How Do I hail a cab?
The act of flagging down a cab is called "hailing"; there's not much to it, just stick out your arm and pretend you're the Statue of Liberty. When the numbers on the roof of the cab are lit, it is available. Yellow Medallion cabs are the only ones authorized to pick up hails. Avoid "gypsy" cabs at all costs. These are regular cars that will take you from place to place; they usually cost more than cabs and aren't as well regulated (or as safe).
Taxi cabs are required to take you to your destination inside the metropolitan area. Record the ID number from any cabs that you have problems with and report them to the Taxi and Limousine Commission (The TLC)
How Much do they cost?
Cabs are cash only and it's a good idea to have small bills because the cabbies can't usually break anything higher than $20. While cabs are relatively expensive for a single person, they can actually be a bargain with 3 or more riders. The rates for taxicabs are as follows (last updated 2007-07):
Pay only what's on the meter, plus a 15-20 percent gratuity. There are additional charges for crossings outside the metropolitan area and New Jersey. Passengers are required to pay one way. If you are going to airports, there are set fees plus toll and tip. See our airport pages for more specific information on how to get to and from the airports.
Officially, taxicabs can take on only four riders -- 3 in the backseat, 1 in the front seat. Occasionally, the wider cabs will be willing to take 5 people, but they will usually ask the fifth person to duck down below the sight of the authorities. The famous large "Checker" cabs are pretty much a relic of the past, although you can still see some servicing the town at limousine service rates.
How is admission handled?
The primary method of fare payment is the Metrocard. All subway stations and busses are now Metrocard capable. Tokens are also available, and cost $2.00 each
How Much is a metro card?
Metrocards can be bought on a pay-per-ride basis ($2.00 per ride) or an unlimited ride basis. With pay-per-ride, you get 11 rides for the price of ten and you can add more money to your card if need be. With unlimited ride Metrocards, you can get a 30 day card, a 7 day card, or a 1 day Fun Pass.
Children under 44" tall ride for free; senior citizens and disabled people ride for a reduced fare.
Where can I get detailed information before I arrive?
The MTA has a great webpage with tons of info and subway maps. For Passenger Information, call (718) 330-1234 or (718) 330-4847 (Non-English speaking).
Long Island Railroad: (718) 217-5477 Metro-North Railroad: (800) Metroinfo
How many parks are there in New York City?
New York City has more than 1,700 parks, playgrounds and recreation facilities across the five boroughs. Parks properties range from swimming pools to wetlands and from woodlands to skating rinks.
What is your biggest park? How big is Central Park?
Top 5 largest parks in NYC
How do I find a wheelchair accessible park or playground entrance?
Disabled people frequently come upon park entrances that are inaccessible, and have no signage in place directing them to the closest accessible entrance. This can be a frustrating and disheartening experience for our visitors. In order to ensure equal access for every park patron, the Parks Department has placed accessible signage in all small parks, playgrounds and parking lots. Now, when a person with a disability comes upon an inaccessible entrance there are signs with arrows directing them to an accessible entrance. All signage is in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines.
You can also find accessible entrance locations in all parks by visiting the interactive maps. Search for the park you are interested in. Click the button that is marked "Show Accessible Entrances." Accessible entrances are marked in blue and inaccessible entrances are marked in red.