Parking lots and garages offer designated spaces to store your vehicle when they are not in use. Lot spaces may be more affordable than garages but typically fill up quickly in large cities. Garages are designed to accommodate a high demand for spaces near urban centers or popular attractions. Here are some things to review and understand when selecting a parking lot or garage:
Structure
Lots are open, and outdoor areas set aside for vehicle parking. They are typically located near shopping centers, restaurants, or tourist attractions, and the size of a lot depends on the occupancy limits of nearby buildings. Many may be paved or gravel, which may scratch a vehicle’s paint when tires kick loose rocks.
Garages are paved, multi-leveled structures that support a high density of parked cars. They often have stairs or elevators to provide drivers access to different levels of the structure. Some garages have covered and uncovered spaces. City Parking manages several multi-level and underground garages throughout New York City, giving you a convenient area to park wherever you may be.
Weather Protection
Some car lots are bordered by trees, which help shade cars on hot days, but many are uncovered, exposing vehicles to rain, hail, and snow. Over time, severe weather and exposure to the elements can deteriorate a car’s exterior. Paint may fade, and parts can rust. Most garages managed by City Parking are covered, offering parked vehicles protection from the elements. Some reasons to choose covered parking include:
- Convenience: Garages prevent snow from accumulating on a car’s exterior. This eliminates the need for ice scraping, potentially saving drivers time.
- Protection: Garages can shield vehicles from the winter chill, keeping the interior warm and potentially preventing the battery from dying.
- Damage prevention: Strong winds may knock branches loose that could fall and scratch or dent a car’s exterior. Covered parking reduces the likelihood of an object falling on a vehicle.
Security
Lots may be fenced, and access to paid spaces is restricted by an entrance and exit gate. Some lots have security services, while others are fully automated. While this limits the number of cars that can come and go, lots are usually easily accessible by pedestrians. This potentially exposes a vehicle to risks of theft or vandalism.
City Parking is dedicated to providing New York drivers with safe, well-lit parking facilities. Its garages are enclosed, which better restricts access to those not parked on the premises. Many garages are also monitored by security cameras or gate guards, offering additional security.
Location
When parking, drivers usually search for locations closest to their intended destination. This makes it easy to access attractions, offices, or events with minimal walking distance. Our garages are near popular attractions like Times Square, Yankee Stadium, Broadway, and other NYC landmarks. In urban areas, lots often fill up quickly, forcing people to park further away. High-volume garages are more likely to accommodate those who arrive closer to event start times.
Access
Like street spaces, lots are often first-come, first-serve, making it difficult for drivers to access spots when needed. City Parking enables drivers to reserve spots in advance, verifying they can park on arrival. Spaces may be reserved by the hour, day, or month, depending on how frequently a driver visits New York City. Monthly parking programs usually provide unlimited access to our managed locations and reduced parking fees.
Find NYC Parking Today
Parking options are often location-dependent, and many drivers select lots or garages based on availability. If both are available, review your stay duration and the weather forecast when picking a space. Using garages for night or long-term parking may offer additional security and protection from the elements, keeping your car in good condition. Sign up with City Parking today to reserve your garage spot.