The Q Line of the New York City subway is an essential route connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, offering reliable and efficient service. Inaugurated in 1920 as part of the former Brooklyn–Manhattan Transit Corporation (BMT) and now operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), the Q Line has evolved into a key connection for passengers traveling between residential, commercial, and cultural neighborhoods along its route.

Identified by its yellow color on the subway map, the Q Line primarily operates as an express line in Manhattan, allowing for faster travel along its route. Among its most prominent stations are 96th Street, its terminus in the Upper East Side; Times Square–42nd Street, a key transfer hub in Manhattan with access to multiple lines; and Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue in Brooklyn, a crucial station for those traveling to the iconic Coney Island coastal area.

The Q Line also offers strategic connections with other subway routes, such as the B, D, N, R, and 4, 5, 6 Lines, ensuring efficient access to various points in the city. With its combination of express and local service, the Q Line is an indispensable option for New Yorkers and visitors looking to move between Manhattan and Brooklyn quickly and conveniently.

Q Line Map and Route

The Q 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 terminus at 96th Street in Manhattan to Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue in Brooklyn, the Q Line is an essential option for those looking to move 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 notable stops are Times Square–42nd Street in Manhattan, a major transfer hub with multiple connections; Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center in Brooklyn, which allows access to subway lines and commuter trains; and Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue, the final station offering access to the iconic Coney Island beach and amusement park.

Q Line Stations and Points of Interest

The main stations on the Q Line include:

• 96th Street
• 86th Street
• 72nd Street
• Lexington Avenue–63rd Street
• Times Square–42nd Street
• Canal Street
• DeKalb Avenue
• Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center
• Prospect Park
• Brighton Beach
• Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue

With connections to lines such as B, D, N, R, and 4, 5, 6, the Q Line ensures efficient and well-connected travel, allowing access to key destinations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. Thanks to its express service, it is an ideal option for those who need to travel quickly between these boroughs.

Connections and Transfers

The Q 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 Q Line include:

• Times Square–42nd Street: Connection with lines 1, 2, 3, 7, N, R, W, and commuter rail service at Penn Station.
• Canal Street: Connection with lines J, Z, N, and R, facilitating access to the Lower East Side and Brooklyn.
• Atlantic Avenue–Barclays Center: Connection with lines 2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, R, and Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) trains.
• Brighton Beach: Connection with the B Line, allowing quick access to Coney Island or downtown Brooklyn.
• Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue: Terminus with connection to lines D, F, and N, as well as access to the beach and amusement park.

With these connections, the Q Line not only facilitates transportation between Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens but also becomes a strategic option for fast and well-connected travel throughout the city.

Q Line Service and Schedule

The Q 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 combination of local and express service makes it an efficient option for accessing residential, commercial, and cultural neighborhoods in these boroughs.

The Q Line operates with express service in Manhattan and Brooklyn, offering a fast option for those looking to travel swiftly. Its route begins at 96th Street in Manhattan’s Upper East Side and continues through Midtown, the Lower East Side, and Brooklyn to reach Coney Island.

Q Line trains operate daily, with express service in Manhattan and Brooklyn during peak hours and local service on some sections. For updated information on schedules, wait times, and potential service disruptions, it is recommended to use apps like MTA TrainTime or consult the official MTA website.

Tips for Riding the Q Line

Traveling on the Q 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 ride, try to avoid peak hours, especially between 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
• 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 ease your journey.
• 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.

Q Line History and Trivia

• Second Avenue Expansion: In 2017, the Q Line became the first line to operate on the new Second Avenue Subway, facilitating access to the Upper East Side.
• DeKalb Avenue and the “Ghost Disappearance”: The DeKalb Avenue station is famous for its track layout, where trains seem to “disappear” due to an optical illusion in the tunnels.
• Coney Island and its History: The Q Line reaches Coney Island, an iconic New York destination with its amusement park and beach, attracting millions of visitors each year.

With its versatile service and strategic connections, the Q Line is one of the most important routes in the New York City subway system.