A guide to accessing and navigating New York State. Discover the best transportation methods, from major airports and Amtrak services to local public transport and driving tips.
Getting to New York State
By Air:
Major International Airports:
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in New York City.
Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) in Buffalo for those visiting the western part of the state.
Rochester International Airport (ROC) in Rochester.
Albany International Airport (ALB) in Albany, serving the capital region.
From these major airports, you can get connecting flights to smaller airports in the state, or you can choose ground transportation options.
By Train:
Amtrak services New York with several routes. Major lines include the Northeast Regional and Acela, which connect NYC to Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. The Empire Service runs between NYC and Albany/Buffalo/Niagara Falls.
By Bus:
Numerous bus companies, including Greyhound, Megabus, and Trailways of New York, connect cities within the state and also provide services from surrounding states and cities.
By Car:
If coming from neighboring states or Canada, driving is a viable option. Major interstates include I-87 (connecting NYC to Albany and northwards), I-90 (spanning from the east to west across the state), and I-81 (coming from Pennsylvania in the south and running northward).
Getting Around New York State:
Intra-state Flights
For quick travel between distant locations like NYC and Buffalo or the Adirondacks, you might consider regional flights.
Train
Amtrak provides intra-state services. For instance, the Empire Service is handy for travel between cities like NYC, Albany, Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo.
Car Rentals
Renting a car provides the most flexibility, especially if you plan to visit areas not easily accessible by public transport. Major highways are well-maintained, but do account for possible tolls.
Remember, while driving in urban areas, parking can be a challenge and might be expensive. In more rural areas like the Catskills, Adirondacks, or the Finger Lakes, a car can be invaluable.
Local Public Transportation
New York City: The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) operates subways, buses, and commuter trains. A MetroCard can be used for subways and buses.
Buffalo, Rochester, Albany, Syracuse: These cities have their bus systems, and some have limited rail or tram services.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available in most urban areas. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in many parts of the state.
Ferries
In areas near the water, like NYC or the Great Lakes region, ferries can be a scenic mode of transport.
Walking
In city centers, especially places like Manhattan in NYC, walking can often be the easiest way to get around.
Tips:
Traffic: NYC, especially Manhattan, can have heavy traffic. If you're not used to driving in such conditions, consider using public transport.
Tolls: Some bridges, tunnels, and highways require tolls. Having an E-ZPass can be helpful.
Winter Travel: If you're traveling in the winter, especially in upstate areas, be prepared for snow and icy conditions. Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready with appropriate tires.
Planning in advance, especially if relying on public transport schedules, can make your travel experience smoother. Consider using apps or online tools for train/bus schedules, mapping routes, checking traffic, or hailing ride-shares.
