How to Get to Times Square from Penn Station [2025-2026 Guide]
Getting to Times Square from Penn Station is quick and easy—walk, take the subway, bus, taxi, or Uber/Lyft. This 2025-2026 guide compares travel time, cost, and best routes.
If you’ve just arrived at Penn Station in New York City, you’re only about half a mile from the bright lights of Times Square. That means you have plenty of options: you can walk, ride the subway, hop on a bus, or take a cab. In this 2025-2026 guide, I’ll explain each option clearly so you can decide the best way depending on your time, budget, and luggage.
🚶 Option 1: Walking to Times Square (Best Free Choice)
Times Square is only a 10–15 minute walk from Penn Station. Just head north along 7th Avenue and you’ll walk straight into the heart of Times Square.
- Perfect if you’re traveling light.
- Gives you the chance to experience Midtown on foot.
⏱ Travel time: 10–15 minutes
💵 Cost: Free
🚇 Option 2: Subway from Penn Station to Times Square
Penn Station is directly connected to the subway system, making this a quick and cheap option.
- Take the 1, 2, or 3 subway lines uptown (just one stop) to Times Square–42nd Street station.
- Alternatively, you can walk underground through the connected passageways if you prefer not to exit.
⏱ Travel time: 3–5 minutes (plus wait time)
💵 Cost: $2.90 with OMNY or MetroCard
🚌 Option 3: MTA Bus Service
Several MTA buses travel up 7th Avenue and across Midtown, making a stop near Times Square.
- Not as fast as the subway, but more scenic if you’d like to stay above ground.
⏱ Travel time: 10–20 minutes (depending on traffic)
💵 Cost: $2.90
🚖 Option 4: Taxi from Penn Station to Times Square
Yellow taxis are available right outside Penn Station. Since the distance is short, this is quick but may not be the most cost-effective.
- Best if you have luggage or want door-to-door service.
⏱ Travel time: 5–15 minutes (traffic-dependent)
💵 Cost: $10–$15
🚗 Option 5: Uber or Lyft
Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are convenient from Penn Station. Prices are similar to taxis but vary depending on demand.
- More comfortable if you want a private ride.
⏱ Travel time: 5–15 minutes
💵 Cost: $8–$20 depending on surge pricing
📊 Travel Options Summary
| Option | Time (approx.) | Cost (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walking 🚶 | 10–15 mins | Free | Budget & light luggage |
| Subway 🚇 | 3–5 mins | $2.90 | Fast & cheap |
| Bus 🚌 | 10–20 mins | $2.90 | Scenic Midtown ride |
| Taxi 🚖 | 5–15 mins | $10–$15 | With luggage, direct |
| Uber/Lyft 🚗 | 5–15 mins | $8–$20 | Private ride comfort |
🙋 FAQs about Getting to Times Square from Penn Station
Q1: What’s the fastest way to get from Penn Station to Times Square?
The subway (1, 2, or 3 lines) is the fastest—just one stop away. Walking can be just as quick if you don’t mind carrying bags.
Q2: Is it safe to walk from Penn Station to Times Square at night?
Yes, Midtown Manhattan is busy and well-lit, especially along 7th Avenue. Still, stay alert as you would in any big city.
Q3: How much does a taxi from Penn Station to Times Square cost?
Expect to pay around $10–$15 depending on traffic and time of day.
Q4: Can I get to Times Square underground from Penn Station?
Yes, there are underground passageways connecting Penn Station to the subway lines that stop at Times Square–42nd Street.
Q5: Which is cheaper—Uber or taxi from Penn Station to Times Square?
Usually, both are similar, but Uber/Lyft prices fluctuate with demand, while taxis are metered.
✅ Now you know exactly how to get from Penn Station to Times Square in 2025-2026. Whether you choose to walk for free, take the subway for speed, or grab a taxi for comfort, Times Square is just minutes away.