Getting Around NYC with Kids: Subway, Uber, or Stroller?

So you’ve planned the perfect NYC itinerary — museums, Central Park, maybe even a Broadway show — but now you’re wondering: how on earth do you actually get around New York City with kids?

I’ve been there. After over 10 trips to NYC — including one where I navigated Times Square with a stroller and a cranky preschooler — I’ve tested just about every method of getting around the city. And let me tell you, transportation can make or break your trip. Between the subway stairs, crowded sidewalks, and traffic that moves slower than your toddler putting on socks, you need a game plan.

Here, I’ll walk you through the best (and worst) ways of getting around NYC with kids — including the one method I’ll never use again.

The Subway: Fast, Cheap, and Surprisingly Doable with Kids

New York’s subway is hands-down the fastest and most affordable way to get around — even with little ones. It’s chaotic, yes, but it’s also a must-do NYC experience.

What Parents Need to Know

• Kids under 44 inches ride free with a paying adult.
• You can pay with a contactless card or phone using OMNY — no more juggling MetroCards.
• Most trains run every few minutes, so you’re rarely waiting long.

The Downsides

Not all stations have elevators, and lugging a stroller up narrow stairs is no joke. I’ve done it while my toddler insisted on “helping,” which basically meant slowing me down to a snail’s pace.

One station I’ll never forget is Canal Street — no elevator, and a steep staircase I carried our stroller down with a backpack, snack bag, and semi-screaming 3-year-old. Total workout.

Mom Tip

If you’re traveling with a baby or toddler, look for accessible stations on Google Maps (they show a wheelchair icon). Or, consider using a lightweight travel stroller that folds easily — 100 % recommend this one if you’re visiting NYC with a little one, and it folded down fast enough to hop onto the 1 train at 96th Street without a single eye roll from locals.

When to Take the Subway

• Traveling between boroughs (e.g., Manhattan to Brooklyn) – the metro can take you pretty much anywhere, take a look at their map!
• Visiting attractions far apart (like the Museum of Natural History to the Statue of Liberty ferry)
• During rush hour — it’s faster than any car

Uber, Lyft & Taxis: Convenient to Get Around With Tired Kids… but Pricey

When your feet hurt, your toddler’s melting down, and the stroller feels like a tank — Uber or Lyft can feel like a lifesaver.

Why It’s Great

• Door-to-door convenience (no stairs, no transfers)
• Ideal for short rides or when you’re carrying a ton of stuff
• Some car services now offer car seats — look for “Uber Car Seat” or “Lyft Car Seat” in the app (available in select areas of Manhattan)

The Drawbacks

• Traffic is real. Midtown can be gridlocked, especially at rush hour.
• It can get expensive quickly — a 15-minute ride can cost $25–$40.
• Many drivers can’t accommodate large strollers or bulky gear.

On one rainy afternoon, we waited 18 minutes for a car… only to get canceled because our stroller wouldn’t fit in the trunk. Lesson learned: fold it first and message the driver in advance.

Mom Tip

If you’re staying centrally (say, Midtown or Times Square), walking or using the subway is almost always faster. Save Uber for evenings, airport transfers, or when your little one’s asleep and you’re done for the day.

Walking + Stroller: The Unsung Hero For Getting Around New York Smoothly

Here’s the truth: you’ll walk. A lot.
New York is a walking city, and that’s part of its magic — but when you’re walking with kids, preparation is everything. Plan ahead, cause thinking that you can reach all major sites on foot is one of the most common mistakes families do when visiting New York for the first time.

The Pros

• Free (and with NYC prices, that’s a win)
• You’ll discover hidden gems — playgrounds, snack stands, and magical toy stores you’d miss in a car
• Perfect for park days or exploring neighborhoods like SoHo, Greenwich Village, or the Upper West Side

We once wandered into a tiny playground behind a brownstone near Columbia — not on any map or blog, but it was my daughter’s favorite moment of the day. Sometimes the unplanned stops are the best ones.

The Challenges

• Crowded sidewalks
• Narrow restaurant doors
• Some subway entrances have zero space for strollers

Stroller Tips for NYC

• Choose lightweight and narrow. (Umbrella-style or travel strollers are best)
• Bring a rain cover — sudden showers are common
• Add a stroller hook for shopping bags (you’ll collect more than you think)
• Always fold your stroller on subways or buses — it’s not a rule, but it’s the polite thing to do

👶
Need a stroller that handles NYC sidewalks?
Here’s my favorite lightweight strollers for city travel — including the one we use and love.

Bonus: NYC Ferry or Bus (The Underrated Options)

If your kids love boats, the NYC Ferry is a hidden gem. It connects Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens — and you get skyline views for the price of a subway ticket!

We took the ferry from DUMBO back to Wall Street and it was the calmest moment of the day. My daughter giggled the whole ride — total reset.

The city buses are also surprisingly stroller-friendly (you don’t need to fold them) and are great for cross-town routes if subway stairs are an issue.

🚍 Pro Tip: Buses are often slower but more scenic. If you’re not in a rush, they’re a fun way to rest your feet and still see the city.

So… What’s the Best Way to Get Around NYC with Kids?

Honestly? A mix of all three:

• Subway for longer distances
• Walking (with stroller) for exploring neighborhoods
• Uber for late-night rides or tired-end-of-day trips

Every family’s rhythm is different — and that’s okay. The key is staying flexible and keeping expectations realistic. Some days, your big adventure will just be getting everyone across Times Square in one piece. And that’s totally a win.

FAQ: What Other Parents Are Asking About NYC Transit with Kids

Before You Go

• Download Citymapper or Google Maps for real-time subway directions
• Keep snacks and water handy — kids and hunger don’t mix well underground
• If you’re visiting in winter, plan shorter outdoor walks and use Uber more often

📋 Planning your full NYC itinerary?
Read my 3-Day NYC with Kids Itinerary for time-saving tips and family-friendly routes — no backtracking required.