New York City By Bus

Buses can take almost twice as long as subways, due to traffic. They will, however, get you closer to your destination, since most buses stop every two blocks or so and run crosstown (east-west) as well as uptown and downtown (north-south). They can be a nightmare for long-distance travel over north-south blocks, but are often more convenient for shorter and crosstown trips.

The MTA transfer system provides north-south travelers with a paper slip valid for a free ride east-west, or vice versa, but you must ask the driver for a transfer when you board. Ring when you want to get off. If you use a MetroCard, the transfer is free (within 2hr.) from bus to subway or from bus to bus.

Bus stops are indicated by a blue sign post announcing the number, or a shelter displaying a map and an unreliable schedule of arrival times. You can request any stop along the bus’s route 10pm-5am. A flat fare ($2) is charged when you board. Dollar bills are not accepted; use either exact change or a MetroCard (see previous page). Different restrictions apply to outer borough stations, as many are operated by private companies, so you may want to ask for a map.

More Transportation in New York in New York City

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