Exploring Bus Travel to New York City

Buses can be the most budget-friendly way to get to New York City. For visitors from New England and the mid-Atlantic region, there are many travel options; however, bus travel may be the ideal method of getting to New York City, even if it takes a little longer than a train or plane trip.

Pros and Cons of Bus Travel

Frequent bus travelers often highlight convenience as a significant advantage in their travel decisions. Here are some pros related to bus travel:

• Frequently scheduled buses
• Flexibility in travel plans
• Affordability
• No need to get from the airport to the city, as buses bring you directly to the city center

While you will certainly save money by taking the bus, there are some drawbacks to consider:

• Traffic can delay arrival
• Limited space to walk around
• Longer travel times than most trains or planes
• No food service
• Limited bathroom facilities

What To Know About Bus Travel to NYC

Reserving specific seats on buses is generally not possible, with Bolt being an exception. Therefore, it is recommended that you arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure that you have a seat on the bus and can sit with your traveling companions. On the day of travel, getting there early is crucial; moreover, there are other important considerations to be prepared for your trip. Always ensure you carry a photo ID, as it may be requested when boarding the bus. Additionally, some bus companies limit the amount of luggage, so inquire in advance if you have more than one suitcase and one carry-on item.

It is wise to use the restroom before boarding. Most buses have a small bathroom on board, but for longer trips, it’s beneficial to bring your own supply of toilet paper, as the bus may run out. On longer bus rides, you might find a rest stop at a fast-food restaurant. Fortunately, all buses allow you to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages.

Children under 2 can often ride in a parent’s lap for free. However, older children usually need a ticket of their own (some lines offer children’s fares, while others do not).

The shuttles (Chinatown buses) claim to save time over the “traditional” bus companies by eliminating or reducing stops en route. Many of these shuttle passengers are Chinese-Americans, and the shuttle drivers may not speak much English.

Bus Services to New York City

There are various choices for the bus traveler, ranging from traditional inter-city services to upscale bus services offering amenities targeted at business customers.

• Greyhound
  Greyhound is America’s largest inter-city bus service. With the emergence of discount shuttle services, they have sought to compete by lowering prices between cities served by the shuttles. Buses arrive at New York City’s Port Authority Bus Terminal (42nd Street and 8th Avenue).
• Peter Pan Bus
  Peter Pan offers bus service from the mid-Atlantic states and the Northeast to New York City, with departure cities including Washington, D.C.; Springfield, Massachusetts; Hartford, Connecticut; and Providence, Rhode Island. Discounts are often available for advance purchases. The buses arrive at the Port Authority Bus Terminal (42nd Street and 8th Avenue).
• New Jersey Transit Bus Service
  The New Jersey Transit provides commuter bus service to New York City from all over New Jersey, including Atlantic City, Newark, and northern New Jersey. Buses arrive at the Port Authority Bus Terminal (42nd Street/8th Avenue).
• BoltBus
  BoltBus offers service between New York City and Baltimore, Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. Buses provide free Wi-Fi, outlets, and fares can be as low as $1. Their ticketing process offers reserved seats, guaranteeing you a spot on a specific bus, which is not always the case with bus travel. Buses depart from both downtown and midtown locations, so check the appropriate bus stop depending on your destination.

Shuttle Bus Services (Chinatown Buses)

Chinatown bus lines are affordable intercity bus services, often run by Chinese Americans, primarily established in the Chinatown communities of the East Coast of the United States. Increasingly, these shuttles are enhancing their services with free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating.

• Eastern Travel Bus
  Offers daily service between New York City and Baltimore, Maryland; Rockville, Maryland; Richmond, Virginia; and Washington, D.C. Prices start at $15 one-way (promotional pricing). Specific pick-up and arrival points are available, including Chinatown.
• MegaBus
  MegaBus provides extensive bus service throughout the northeast and beyond, including destinations as far as Toronto, Ontario. Arrival and pick-up points depend on your chosen destination.
• Washington Deluxe
  Offers service Sunday through Friday between New York City and Washington, D.C. Buses depart from several locations, including Chinatown.