Why Choose Train Travel?

Before we dig into the details, let’s chat about why trains can be a fantastic choice for family journeys:

Step by Step: Finding Your Nearest Railway Station

Let’s get down to business and help you pinpoint that nearby station:

Step 1: Use Online Railway Station Finder

One of the easiest ways to discover your nearest railway station is to use online tools. Websites like National Rail Enquiries or Amtrak (depending on your location) have handy station finders. Just type in your address, city, or postcode, and voila! You’ll have a list of the nearest train stations ranked by distance.

Step 2: Check Out Maps and Mobile Apps

Your trusty smartphone can be your best friend in this quest! Map applications like Google Maps or Citymapper not only show your nearest station but also provide info on walking times, public transport options, and even estimated arrival times for the trains.

Step 3: Ask the Locals

If you’re feeling old-school or you prefer that human touch, don’t hesitate to ask your neighbors or local shopkeepers. They could offer you some inside knowledge, like which station has the easiest stroller access, or where you can grab the tastiest snacks for your trip!

Step 4: Social Media and Forums

Platforms like Facebook, Reddit, or parenting forums can be a gold mine for information. Local community groups are especially helpful. You might even make some new friends who live near the station or find fellow parents to arrange a train playdate!


Guide to New York Penn Station and Moynihan Train Hall / Home

Contents: Moynihan Upper Level | Street Level & Moynihan Concourse | Upper Level & Subway Platforms | Lower Level | Tracks & Platforms | Longitudinal Section | Accessibility & Elevators | Taxis | Red Cap Service | Luggage Storage | Bicycles | Parking | Shops & Restaurants | How To Get To...

Download This Guide as a PDF (revised 15 June, 2022)

New! - Check out my (in-progress) Guide to Grand Central Terminal


Introduction

Let's face it --the most convenient, cost-effective way to travel in New York City is by subway. For many first-time visitors, tourists, and even locals, however, the complexity of the system can be very intimidating and confusing.

Time and time again, I see tourists step on the wrong train, wonder why a train does not stop at their desired destination, or become stranded at some station with no clue where to go.

I don't blame them. The New York subway system is not the simplest in the world. What many native New Yorkers take for granted can be very confusing and unintuitive to outsiders.

Seeing so many visitors struggle with the system, I decided to write a guide to set them at ease. I make absolutely no assumptions about what you know about taking public transportation in New York and explain how to use it from top to bottom, sometimes in excruciating detail. I've added a lot of photos to help illustrate the subway system. My goal is to make an easy-to-read, step-by-step guide that allows you to overcome your fear and frustration with taking the trains and maximize your time and money while you are here.

I very much welcome your suggestions, feedback, and corrections. Please e-mail me if you have ideas on how to improve this guide.

Cheers,
Minh T. Nguyen
(he/him/his)
[email protected]
New York, October 2013

This guide was last updated in February 2024.

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