9 Ways to Getting Around New York City Like a Local

New York City never sleeps. It is a diverse and vibrant destination, blending culture, history, and stunning skyscrapers that attract tourists from all over the planet.

If you’re planning a trip to New York, know that getting around New York is an adventure of its own, fueled by an extensive public transit system that’s the pride and headache of its inhabitants.

NYC’s transportation is not limited to the iconic yellow cabs and subways. It also includes buses, ferries, and commuter trains, with walking often being the most rewarding way to explore. Despite the chaos, biking and even driving remain options for the brave at heart.

Integrating these travel modes into your itinerary can ensure a seamless city experience. This guide aims to enhance your journey by explaining how these different modes of traveling work and for whom.

1. By Walk:

Walking is definitely the way to go in New York City if you want to see the tourist attractions or cultural landmarks in New York more than just zipping by.

You’ll notice so much more wandering around neighborhoods and checking out streets rather than zooming underground. Just be aware of your surroundings – crowds move fast here.

Winter walking can be brutal with wind and snow, too. But there are plenty of excellent cafes to duck into if you need to thaw out.

Manhattan is super gridded out, so it’s easy to navigate on foot. In rush hours, walking is often faster than other modes of transit.

Nighttime unfamiliar areas are iffy, too, so play it safe and grab a cab or rideshare then. But overall, walking lets you see more of this fantastic city.

2. Two Wheels:

If you want a fun way to cruise around various tourist attractions in New York(the city that gets you outside) try borrowing one of the bikes usually available in NYC.

There’s a great network of bikes all over Manhattan and in part of Brooklyn now. They’re way cheaper than cabs if you’re just getting around in New York.

You can pay for short rides or get a day pass for unlimited 30-minute trips. Check the app for the nearest station, unlock a bike there, and roll it out.

Now, bikes can be intimidating in busy NYC at first. Just remember—safety first. Wear a helmet, for sure, and don’t assume cars see you. Stay alert for taxi or car doors swinging open, too.

If street riding stresses you out, head to the ample parklands instead. Central Park and Prospect Park have nice paved paths to relax and pedal around scenic landscapes.

Follow the greenways along the water if you want smooth sailing away from traffic. Bike riding is very safe and fun, and it offers great views and easy riding. So, when you want to roam in New York, you must try biking if you know how to ride. it’s not only you, famous people who live in New York love paddling around the city.

3. By Car:

We’d say avoid driving in NYC if possible unless you really have to, like moving furniture or something.

• Traffic here is always wild.
• Those streets are tiny and packed with crazy cabbies honking all hours.
• Finding parking is such a struggle, too, even just for a little while.
• And honestly, gas stations can feel elusive at times.
• On top of the hassle, it’ll financially drain you fast with tolls and meters.

It is much better to stick to public transit, where you can relax instead of stressing in bumper-to-bumper congestion.

You don’t believe? Just watch how New Yorkers roll. They know what’s up – you never see them driving unless they absolutely must. Follow their lead and leave the car behind.

Now if you fly into one of the airports and need a set of wheels, some rental places are available there.

But otherwise, we’d advice you to enjoy being car-free in this city. It really is the best way to experience it smoothly.

4. Subway

If you’re trying to get around NYC, the subway is totally the way to go. It runs 24/7 so you can zip all over even late at night. Cherry on top? It’s super easy to use too.

• Just grab a MetroCard. These days, you can reload it like a debit card, which is handy.
• Then, just watch the signs for what line you need.
• Stick to the letter or number, not the color.
• Look for maps in the stations as well to double-check where you’re heading.
• Pay attention if it says “uptown” or “downtown” too on the signs. Express trains will blow right by your stop if you’re not careful.

Overall, it gets you anywhere fast in the city. Just watch the signs and maps, and you’ll be getting around like a pro in no time.

So, if you’re not an NYC influencer worrying about getting sweaty in the Subway station and getting their make-up ruined, you’re good to go with it. yes subways in NYC can get you pretty sweaty, even in the winters too..

5. Commuter Trains

In addition to the subway, New York has a bunch of different rail lines that can get you to nearby suburbs real easy.

• The Long Island Rail Road will take you out to Long Island.
• Metro-North goes upstate and into Connecticut.
• NJ Transit serves New Jersey.
• And PATH trains are quick to NJ, too.

They all connect to major stations like Penn Station, so it’s simple to hop on and off.

