New York Penn Station to Times Square: Your Fastest Route Revealed!

Navigating the bustling heart of New York City can be daunting, especially when time is of the essence. For many travelers and commuters, a crucial journey involves getting from New York Penn Station to Times Square quickly and efficiently. This guide simplifies your route, ensuring you spend less time confused and more time enjoying the city. We'll detail the most practical options, leveraging the robust MTA subway system and pinpointing the exact subway lines like the A, C, or E trains that will whisk you directly to the Times Square-42nd Street Station. Keep your smartphone handy, as a quick check on Google Maps can always confirm real-time conditions, but this advice provides the foundational knowledge.

Image taken from the YouTube channel A Japanese Walking around New York , from the video titled Subway from Penn to Times Square Walk around NY 2022 4K .

Welcome to Midtown Manhattan, a vibrant, bustling heart of New York City where countless adventures begin. For many, this journey starts right at New York Penn Station, a colossal transportation hub that serves as your initial gateway to the city's pulse. This introductory section sets the stage, guiding you from your arrival point directly into the energetic embrace of Times Square.

Understanding the challenge of efficient travel is key. Arriving in a massive city like New York, especially at a busy station like Penn, can feel overwhelming. The primary goal for many is to swiftly find the best directions and minimize travel time to their destination, particularly if that destination is the bright lights of Times Square. This guide aims to demystify the process, offering practical, step-by-step instructions to ensure a smooth transition from train to iconic landmark.

New York Penn Station holds immense significance as a vital transportation nexus. It stands as the busiest passenger transportation facility in the Western Hemisphere, serving an incredible volume of travelers daily. As a central hub for Amtrak long-distance and Northeast Corridor trains, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) commuter services, and NJ Transit routes connecting New Jersey, Penn Station sees millions of passengers annually. Its strategic location makes it an inevitable first stop for a vast number of visitors, making a clear understanding of onward travel crucial for a stress-free start to your New York City experience.

Having established the common traveler's quest from New York Penn Station to Times Square, let's now unveil the undisputed champion for speed and efficiency. While various options exist, one stands head and shoulders above the rest for its directness and ability to bypass Midtown Manhattan's often-congested streets.

The Fastest Route Revealed: The NYC Subway

When time is of the essence, the New York City Subway is overwhelmingly the most efficient and recommended mode of transport from Penn Station to Times Square. Its subterranean network means you'll completely avoid surface traffic, ensuring a rapid and predictable journey, often costing just a fraction of other options like taxis or rideshares. For sheer speed and cost-effectiveness, the subway is your top choice.

Getting to the NYC Subway from New York Penn Station

Accessing the subway from New York Penn Station is remarkably straightforward, regardless of whether you arrive via Amtrak, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), or NJ Transit. Both the main concourse of Penn Station and the newer, spacious Moynihan Train Hall offer convenient access points.

From the main Penn Station concourse, simply follow the prominent signs leading to the subway. These signs will direct you towards the platforms for the 1, 2, 3, A, C, and E lines. If you've arrived at the Moynihan Train Hall, exit towards 8th Avenue and 31st Street, then walk one block north to 34th Street, where you'll find easy access to the subway entrances integrated directly into the street level or adjacent buildings. Look specifically for the 34th Street-Penn Station subway entrance, which serves as your gateway to swift travel.

Specific NYC Subway Lines for Times Square

Once inside the subway station, you have two excellent options for reaching Times Square, both requiring just a single stop northbound:

• Option 1: A, C, or E Trains

  • Take the A, C, or E trains northbound (towards Inwood-207 St for the A/C, or World Trade Center for the E, but ensure you're going uptown/northbound).
  • Travel one stop to 42nd Street-Port Authority Bus Terminal. From here, Times Square is just a very short walk east along 42nd Street, approximately 2-3 minutes, placing you right in the heart of the bustling district.

• Option 2: 1, 2, or 3 Trains

  • Alternatively, take the 1, 2, or 3 trains northbound (towards Van Cortlandt Park-242 St for the 1, Wakefield-241 St for the 2, or Harlem-148 St for the 3).
  • Travel one stop to 42nd Street-Times Square (Broadway). This option drops you directly into the iconic Times Square subway station, often considered the most central and convenient for accessing all the major attractions.

Always confirm you are heading northbound or uptown when entering the platform. Digital signs and overhead announcements will confirm the next train's direction.

