New York Subway

[CJ2001]

Hi, have read everywhere how easy the subway is to use, I want my family to use it but I'm afraid we will get lost or miss a stop or worse try to get off train & one off us doesn't get off I time before door close.

Are the stations clearly marked & if you miss a stop are they close enough to get off & walk back to your destination?

 

[englanddg]

Hi, have read everywhere how easy the subway is to use, I want my family to use it but I'm afraid we will get lost or miss a stop or worse try to get off train & one off us doesn't get off I time before door close.

Are the stations clearly marked & if you miss a stop are they close enough to get off & walk back to your destination?

Stay together and you won't have trouble getting on and off.

If you miss a stop, many of the stations are a few blocks from each other, so yes, you could just walk to your destination.

That being said, how close the stations are depends on where you are in the city. But, Manhatten and Brooklyn (the places you most likely will want to go) are littered with stops. However, if you do miss your stop, all you have to do is take a train on the same line going the opposite direction.

Avoid the busses.

Look into getting an MTA pass. They sell a 7 day unlimited MetroCard that is quite a good deal. That way you don't have to worry about how many times you ride.

If you are flying into LaGuardia, look into getting to the city using the LIRR (Long Island Rail Road). The LIRR goes from LaGuardia straight to Atlantic Terminal. From there you can get off and take the subway to your hotel.

If you have a lot of luggage, this isn't a great route. But, if you pack light, it can be cheaper than a cab.

 

[LivingforDisney]

We were in NY last Sept, we used the subway a couple of times, and yes I have to admit, we did get lost!!!
It was no big deal, we just asked someone & they usually headed us to the right direction.
With my 2 kids, a adult got off first , 2 kids behind then the other adult, or just hold your kids hands, though we didn't have any problems with doing that, as we never rode in peak times.
My kids were 15 & 13 and when we were walking around , Times Square, as it was always very crowded, I made sure each adult had hold of one kids hand lol, must say the kids were not impressed!!
But NY is very busy and like they drive on the wrong side of the road, so you have to take more care, especially with kids
How old are yours?

 

[CJ2001]

Stay together and you won't have trouble getting on and off.

If you miss a stop, many of the stations are a few blocks from each other, so yes, you could just walk to your destination.

That being said, how close the stations are depends on where you are in the city. But, Manhatten and Brooklyn (the places you most likely will want to go) are littered with stops. However, if you do miss your stop, all you have to do is take a train on the same line going the opposite direction.

Avoid the busses.

Look into getting an MTA pass. They sell a 7 day unlimited MetroCard that is quite a good deal. That way you don't have to worry about how many times you ride.

If you are flying into LaGuardia, look into getting to the city using the LIRR (Long Island Rail Road). The LIRR goes from LaGuardia straight to Atlantic Terminal. From there you can get off and take the subway to your hotel.

If you have a lot of luggage, this isn't a great route. But, if you pack light, it can be cheaper than a cab.

Thanks for all that information.

We are staying on Broadway & flying into JFK, will have 4 suitcases & 2 kids so will be getting a taxi

 

[CJ2001]

We were in NY last Sept, we used the subway a couple of times, and yes I have to admit, we did get lost!!!
It was no big deal, we just asked someone & they usually headed us to the right direction.
With my 2 kids, a adult got off first , 2 kids behind then the other adult, or just hold your kids hands, though we didn't have any problems with doing that, as we never rode in peak times.
My kids were 15 & 13 and when we were walking around , Times Square, as it was always very crowded, I made sure each adult had hold of one kids hand lol, must say the kids were not impressed!!
But NY is very busy and like they drive on the wrong side of the road, so you have to take more care, especially with kids
How old are yours?

Thanks, my kids are 11 & 13 so they won't be impressed in holding our hands but they will have no choice!

 

[englanddg]

Thanks for all that information.

We are staying on Broadway & flying into JFK, will have 4 suitcases & 2 kids so will be getting a taxi

There's a good chance that you'll be tagged as tourists and taken the long way around on your way.

There is a flat rate from JFK of $52. Ask for that.

Or, actually, I would recommend you reserve a sedan limo (black car) in advance. They should run you about $60. I've used these guys before with success.

http://www.nycroyallimo.com/

Expected tip for either service (since I know you are probably not used to tip culture) should be around 15%. 25 - 30% if they give you excellent service (cab is clean, they handle your luggage for you in and out of the vehicle, they have a nice outgoing and pleasant personality that made your trip more enjoyable, etc...)

