How to Ride the New York City Subway

The New York City subway is one of the most efficient ways to travel around the city. In this video, I'll guide you through understanding why subway lines are grouped and how to differentiate between local and express trains. We'll explore the subway map and learn how to read it effectively. Additionally, we'll tackle the inconsistent signage system found in the New York City subway.

Here are some tips on how to ride the New York City subway:

Get a MetroCard. You can purchase a MetroCard at any subway station. There are two types of MetroCards: a pay-per-ride MetroCard and an unlimited ride MetroCard. The pay-per-ride MetroCard costs $2.75 per ride, and the unlimited ride MetroCard costs $33 for a 7-day pass, $127 for a 30-day pass, or $461 for a 365-day pass.

Plan your trip. Before you board the subway, it's a good idea to plan your trip. You can do this by using the MTA's website or app. The MTA's website and app will show you a map of the subway system, as well as the routes and schedules of the different trains.

Find your train. Once you know where you're going, you need to find the train that will take you there. The subway system is divided into 27 different lines, each with its own color and letter designation. You can find a map of the subway system at any subway station.

Swipe your MetroCard. When you're at the turnstile, swipe your MetroCard. If you have a pay-per-ride MetroCard, you'll need to add money to it before you can swipe it.

Find your platform. Once you've swiped your MetroCard, you need to find your platform. The platform is the area where the trains stop. The platform will be labeled with the name of the train line and the direction of travel.

Wait for your train. Once you've found your platform, you need to wait for your train. The trains usually come every few minutes.

Board your train. When your train arrives, board it by following the signs. Make sure to stand clear of the closing doors.

Find a seat. Once you're on the train, find a seat. If there are no seats available, you can stand by the doors or hold onto a pole.

Get off at your stop. When you're getting off at your stop, make sure to press the "stop" button. The train will stop at the next station.

Exit the subway. Once the train has stopped, exit the subway by following the signs.

Here are some additional tips:

Be aware of your surroundings. The subway can be a crowded and hectic place, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Keep your belongings close to you and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Don't talk on your phone. It's considered rude to talk on your phone while on the subway. If you need to make a call, step outside the subway car or use the speakerphone feature.

Be respectful of other riders. The subway is a public space, so it's important to be respectful of other riders. Don't play loud music or eat smelly food.

Don't litter. The subway is a clean space, so it's important to keep it that way. Don't litter or throw your trash on the ground.

Report any suspicious activity. If you see anything suspicious, such as someone acting aggressively or someone leaving a bag unattended, report it to a subway worker or call the police.

These are the subway lines of the New York City subway. While they may seem peculiar in their grouping and random with their multiple colors and alphanumeric labels, this arrangement results from decades of reordering and reshuffling.