How to Get to Columbia University from Penn Station
Finding your way to Columbia University from Penn Station is a breeze! Whether you’re visiting, attending classes, or heading for an event, knowing the best route can make your journey smoother. The significance of this destination cannot be understated—Columbia University is one of the Ivy League schools and a key hub for education, research, and culture in New York City.
To start your journey from Penn Station, the most efficient route involves taking the subway. You can catch the 2 or 3 express trains heading uptown. These trains are designed to whisk you away quickly, making them an excellent choice for those eager to get to campus in a timely manner. All you need to do is ride these trains up to the 96th Street Station, where you’ll make your transfer.
Once you reach 96th Street, here’s where you switch gears—you’ll hop on the 1 train. This slight switch will take you directly to the heart of Columbia University. In total, the commute will typically take around 30-40 minutes, depending on waiting times for the trains. It can get crowded during peak hours—no surprise there in NYC—but don’t let that detract from your adventure!
If you’re arriving from places like Montclair or Bloomfield, don’t worry! Your journey begins with taking a train into Penn Station and then continuing with the subway as mentioned above. Even if it adds a solid hour plus to your trip, the subway routing will still be straightforward and stress-free.
More Options to Consider
Traveling from JFK? You can take the AirTrain from JFK to Jamaica, then board the LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) that will bring you directly into Penn Station. From there, simply follow the subway directions as before—hop on the 1 train after transferring at 96th Street. This route might take a bit longer but can be quite scenic!
If you happen to be coming from Port Authority, no worries—you can jump on either the A or C trains to 59th Street and switch over to the 1 train there. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, take a short jaunt over to 7th Avenue and catch the 1 directly!
If you’re exploring options for more commuter routes or services like shuttles from Hoboken or Kew Gardens, don’t forget! Driving is an option too but consider it wisely—parking near campus can be downright dreadful.
Conclusion
The whole journey from Penn Station to Columbia University is not only manageable but can also be quite amusing if you embrace the vibrant energy of NYC transit! Just remember that trains run frequently, making it convenient to pick up your pace as you approach academic pursuits or exciting campus life.
If you have any more questions about how to navigate your way from Penn Station or if you’re seeking additional advice on transportation options around Columbia University, feel free to connect with us at the JobLoving community for further help!