Public transit
Taking a stroller on a New York City bus: check the bus before boarding
Look for the open-stroller symbol, be ready to fold when required, and keep the child, aisle, and boarding area secure.
Original editorial illustration; not a photograph of Cathay operations.
New York City buses are gaining designated areas for one open stroller, but the same setup is not yet guaranteed on every arriving bus. A caregiver should look for the stroller symbol, understand when folding is still required, and prepare belongings before the doors open. A small boarding plan makes the trip easier without blocking the aisle or depending on another rider to manage the child.
Identify whether the bus has an open-stroller area
The MTA says buses equipped for an open stroller display a stroller symbol near the front door and have a marked space near the rear door. The agency announced that every local and Select Bus Service bus is expected to have a designated area by the end of 2026.
Until the fleet transition is complete, check the bus that actually arrives. A route may use different vehicles during the day, so a previous trip does not guarantee the next bus has the same interior.
Further readingMTA: Open stroller areas on buses (opens in a new tab)Be prepared to fold the stroller
The designated space holds one open stroller. The MTA says the stroller must be folded if that space is already occupied or if the stroller does not fit. Carry only what you can manage while supervising the child.
Before the bus comes, organize bags so they can be moved without leaving anything at the curb. Practice the stroller's folding mechanism at home if it is unfamiliar, and avoid hanging heavy items where they could make the stroller unstable.
Use the marked area correctly
When an open-stroller area is available, keep the child secured, apply the stroller brakes once positioned, maintain control while the bus is moving, and keep the aisle clear. Follow the bus operator's instructions.
The space is not general luggage storage. If another stroller is using it, do not create a second improvised parking place in the aisle or doorway.
- Check for the stroller symbol.
- Keep the child secured.
- Apply brakes and maintain control.
- Keep the aisle and doors clear.
Plan the stop and exit before riding
Choose a stop with enough sidewalk space to wait away from the curb and consider whether construction or crowding will make boarding harder. If possible, know the stop before your destination so you have time to gather bags without rushing.
At the exit, wait until the bus is stopped, follow operator directions, and move fully onto the sidewalk before reorganizing belongings. Check the MTA's current guidance before travel because equipment and policies can change.
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