Shortcuts to the Holland Tunnel from the east side of Manhattan?

Hot air balloon, hang glider, helicopter. New York traffic is always a nightmare. One of my worst memories of living in the city was being trapped in traffic while in the tunnel. I’d rather swim across the river now.

Canal street? I usually just take canal all the way. I’m pretty good at bobbing and weaving thru traffic anyway…

From 20th street, I’d say take the Lincoln tunnel – it’s closer with better shortcuts.

For the Holland Tunnel, head down 5th ave and then weave your way from 8th Street (Washington Square North) to the entrance off of 7th ave – you’ll miss the 7th ave traffic. (But, you know, you’ll still be in traffic a while, just less of a while.)

@amurph, heading to EWR, any time gained going to the Lincoln would be negated by the distance travel in NJ, right?

Hmmmm. The time will probably be negated. But I generally avoid the Lincoln tunnel (while leaving Manhattan) like the plague.