The Quickest Way to Travel from Penn Station to Times Square

Traveling between Penn Station and Times Square in New York City can be made quick and easy with the right mode of transportation. Whether you prefer walking, taking public transport, or a combination of both, there are several efficient ways to make the journey. This guide will explore the fastest options and provide detailed instructions for each method.

Walking the Route

For those who enjoy a brisk walk, the fastest and most straightforward method is to simply walk. Penn Station is located at the intersection of 34th Street and 8th Avenue, and Times Square is a short 0.5-mile walk away, taking approximately 10-15 minutes at a comfortable pace. Here’s a simple route to follow:

Exit Penn Station onto 8th Avenue. Walk north on 8th Avenue. Turn right onto 42nd Street. Continue walking east on 42nd Street until you reach Times Square.

Although walking might not be the fastest option for every traveler, it is a convenient choice for those who prefer a lighter carbon footprint or a bit of exercise.

Subway Options

For those who appreciate the convenience and punctuality of public transport, there are several subway options available. The fastest and easiest method is the Shuttle subway train, which takes you directly to Times Square from Grand Central. Here is how to get there:

Exit Penn Station at the 7 Av-West 32 St exit. Cross 7 Av. Take the M4 bus at its layup area on 32 St. Get off at Madison Av and East 42 St. Walk one block east to Grand Central.

This option costs 2.75 USD paid with a MetroCard or coins only. Alternatively, you can:

From inside Penn Station, go down to the Long Island Rail Road level and follow the signs to the 7 Av subway. Take the uptown 1, 2, or 3 train one stop to Times Sq-42 St. Transfer to the Grand Central shuttle train and ride one stop to Grand Central. This also costs 2.75 USD. Alternatively, a longer but free route: Walk east on 32 St to 5 Av. Turn left and walk north on 5 Av to 42 St. Turn right and walk east on 42 Av to Grand Central. This takes approximately 20-25 minutes.

Additional Transportation Options

While walking and the subway are the most efficient and cost-effective methods, there are a few additional options if you prefer or need a different mode of transport:

Other Subway Stops and Routes

If the 1 train does not fit your schedule, consider the following quick options:

You can also take the 7 Train which makes only one intermediate stop at 5th Avenue on its way to Times Square. This will take you approximately 5-7 minutes to wait for the train, ride for 1.5-2 minutes to get to Times Square, and about 10 minutes to walk the final 8 blocks.

Taxis and Ride-Shares

For those with mobility issues or who simply prefer the convenience of a ride, taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft can be a good option. However, if you are not disabled, it is recommended to walk. Walking is cheaper, more environmentally friendly, and still very quick.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the fastest way to get from Penn Station to Times Square is to walk as it is a quick and efficient 0.5-mile route. Alternatively, the subway offers a range of options, with the shuttle train being the most direct but the 7 Train also providing a quick and convenient route. Walking is the simplest and most flexible option, while public transport is more suitable for those who appreciate the convenience of fixed schedules.

Choosing the right method depends on your preferences and urgency. For the fastest and most direct route, the subway is the way to go. For a more relaxed and shorter travel time, walking is a great option. It is always best to plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey to Times Square.