For first-time visitors, the New York City subway can feel overwhelming — crowded platforms, confusing maps, and plenty of unwritten rules. But once you learn the system, it’s the fastest and cheapest way to explore the city.
In her video HOW to use the NYC Subway (Everything YOU NEED to know)!, creator Sarah Funk breaks down the essentials of riding like a local, from payment options to safety tips.
👉 Watch the full video here:
Subway Fares and How to Pay
- OMNY (Recommended): Tap with your phone or credit card at the turnstile. After 12 rides in a week, the rest are free.
- MetroCard: Still available until December 31, 2025. Costs $2.90 per ride, or $34 for a 7-day unlimited pass.
- OMNY Card: A physical version of OMNY, reloadable at stations, bodegas, CVS, Walgreens, and more.
Reading the Subway Signs
- Uptown vs Downtown: Uptown = Bronx, Downtown = Lower Manhattan.
- Train Numbers & Letters: 1–7 are numbered lines; A–Z (skipping I and O) are lettered lines.
- Station Screens: Show which train is coming, where it’s headed, and how many minutes until arrival.
Subway Etiquette (Do’s and Don’ts)
- Do: Let riders off before getting on.
- Do: Move to the center of the car during rush hour.
- Do: Have your card or phone ready at the turnstile.
- Don’t: Hold train doors open — it delays everyone.
- Don’t: Wear bulky backpacks or block the poles.
- Don’t: Stand too close to the yellow platform edge.
Rush Hour Tips
- Busiest Times: 7:30–9:30 a.m. and 4:30–7:30 p.m.
- Expect packed cars and limited seats. If possible, wait for the next train — it’s often less crowded.
Subway Hacks Locals Know
- Free Transfers: Subway-to-bus or bus-to-subway transfers are included within two hours.
- Empty Cars Warning: If you see a car that’s completely empty, it usually means no AC or a bad smell.
- Apps to Download:
- Google Maps (most reliable overall)
- Citymapper (NYC-specific routing)
- Transit or MyMTA (real-time delays and service changes)
Safety Tips
- Avoid standing near the platform edge.
- Keep your bag in front of you and valuables secure.
- Stick to the middle of the platform at night for better visibility.
Bottom Line
The NYC subway is chaotic at first, but once you learn OMNY, uptown vs downtown, and a few etiquette rules, it becomes the fastest, cheapest, and most authentic way to see the city.
👉 Credit: Sarah Funk. Watch the full video here: HOW to use the NYC Subway (Everything YOU NEED to know)!