Where to Park Outside of NYC and Take the Train: A Reddit Guide
Introduction
So, you're planning a trip to the Big Apple and want to avoid the hassle of driving and parking in the city? Smart move! Parking in NYC can be a nightmare, with limited spaces and sky-high rates. But don't worry, there are plenty of great options for parking outside the city and taking the train in.
Choosing a Parking Lot or Garage
The first step is to decide where you want to park. There are a number of parking lots and garages located just outside of NYC that offer affordable rates and easy access to the train. Some popular options include:
- Secaucus Junction: Located in New Jersey, Secaucus Junction is a major transportation hub with plenty of parking options. The train ride into Manhattan takes about 15 minutes.
- Port Authority Bus Terminal: Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Port Authority Bus Terminal has a large parking garage. However, parking rates can be high, so it's best to book in advance.
- Newark Liberty International Airport: If you're flying into Newark, you can park your car at the airport and take the train into the city. There are several parking garages located at the airport, with rates varying depending on the length of stay.
Taking the Train into NYC
Once you've parked your car, it's time to take the train into the city. There are several train lines that serve NYC, including:
- NJ Transit: NJ Transit trains run between New Jersey and NYC. The PATH train is a good option for travelers staying in Hoboken or Jersey City.
- Metro-North Railroad: Metro-North trains run between Westchester County, Putnam County, and Orange County in New York and NYC.
- Long Island Rail Road: LIRR trains run between Long Island and NYC.
Tips for Taking the Train
Here are a few tips for taking the train into NYC:
- Purchase your train ticket in advance: This will save you time and hassle at the station.
- Be aware of rush hour: Trains can be crowded during rush hour, so it's best to avoid traveling at these times if possible.
- Plan your route in advance: Use a map or app to plan your route and determine which train line is best for you.
- Validate your MetroCard: If you're using a MetroCard to pay for your train fare, be sure to validate it at a turnstile before boarding the train.
Related FAQs
How to find the cheapest parking near NYC train stations?
There are a number of websites and apps that allow you to compare parking rates at different locations. Some popular options include SpotHero and Parkopedia.
How to reserve a parking space near NYC train stations in advance?
Many parking lots and garages allow you to reserve a parking space in advance online or by phone.
How to get from Newark airport to NYC by train?
You can take the AirTrain Newark to the Newark Liberty International Airport Station and then transfer to the PATH train or NJ Transit train to NYC.
How to avoid traffic jams when driving to NYC?
The best way to avoid traffic jams is to take the train or use a GPS navigation system to find the fastest route.
How to find the best time to take the train into NYC to avoid crowds?
The best time to take the train into NYC is early in the morning or late at night, when the trains are less crowded.