Public Transportation Tips

1. Get a MetroCard or OMNY

In NYC, one of the first things you’ll need for smooth access to public transportation is either a MetroCard or the newer OMNY system. The MetroCard has been the traditional method for years and can be used on subways and buses. You can buy it at vending machines found in subway stations or participating retail locations. 

NYC introduced OMNY, a contactless tap-and-go system. Now, you can simply tap your contactless credit or debit card, or use your smartphone's mobile wallet, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, at subway turnstiles or on buses. 

Both options are convenient, but if you prefer less hassle and more flexibility, I recommend the OMNY!

2. Use Transit Apps

NYC’s public transportation system can be complex, but transit apps make navigating it a lot easier. Some of the most useful ones include Citymapper, Rome2Rio, and Google Maps. These apps provide real-time schedules, route suggestions, and notifications about service changes or delays, which are crucial when the subway system undergoes maintenance or other unexpected interruptions.

With these apps, you can plan your route in advance, track how far away your next bus or train is, and even receive alerts if a faster route becomes available. Apps like Citymapper go a step further by offering multiple transportation options, such as subway, bus, biking, or walking routes, all within the same platform. 

For tourists or new residents, these apps can be a lifesaver, allowing you to confidently navigate the city without worrying about getting lost or missing connections. 

But when you want to use Google Maps in the city but are afraid that an online connection can't be connected, I suggest you download an area of Google Maps of your choice whether it is the Lower East Side, the borough of Bronx, or the whole New York CIty; on its application, which allows you to navigate using the map while offline. 

3. Subway Transfers

One of the greatest advantages of NYC’s public transportation system is the free transfers between subway lines and buses. When you swipe your MetroCard or tap with OMNY, you automatically get up to two hours of free transfers between different subway lines or from subway to bus (and vice versa). This can save you money, especially if your journey requires switching between multiple subway lines or combining subway and bus rides.

*When you are riding the Subway make sure to look at the Letter of the Train and not only the color, because in some applications the color can differ, and when you got on the train be careful of your surrounding especially at night.

4. Bus Boarding

When it comes to taking buses in NYC, the process is pretty straightforward. Bus boarding usually happens at the front door, where you either swipe your MetroCard or tap with OMNY. The front door is also where you'll find the driver if you have questions or need assistance. Most buses display route numbers and destinations at the front, making it easy to confirm you're getting on the right one.

5. Use the Bike or Ferry

NYC has expanded its transportation options to include more than just the subway and bus. For a more scenic or leisurely way to get around, consider using Citi Bike or the city’s ferry system.

Citi Bike is a bike-sharing program that allows you to pick up a bike at one location and drop it off at another. With thousands of bikes and hundreds of docking stations across the city, Citi Bike is a fantastic alternative for shorter trips, especially during good weather. It’s an affordable and environmentally friendly option, with daily and monthly membership plans. Citi Bike is also integrated with some transit apps, so you can easily see where to find a bike near you and plan mixed-mode routes using both bikes and subways or buses.

NYC also has a ferry system that operates across several boroughs and offers stunning views of the skyline, bridges, and waterfront. Ferries are a great alternative if you're traveling to neighborhoods along the water, such as Astoria, Rockaway Beach, or Red Hook. The ferry fare is only slightly higher than a subway ride, and you can even bring a bike onboard for an extra fee. Plus, it’s a more relaxing way to travel, with outdoor seating and concession stands for food and drinks on board.

Now that you have known these tips and reminders make sure you try out all the public transportation and roam around the beautiful city of NYC, but always keep in mind that safety’s first!!!