Summary in brief:
Nothing fancy but I tried this bus round…read moretrip to NYC at the recc of a friend who takes it often. Busses were on time each way and the drivers are so friendly, focused on safety, and give routine announcements to keep everyone in the loop. On the way up, I thought wow, what a nice guy who's really good at his job. On the way back, new driver, just as nice, just as conscientious. I'm really impressed! If you don't want to deal with taking your car to the city, and are fine with no frills this is a great way to go.
Longer details for fact-finding and trip planning:
Amenities
-seats are cushioned,
-you get a bottle of water.
-I would caution that while there is Free WiFi, it is spotty making it a bit challenging to get work done that requires a good internet connection (This was my intention and actually the main reason I decided not to drive myself).
-I have been on cushier, fancier, and more expensive coaches for sure. It feels a bit cramped if the bus is full. On the way back I've got the 2 seats to myself and it's much more comfortable.
-There are power outlets below the seat.
- There is a cup holder in front of you.
-There is no tray for your laptop. You'll need to put it on your lap. And if you've got someone next to you, bc the seats are tight, it's not soo easy to work.
- There is one small restroom. Can't comment on cleanliness bc I didn't use it.
-There is storage under the bus and very small overhead bins on the bus. Don't plan on taking copious luggage pieces. This bus is geared towards quick weekend travelers. For what I had (small suitcase, backpack, large purse), it was ok. Larger overhead bins would have been better though.
-Again, drivers are awesome. Friendly, good drivers, conscientious, communicative, and care about safety.
Price
Again, it's nothing fancy but it's adequate transportation for a very reasonable twice. I spent about $25 each way. I believe the price can go a bit higher during peak travel times, like Sunday nights. I think it can also go a little lower, too.
Locations in NOVA & NYC
I chose this bus bc other methods of transport from Fairfax/Loudoun area is a PITA! I have done the drive to Reston, park, & metro into DC for bus or train. Toooo long and complicated! I'm from NYC- I like easy public transportation! There isn't a lot of accessibility from Loudoun besides flying out of Dulles which is more expensive for sure but sometimes a decent option. If you know your plans way in advance you can snag $65 each way. But also, while convenient on this end, know that it is pricey & far when you have to cab it to Manhattan, especially if you've flown into JFK or Newark instead of LGA.
I UBERed to the Gainesville Commuter Lot in Manassas from Ashburn. It was pricey! But easy. I was curious about driving and parking but I did not find clear info on the commuter lot website, although I did find reviewers saying they do it and never had issues and apparently they don't pay anything either? (Me personally, I need to go on something more official b4 I'll leave my car for 4 days in some random lot!).
The lot is small, easy to navigate and easy to clearly see where the bus will be. The bus also stops in Vienna/Fairfax at the GMU metro stop. For me, the 2 locations were actually about the same distance away in diff directions. Ultimately, I chose Manassas bc I figured it might be an easier drive during rush hour trying to catch an early weekday morning bus. I was right. Traffic wasn't too bad as compared to the DC traffic going east at that time of morning.
You are dropped off in midtown Manhattan on West 30th btwn 9th & 10th aves. If you plan to take the subway, you'll need to walk a little bit to the right station (depending on what subway you need; diff subways run on diff avenues). But if you have luggage and/or you don't know the city well, just make it easy for yourself and hail a cab or call an UBER.