Payment Options: Using OMNY / MetroCard

Seamless travel on the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) system is easier than ever with two primary payment methods:

• OMNY (One Metro New York): This is the modern tap-and-go system. Simply tap your contactless credit or debit card, smartphone, or wearable device (using services like Apple Pay or Google Pay) directly on the OMNY reader at the turnstile. This is often the fastest and most convenient method for visitors.
• MetroCard: The traditional refillable card. You can purchase a MetroCard from vending machines located in every subway station. These machines accept cash, credit, and debit cards. Once purchased, you can load money onto the card for single rides or unlimited ride options.

Both OMNY and MetroCard offer the standard single-ride fare, making your journey from Penn Station to Times Square simple and affordable.

Estimated Travel Time via NYC Subway

The beauty of taking the NYC Subway for this particular route is its incredible speed. Given it's just a single stop on any of the specified lines, the actual travel time on the train is typically under 5 minutes. Factoring in waiting for a train (which are frequent, especially during peak hours) and navigating the station, your total journey from entering the subway at Penn Station to exiting at Times Square will typically be under 5-10 minutes. This makes it by far the quickest way to cover the just-under-a-mile distance.

While the New York City Subway offers an unparalleled blend of speed and efficiency for navigating from Penn Station to Times Square, it's not your only option. For those who prefer a different pace or specific conveniences, alternative transportation methods are readily available. This section explores these choices, weighing their unique pros and cons, from estimated travel times and costs to their suitability based on individual preferences and real-time conditions like traffic.

Alternative Transportation Options and Their Considerations

Walking Route: A Scenic but Slower Journey

For travelers who appreciate the urban landscape and aren't pressed for time, walking presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Midtown Manhattan. It's a journey that offers a firsthand look at the city's iconic architecture and bustling street life.

Directions and Landmarks

Your walk from New York Penn Station to Times Square is straightforward. Simply head north on 7th Avenue from 34th Street. This avenue provides a direct, straight shot directly to Times Square at 42nd Street. As you begin your walk, you'll find yourself right next to Madison Square Garden, a prominent landmark that marks the starting point of your pedestrian adventure.

Travel Time and Suitability

The estimated Travel Time for this Walking Route is approximately 15-20 minutes. This duration can vary based on your personal pace and, notably, the density of pedestrian traffic along 7th Avenue, which can be considerable, especially during peak hours. This option is ideally suited for those who wish to explore Midtown Manhattan on foot, perhaps pausing to take in the sights, and for whom a slightly longer Travel Time is not a primary concern. It's a free and healthy way to experience the city up close.

Taxi / Ride-sharing (Uber, Lyft): Convenience with Potential Downsides

For travelers prioritizing direct, door-to-door service, traditional taxis or ride-sharing applications like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient solution. These services can pick you up directly from New York Penn Station and drop you off precisely where you need to be in Times Square, removing the need for navigation or understanding subway routes.

Pros and Cons of Taxis/Ride-sharing

The primary advantage of a taxi or ride-sharing service is the sheer convenience of a private, direct ride. However, this convenience comes with significant considerations. One major drawback is their susceptibility to traffic delays, which are particularly prevalent in Midtown Manhattan during peak hours, commuter rush, or special events. A short 10-minute trip can easily extend to 20 minutes or more if you hit heavy traffic.

Estimated Travel Time and Cost

The Estimated Travel Time via taxi or ride-sharing is highly variable, ranging anywhere from 5 minutes during off-peak times to 20+ minutes when traffic is gridlocked. This unpredictability makes it a less reliable option for time-sensitive travel compared to the subway.

From a cost perspective, taxis and ride-sharing services are significantly more expensive than the NYC Subway or the free Walking Route. While the subway offers a flat fare of $2.90 per ride (as of 2024), taxi and ride-share fares typically start at several dollars and increase based on distance, time, and demand-based surge pricing. For a short trip from Penn Station to Times Square, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $25+, excluding tips, making them a premium option.

While exploring your transportation choices is crucial, mastering your journey from New York Penn Station to Times Square extends beyond just picking a mode. To ensure a hassle-free transition, this section offers crucial advice for navigating your journey, whether by subway, on foot, or by car. We'll cover practical tips for exiting the station, staying informed about service changes, understanding peak travel times, and general safety guidelines for a positive experience in Midtown Manhattan.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey

Your expedition from New York Penn Station to the bustling heart of Times Square can be seamless with a bit of foresight and preparation. Regardless of your chosen method of travel, knowing how to navigate the city's unique rhythms will significantly enhance your experience.

Navigating New York Penn Station Exits

New York Penn Station is a sprawling transit hub, and choosing the right exit can dramatically streamline your onward journey. For those heading towards Times Square, strategic exiting is key.

