You can purchase NYC Transit’s latest fare media, the MetroCard, from either
one of the convenient machines or from the agent in the booth. The larger
machine, the MetroCard Vending Machine, lets you buy a MetroCard using cash, an
ATM or credit card. The smaller machine, the MetroCard Express Machine, only
accepts ATM or credit cards. Once you’ve purchased your fare media, Swipe your
MetroCard through the slot in the top of the turnstile. Walk through the metal
barrier arms when you hear a single beep and the turnstile’s screen says, “GO.”
In the station
Once you’re inside the subway, there are signs everywhere describing the
routes, route changes, etc. Just take your time and follow the signs for the
train (subway route) you want to take. Overhead, at intervals along the
platform’s edge, you'll find signs that tell you which trains stop there and
the direction the trains are going, such as Uptown or Downtown. Some signs are
even more specific and let you know whether this train is Queens-bound or
Brooklyn-bound. Be sure to wait behind the yellow warning strip at the edge of
the platform. If you're traveling when during off-peak hours, meaning at midday or at night, it’s another good idea to
wait in what’s known as the “Off-Hour Waiting Area”. There’s usually a yellow
sign suspended from the ceiling that identifies the “Off-Hour Waiting Area” as
just that. It’s nothing special or elaborate; it’s just a space usually near
the turnstiles where it’s easier for the station agent to keep an eye on you.
The trains usually run about every 5 minutes during rush hour, that’s 6:30AM to 9:30AM and from 3:30PM to 6:30PM,
Monday through Friday. During the midday
the trains run about every 5 to 10 minutes apart. During the evening, that’s 8:00PM to just before 6:30AM, the trains can run between 15 and 30 minutes apart.
Also, during the late evening, many trains run with fewer cars so during those
late night excursions it’s a good idea to look out for black and yellow signs
that let you know where you should wait on the platform. To make it even easier
for you, some subway stations have electronic signs called “annunciators” with
a simple digital readout that points out when a train is coming and whether the
train is traveling uptown or downtown. You’ll even hear a beeping sound that
lets you know that a train is about to arrive. These annunciators are usually
located near the Off-Hour Waiting Areas mentioned earlier.