Tipping is NOT mandatory, and if you end up with a poor experience, do not feel guilty leaving less than 15% or even no tip. Do not tip up front. Keep the money for your planned tip folded in the palm of your hand and pass it to the driver (or allow one of your children to do so) upon completion of unloading at the end of your taxi ride.

This way you don't have to go fishing through your wallet for cash (and also showing everyone else how much cash you have in your wallet in the process). Hand them the money as part of a handshake / handoff and say "Thank you". That's all.

I'm not sure how long you are staying, but I'd again recommend the 7 day MTA pass (even if you are not staying 7 days). It's a great deal. And, since you are going to be in the heart of Manhattan, the subway will be of great convenience to you.

You'll find (compared to your public transit) that many of the stations are dirty and worn, and the cars as well. Google some youtube videos of the New York Subway before you go to be sure you and your family will not feel uncomfortable in those environments.

That being said, the subway is remarkably safe. Just stay away from overly crowded trains, more for personal comfort than anything else. There are all sorts who ride the subway.

A few other pieces of advice (take them for what they are...you may find them silly...I'm not sure how many times you all have been over here)...

1) You'll want to carry ID everywhere, but don't carry your passport anywhere. It's actually New York State law that law enforcement may demand you must be able to provide photo identification, and you'll need it to purchase booze. Leave it in the room safe or better yet, in the hotel safe. I am not sure if the Australian Government issues passport cards (not just the booklet), if they do, get those. They'll work great! Otherwise, your Drivers License should work fine.

2) Tipping is reserved to cabs (15% of fare), (maybe) housekeeping ($1 per person per day), your doorman/bellhop ($3 per bag), room service ($3 per diner), bartenders (Whatever you feel like, 10 - 15% of tab), and wait staff at restaurants (15 - 20%). You don't need to tip everyone who does you a service.

3) Don't be afraid to go for a stroll. NYC is large, but it's a fairly safe city (at least the parts you'll likely be in). However, don't dress in a flashy manner, and I'd actually recommend not carrying a large purse. Rather, do a clinch or a nice leather backpack.

4) Buy a prepaid credit card for your daily use. Don't carry much cash. You can charge the card up with cash or credit cards or bank transfers online. But, you'll want to have pocket cash as well...just don't carry much unless you plan to go to the street markets or something.

5) You may want to consider buying a cheap pre-paid cellular phone when you get there. They are great to stay in touch, make local calls, etc...and you won't have to worry about international or roaming charges on yours. There are lots of carrier options, but MetroPCS or Boost Mobile are two I'd consider. Both networks have "unlimited voice/data" options for not much money ($45 or so) so you can utilize Google Maps when you are there, which could be a great benefit to you. While the city is largely a grid, and fairly easy to navigate, it can be overwhelming.

6) Don't hesitate to ask people things. The general impression that New Yorkers are anti-social and rude is simply incorrect. For the most part, they will be happy to help you all with directions, advice, etc.

Anyhow, brain dump done. Not sure what else to tell you at this point, outside of enjoy your trip! I'm sure you will, it's an amazing city!

 

[Made Up Name]

Hi, have read everywhere how easy the subway is to use, I want my family to use it but I'm afraid we will get lost or miss a stop or worse try to get off train & one off us doesn't get off I time before door close.

Are the stations clearly marked & if you miss a stop are they close enough to get off & walk back to your destination?

NYC's subway is fantastic. Depending on how long you are in the city, you may want to buy a 7 day pass, which is also good on the buses, and the Roosevelt Island tram. Buses and subways are a great way to get around. Just remember the line from the song, "... the Bronx is up and the Battery is down..."

I travel to New York at least once a year and the subway is very easy to use. In Manhattan, you are typically pretty close to a station. Ask for a map at a station or better yet study an online map b/4 your trip. Stay together and you won't get separated.

One bit of advice. When waiting for a train, don't stare at the empty tracks. I guarantee you will see rodents, and I don't mean Mickie and Minnie.

 

[Made Up Name]

Avoid the busses.

Look into getting an MTA pass. They sell a 7 day unlimited MetroCard that is quite a good deal. That way you don't have to worry about how many times you ride.

Good advice concerning the the 7 day pass, but bad advice about the buses. The bus can be a great way to get around the city. It has the advantage of allowing you to see where you are going. The subways are a great way to get around, but sometimes I get tired of riding the subway, and the bus can be a nice change of pace.

 

[englanddg]

NYC's subway is fantastic. Depending on how long you are in the city, you may want to buy a 7 day pass, which is also good on the buses, and the Roosevelt Island tram. Buses and subways are a great way to get around. Just remember the line from the song, "... the Bronx is up and the Battery is down..."

