What's the best way to get around in NY?

Question

I just booked a hotel in Brooklyn, and plan to do most of my sight seeing in New York City obviously. Would anyone suggest renting a car, or just using the subway and taxi's? I'm about 8 months pregnant, so don't know how much walking i'll be able to do, and since I'm not from New York, I'm afraid of not being able to know how the subway works, or spending all my money on cab fare. So would it be better to just rent a car, or use the subways, and cabs? Help please....

Answer 1

No obvious choice for you.  Subways would be ideal but you'll end up walking a lot inside the stations as they can be pretty big.

Taxis would become expensive in the end but they are an option.

You might want to use the buses as well.  They are slower but would be more convenient than subways for you.

Renting a car is not an option.  Traffic is crazy, especially in Manhattan and parking fees are simply outrageous.

I'd say a combination of buses and taxis.

Answer 2

If you are 8 months pregnant, then book a room in Manhattan, regardless of the extra cost.  What are you saving, $50 a night ?  Trust me, you will get here and wish like heck that you were staying in Manhattan.  Traveling from Brooklyn to Manhattan and back every day, perhaps several times a day, will wipe you out.   You cannot traipse around Manhattan all day; it is exhausting.   You need to be able to duck into your hotel to rest.  Here is a great guide to exploring New York, including how to find a hotel at the best rates.

http://www.findingdulcinea.com/guides/Tr...

Answer 3

walk or use the subways, make note of  where the Starbucks are, they have public bathrooms. Macy's bathroom is in the basement. Good Luck

Answer 4

I generally agree with Renaud.  Unles you're planning a significant number of trips to areas outside NYC, renting a car is pointless, and parking rates are exorbitant.  Subways and buses will get you anywhere, although it will take some time to familiarize yourself with the system.  While there are still some decrepid stations and sub-prime subway lines, most are safe and clean although, as he points out, some stations are huge and require a lot of walking.  Determine where you want to do your sightseeing, then plan your routes after studying the subway map.  The link below will show you the map.  The bus system is pretty good as well.  Depending on the length of your stay, I'd suggest purchasing a Metrocard, which can be used on both the bus and subway.  While individual fare is $2, you can buy a 7 day unlimited ride card for only $25.

Use taxis as a last resort.  They are very expensive.

If you're traveling outside the 5 boroughs, use Metro-North railroad to go to Westchester, the LIRR for Long Island, or PATH to cross the Hudson River into New Jersey.  You may find quite a bit to do in Jersey, and would be amazed at some of the redevelopment in Jersey City, with fantastic views of Manhattan.  PATH is inexpensive, while the other commuter railroads can be pricey.

http://www.mta.info/nyct/maps/submap.htm