Times Square, located in the heart of Manhattan, is a prime starting point for travelers headed to New York City’s three major airports: JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark. Each airport offers multiple transportation options, including public transit, shuttle services, and taxis, depending on your budget, time, and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of how to reach each one.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
JFK is about 15 miles from Times Square in Queens, and several options make the journey manageable:
By Subway and AirTrain: The most affordable and reliable way to JFK from Times Square is by taking the subway and the AirTrain. From Times Square-42nd Street Station, take the E train toward Jamaica Center and get off at Sutphin Blvd-Archer Ave. From there, follow signs to the JFK AirTrain, which will take you directly to your terminal. The trip takes around 50-60 minutes and costs about $12 ($2.90 for the subway, $8 for the AirTrain).
By LIRR and AirTrain: For a slightly faster option, take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) from Penn Station to Jamaica Station. From there, transfer to the JFK AirTrain to reach your terminal. This option costs around $15-$20, depending on the time of day, and takes about 40-50 minutes.
By Taxi or Rideshare: For convenience, you can take a yellow cab or a rideshare like Uber or Lyft. A taxi to JFK has a flat fare of around $70, plus tolls and tip, and takes 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
LaGuardia, located in northern Queens, is the closest airport to Manhattan, just about 8 miles away. Here are the main ways to get there:
By Subway and Bus: Take the 7 train from Times Square to 74th Street-Broadway in Jackson Heights. Then, transfer to the Q70 SBS LaGuardia Link bus, which goes directly to the airport terminals. This option costs $2.90 and takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
By Express Bus: The NYC Express Bus offers a direct ride from Times Square to LaGuardia, leaving from the Port Authority Bus Terminal. The trip takes 40-60 minutes, costs around $20, and provides a convenient, direct connection to LGA without transfers.
By Taxi or Rideshare: LaGuardia is a popular choice for taxis and rideshares due to its proximity. Fares vary but typically cost around $40-$50, plus tolls and tip, and the journey usually takes 30-40 minutes in light traffic.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Located in New Jersey, Newark is about 16 miles from Times Square and serves as a major international hub. Here’s how to reach EWR:
By NJ Transit Train and AirTrain: The fastest public transit option to Newark is taking an NJ Transit train from Penn Station to the Newark Airport Rail Station. From there, transfer to the Newark AirTrain, which takes you directly to the terminals. This route costs around $15 and takes about 30-40 minutes.
By Express Bus: The NYC Airporter Express Bus operates from the Port Authority Bus Terminal near Times Square to Newark Airport. The trip takes 45-60 minutes and costs around $20.
By Taxi or Rideshare: A taxi to Newark Airport costs approximately $80-$100, including tolls, tips, and airport fees. Rideshares are also available and may cost slightly less, depending on demand. The drive takes around 45-60 minutes, though traffic can add to the time.
From Times Square to New York Airports – final tips
When choosing your transportation, consider your budget, luggage, and the time of day. Public transit options are often the most budget-friendly, while taxis and rideshares offer more comfort and privacy. For the quickest journeys during peak hours, the train options to both JFK and Newark are generally reliable. More information about Times Square find out on Wikipedia.