I travel to New York at least once a year and the subway is very easy to use. In Manhattan, you are typically pretty close to a station. Ask for a map at a station or better yet study an online map b/4 your trip. Stay together and you won't get separated.

One bit of advice. When waiting for a train, don't stare at the empty tracks. I guarantee you will see rodents, and I don't mean Mickie and Minnie.

Hahahah, yep!

 

[englanddg]

Good advice concerning the the 7 day pass, but bad advice about the buses. The bus can be a great way to get around the city. It has the advantage of allowing you to see where you are going. The subways are a great way to get around, but sometimes I get tired of riding the subway, and the bus can be a nice change of pace.

For a regular, yes. For a tourist, I would say no. But, I have limited experience with MTAs busses (it's been half a decade).

Here in Atlanta, I would say HELL NO to MARTA busses.

They tend to collect more "unique" characters because there is no police presence on them (unlike the trains that have officers at each station and sometimes on the trains themselves)...

 

[CJ2001]

There's a good chance that you'll be tagged as tourists and taken the long way around on your way.

There is a flat rate from JFK of $52. Ask for that.

Or, actually, I would recommend you reserve a sedan limo (black car) in advance. They should run you about $60. I've used these guys before with success.

http://www.nycroyallimo.com/

Expected tip for either service (since I know you are probably not used to tip culture) should be around 15%. 25 - 30% if they give you excellent service (cab is clean, they handle your luggage for you in and out of the vehicle, they have a nice outgoing and pleasant personality that made your trip more enjoyable, etc...)

Tipping is NOT mandatory, and if you end up with a poor experience, do not feel guilty leaving less than 15% or even no tip. Do not tip up front. Keep the money for your planned tip folded in the palm of your hand and pass it to the driver (or allow one of your children to do so) upon completion of unloading at the end of your taxi ride.

This way you don't have to go fishing through your wallet for cash (and also showing everyone else how much cash you have in your wallet in the process). Hand them the money as part of a handshake / handoff and say "Thank you". That's all.

I'm not sure how long you are staying, but I'd again recommend the 7 day MTA pass (even if you are not staying 7 days). It's a great deal. And, since you are going to be in the heart of Manhattan, the subway will be of great convenience to you.

You'll find (compared to your public transit) that many of the stations are dirty and worn, and the cars as well. Google some youtube videos of the New York Subway before you go to be sure you and your family will not feel uncomfortable in those environments.

That being said, the subway is remarkably safe. Just stay away from overly crowded trains, more for personal comfort than anything else. There are all sorts who ride the subway.

A few other pieces of advice (take them for what they are...you may find them silly...I'm not sure how many times you all have been over here)...

1) You'll want to carry ID everywhere, but don't carry your passport anywhere. It's actually New York State law that law enforcement may demand you must be able to provide photo identification, and you'll need it to purchase booze. Leave it in the room safe or better yet, in the hotel safe. I am not sure if the Australian Government issues passport cards (not just the booklet), if they do, get those. They'll work great! Otherwise, your Drivers License should work fine.

2) Tipping is reserved to cabs (15% of fare), (maybe) housekeeping ($1 per person per day), your doorman/bellhop ($3 per bag), room service ($3 per diner), bartenders (Whatever you feel like, 10 - 15% of tab), and wait staff at restaurants (15 - 20%). You don't need to tip everyone who does you a service.

3) Don't be afraid to go for a stroll. NYC is large, but it's a fairly safe city (at least the parts you'll likely be in). However, don't dress in a flashy manner, and I'd actually recommend not carrying a large purse. Rather, do a clinch or a nice leather backpack.

4) Buy a prepaid credit card for your daily use. Don't carry much cash. You can charge the card up with cash or credit cards or bank transfers online. But, you'll want to have pocket cash as well...just don't carry much unless you plan to go to the street markets or something.

5) You may want to consider buying a cheap pre-paid cellular phone when you get there. They are great to stay in touch, make local calls, etc...and you won't have to worry about international or roaming charges on yours. There are lots of carrier options, but MetroPCS or Boost Mobile are two I'd consider. Both networks have "unlimited voice/data" options for not much money ($45 or so) so you can utilize Google Maps when you are there, which could be a great benefit to you. While the city is largely a grid, and fairly easy to navigate, it can be overwhelming.

6) Don't hesitate to ask people things. The general impression that New Yorkers are anti-social and rude is simply incorrect. For the most part, they will be happy to help you all with directions, advice, etc.

Anyhow, brain dump done. Not sure what else to tell you at this point, outside of enjoy your trip! I'm sure you will, it's an amazing city!

This will be our first time in NY, we are there for 4 nights. We bought a 3 day city pass.

