Advanced Course Search

International Student Affairs

WELCOME TO NEW YORK CITY

Manhattan and the outer boroughs can be overwhelming when you first arrive, but if you take some time to learn about the landscape of the city, modes of transportation, and the cultural activities that interest you, you’ll start feeling at home in no time.

THE LANDSCAPE
Manhattan Island is about two miles wide and over 12 miles long. Central Park is located at the very center of the island. The southern tip of the island is called “Downtown,” and NYU is located in the downtown neighborhood of Greenwich Village. For the most part, Manhattan streets are laid out in an easy-to-navigate numbered grid system. Avenues run north-to-south and streets run east-to-west. The lower numbered streets are downtown, and the higher numbers are uptown. Lower numbered avenues are on the east side, and higher numbers on the west with 5th Avenue being the dividing street.


View Larger Map

(TOP)

BUSES AND SUBWAYS
New York City Transit buses and subways operate on a 24/7 basis throughout all five boroughs. The fare for a subway or local bus ride is $2. You can purchase multiple rides on a Pay-Per-Ride (Regular) MetroCard or you can purchase an Unlimited Ride MetroCard. MetroCards are available at all subway stations and in some stores, and can be purchased with cash, credit card, or debit card.

Also, for greater metropolitan area needs including New Jersey:

(TOP)

YELLOW CABS
Yellow taxi cabs can be hailed on all Manhattan streets and are a convenient and fast way to get around the city. The act of flagging down a cab is called “hailing.” To hail a cab, stand near the curb and just stick out your arm. When the numbers on the roof of the cab are lit, it is available. If the numbers are dark, the cab is already occupied. Yellow Medallion cabs are the only ones authorized to pick up hails. Avoid "gypsy" cabs, or regular cars that will offer to take you from place to place; they usually cost more than cabs and aren't as well regulated (or as safe). If you have a group of four people and are traveling within Manhattan, a taxi can be as cost effective as paying $2 per person on the subway or bus. Cabs accept cash only.

(TOP)

NYU SHUTTLE
With a valid ID, students can access NYU’s Campus Shuttle, which transports students between the Washington Square campus and residence halls. Service is operated using trolleys, buses, and vans. Service and schedules vary depending on the University calendar. Schedules are available at the NYU Office of Public Safety, or by calling (212) 998-RIDE.

(TOP)

CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT
With its world renowned theatres, museums, restaurants, and stores New York has no shortage of culture and entertainment services. Visit New York’s official site, NYC and Company as a jumping off point to explore what the city has to offer. Weekly magazines with cultural listings include Time Out NY, New York Magazine, and The New Yorker.

For more information on adjusting to life in New York, check out the Office for International Students and Scholars' Beyond NYU section.

(TOP)