• For Walking or Taxi/Ride-sharing: Focus on exiting onto 7th Avenue. This avenue runs directly north to Times Square, making it the most straightforward option for a walk or to hail a cab. Look for signs pointing towards "7th Avenue & 33rd Street" or "Madison Square Garden," as these lead to the east side of the station. Many LIRR and Amtrak platforms have direct escalators or stairs to the 7th Avenue concourse.
• For Subway (A/C/E lines): If you plan to use the A, C, or E subway lines (which have a station directly under Penn Station at 34th Street-Penn Station, 8th Avenue), you'll want to exit towards 8th Avenue. These lines provide a direct one-stop ride to 42nd Street-Port Authority Bus Terminal, putting you within a short walk of Times Square.
• General Tip: Always follow the clear overhead signage within the station. Penn Station has undergone significant renovations, and wayfinding has improved, but it's still a busy place. Take a moment to orient yourself.

Checking MTA Service Alerts for NYC Subway Delays

The New York City Subway is an incredibly efficient way to traverse Manhattan, but it's also a complex system prone to occasional, unforeseen delays or service changes. Staying informed is paramount for a smooth trip.

• Real-time Information is Your Best Friend: Before you even descend into the subway, check for live updates. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) provides several reliable channels for service alerts:
  • MyMTA App: This official app offers real-time arrival estimates, service changes, and alerts tailored to your chosen lines.
  • MTA Website (mta.info): The "Service Status" section is constantly updated with advisories for all subway lines.
  • Social Media: The official @NYCTSubway account on platforms like Twitter/X is highly active, providing immediate, minute-by-minute updates on disruptions.
• Why It Matters: A quick check can save you significant time and frustration. A scheduled track maintenance or an unexpected signal problem can cause a specific line to bypass stops, be rerouted, or experience severe delays, impacting your estimated travel time.

Understanding Peak Hours and Travel Impact

New York City's energy is palpable, especially during peak hours, which significantly impact all modes of transportation. Being aware of these times can help you plan your journey more effectively.

• When are Peak Hours? Generally, weekdays between 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM are considered peak commuter times. Midtown Manhattan experiences some of the densest pedestrian and vehicular traffic during these periods.
• Impact on Different Modes:
  • Subway: While generally less affected by surface traffic, subway trains become significantly more crowded during peak hours. You might experience fuller platforms and standing-room-only cars, particularly on popular lines like the 1, 2, 3, A, C, E, N, Q, R, and W trains.
  • Walking: Pedestrian traffic on sidewalks, especially along major arteries like 7th Avenue and 8th Avenue, can slow your pace during peak times. Expect crowded crosswalks and a more bustling atmosphere.
  • Taxi/Ride-sharing (Uber, Lyft): This is where peak hours have the most dramatic impact. Midtown Manhattan's gridlock can turn a 5-minute ride into a 20-minute crawl. Surge pricing for ride-sharing services is also common during these periods, significantly increasing your cost compared to off-peak times. A taxi ride that might cost $10 off-peak could easily jump to $20+ during heavy traffic due to meter accumulation.
• Strategy: If time is critical, consider the subway during peak hours. If you opt for a taxi or ride-share, factor in considerable extra travel time and potentially higher fares.

General Safety Advice in Midtown Manhattan

New York City is statistically one of the safest large cities in the world, but like any major urban center, exercising basic precautions is always wise.

• On the NYC Subway:
  • Stay Behind the Yellow Line: Always stand clear of the platform edge.
  • Be Aware of Your Surroundings: While crime on the subway is rare, remain alert. Avoid showing off expensive electronics or large sums of cash.
  • Avoid Empty Cars Late at Night: If traveling during off-peak hours, opt for cars with other passengers, especially the conductor's car (usually in the middle of the train).
  • Protect Valuables: Keep wallets in front pockets and purses/bags close to your body.
• Walking in Midtown Manhattan:
  • Mind the Pedestrian Traffic: Midtown sidewalks can be incredibly crowded. Walk with purpose and be mindful of others.
  • Use Crosswalks and Obey Signals: Even if locals occasionally jaywalk, it's safer to cross at designated intersections when you have the light.
  • Limit Distractions: Avoid walking while heavily engrossed in your phone, as it can lead to collisions with other pedestrians or vehicles, and make you less aware of your surroundings.
  • Secure Belongings: Pickpocketing can occur in densely populated tourist areas. Keep bags zipped and secure, and avoid carrying valuables in open pockets.
  • Trust Your Instincts: If an area or situation feels off, remove yourself from it.
  • Emergency: In case of emergency, dial 911. For non-emergency police assistance, you can call 311.

With these practical tips, your trip from New York Penn Station to Times Square should be a breeze. Enjoy the convenience and energy of NYC!