Will definitely look at youtube clips on the subway.

Thank you soooo much for all that information

I have been looking for a good car service so that is a great help!

The hints on tips are a great help cause I can never get tipping right.

 

[CJ2001]

There's a good chance that you'll be tagged as tourists and taken the long way around on your way.

There is a flat rate from JFK of $52. Ask for that.

Or, actually, I would recommend you reserve a sedan limo (black car) in advance. They should run you about $60. I've used these guys before with success.

http://www.nycroyallimo.com/

Expected tip for either service (since I know you are probably not used to tip culture) should be around 15%. 25 - 30% if they give you excellent service (cab is clean, they handle your luggage for you in and out of the vehicle, they have a nice outgoing and pleasant personality that made your trip more enjoyable, etc...)

Tipping is NOT mandatory, and if you end up with a poor experience, do not feel guilty leaving less than 15% or even no tip. Do not tip up front. Keep the money for your planned tip folded in the palm of your hand and pass it to the driver (or allow one of your children to do so) upon completion of unloading at the end of your taxi ride.

This way you don't have to go fishing through your wallet for cash (and also showing everyone else how much cash you have in your wallet in the process). Hand them the money as part of a handshake / handoff and say "Thank you". That's all.

I'm not sure how long you are staying, but I'd again recommend the 7 day MTA pass (even if you are not staying 7 days). It's a great deal. And, since you are going to be in the heart of Manhattan, the subway will be of great convenience to you.

You'll find (compared to your public transit) that many of the stations are dirty and worn, and the cars as well. Google some youtube videos of the New York Subway before you go to be sure you and your family will not feel uncomfortable in those environments.

That being said, the subway is remarkably safe. Just stay away from overly crowded trains, more for personal comfort than anything else. There are all sorts who ride the subway.

A few other pieces of advice (take them for what they are...you may find them silly...I'm not sure how many times you all have been over here)...

1) You'll want to carry ID everywhere, but don't carry your passport anywhere. It's actually New York State law that law enforcement may demand you must be able to provide photo identification, and you'll need it to purchase booze. Leave it in the room safe or better yet, in the hotel safe. I am not sure if the Australian Government issues passport cards (not just the booklet), if they do, get those. They'll work great! Otherwise, your Drivers License should work fine.

2) Tipping is reserved to cabs (15% of fare), (maybe) housekeeping ($1 per person per day), your doorman/bellhop ($3 per bag), room service ($3 per diner), bartenders (Whatever you feel like, 10 - 15% of tab), and wait staff at restaurants (15 - 20%). You don't need to tip everyone who does you a service.

3) Don't be afraid to go for a stroll. NYC is large, but it's a fairly safe city (at least the parts you'll likely be in). However, don't dress in a flashy manner, and I'd actually recommend not carrying a large purse. Rather, do a clinch or a nice leather backpack.

4) Buy a prepaid credit card for your daily use. Don't carry much cash. You can charge the card up with cash or credit cards or bank transfers online. But, you'll want to have pocket cash as well...just don't carry much unless you plan to go to the street markets or something.

5) You may want to consider buying a cheap pre-paid cellular phone when you get there. They are great to stay in touch, make local calls, etc...and you won't have to worry about international or roaming charges on yours. There are lots of carrier options, but MetroPCS or Boost Mobile are two I'd consider. Both networks have "unlimited voice/data" options for not much money ($45 or so) so you can utilize Google Maps when you are there, which could be a great benefit to you. While the city is largely a grid, and fairly easy to navigate, it can be overwhelming.

6) Don't hesitate to ask people things. The general impression that New Yorkers are anti-social and rude is simply incorrect. For the most part, they will be happy to help you all with directions, advice, etc.

Anyhow, brain dump done. Not sure what else to tell you at this point, outside of enjoy your trip! I'm sure you will, it's an amazing city!

This will be our first time in NY, we are there for 4 nights. We bought a 3 day city pass.

Will definitely look at youtube clips on the subway.

Thank you soooo much for all that information

I have been looking for a good car service so that is a great help!

The hints on tips are a great help cause I can never get tipping right.

 

[LivingforDisney]

There were 4 of us, so we just went to the taxi line at JFK and as we had 4 bags, the lady called a maxi cab up to the front of the line, she asked where we were going and wrote the price on a slip of paper, so then I just added the tip. It was very easy.
Going back to JFK I had pre booked a car, Dial 7 I think, was great, guy was there on time, no probs.
Yes, we did see some rats at the subway lol. But then again I have seen some in Sydney on the underground.
You will do a lot of walking, we actually preferred that as you could see so much by walking.
Make sure you have a plan , day by day what you want to see.
We had 4 full days, and went nonstop.
Of course we didn't see everything, but we saw everything we had planned.

