Any non-drivers out there? If you’ve turned away from getting your driver’s license, that’s only made possible thanks to the amazing transit systems our beloved North American cities have created. From subways to buses to ferries, there are a whole lot of different transportation methods to get you from Point A to Point B. It’s all done at an affordable cost too! For travel that doesn’t break the bank, we should thank these 3 marvellous North American transit systems that continue to pave the road to convenient transportation.

1. New York City, USA

You can’t be surprised to see New York City on this list right? Whether it’s for good or bad reasons, you’ve definitely heard about the New York Subway stations. In the heart of the Big Apple lies a massive maze of underground tunnels where millions of commuters, tourists, and lost pigeons go to navigate the famous New York City Subway. Operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, this stunning transit system boasts over 470 stations that showcase why it’s one of the most popular in the world. It’s not only one of the largest subways around, it’s also one of the oldest. Providing commuters with an affordable and quick option to get around the city, there’s no wonder why it’s constantly loaded with people.

The city’s transportation system doesn’t just stop at subways though. If you’re seeking something a bit more scenic, you can hop on one of the many ferry rides that travel through the Hudson and East Rivers. And if water travel doesn’t suit your tastes, you can easily find a bus or the iconic yellow cabs that can transport you through the city streets. So if you’ve ever dreamed about traveling to this beloved city of dreams, just know there are loads of transportation options that can get you to where you need to be.

Photo by Serge Lambotte on Unsplash

2. Vancouver, Canada

Head over to Vancouver, Canada if you ever want to commute with great views of the city. Here in Vancouver, picturesque landscapes meet a blend of various transit options. The Skytrain, an amazing and advanced rapid transit system, is the city’s crown jewel when it comes to transportation. Best known for its punctuality, speed, and convenience, the Skytrain offers affordable transportation to all commuters while also offering them stunning views high above the ground. 

However, Vancouver’s famous transit system doesn’t just lie with the Skytrain, the city offers plenty of transit options that can easily get you anywhere you need to go. You can take a relaxing ferry ride with the SeaBus across the Burrard Inlet, or quickly hop onto one of the many buses that can take you all the way to the lower mainlands. Vancouver also prides itself on its fantastic bike-sharing program, Mobi, which encourages residents and visitors alike to adopt more sustainable commuting habits. These bikes are the perfect mode of transportation for strolling down the iconic Seawall! 

Photo by Diego Mazz on Unsplash

3. San Francisco, USA

Best known for its iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and charming trolley cars, San Francisco is an American city with an impressive transit system that’s as unique as the city itself. The San Francisco Municipal Railway, or the Muni as the locals call it, is an interesting blend of old and new transportation methods. It’s home to the world’s very last manually operated cable car system, which aside from being a cool tourist attraction, also serves as a practical commuting option for the city’s steep hills.

But don’t let the charming rustic vibes fool you, San Francisco is anything but stuck in the past when it comes to transit technology. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) provides the city with high-speed service throughout the entire San Francisco Bay Area. And thanks to Muni’s network of electric buses and light rail vehicles, they offer an eco-friendly alternative for urban transit. And thanks to the growth of app-based services like Uber and Lyft (which originated in San Francisco!), getting around town has never been easier. 

Photo by James Butterly on Unsplash

If you ever find yourself traveling to any of these 3 amazing cities, you can rest assured knowing you’ll have an easy time making your way across town. As you enjoy the convenience of these fantastic transportation methods, don’t forget to take a moment to marvel at these stunning innovations. It’s truly impressive what man has been able to accomplish!