Above Ground in the Concrete Jungle: NYC Trains That See the Sun
New York City: the land of concrete canyons, yellow taxis, and a subway system that’s more labyrinth than transportation. But fear not, fellow urban explorers! There's a glimmer of sunlight amidst the subterranean madness. Yes, believe it or not, some trains in this concrete jungle actually dare to venture above ground!
So, Which Trains Are Actually Brave Enough for Fresh Air?
Let's talk about the daredevils of the NYC subway system: the trains that refuse to be confined to the underground. Now, don't get too excited. We're not talking about open-air carriages or rooftop rides (though that would be awesome, right?). But there are indeed some stretches of track where these subterranean speedsters emerge into the light.
Queens: The Sunny Side of Subway Riding Queens is where the magic happens. The 7 train is basically a rollercoaster with a subway map. It soars above Jackson Heights, Flushing, and Woodside, giving you a bird's-eye view of the borough. It's like a free aerial tour, minus the champagne and the questionable safety regulations.
Brooklyn: Elevated Expectations Brooklyn isn't all Williamsburg hipsters and artisanal coffee shops. Some parts of the borough have their own elevated train experiences. The L train offers a decent amount of above-ground action, especially in Williamsburg and Bushwick. And let's not forget the G train, which also gets its share of sunshine.
Manhattan: A Glimpse of the Sky Manhattan, the concrete behemoth, is surprisingly stingy with its above-ground train real estate. But fear not, there are a few exceptions. The 1 train offers a brief but glorious escape from the underground as it runs elevated through Washington Heights. And if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the Hudson River while you're at it.
Tips for Your Above-Ground Adventure
- Timing is Everything: Weekdays can be packed, so consider off-peak hours for a more leisurely ride.
- Window Seat: Obvious, right? But trust us, it makes a world of difference.
- Camera Ready: Capture those skyline shots! Just remember to hold on tight.
- People Watching: The above-ground world offers a whole new level of entertainment.
- Fresh Air: Breathe deep and enjoy the change of scenery.
How To...
- How to find out if a specific train route is above ground? Check online subway maps or transportation apps. They usually indicate elevated sections.
- How to plan a route that maximizes above-ground time? Use a trip planner and prioritize lines with longer elevated stretches.
- How to enjoy the view without getting distracted? Keep your phone in your pocket and soak in the scenery.
- How to handle crowds on an above-ground train? Be patient, hold on tight, and maybe listen to some music.
- How to make the most of your above-ground subway experience? Relax, enjoy the fresh air, and appreciate the unique perspective of the city.
So, next time you're feeling claustrophobic underground, remember that there's a world above waiting to be explored. Just hop on the right train and let the city skyline be your guide. Happy riding!