 

[CJ2001]

There were 4 of us, so we just went to the taxi line at JFK and as we had 4 bags, the lady called a maxi cab up to the front of the line, she asked where we were going and wrote the price on a slip of paper, so then I just added the tip. It was very easy.
Going back to JFK I had pre booked a car, Dial 7 I think, was great, guy was there on time, no probs.
Yes, we did see some rats at the subway lol. But then again I have seen some in Sydney on the underground.
You will do a lot of walking, we actually preferred that as you could see so much by walking.
Make sure you have a plan , day by day what you want to see.
We had 4 full days, and went nonstop.
Of course we didn't see everything, but we saw everything we had planned.

Thanks, think I might do the taxi then as I tried to get a quote from a car service but no one emailed me back.

We have 4 days also so its good to see we are going to be non-stop. So far I have booked the tv & movie sites tour thing that is part of the NY city pass, will be trying to do the 1 1/2 hour cruise, empire states, Top of the rock, Madam Tussards and so much more. I want to get my monies worth from the city passes!!

 

[coco392]

NYC is awesome

really good idea for Empire State- first thing in
morning. you won't have to wait or pay extra to bypass the lines that can be very very very long

have a daily plan

subway is easy did it with a 6 year old - when we went through gates and train doors he went in the middle between us. you be anywhere in 10 minutes and they run every 5!

the 7 day pass is the way to go.

11 and 13 - museum of natural history rocks and depending what time of year ice skating at Central Park. also never to old for toy shops and fao Schwartz on 59th opposite the park and toys r us in Times Square are very cool (you'll understand when you see it)

 

[Aussie Wendy]

I just want to second using the subway is easy and safe. Walking around felt very safe-one of the safest cities we have ever been in and with a visible police presence. Used the bus once or twice - also easy and no different to catching buses here in Aus. At that age, your kids will be fine-sorry the holding hands bit sounds a bit weird to me so long as the kids know to stay close when you are about to board. I guess are they used to catching public transport in Adelaide much? As this might make a difference. To us NY was not much different to Sydney or Melbourne. The subway doors opened about as long as the Brisbane trains do in peak hour when its a rush getting on as crowds pile out. If concerned don't catch the subway in peak hours.

Have a list of what you want to see and plan it out geographically - saves time and legs if you combine eg a trip to the SoL with Battery Point, 911, downtown area or a visit to the Museum with Central Park. Heaps to see and do so you will have a long list for "next time"! We loved how distinctive all the different neighbourhoods were and were surprised at how many parks and greenery there was apart from Central Park. The food is brilliant too! Have an amazing trip.

 

[Franrose]

Thirding the Subway info! Grab yourself a little pocket map before you go and you'll be sorted - we found people were asking us for info, lol. The more you use it, the easier it gets and it's kind of a 'sight' in it's own right I reckon. Lots of people in the same boat if you are unsure and most people are happy to help and chat to someone with a different accent

We found buses slower than the subway (particularly in rush hour) and that week long pass great value if you really are there the week.

 

[LivingforDisney]

Sorry if you thought I was over the top with holding on to my kids whilst in NY, I have lived in Sydney my whole life and Sydney is no way as busy as NY ...
We have travelled on Sydney trains in peak times, when events have been happing in the city.
We were gobsmacked the one Sunday we in NY, there were some sort of markets on and heaps of streets were blocked, I can not believe how many thousands of people were walking around, really freaked me out, with cars, people, police directing traffic and horns continuously blowing.
I was terrified my kids would just be swept away in the crowd.
The only other time I held on to them was at night in Times Square, so many people.
We didn't catch the train in Peak Hour, so just made sure a adult and kid boarded together.
YOu just have to watch crossing the road, noticed quite a few cars, coming around the corner and not giving way to pedestrians.

 

[CJ2001]

Do I need to book dinner reservations for New York or will we be able to find places for dinner?

 

[LivingforDisney]

Probably, the 4 nights we had, Pizza one night.
Grabbed some food one night from one of those shops that had all set out and u put what u want in a container and then they weigh it and took it back to hotel.
Ate at Juinors one night, didn't book , but went early, it was ok.
Ate at Ellens stardust Diner one night, once again early as we went on the way to seeing Wicked. This place was fun, kids will love it. Food was ok, my son polished off a massive pile of spaghetti & meatballs, daughter had chicken fingers & fries and I had a massive slice of lemon meringue pie & cappichino as I wasn't really hungry and just enjoyed the singing.