Is the NYC subway pass worth it?

If you think you will be taking the subway at least 12 times, the Unlimited Card will likely save you money. If you think you will take the subway just a few times, go for the Pay-Per-Ride card. Remember that an Unlimited Card can be used only by one person, and you would each have to buy your own Unlimited card.



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Tips for saving on subway and bus fares
  1. Use your contactless credit/debit card, smartphone, or wearable to tap and ride with OMNY. ...
  2. Rides include a free transfer between the subway and local buses and between local buses.
  3. Refill the MetroCard you have instead of paying the fee for a new card.


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You can use cash, credit, or debit cards to make your purchase. New York City subway fares are $2.75 per trip. For visitors staying more than a couple of days you can buy a one week unlimited MetroCard for $33 or an unlimited monthly MetroCard for $127.00.

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To pay your fare at subway turnstiles, AutoGates, and onboard buses (including Select Bus Service buses), simply tap your own contactless credit or debit card, smart device, or OMNY card on the OMNY reader.

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Walking. Walking is definitely the cheapest way to get around NYC, and while it's not always practical, it is a great way to explore a neighborhood and experience the local culture. Best of all, it's free! Another way to take advantage of walking around New York City is to take a tour.

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Subways are usually a better choice when both are an option, because buses make more frequent stops and can get caught in traffic. But for routes where the subway isn't an option, buses are fine.

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The OMNY rollout started in 2019, and its tap-and-go contactless readers now exist in every subway station and on every bus route in the city. MetroCards, according to the MTA, will be fully phased out by 2024 — as will the vending machines.

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Unlimited Ride MetroCards: These passes are only good for one person, they cannot be shared. Once swiped you cannot use the card again for another 18 mins.

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Regular Pay Per Ride MetroCards: These can be shared with up to 4 people per card. You can each swipe the turnstile separately or the first person can swipe 4x's and have everyone follow through the turnstile.

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Pay Per Ride MetroCard is nothing but a rechargeable card that will allow you to pay each individual ride at the reduced fare of $2.75 fee. You are free to re-load the Metro Card as many times as you like, plus at any station, you can swipe as many as 4 times back-to-back meaning 4 people can share the same card.

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If you plan to stay at a 5-star hotel and dine at upscale restaurants in Manhattan, then a budget of $1000 is definitely not going to cut it. However, if you book a mid-tier hotel and take advantage of the many free things to do in New York, then a budget of $1000 is just fine.

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If visitors are cautious about planning their travel, accommodations, transportation and itinerary, it is absolutely possible to visit New York City on a budget and still have a great time. Here are some tips on how to successfully do New York City on $100 a day.

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Subways and local buses Get free rides after 12 fares within seven days using the same device or contactless card with fare capping. Learn more about how to get free rides with OMNY.

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