The R Line of the New York City subway is an essential route connecting Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, offering reliable and accessible service. Inaugurated in 1916 as part of the former Brooklyn–Manhattan Transit Corporation (BMT) and now managed by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), the R Line has evolved into a key option for passengers traveling between residential, commercial, and cultural neighborhoods in these three boroughs.

Identified by its yellow color on the subway map, the R Line operates as a local line, allowing access to a greater number of stations along its route. Among its most prominent stations are Forest Hills–71st Avenue, its terminal in Queens; Times Square–42nd Street, a key point in Manhattan with connections to multiple lines; and Bay Ridge–95th Street, in Brooklyn, which serves one of the borough’s most traditional neighborhoods.

The R Line also offers strategic connections with other subway routes, such as the N, Q, W, 4, 5, and 6 Lines, facilitating efficient access to various areas of the city. Thanks to its extensive coverage and continuous service, the R Line is an indispensable option for New Yorkers and visitors looking to travel comfortably and effectively between Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.

R Line Map and Route

The R Line of the New York City subway connects Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, offering reliable service that facilitates access to vibrant neighborhoods, commercial areas, and key destinations in these boroughs. From its terminal at Forest Hills–71st Avenue in Queens to Bay Ridge–95th Street in Brooklyn, the R Line is an essential option for those looking to travel quickly and comfortably throughout the city.

Consult the map to explore all major stations and their connections with other subway lines and transportation methods. Among the most prominent stops are Times Square–42nd Street in Manhattan, a major transfer hub with multiple connections; Canal Street in Lower Manhattan, with access to several key lines; and Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center in Brooklyn, which allows connections with commuter trains and other forms of transportation.

R Line Stations and Points of Interest

The main stations on the R Line include:

• Forest Hills–71st Avenue
• Queens Plaza
• Lexington Avenue–59th Street
• Times Square–42nd Street
• 34th Street–Herald Square
• Canal Street
• Court Street
• Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center
• 59th Street (Brooklyn)
• Bay Ridge–95th Street

With connections to lines such as the N, Q, W, 4, 5, 6, and D, the R Line ensures efficient and well-connected travel, allowing access to key destinations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. As a local line, it is ideal for those seeking direct access to more stations along its route.

Connections and Transfers

The R Line of the New York City subway offers a series of strategic connections with other lines and transportation methods, facilitating quick and efficient access to various key areas in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Some of the main connections and transfers available on the R Line include:

• Times Square–42nd Street: Connection with lines 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, W and commuter rail service at Penn Station.
• Lexington Avenue–59th Street: Connection with lines 4, 5, 6, facilitating access to the Upper East Side and the Bronx.
• Canal Street: Connection with lines J, Z, N, Q, allowing efficient access to Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn.
• Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center: Connection with lines 2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q and Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) trains.
• Queens Plaza: Connection with lines E and M, allowing easy access between Queens and Manhattan.

Thanks to these connections, the R Line not only facilitates transportation between Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, but it also becomes a key option for those looking to travel quickly and conveniently throughout the city, making it a strategic choice for fast and well-connected travel across the entire city.

R Line Service and Schedule

The R Line of the New York City subway is a key route connecting Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, identified by its yellow color on the system map. Its local service throughout its entire route makes it an accessible option for those who need frequent stops throughout these boroughs.

The R Line operates daily, with trains running approximately every 8 to 12 minutes during the day and with reduced frequency at night. Its route begins at Forest Hills–71st Avenue in Queens, crosses Manhattan before heading to Brooklyn, where it terminates at Bay Ridge–95th Street. For updated information on schedules, wait times, and possible service disruptions, it is recommended to use applications like MTA TrainTime or consult the official MTA website.

Tips for Traveling on the R Line

Traveling on the R Line of the New York City subway is a convenient and efficient way to move between Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. To optimize your travel experience, follow these tips:

• Check Announcements and Apps: Use tools like MTA TrainTime or Google Maps to get real-time schedules and service disruption alerts.
• Avoid Peak Hours: If you’re looking for a more comfortable trip, try to avoid peak hours, especially between 7:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
• Use MetroCard or OMNY: Use a MetroCard or the OMNY system for quick, contactless subway access.
• Optimize Transfers: Take advantage of connections at key stations like Times Square–42nd Street and Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center to make your journey easier.
• Practice Subway Etiquette: Be respectful of other passengers: give up your seat to those who need it, stay to the right on escalators, and let people exit before boarding.

History and Fun Facts about the R Line

• Former RR Service Route: Before adopting the “R” designation, this line was known as RR and was part of the former Brooklyn–Manhattan Transit (BMT) division.
• Second Avenue Connection: During the expansion of the Q Line, the R Line served as an alternative for those needing to travel between Manhattan and Queens.
• Bay Ridge and its Historic Community: The R Line’s terminal, Bay Ridge–95th Street, is located in a neighborhood with one of Brooklyn’s most diverse communities and strong cultural identity.