It was a big mistake.
A first trip to Manhattan via the family automobile can be a very bad experience. Driving here is unlike what most out-of-towners experience at home. Parking is tough to find and very expensive.
We emerged from sightseeing to find the parking meter expired, a ticket on the windshield, and wreckers coming around the corner. Another five minutes enjoying the view could have cost us several hundred dollars in towing fees, fines and general inconvenience.
No advice applies to everyone in all situations, but it is generally not a good idea for visitors to drive in Manhattan.
All Aboard!
New York, like other great world cities, has built a subway system over the years that could not be duplicated from scratch.
Much of it was built when labor and construction were much cheaper than today. The network of routes and stations is so extensive, it's likely a stop exists not far from where you want to go.
Consult a map and make note of which stations are closest to your hotel and the places you'll visit. Don't be intimidated by all the detail. It's really fairly easy to decipher, but if you need help, the Subway Finder web site will provide subway directions to any Manhattan street. Get a Rand McNally New York Street Map.
Mass transit in New York acquired a reputation for filth and crime in the 1960s and 1970s. There are still places you might not want to visit alone at night (as with any other large city), but travelers say the busiest routes are cleaner and safer than in years past.
One trip on MTA costs $2.25 USD. If you'll take three or more rides in a day, it's a good idea to investigate MTA's passes. The Fun Pass allows unlimited rides from hour of purchase until 3 AM the following day for $8.25. Buy one in the morning and ride to your heart's content. At the machines, select "unlimited rides" rather "regular metro card."
For longer trips, consider railroads. The Long Island Railroad offers reasonable fares to far-flung places like the Hamptons and Montauk. Try to travel off-peak (any time other than 6-10 AM or 4-8 PM), when fares are one-third cheaper. Purchasing online or from machines prior to boarding is cheaper than paying the conductor for a ticket.
If it's not Yellow, it's not a Cab
If you choose one of the city's ubiquitous yellow cabs, expect to pay $2.50 USD for the privilege of getting in, and then 40 cents for fifth of a mile traveled. You also pay 40 cents for every idle minute in traffic, and 50 cents extra at night. Conventional tips are in the 15 percent range.
It's impractical to suggest visitors stay away from cabs entirely, but their cost can add up quickly. Save your cab rides for late at night or for longer hauls. Again, the key is planning!
If you must turn your back on conventional wisdom and drive in New York, there is a vast array of companies willing to help. New York Rental Car Guide is organized by airport (JFK and La Guardia only).
Leaving Manhattan
One of the great New York experiences is riding the world-famous Staten Island Ferry. A round trip is free. No vehicles are allowed on the ferry until further notice.
Ferries also run to La Guardia Airport, Yankee and Shea Stadiums (in season) and a variety of other locations. Check the NYDOT web site for schedules and prices.
More information: Find dining deals in New York.
