No one would blame a non-native New Yorker for accusing the subway transit system as one that's difficult to follow. Just looking at the grid-like maps of the subway routes is enough to make someone think they're looking at a screenshot of the retro Snake game for DOS computers. In short, navigating the NYC subway can be somewhat of a challenge for those unversed with its quirks.
While riding the subway is as easy as purchasing a metro card, swiping, and running to the open doors, figuring out where to go is a process. Furthermore, delays, crowded cars, and a lack of attention to the stops are all factors that make newcomers wary of this popular transit.
Here's a guide that should help.
Most Important Things To Know About The NYC Subway
First things first: there is a map of the subway system in every single train station in New York City. This was done because even the most experienced New Yorkers need to refer to the map from time to time, especially in the case of delays or canceled trains. For those who don't want to stand in the train station staring at the map, it's easy to find online as well and can be downloaded to one's phone for easy checking.
- Pro Tip: Download the MyMTA app, which was rolled out in 2018 and includes important information about the subway, train, and bus stops, as well as the locations for each one. This app also delivers information about delays and cancellations, so it's super useful to have while walking around the city.
A Breakdown Of The Subway Map Legends
While examining the subway map, the first thing newcomers notice are the different colors of each line. Forget about these - they're only helpful to highlight each route. When it comes down to it, the stops are referred to by their letters and numbers. I.e., the A, B, C, D, and E lines, or the street numbers (86th, 81st, etc.). Additionally, the A, C, and E lines split at a certain point so, in this case, referring to the lines + the numbers is a safe bet.
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.
- Black dots are local stops
- White dots are express stops
As one can imagine, a local stop means that the trains going through will make every stop on the line - this means they're also transfer points. In the event that a passenger needs to get off on a stop a few streets ahead in order to switch to another subway line, a local stop is the best way to go.
For those who are making a straight-shot home or elsewhere, or don't need to transfer, the black dots show express stops with trains that do not make every stop on the line - thus, the name 'express.'
- Pro Tip: If an express train is boarded by accident, don't panic. The great thing about New York City and its subway system is that a quick glance at the map will reveal an alternative route. It might take a bit longer but if one can get themselves to a transfer station, they'll easily find a means of course-correcting. When in doubt, stick to local trains if time isn't an issue - no harm, no foul!
Additionally, subway passengers who are staying in Manhattan need to know the difference between uptown and downtown. Generally, uptown refers to the northern end of the city while downtown refers to the southern end. The easiest way to determine where one is is to pull out their phone GPS, zoom out, and decide whether they're going up in block numbers or down. Additionally, the general location of one's 'you are here' dot on the map, along with the next destination, is a pretty good visual indicator as long as the map is oriented the right way.
- Note: Some station platforms will have signs that read "Uptown & Queens" or "Downtown & Brooklyn." This means that while the train is still going north or south, those who miss their final uptown or downtown stops will end up going east to Queens, Brooklyn, etc.
Also, when determining whether one needs to go uptown or downtown, it's very possible that the subway stop one needs is actually on the opposite side of the street. It's important to pay attention to the map in this case; for example, there are two Christopher Street stations - one of them goes uptown & the Bronx, while the other just goes downtown.
When meeting people at a subway stop, it's also important to note that some streets have multiple stops, because multiple trains might make the same stop a few blocks away from one another. This can be avoided by double-checking the map and making sure to clarify the Canal Street stop, on the <insert train line here> line.
- Pro Tip: Utilize the pedestrian tunnels between stations! These allow travelers to bypass paying for another subway with easy access to their next stop, and it's often quicker.
What To Know About Purchasing A MetroCard
For those who frequent the city and will get plenty of mileage out of their MetroCard, it's probably worth it to go with the unlimited cards. Pricing is as follows:
- $127 for a 30-day MetroCard
- $33 for a 7-day MetroCard
For those who are visiting the city just to visit, a $40 MetroCard will do just fine. On average, the subway fee is $2.75 per ride; those who are over 65 or have disabilities are eligible for a discount, as well. The MetroCard itself is only a dollar, and every card is refillable with the exception of the single-ride card. It should also be noted that children under 44 inches tall can ride the subway for free.
- Minimum Balance: $5.50
Time and value can be added to MetroCards, and the former will be used first with the value deducted following. Those visiting New York City might find it easier to simply pre-load the card in order to pay per swipe, as opposed to paying for multiple subway trips beforehand. If you have extra rides, pay it forward and pass your card along to someone else!