Things to do / Travel Guide
Manhattan is the smallest of the five boroughs. As so many attractions on the island are relatively close to one another, walking is often the best way to get from one place to another. Everyone walks in Manhattan, from the mayor on down. You'll likely find that walking is one of the best ways to get a true sense of the city, of its multitudes, and of the panoply of life it boasts.
New York offers a phenomenal transportation system that includes underground subways, above-ground buses, and light rail lines for longer travel distances. Taxis, private car services, and limousine services provide private, but more expensive, alternatives to public transportation. In Manhattan, unless you really know your way around, and are prepared to pay lots of money for the privilege of parking, the best advice is to rely solely on public transportation. In the other boroughs, however, while the public transportation will get you to the major destinations, a car would be advisable to help you get from place to place.
Public Transportation in New York City
If you're in Manhattan and decide walking isn't for you, the next-best way to get from place to place is either by bus or subway. Arm yourself with a subway or bus map, which you can easily obtain from one of the many New York City Visitor Centers or subway stations around the city. Additionally, many bus lines and all subway trains operate 24/7. MetroCards can be used on all New York subways and buses operated within the city by New York City Transit, Long Island Bus, and several private bus companies.
The New York Transit Authority operates 26 separate lines, most of which are identified by letter or number, although a few shorter lines are designated with the letter “S” (for shuttle service). Be aware that some subway trains are local (stopping at every station) while others are express (skipping stations).
Taxis in New York City
In terms of taxis, the trick is to remember the following: Pay attention to the lights atop the taxi's roof, and only make an attempt to hail it if you see that the medallion number in the middle is lit, but not the lights on either side of it. If all a taxi's top lights are lit up, it means the taxi is off-duty. When no top lights are lit, the driver already has passengers. You may have heard horror stories about taxi experiences in New York City, but these won't usually happen with a registered taxi. In fact, there exists an enforced taxi rider's bill of rights which is posted inside each cab. It is customary to tip between 15%-20% of the fare, and you are responsible for paying tolls.
The newest form of transportation comes directly from the Far East; it's the pedicab. Three-wheeled pedicabs are becoming very common on the streets of Manhattan, the drivers being friendly and informative. Notably, while they'll take you almost anywhere within the borough, often for under $10, pedicabs won't venture outside Manhattan.
Car Rental in New York City
As mentioned, a car is probably the easiest way to explore the outer boroughs, but it is virtually worthless in Manhattan. Be aware that rental companies may apply stricter rules in New York City, including where you can return the car, who may drive, and even different rates based on the address on your drivers license. Read the fine print in NYC. Street parking in Manhattan is impossible for anyone but a local expert. Garage parking is readily available, but very expensive.
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