We are two senior citizens arriving in USA in mid September 2014. We will be staying in Jersey City for about six weeks. We would like to explore New Jersey and New York City. What are the options available for public transportation? Thanks

P. N. Reddy

In NJ, New Jersey Transit is your public transportation. Renting a car to go around the state would be more practical in many cases. Where in New Jersey do you want to go?

I am sure you have heard of NYC's subway system.

If you are staying in Jersey City then you can use the PATH underground RR to cross into NYC. http://www.panynj.gov/path/ You can get an unlimited 1mo pass for $80 - this is only good for PATH, not the NYC subway so you'd need subway passes as well since they are different systems.

I believe the World Trade ctr stop is closed on weekends for the rest of 2014 due to construction.

In NJ it would definitely be more practical to get around by car but it all depends on what you want to see and do.

NJ is VERY suburban and unless you just want to see 1 or 2 places that are easily done by train I think you will need to rent a car.

Thanks for the quick response from all of you. As a senior citizen, I would not like to drive. So our exploration of NJ will be limited. I agree with your suggestions that getting a monthly pass for PATH and another for NYC seems most logical.

Is it possible to get a monthly pass at any time or is it only for each calender month? Thanks again.

pnreddy if you are 62, through this link http://www.pathsmartlinkcard.com/seniorcard.html you can apply for a PATH Senior SmartCard before your trip. You submit info picture and copy of ID by mail. You can add money online to your card. PATH rides are normally $2.50 but seniors ride for $1.00

All NJTransit has senior discount. Train (rail), Bus or Light Rail. It's around 50% savings. You just show your ID with age as you board if requested. The Light Rail has several lines that can get you into many tourist areas of the state. I stayed in NJ and visited NY by light rail for $2.50 each way because I have a military ID. It is the same as seniors.

Best bet in NY is to buy a Metro card.

For the NYC senior metro card:

http://web.mta.info/nyct/fare/rfapply.htm