Why go
Public transport is part of how the city works, not just a way between attractions. Grand Central Terminal and Penn Station connect Manhattan to regional rail, while the subway reaches far beyond the central landmarks. Ferries add a harbor perspective that streets and tunnels cannot provide.
The full story
New York's transport system reflects its geography. Manhattan's regular street grid makes many local walks straightforward, but rivers and long borough distances mean a seemingly short trip may require a bridge, tunnel, or transfer. The subway links much of the city, while Long Island Rail Road, Metro-North, and New Jersey Transit bring commuters and visitors into major Manhattan terminals. Grand Central Terminal and Penn Station are useful anchors for understanding the network: one faces east-side and northern regional connections, the other sits on the West Side with intercity rail links. Ferries offer another way to cross the harbor and waterfronts. For an airport or regional journey, check the operator's current route and service information before setting out, since construction and service patterns can change.