Transit Hacks
Move between boroughs efficiently using underused bus links, off-peak subway gaps, and water-based shortcuts.
The M15 Select Bus Service runs along First and Second Avenues on the East Side, but its real power lies in free bus-to-subway transfers during off-peak hours—just tap your OMNY card within a short window. The M14A and M14D buses cross the entire Lower East Side in under ten minutes, dodging subway detours. For midtown crossings, the M31 bus snakes through Roosevelt Island’s residential core before landing in Long Island City, offering a rare elevated view with fewer crowds. These routes shine when subway lines reroute or flood.
The 7 train’s afternoon lull in the mid-afternoon brings empty cars and open doors—ideal for standing near exits to board efficiently. On weekends, the A and C lines relax service, but the daytime gap on the J/Z line in Ridgewood allows transfers at Marcy Avenue without crowding. The Staten Island Ferry’s afternoon westbound sailings are emptier than midday and avoid the sightseeing throngs—perfect for a quiet harbor circuit with skyline views behind you.
Use the Q70-SBS bus to reach LaGuardia’s terminals directly from Midtown, skipping the cab queue entirely. Then switch to the 7 train at 74th Street–Broadway for a fast return uptown. The B82 bus connects Kings Highway to Greenpoint without subway changes, and its off-peak frequency makes it competitive with cabs for local trips. The NYC Ferry’s Soundview route bypasses Bronx traffic entirely on busy weekday mornings, docking near Clason’s Point with room to spare.
