Uptown and Downtown
The two directions of Manhattan life: uptown means north toward Harlem, downtown means south toward the Financial District.
Example
At a Manhattan subway entrance marked Uptown only, heading south means crossing the street to the other stairwell before you tap in.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I avoid taking the subway the wrong way?
Read the sign at the entrance before paying. If it says Uptown only and you need to go south, cross the street to the other entrance.
Which is better for a first trip, uptown or downtown?
Downtown for walking, food and nightlife density. Uptown for the Met, Central Park and Harlem. Most visitors need both.
Does uptown and downtown work outside Manhattan?
Not really. The labels are a Manhattan system tied to the island's north to south shape. In Brooklyn and Queens locals navigate by neighborhood and train line instead.
