Getting Around New York City
New York City offers visitors multiple ways to navigate the five boroughs. The city is distinguished by its high use of public transportation compared to other American cities, with private cars playing a much smaller role than in the rest of the United States. This means you have reliable, well-established transit options available throughout your visit.
The Subway System
The subway is one of the largest and busiest in the world and forms the backbone of the city's public transit network. It operates 24 hours a day, making it accessible whether you're traveling during peak hours or late at night. The subway connects all five boroughs and is the fastest way to cover longer distances within the city.
To use the subway, you'll need to purchase a fare card or pass. A single trip costs $2.90. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) operates the subway system, and you can find information about routes and connections through their services.
Bus System
The city has an extensive bus system that serves all five boroughs. Buses cost $2.90 per ride, the same as subway fares. The bus network provides coverage in areas where subway service may be limited and offers a street-level view of the city as you travel.
The Aerial Tramway
New York City is home to an aerial tramway, which provides a unique transportation option and scenic views as you move around the city.
Ferries
Citywide ferry systems and Staten Island ferry services operate throughout the region. Ferries connect Manhattan with New Jersey and provide another transportation option for reaching certain areas of the city.
Commuter Rail
Three commuter rail systems serve the city and connect to surrounding areas. The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and Metro-North Railroad provide connections to suburbs and outlying regions. These are particularly useful if you're traveling to areas outside central Manhattan.
PATH Rapid Transit System
The PATH rapid transit system provides connections between Manhattan and New Jersey, making it useful if you're traveling across the Hudson River.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Yellow taxis and boro taxis operate throughout the city and provide on-demand transportation. Ride-hailing services are also available as an alternative to traditional taxis.
Walking
Walking is a practical way to explore much of New York City. The Manhattan street grid, established in the early 19th century, makes navigation logical in many areas. Research has shown that New Yorkers living in pedestrian-friendly, densely populated areas benefit from the walkable environment. However, be aware that city streets can be busy, and you should exercise caution as a pedestrian.
Getting from the Airports to the City
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
JFK is New York's main airport and the most likely entry point if you're arriving from overseas. Several options exist for reaching Manhattan:
- Taxi: A flat fare of $70 takes you directly to Manhattan, though traffic can be heavy at any time of day, so allow extra time.
- AirTrain and Subway: The AirTrain is a 24-hour people mover system that costs $8.50 and connects to Jamaica Station, where you can board NYC subway lines E, J, or Z to reach Manhattan and other boroughs. Total travel time to Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan is between 50 and 60 minutes. This is the most economical option at $2.90 for the subway portion.
- AirTrain and Long Island Rail Road (LIRR): The AirTrain connects to Jamaica Station, where the LIRR can take you to Penn Station in approximately 20 to 25 minutes. This is faster than the subway option but requires more confidence in navigating the system. Note that LIRR trains are very crowded during rush hours.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Newark is located in New Jersey, west of Manhattan, and serves as a major international airport. Several transportation options connect the airport to Manhattan:
- Taxi: A taxi to Manhattan costs $50–70.
- NJ Transit Commuter Rail: Trains run from the airport to New York Penn Station (34th Street and 8th Avenue in Manhattan) in about 30 minutes. The fare is $16.80 each way and includes the AirTrain fee.
- AirTrain and Bus: The AirTrain ($8.50) connects to Newark Airport Rail Station. From there, NJ Transit Bus #62 operates 24 hours a day to Newark Penn Station for $1.80 (exact change required), taking about 25 minutes. At Newark Penn Station, you can take the PATH subway system ($3) to reach lower Manhattan or other destinations.
- Amtrak: Long-distance Amtrak trains also stop at Newark, offering connections to destinations along the East Coast.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
LaGuardia is the closest major airport to Midtown Manhattan but does not have direct rail or subway service. Your best options are:
- Taxi or Rideshare: Taxi or rideshare fares to Midtown Manhattan average $40–45 before tip. Trips through the Queens-Midtown Tunnel or RFK Bridge will include additional tolls. Traffic can be heavy during rush hours.
- Select Bus Service: Two MTA Select Bus Service routes serve LaGuardia. The M60-SBS costs $2.90 per ride and connects to Upper Manhattan via Astoria, Queens and Harlem. The Q70-SBS LaGuardia Link is free of charge and provides connections to transit hubs in Woodside and Jackson Heights, Queens, where you can connect to subway, LIRR, and bus lines. These buses operate 24 hours and include luggage racks, though they can become crowded.
Other Regional Airports
Westchester County Airport, located about 25 miles northeast of Midtown Manhattan, is served by regional airlines. Bee-Line Bus #12 ($2.75) connects to the White Plains Metro-North station, where trains ($9.75 off-peak, $12.75 peak) run to the Bronx and Manhattan in approximately 40 minutes to an hour.
Long Island MacArthur Airport (Islip), about 45 miles east of Midtown Manhattan, is served by Southwest Airlines. A shuttle bus ($5, 10 minutes) connects to Ronkonkoma Long Island Railroad station, from which trains ($12) take approximately 1.5 hours to Penn Station in Manhattan.
Transit Tips for Visitors
The MTA operates most of New York City's transit systems. Public transportation is the dominant way people move around the city—far more so than in other American cities. If you plan to use transit frequently, inquire about day passes or multi-day passes, which may offer better value than individual $2.90 fares. Allow extra time when traveling during rush hours, as trains and buses are very crowded. When using commuter rail services like the LIRR, be certain you're boarding the correct train to your destination, as conductors enforce ticket requirements strictly.