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Staying at the Hotel Beacon offers visitors the chance to feel like a New Yorker who is living in a comfortable apartment in the Upper West Side.  Many locals will agree that using public transportation is the easiest way to move around the city. Although the subway is the most common means of transportation, the bus system is just as efficient with a huge plus – you get to see the city. If you want to give it a try, follow these tips and you’ll be riding the bus like a New Yorker in no time.

Understanding the Bus System

Buses operate 24/7 and run along main avenues: north to south (Uptown-Downtown) and east to west (Crosstown). The system is color-coded and each route is numbered to make identification much easier. Download this free map to consult the entire system.

A bus may be slower than the metro, but it’s the most convenient way to travel to and from the East and West sides by using Crosstown buses.

Using the Bus

The first step is to identify the closest bus stop – they are usually located at street corners. It’s always a good idea to check the bus schedule of your chosen route before heading out.

To board the bus, stand at the designated stop and raise your arm to signal the bus driver. To get off the bus, press the “STOP” button. Always try to exit through the rear doors.

Bus routes, like subway lines, have local and express buses. Make sure you check before boarding the bus to avoid missing your stop.

Payment

The standard fare for each bus and subway ride is $2.75; express buses cost $6.50. You can use coins or a MetroCard to pay for it.

Using the MetroCard

This is by far the best option as it can be used in the subway and bus, and includes free transfers within two hours of paying the fare. Purchase your MetroCard at subway stations.

Unlimited 7-Day pass

If you’re planning to spend a week or more in New York, consider purchasing an Unlimited 7-Day pass for $32 to use the bus and subway as often as you want (does not include express buses).

Bus routes near the Hotel Beacon

The Hotel Beacon is located along the M104 route, which runs along Broadway and ends at Times Square – this route will drop you off at some of the main Midtown attractions: Lincoln Center, Columbus Circle, Central Park at 59th St, Times Square

The M72 and M79 (Select Bus Service) are the closest Crosstown routes that will take you through Central Park to the Upper East Side. The sights that you’ll find along the way are: American Museum of Natural History, Belvedere Castle (Central Park), Bethesda Terrace (Central Park), Metropolitan Museum of Art and Frick Collection.