The New York City subway can seem overwhelming at first, but once you get the hang of it, it's one of the most efficient ways to travel. Whether you're commuting, exploring, or just trying to get from point A to point B, here’s how to ride like a pro.
Step 1: Getting Your Ticket (MetroCard or OMNY)
Before you step onto the train, you’ll need a way to pay. NYC subways use MetroCards and OMNY, a contactless payment system that lets you tap your phone or card at the turnstile. If you’re using a MetroCard, make sure to swipe smoothly—hesitation might cause an error.
Step 2: Understanding the Train System
The subway system is vast, with multiple lines covering all five boroughs. Here’s what you need to know:
Numbered Lines (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
These lines operate primarily in Manhattan but extend to other boroughs. They are a mix of local and express trains:
1, 2, 3 (Red Line - Broadway-Seventh Avenue Line)
- The 1 train is local, stopping at every station.
- The 2 and 3 trains run express during most of the day, skipping stops to speed things up.
- These lines run along the west side of Manhattan and head into the Bronx and Brooklyn.
4, 5, 6 (Green Line - Lexington Avenue Line)
- The 6 train is local, making every stop from Brooklyn to the Bronx.
- The 4 and 5 trains run express in Manhattan, skipping some stations to make travel faster.
- This is the only line running up and down Manhattan’s east side!
7 (Purple Line - Flushing Line)
- Travels between Hudson Yards in Manhattan and Flushing in Queens.
- Some 7 trains run express, cutting down travel time significantly.
Lettered Lines (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, J, Z, L, M, N, Q, R, W)
These lines run across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx and offer various options for local and express service:
A, C, E (Blue Line - Eighth Avenue Line)
- The A train runs express between Manhattan and Brooklyn and has one of the longest routes in the system.
- The C train is local and follows most of the A train’s route in Manhattan and Brooklyn.
- The E train runs between Manhattan and Queens, servicing major transit hubs like Penn Station and JFK Airport.
B, D, F, M (Orange Line - Sixth Avenue Line)
- The B and D run express in Manhattan; B heads to Brooklyn, while D continues into the Bronx.
- The F and M run between Queens and Brooklyn, offering great connections for local riders.
G Train (Light Green - Crosstown Line)
- The only subway entirely inside Brooklyn and Queens, skipping Manhattan altogether.
J, Z (Brown Line - Nassau Street Line)
- These lines run between Manhattan and Queens via Brooklyn, with Z serving as a rush-hour express train.
L Train (Grey Line - Canarsie Line)
- A vital Manhattan-to-Brooklyn connection, serving key areas like Williamsburg and East New York.
N, Q, R, W (Yellow Line - Broadway Line)
- The N and Q trains run express through Manhattan, heading toward Queens and Brooklyn.
- The R and W trains run local, stopping at every station.
Step 3: Riding the Train
- Hold onto the pole or find a seat—the ride can be unpredictable.
- Stand clear of the doors to allow people to enter and exit smoothly.
- Avoid blocking walkways, especially during rush hour.
- Be aware of your belongings and surroundings.
Step 4: Making Transfers
If you need to switch trains, check station signs for directions. Sometimes a quick transfer can save you time, but during peak hours, trains might be crowded—so plan ahead.
Final Tips
- The subway runs 24/7, but some trains operate less frequently late at night.
- Download a subway map or use apps like Google Maps to check train schedules.
- If you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask someone or look for an MTA employee.
Once you get the hang of it, the subway is one of the fastest ways to explore NYC. Ride confidently and enjoy the city! Which part of NYC are you most excited to explore?
