Tourists in N.Y.C. Marvel at a Cleaner, Less-Crowded Subway

In a newly reopened New York City, travel and hotel costs are still relatively low, enticing some young people, retirees and families to make the trip.

The last time Richard McKee rode the New York City subway, John F. Kennedy was in the White House. Now retired and vaccinated, he flew here in June from Northern California and headed underground with a camera around his neck to photograph the murals and installations in the subway stations. Things felt different than in 1962, when Mr. McKee was last here. “For one thing,” he said, “the subway is cleaner; it’s quieter.” Mr. McKee is one of the many tourists I’ve met on the subway this year who is taking advantage of a newly reopened New York. For now, at least, travel and hotel costs are still relatively low, enticing young people, retirees and families to make the trip.