125th Street

This 125th Street station stands high above Broadway on a dramatic steel viaduct, where the ground drops away into the Manhattanville valley of West Harlem. It is one of the most photogenic stops in the whole system, with the tracks soaring over the street on tall arches. From the platform you get open views across the neighbourhood and, on clear days, a glimpse toward the Hudson.

Served by the 1, 2 and 3 trains along the Broadway-Seventh Avenue line, it sits close to Columbia University's newer Manhattanville campus and the low-rise blocks and warehouses that give this stretch of Harlem its distinct character.

Station Overview

The station opened in 1904 with New York's first subway line and sits in Zone 1. It is listed with the 1, 2 and 3 trains on the West Side line. Because the tracks cross a deep valley here, the station is elevated rather than underground. There is a staffed booth, toilets and the usual OMNY and MetroCard equipment.

Lines and Connectivity

The 1 is the local that stops here regularly, running south down Broadway through Morningside Heights, the Upper West Side, Times Square and on to the Financial District. To the north it heads up to Washington Heights and the Bronx. The 2 and 3 express trains generally run below Manhattan on a separate route, so for direct express service check the platform signs and current service patterns before you travel.

Station Layout and Structure

This is an elevated station perched on the Manhattanville viaduct, so you climb up from Broadway rather than down. There are platforms for uptown and downtown trains, reached by stairs and lifts. The height gives it an airy feel unusual for a Manhattan stop. OMNY readers and MetroCard machines are at the entrances at street level.

Accessibility

This station has step-free access with lifts connecting the street and the elevated platforms, which is a real help given how high the platforms sit above Broadway. It suits wheelchair users, travellers with prams and anyone with luggage. Check the MTA live lift status ahead of your trip in case a lift is closed for maintenance.

Travel Tips

• The views from the elevated platform are among the best in the system, so it is worth a look toward the Hudson while you wait.
• The 1 is your reliable local here. Confirm current 2 and 3 patterns on the platform signs rather than assuming express service.
• Tap in with OMNY or swipe a MetroCard. One flat fare carries you the whole way with no distance charge.

Nearby Attractions

Columbia University Manhattanville Campus - a few minutes on foot. The university's modern expansion, with the Lenfest Center for the Arts and public plazas along Broadway.

Riverbank State Park - about 12 minutes on foot west over the Hudson. A large park built on a platform above the river, with a pool, rink and sweeping water views.

Grant's Tomb - roughly 12 minutes on foot southwest in Riverside Park. The monumental granite mausoleum of President Ulysses S. Grant.

Fairway and Manhattanville shops - along Broadway below the viaduct, a mix of local grocers, cafes and markets serving West Harlem.

Timings and Best Time to Travel

Trains here run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with less frequent service overnight. Weekday rush hours bring the biggest crowds of commuters and students, while midday and weekends are calmer. Daylight hours are also the best time to enjoy the elevated views from the platform.