Exploring the vibrant heart of Manhattan? 59th Street is a key artery, and knowing the best public transit options is essential for smooth navigation. Whether you’re heading to Central Park, luxury shopping, or business meetings, accessing 59th Street via public transportation is efficient and convenient. This guide will provide you with the best routes to reach 59th Street using the subway, bus, train, and even the iconic Roosevelt Island Tramway.
Subway Options for 59th Street
The subway is arguably the quickest way to get around Manhattan, and 59th Street is exceptionally well-served. Several lines converge around 59th Street, offering multiple entry and exit points.
- Lexington Avenue-59th Street Station (4, 5, 6, N, R, W Lines): This major station complex at Lexington Avenue and 59th Street is your central hub. The 4, 5, and 6 lines (Lexington Avenue Express and Local) provide service along the east side of Manhattan. The N, R, and W lines (Broadway Line) offer access from various points in Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn.
- 59th Street-Columbus Circle (1, A, B, C, D Lines): Located at the western end of 59th Street, near Columbus Circle and Central Park West, this station serves the 1, A, B, C, and D lines. This is ideal if you’re aiming for the western side of 59th Street or areas around Columbus Circle.
- 57th Street-Seventh Avenue (N, Q, R, W Lines): A short walk south of 59th Street, this station on Seventh Avenue also provides easy access, especially for the southern part of 59th Street and areas towards Times Square.
Buses to 59th Street
Buses offer a scenic alternative to the subway, allowing you to see more of the city as you travel to 59th Street. Numerous bus routes operate on or near 59th Street, catering to different directions and neighborhoods. Key bus routes include:
- M101, M102, M103: These routes run along Lexington and Third Avenues, making stops along 59th Street and connecting to various uptown and downtown areas.
- M15-SBS (Select Bus Service): Operating on First and Second Avenues, this limited-stop bus service offers a faster bus option to access the eastern side of 59th Street.
- M5, M57: These buses travel crosstown on 57th Street and 65th/66th Streets respectively, but connect to 59th Street via avenues, providing east-west connections.
- M31: This route travels along York Avenue and East End Avenue, offering access to the Upper East Side and connecting to 59th Street.
- BxM10, QM34, SIM8, SIM8X, SIM22, SIM25, SIM26: These express bus routes from the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island can bring you into Midtown Manhattan, with potential stops near 59th Street or connections via subway or local buses.
Train and Tram Options
While primarily focused on subway and bus, reaching 59th Street can also involve train and tram for specific starting points.
- Train (PATH, Harlem Line): While not directly on 59th Street, the PATH train to 33rd Street and the Harlem Line to Grand Central Terminal provide connections to the 4, 5, 6 subway lines, which directly serve 59th Street.
- Roosevelt Island Tramway: For a unique and scenic approach, the Roosevelt Island Tramway at 59th Street and Second Avenue whisks you over the East River to Roosevelt Island, offering a memorable start or end to your 59th Street visit and connecting to the F train on Roosevelt Island for onward travel back to Manhattan if needed.
Utilizing Moovit for Your 59th Street Journey
For real-time directions, schedule information, and navigating the complexities of New York City public transit to 59th Street, consider using the Moovit app. Moovit provides up-to-date information on all transit options, helping you find the quickest and most convenient route, accounting for any service changes or delays.
Reaching 59th Street in Manhattan via public transit is straightforward thanks to the extensive network of subways, buses, trains, and even the tramway. By understanding your options and utilizing tools like Moovit, you can confidently navigate to and around this iconic Manhattan location.
