While approximately 25-26% of subway stations have elevators, the MTA website lists these locations but doesn't indicate when they're broken. Download the official MTA app for real-time elevator status, though even this can lag behind actual conditions - it's still your best tool to prevent getting stranded underground.

Reliable accessible stations: Times Square (multiple backup elevators), Union Square (newer system), World Trade Center (completely new infrastructure). Avoid older stations like 14th Street-Union Square during rush hour when elevators get overwhelmed.

Always plan backup routes. Know the next accessible station if your target elevator fails. Most Manhattan buses are wheelchair accessible and can substitute for short crosstown trips when subway access fails.