NYC by Foot, Ferry, or Car

My wife and I live in the Financial District, downtown New York City. Earlier this year, we decided to stop riding the subway. Here’s what that has been like so far:

The subway, by far, is the fastest way around the city. Getting around usually takes more money or time now—usually a lot more of the latter. It takes some getting used to. 

One of our favorite things to do in NYC is walk, which means we get to enjoy the commute a lot more now. So much of NYC’s charm is above ground, which is enough reason to spend less time in the subway.

We live near both the east and west river, so we have a lot of options for the ferry. While ferries are cheap, they often leave early, and they do not come as often as subway trains. They are an absolute delight in the summer, when you can sit in the upper deck, feel the breeze in your hair, and breathe in the fresh ocean air. This is, by far, my favorite way to get around the city.

While cars are quick and direct, the costs can also add up. They tend to be the best option after a long day, or if we’re running late to something.

Generally, we schedule a lot more time to commute. I don’t see the slowness as inefficiency. Travelling by foot, ferry, and car generally feels much safer and more pleasant. As a side effect, we do less stuff, more intentionally. We have also gotten a lot more familiar with the local options in Battery Park, Tribeca, Soho, and Seaport.

Walking to or from midtown will take 10,000 steps. A stroll down Mercer street or West Broadway feels really nice after a meal. I have noticed my shoes getting a lot more worn out.