Tappan Zee Bridge: The ONLY Directions Guide You'll Need!
Navigating from the bustling streets of New York City to the scenic Hudson Valley requires understanding directions to tappan zee bridge new york. The Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, the successor to the Tappan Zee, serves as a vital link; knowledge of its location and accessible routes via Google Maps is crucial for efficient travel. This guide provides the only directions you'll need to cross this important landmark.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Mileage Mike Travels , from the video titled Tappan Zee Bridge - Terrytown - New York - 4K Infrastructure Drive .
Tappan Zee Bridge: The ONLY Directions Guide You'll Need!
This guide is designed to provide clear and simple directions to access the Tappan Zee Bridge (officially named the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge), whether you're coming from different parts of New York, New Jersey, or beyond. We'll cover routes, potential traffic considerations, and alternative transportation options to make your journey as smooth as possible. This guide specifically focuses on providing directions to Tappan Zee Bridge New York.
Understanding the Bridge and Its Approaches
Before diving into specific directions, it's helpful to understand the bridge's location and main access points. The Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge spans the Hudson River, connecting Rockland and Westchester counties in New York. It carries Interstate 87 (I-87) and Interstate 287 (I-287), which are often used interchangeably when discussing directions.
- Eastern Approach (Westchester County): Primarily accessed from I-287 eastbound.
- Western Approach (Rockland County): Primarily accessed from I-87/I-287 westbound.
Directions by Originating Location
This section breaks down directions based on where you're starting your journey.
From New York City (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Staten Island)
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Via the West Side Highway/Henry Hudson Parkway (NY-9A):
- Take the West Side Highway (NY-9A) north to the Saw Mill River Parkway North.
- Follow the Saw Mill River Parkway North to I-287 West.
- Continue on I-287 West. This will lead you directly onto the eastern approach of the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge towards Rockland County.
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Via the Major Deegan Expressway (I-87):
- Take the Major Deegan Expressway (I-87) North.
- Continue on I-87 North (which becomes I-287).
- Follow I-87/I-287 West. This will also lead you directly onto the eastern approach of the bridge.
From Long Island
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Via the Throgs Neck Bridge or Whitestone Bridge:
- Take either the Throgs Neck Bridge or Whitestone Bridge to the Cross Bronx Expressway (I-95) West.
- Merge onto the Major Deegan Expressway (I-87) North.
- Follow I-87 North (which becomes I-287).
- Continue on I-87/I-287 West. This will lead you directly onto the eastern approach of the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge towards Rockland County.
From New Jersey
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Via the Garden State Parkway:
- Take the Garden State Parkway North.
- Merge onto the New York State Thruway (I-87/I-287) East.
- Follow I-87/I-287 East. This will lead you directly onto the western approach of the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge towards Westchester County.
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Via the Palisades Interstate Parkway:
- Take the Palisades Interstate Parkway North.
- Merge onto the New York State Thruway (I-87/I-287) East.
- Follow I-87/I-287 East. This will also lead you directly onto the western approach of the bridge.
From Points North of the Bridge
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Via I-87 South (New York State Thruway):
- Take I-87 South towards New York City.
- Follow signs for I-287 East/West towards the Tappan Zee Bridge.
- Continue on I-287, following signs to the bridge. Depending on your exit, follow signs accordingly.
Navigational Tools & Real-Time Updates
Always use a GPS navigation app like Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps for real-time traffic updates and the most accurate directions. These apps can automatically reroute you around congestion or accidents, saving you time and frustration. Before you leave, check these apps for any reported delays or construction activity on the bridge or its approaches.
Understanding Tolls
The Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge is a tolled bridge.
- E-ZPass is Highly Recommended: E-ZPass provides the lowest toll rate and the most convenient way to pay.
- Toll-by-Mail: If you don't have E-ZPass, you will receive a toll bill in the mail based on your license plate.
- Pay-by-Plate: A program which allows you to create an account, add your vehicle, and pay within a certain timeframe of crossing the bridge.
You can find the most up-to-date toll information on the New York State Thruway Authority website.
Alternative Transportation Options
While this guide focuses on driving directions, consider these alternative transportation methods to reach areas accessible via the Tappan Zee Bridge:
- Metro-North Railroad (Hudson Line): The Hudson Line provides train service along the east side of the Hudson River, with stops in Tarrytown (near the bridge's eastern landing) and other towns in Westchester County.
- Bee-Line Bus System (Westchester County): The Bee-Line bus system provides local bus service in Westchester County, connecting to various points near the bridge.
- Rockland Coaches (TOR): TOR bus system provides service to different areas within Rockland County.
Video: Tappan Zee Bridge: The ONLY Directions Guide You'll Need!
Tappan Zee Bridge Directions FAQ
This FAQ provides quick answers to common questions about navigating to and across the Tappan Zee Bridge (now officially the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge). Use this alongside our comprehensive directions guide for a smooth and stress-free journey.
Where exactly is the Tappan Zee Bridge located?
The Tappan Zee Bridge, also known as the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, spans the Hudson River between Tarrytown in Westchester County and Nyack in Rockland County, New York. Our directions to tappan zee bridge new york guide provides specific routes to access it from various locations.
What are the main routes to access the bridge?
The primary access routes are Interstate 87/Interstate 287. I-87 approaches from the north and south, while I-287 approaches from the east and west. Be sure to check our detailed directions to tappan zee bridge new york section for guidance from your specific starting point.
Are there tolls on the Tappan Zee Bridge?
Yes, there are tolls. Tolls are collected electronically via E-ZPass or Tolls by Mail. It's advisable to have an E-ZPass transponder for the quickest and most convenient payment method.
How long does it take to cross the bridge?
The crossing time typically ranges from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Real-time traffic updates are available through various apps and websites which can help you estimate your travel time. Remember to consult our guide for finding the best directions to tappan zee bridge new york, including consideration of possible congestion.
Hopefully, this clears up any confusion about getting directions to tappan zee bridge new york! Safe travels!
