Editor’s Note: For more on attractions in New York City, see our articles 2014 Guide to Attractions and “NYC By Foot, Boat, Or Bus”
Navigating New York City’s busy streets and subway lines can be confusing. Luckily, in the age of smart phones there are apps that can help you get to where you want to go fast.
HopStop
This app gets you door-to-door transit, walking, biking, and taxi directions all over New York. Users can also use it to plan trips with multiple destinations, estimate travel time and taxi cost, and even how many calories you burn or carbon emissions you save on your chosen route. hopstop.com Free for iPhone
Embark NYC
Step-by-step instructions combined with notifications of advisories and closures based on real-time information eliminate the need for guessing which route is fastest. Even better, this app can work without an internet connection, which means that even underground you can still plan your trip. letsembark.com Free for iPhone
Exit Strategy
Just as the name implies, Exit Strategy provides users with strategies for where to get on subway trains, so you can board at the right position to arrive directly in front of the exit at your stop. Complete with official subway maps, this app can be used underground as it works entirely offline. exitstrategynyc.com $4.99 for iPhone, $3.99 for BlackBerry, $0.99 for Kindle, $2.99 for Android
MTA
For those who want more options, be sure to browse through MTA’s app gallery. It includes 78 (and counting) New York City transportation apps, some of which are MTA licensed, for a variety of smartphones. web.mta.info/apps
Uber
With Uber, taking a taxi has never been so easy—or so stylish, in their sleek black cars. Now rising in popularity worldwide, this app lets you call drivers to your location based on your phone’s GPS. Offering fare quotes and a cashless payment option, this app is the cutting-edge of convenience. uber.com Free for iPhone and Android
