Alright, let me tell you about my little adventure trying out the 4 train to Woodlawn today. Woke up early, grabbed a quick coffee – black, no sugar – and headed out. Figured I’d see what this whole Woodlawn line vibe is about.
Getting to the Station
Walked down to the 161st Street station near me. It’s a little busy usually, but today wasn’t too bad. Swiped my MetroCard, heard that familiar beep and clunk, went through the turnstile. Easy.
The Wait & the Ride
Looked at the info screen. Next 4 train to Woodlawn was about 8 minutes out. Okay, not the worst. Sat down on one of those metal benches, kinda cold but whatever. Scrolled my phone a bit. Then, heard it rumbling in the distance. Saw the headlights down the tunnel. Finally.
Hopped on when the doors slid open. Managed to snag a seat! Man, that never happens. Train started moving, all shaky like they do. Looked around while it rolled along:
- Saw some folks heading to work, suits and ties looking a bit sleepy.
- A couple of students with big backpacks, chatting loud.
- Older lady just staring out the window.
It was pretty standard NYC subway stuff, you know? Dingy seats, that weird underground smell – part dust, part electricity, maybe stale food? Made the usual stops. 167th. 170th. Burnside Avenue. Yeah, just rolling through the Bronx.
Arrival at Woodlawn
After a while, heard the conductor: “WOODLAWN TERMINAL. END OF THE LINE. EVERYBODY OFF PLEASE.” That was my cue. Pushed my way off the train with everyone else.
Got out onto the platform at Woodlawn. Sun was out actually, which was nice. Stood there for a minute, taking it in. Place has a different feel up there, quieter maybe? Less frantic than some other stations. Just walked around a tiny bit near the station entrance. Saw a few little shops, people walking dogs.
Heading Back
Didn’t stay long. Turned right back around, walked down the steps, back onto the platform. Waited maybe 5 minutes for a downtown 4 train heading back towards Manhattan. Boarded it, stood this time (seat luck ran out!), held onto a pole as it rattled back south.
Why Bother?
Honestly? Mostly curiosity. Heard the name “Woodlawn” line plenty. Wanted to see the end of the line for myself, just ride it top to bottom. Simple as that. It wasn’t about some grand plan or seeing amazing sights. Just experiencing a slice of the city’s daily grind from start to finish on that one route.
Felt good to actually do it instead of just thinking about it. Saw the neighborhoods roll by, felt the rhythm of the stops. Routine stuff, but sometimes that’s where the small moments are, you know? Made me remember why I like just exploring this place, bit by bit.
