The 5 train is a workhorse of New York City transit, hauling commuters across the Bronx, Manhattan, and Brooklyn. It runs from Eastchester-Dyre Avenue, cuts straight through the heart of Midtown Manhattan, and ends its journey down at Flatbush Avenue-Brooklyn College. This map breaks down every station, transfer point, and branch, so you can navigate the NYC subway system like a pro.
You can download our high-resolution map below. We’ve designed this to be easy to read, whether you’re a local who rides the rails daily or a visitor just trying to find your way. It shows every subway line, express track, and local stop clearly. This guide gives you a crystal-clear look at how the 5 line route weaves through the Bronx transit hubs and connects with other major Manhattan subway corridors.
| Feature | Detail | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Route Termini | Eastchester-Dyre Ave to Flatbush Ave | The main North-South route |
| System Identifier | Lexington Avenue Express | Look for the Forest Green color |
| Key Districts | The Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn | Links three major boroughs |
| Service Type | Express and Local | Depends on the time of day |
| Primary Interchanges | Grand Central, Union Square, Atlantic Ave | The busiest transfer spots |
A Closer Look at the 5 Line
The 5 line is the backbone of NYC transit. It starts way up in the Bronx near the Dyre Avenue area, winding through a variety of neighborhoods before joining up with the White Plains Road line. As you head south, the train shifts into express mode on the Lexington Avenue line, skipping local stops in East Harlem and the Upper East Side. It’s a huge time-saver if you’re heading from the northern tip of the city into the offices of Midtown or Lower Manhattan.
Once you hit Lower Manhattan, the train dives through the Joralemon Street Tunnel, crossing under the East River into Brooklyn. When you pull into Atlantic Avenue-Barclays Center, you’ve got easy access to tons of other Brooklyn subway lines and the Long Island Rail Road. The final stop in Flatbush is a massive hub for students and residents alike. Seeing how this route connects the residential vibe of the Bronx to the business world of Manhattan and the community hubs of Brooklyn really shows you how essential this subway network is.
Printing Your Map
We’ve provided a few different download options so you can keep this map handy wherever you are. If you want a hard copy for your bag or office, the high-res PDF is your best bet. It’s a vector file, meaning you can zoom in as much as you want without the text getting blurry—perfect for checking small station names. If you’re printing at home, a standard A4 or Letter size works great; just make sure your printer is set to landscape or portrait mode.
If you prefer keeping it on your phone, our PNG and JPG files are optimized for quick, easy viewing. If you’re printing a big version for a wall or a classroom, try a Poster size at a local print shop so the Forest Green line stays nice and crisp. Whether you print in color or black and white, the high-contrast design makes it easy to spot the difference between express and local tracks. Just remember to check your “scale to fit” printer settings so you don’t lose any of the edges.
Why Keep a Physical Map?
Even though navigation apps are great, they don’t always give you the big picture. When you’re stuck underground with no cell service, having a map you can actually hold is a lifesaver. We’ve kept the design clean to highlight the main transit arteries, so you aren’t distracted by extra clutter when you’re trying to figure out your route during rush hour.
- Easy to Read: Big, bold text and clear color-coding for the 5 line.
- Always Works: No need for Wi-Fi, data, or a GPS signal.
- Better Planning: Easily see exactly where you need to transfer while crossing Manhattan.
- Consistent Reference: Unlike phone apps that change constantly, this map gives you a steady, reliable view of the system.
Test Your Knowledge: Quick Map Quiz
See how much you’ve picked up about the 5 train by answering these quick questions:
1. Which borough serves as the northern starting point for the 5 line?
- A) Brooklyn
- B) Manhattan
- C) The Bronx
- D) Queens
2. What color is officially used to designate this line on transit maps?
- A) Bright Red
- B) Forest Green
- C) Royal Blue
- D) Safety Orange
3. Which tunnel does the train use to cross the East River?
- A) Montague Street Tunnel
- B) Clark Street Tunnel
- C) Joralemon Street Tunnel
- D) 60th Street Tunnel
Answer Key: 1-C, 2-B, 3-C
FAQ
How often does the 5 train schedule change?
The tracks stay the same, but the express and local service timing can shift depending on the time of day or track work. Use this map to understand the route, but check the signs at the station for real-time updates.
Where does the 5 train go during late-night hours?
Late at night, the 5 often switches to a local-only service in the Bronx. While this map shows the permanent route, it’s always a good idea to listen for announcements regarding late-night changes.
Can I use this map for other subway lines?
This map is focused on the 5 line, but it clearly labels the major interchange stations where you can hop onto other Manhattan and Brooklyn subway lines.
Is this map suitable for accessibility planning?
Yes! We’ve included markers for ADA-accessible stations across the system, so you can easily spot which stops have elevators and ramps to help you plan your trip.
Basically, knowing your way around the 5 train is the secret to getting around the city like a local, whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the boroughs.
*Last Updated: June 2026*