The Express Bus in Manhattan stops between 14th Street and 57th Street. The service offers a fast, comfortable alternative to the subway for commuters traveling between the outer boroughs and Manhattan. Knowing the exact locations of Manhattan stops helps riders plan efficient trips, avoid missed connections, and make the most of the service. Below you will find a concise guide to the major express‑bus routes that serve Manhattan, the streets where each route stops, and practical tips for using the service.
1. Core Express‑Bus Routes that Enter Manhattan
| Route | Origin (Borough) | Manhattan Drop‑Off Streets | Typical Service Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| X17 | Staten Island | 6th Avenue & 42nd St, 8th Ave & 34th St, 7th Ave & 23rd St, 6th Ave & 14th St | 6 am – 10 pm (weekdays) |
| X23 | Brooklyn (Coney Island) | 6th Ave & 57th St, 7th Ave & 42nd St, 6th Ave & 34th St, 8th Ave & 23rd St | 5:30 am – 11 pm (daily) |
| X28 | Queens (Jamaica) | 2nd Ave & 46th St, 1st Ave & 31st St, 1st Ave & 23rd St, 1st Ave & 14th St | 5 am – 11 pm (weekdays) |
| X27 | Queens (Flushing) | 2nd Ave & 59th St, 2nd Ave & 45th St, 2nd Ave & 35th St, 2nd Ave & 23rd St | 5 am – 10 pm (daily) |
| X68 | Bronx (Co-op City) | 6th Ave & 57th St, 6th Ave & 44th St, 6th Ave & 34th St, 6th Ave & 14th St | 6 am – 9 pm (weekdays) |
| X71 | Bronx (Fordham) | 7th Ave & 58th St, 7th Ave & 44th St, 7th Ave & 23rd St, 7th Ave & 14th St | 5 am – 10 pm (daily) |
All stops lie on the east side of Manhattan, primarily between 14th Street and 57th Street. The routes use dedicated bus lanes on 6th Avenue, 7th Avenue, and 1st / 2nd Avenue, ensuring rapid travel through the congested core of the city.
2. How to Identify the Exact Stop
- Look for the “Express Bus” shelter.The shelter bears a blue‑green sign with the route number (e.g., X23) and the word “Express.”
- Check the sidewalk pole.MTA places a small placard on the pole that lists the upcoming stops in both directions.
- Use the MTA Bus Time app.The app displays real‑time arrival predictions and marks each Manhattan stop on a map.
- Consult the printed timetable.Timetables located at each stop show the exact cross‑street and any nearby landmarks (e.g., “6th Ave & 42nd St – near Grand Central Terminal”).
4. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do all express buses stop at 42nd Street?
A: Most east‑side routes (X17, X23, X68, X71) stop at 6th or 7th Avenue near 42nd Street. The X28 and X27 use 1st and 2nd Avenue, stopping a few blocks east.
Q: Can I use a regular MetroCard on an express bus?
A: Yes. Tap the MetroCard on the fare box. The system deducts the express fare automatically.
Q: Are there night‑time express services?
A: Only the X23 and X68 provide limited late‑night service (up to 11 pm). After that, the local bus network covers most corridors.
Summary
Knowing where Manhattan’s express buses stop empowers you to travel faster, avoid subway crowds, and enjoy a smoother commute. The key locations—6th Ave, 7th Ave, 1st Ave, and 2nd Ave between 14th and 57th Streets—provide convenient access to major business districts, cultural venues, and residential neighborhoods. Use the MTA’s digital tools, read the shelter signs, and keep a MetroCard handy to make every trip efficient and stress‑free.