect for arriving in Madison Square Gardens for ice skating or Macey's for a spot of Christmas shopping.
Get up to date service and fare information by visiting: https://www.mta.info/
Get a Quote