Fares are pretty reasonable, depending on how far you travel. But it’s definitely a cheaper option than taking cabs or Ubers everywhere once you leave the city.

It opens up your options to check out places further out that are still super accessible as day trips.

Want to visit Newark Airport or hit the beaches? No prob! Just hop a train and you’re there before you know it.

So don’t limit yourself just to what’s within NYC limits. The commuter rails make exploring the ‘burbs a breeze too. Just something fun to consider for changing up your sightseeing plans beyond the usual places to visit in New York.

6. Bus:

If you ask for budget tips for visiting New York and you also want to see the city from a different view than underground, definitely take a bus ride.

The MTA has tons of routes all over, with stops usually every block or two. Most run north-south or east-west on the grid pattern.

There are also express buses with limited stops for quicker trips. And then select buses are the fastest, but you pay at a machine first. Or you can tap your card when boarding some routes now.

Fares are $2.90 – just tap in your MetroCard or pay cash (coins only) as you get on. They don’t make change.

You get a free transfer within 2 hours if you hop between buses or take the subway.

The MYmta app is handy to check schedules at each stop’s QR code as well.

We say take a bus just to watch people and enjoy street views. You’ll see way more of the city above ground than underground. Just be prepared for traffic delays sometimes.

Overall, it’s a super affordable way to get around New York City in comfort. Just sitting back and enjoying the ride.

7. Taxi:

One classic New York way to get around is by catching a yellow cab. You’ll spot them zipping all over the place.

Fares are metered and always start the same, then tally up per mile and minute depending on traffic.

To flag one down, keep an eye out for cabs with their roof lights on. Just stick your hand up to grab the driver’s attention. Off-duty lights mean they’re taken already, so keep looking around.

These days, you can also use apps to book a cabbie in advance, which can be nice for guaranteeing a ride.

Just be aware that outer boroughs have green-colored taxis, too.

And don’t let any drivers tell you they won’t head to certain areas – by law, they have to go wherever you ask within city limits.

8. Taking Ride by App:

Another handy option these days is rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft. The rates are usually lower than for taxis, and the wait isn’t long at all.

Via is another popular one in NYC that can be even more budget-friendly. Just open the app, and you’ll see cars nearby that are available to pick you up.

The meter will start running right away, so be ready with cash or a card to pay once you reach your stop.

One heads up is outer borough cabbies may try telling you they “don’t know” areas outside Manhattan.

But remind them it’s illegal to refuse anywhere in the five boroughs. Just report their info to the commission if they won’t drive you.

Overall, though, rideshares nowadays offer accessible, affordable transportation all over the city anytime you need it. It’s a super convenient option to have on standby.

9. Ferries:

If you want a fun new way of that’s more chill than the subway, you must check out the ferries:

First thing, the Staten Island Ferry across the harbor is totally free. Just kick back on the top deck and soak in those epic skyline views as you cruise.

There’s also the NYC Ferry network connecting all five boroughs on the water. Hop aboard at their docks to zip between Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx – it’s smooth sailing. Tickets are relatively cheap, too.

Plus, on lovely days, nothing beats catching some rays and fresh air while you commute to fun places in NYC with friends. Way better than cramming on a hot subway car, am I right?

Another one goes across the Hudson River into Jersey. Great if you’re visiting both sides of the border. Just chilling on the boat beats being stuck in traffic any day.

Wrap Up:

You see, there’s no shortage of ways to zip all over NYC. Really, it just depends on what vibe you’re after.

If you want to truly experience neighborhoods at your own pace, walking is totally free and lets you people-watch to your heart’s content. Just be mindful of crowds.

Biking is a blast, too, if you’re trying to exercise or just wanna cruise scenic routes along the water. Hop on Citi Bike – it’s a blast!

The subway is iconic for a reason – zipping everywhere 24/7 for just $2.90 a ride is such a steal. Maps make it easy once you get the hang of it.

Bus riding offers the most vibrant street views if sitting back and relaxing is your style.

Ferries and commuter rails let you escape the city bustle while still exploring cool new spots.

Taxis and rideshares can’t be beaten for last-minute trips or hauling luggage around.

Honestly, you can’t go wrong; you just have to dive in and try different methods each day. The best time to visit New York and a way to experience NYC is embracing whatever adventure comes your way.

So get out there and discover what kind of traveler you are in the big city.

Frequently Asked Questions: