We have a love/hate relationship with the infamous NYC subway system. Love: that it runs 24 hours a day and can get us just about anywhere in the city. Hate: that subway lines are diverted or shut down every weekend for “repairs”. Love: you never have to worry about how much you’ve had to drink and how you’re going to get home. Hate: wasted kids who get sick on the train. Love:….well, we could go on. You get the idea.
The subway (or “train”, as we like to call it) can be intimidating for first-timers. Here are some tips so you don’t wind up on the wrong side of the Rogues and have to pull a Swan when you’re just trying to get to Coney Island.
○ Find general, MTA-approved info including maps and fares HERE.
○ Call for travel info: 718-330-1234
○ Good iPhone Apps to have:
iTrans NYC Subway by iTrans, $3.99 (our recommendation)
NYC Subway 24-Hour KickMap by KICK Design, $2.99
New York Subway by Presselite, $0.99
NYC Subway Map by Gotham Wave Games, Free
○ You can take ANYTHING on the train, as long it fits through the door. That includes your skateboard, surfboard, a gigantic cake, a potted plant, or cage full of chickens (not a Borat reference; we’ve actually seen this).
○ Etiquette:
■ Be considerate – walk to the right when going up and down the stairs that lead to the subway stations.
■ Please, whatever you do, don’t stop right at the top or bottom of the stairs. Just keep moving and step aside when you can, unless you want a pissed-off Rogue all up in your face.
■ If you’re traveling with a large bag, keep it in your lap and don’t set it on the seat beside you (see: pissed-off Rogue).
■ When purchasing a subway card (called a MetroCard), if the machine won’t take your credit card – and it often happens – kicking it won’t help, and hopping the turn style will get you a ticket. Keep a $10 bill (which will buy you 4 rides) with you just in case.
○ If you’re lost, ask someone for help. New Yorkers get a bad rap. We’re actually nice people and want to help you…as long as you don’t stop at the top or bottom of the stairs.
