New York City Transportation
We found the transportation system in NYC to be straightforward. The main confusion was arriving at JFK and wondering where to buy the Air Train ticket.
Arriving at JFK Airport
Take the Air Train to Jamaica Centre. You can buy your MetroCard here and transfer onto the main subway system.
Subway
The subway is the best way of traveling around NYC. Running 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. At a cost of $2.75 a journey, whatever the length of the ride, it’s a bargain. You will need to purchase a MetroCard. A re-usable card which is topped up electronically. Up to three children 44 inches tall and under ride for free on subways and local buses when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. Infants (under two years of age) ride express buses free if the child sits on the lap of the accompanying adult.
Pay-Per-Ride MetroCard
You can buy as many rides as you want from either a station booth or a MetroCard vending machine. Put $5.50 or more on your card and receive a 11 percent bonus.
You get an automatic free transfer between subway and bus, or between buses.
The MTA charges a $1.00 “new card fee” for the purchase of a new MetroCard.
Unlimited MetroCard
Buy an unlimited number of subway and bus rides for a fixed price. Choose from a 7 day ($31) or 30 day ($116.50) card. The MTA charges a $1.00 “new card fee” for the purchase of a new MetroCard. Note: PATH, AirTrain, and Express buses do not accept 7- dayand 30-Day Unlimited Ride MetroCard.
Click HERE to download the NYC subway map.
We used the Iphone App – NYC Subway to plan our journeys. Google Play Store Link.
Bus
You get an automatic free transfer between subway and bus, or between buses.
Download Bronx Bus Map
Download Brooklyn Bus Map
Download Manhattan Bus Map
Download Queens Bus Map
Download Staten Island Bus Map
Cab
During the day cabs aren’t recommended as it is gridlock, however at night the roads are generally quieter. Official New York City taxis are yellow and can be hailed on any street.
The initial fare is $2.50 with 50 cents for each 1/5 mile or 50 cents for each minute idle. There is $1 surcharge between 4pm and 8pm and a 50 cent surcharge from 8pm to 6am. There is no extra charge for luggage or extra passengers.
Remember that the shift change for drivers is 4pm so cabs will be scarce.
Walk
The cheapest way. With the gridlocked traffic it is sometimes easier to walk. Use the crossings and pack comfy shoes.