Whitehouse - New York Flights
Transportation from New York Airport to City Center
John F. Kennedy International Airport
John F. Kennedy International Airport is one of New York's busiest airports and is located about 26 kilometers from Manhattan. There are several options for getting from the airport to Manhattan, but it's important to consider time, comfort, and budget when making your choice.
For those who prefer public transportation, the subway and Long Island Railroad (LIRR) offer economical and effective ways to travel from JFK Airport to Manhattan. These options provide a budget-friendly alternative for reaching the city center. The subway might seem intimidating at first, but it's a suitable choice for those familiar with New York's public transport system.
On the other hand, taxis and airport transfer services are also available for travel from JFK Airport to Manhattan. These options can offer a more comfortable and quicker journey, especially for those looking to avoid heavy traffic and crowds. After a long flight, you might prefer a more comfortable mode of transportation. Additionally, airport shuttle services offer a balance between the subway and taxis, providing both an affordable and comfortable travel experience.
John F. Kennedy International Airport's shuttle services offer a comfortable and economical option for transportation to Manhattan. These services are more affordable compared to private taxi fares and can take you to major hubs in Manhattan or directly to your hotel. Companies like GoAirlink and SuperShuttle provide the convenience of door-to-door service at a more economical rate compared to taxis. You can request these services at the ground transportation desk in the baggage claim area or book them online in advance.
These shared airport shuttles usually operate with a van filled with several passengers. The duration of the journey can vary depending on the occupancy of the van and the order in which passengers are dropped off.
Among the shuttle options, the GoAirlink Express Shuttle offers direct service from JFK to Grand Central Terminal, enabling you to save both time and money. Although slightly more expensive than other options, it offers a favorable price for those preferring to travel by car. The service operates every hour from 6 am to 11 pm. The travel time depends on the time of day and traffic conditions. Its advantages include being quicker than the subway and cheaper than a taxi, Uber, or Lyft. However, it has limitations such as a one-piece-of-luggage-per-person restriction and is not available if your flight arrives outside its operating hours.
Traveling from John F. Kennedy International Airport to New York City center by bus is one of the most budget-friendly options. However, it does not offer direct connections to Manhattan and is considered the most time-consuming mode of transportation. The advantages of using the bus include its affordability and 24-hour operation, while disadvantages encompass frequent intermediate stops and dependency on traffic levels. Although buses don't head directly to Manhattan, they do provide adequate subway connections for reaching the city center.
JFK Airport is served by five bus lines connecting the airport to Queens and Brooklyn areas (though not their touristic parts). These lines include Q3, Q6, Q7, Q10, and B15, each catering to different destinations. For instance, the Q10 line operates 24 hours a day, offering frequent services between JFK Airport and Ozone Park and Kew Gardens.
There isn't a single bus station at JFK Airport; instead, bus lines depart from various locations within the airport complex. For example, the Q6 line passes near Eastern Road, close to Terminal 5 facilities, while the Q7 stops at the North New York airport cargo area. The bus stops for the Q10 and B15 lines are located near the Lefferts Blvd AirTrain Station.
Bus tickets for JFK airport lines are priced at $3 and can only be purchased on the bus in cash. If you use a Metrocard, the ticket price is $2.75. However, Metrocards are only available at Jamaica and Howard Beach Stations. To reach these stations, you'll need to take the AirTrain, which is not free and costs $8.
Traveling from JFK Airport to Manhattan via subway or train is a convenient option. First, you'll need to take the AirTrain from the airport to either Jamaica Station or Howard Beach Station. The AirTrain makes stops at all JFK terminals and operates 24/7, making it highly accessible.
Once you arrive at Jamaica Station, you can choose from the E, J, or Z subway lines. The E line takes you through Queens and into Midtown Manhattan, while the J and Z lines go through Brooklyn to Lower Manhattan. These lines provide easy access to different areas of Manhattan.
The total fare for the AirTrain and subway is $8 for the AirTrain and $2.75 for the subway, payable with a Metrocard. These cards can be obtained from ticket machines at the airport.
Alternatively, you can reach Manhattan via the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) from JFK. You'll first need to travel to Jamaica Station via the AirTrain. LIRR trains depart every 3 minutes during peak hours and every 5-20 minutes otherwise. The total travel time from JFK to Manhattan is approximately 35 minutes.
LIRR ticket prices are $10.75 during peak hours and $7.75 at other times. The total cost, including the AirTrain ticket, ranges between $18.75 and $15.75. Tickets can be purchased at automatic ticket machines at Jamaica Station.
Traveling from John F. Kennedy International Airport to Manhattan by renting a car offers a stress-free and independent journey. The airport accommodates a range of car rental companies, including internationally recognized brands like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget, as well as local agencies. This variety ensures that you can easily find the ideal car rental at JFK Airport to suit your needs and budget. The distance from JFK Airport to Manhattan is approximately 16 miles (26 kilometers), which typically takes about 45 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, be aware that heavy traffic, a common occurrence in New York City, can potentially double this travel time.
If your hotel does not provide a parking space, you may need to locate a nearby parking lot. Manhattan is home to various parking facilities; although they can be costly, they are the perfect solution to avoid dealing with New York City's complicated street parking. If you choose to park on the street, you can pay for parking fees using cash, credit cards, or the ParkNYC app.
John F. Kennedy International Airport to New York City center via private transfer offers a comfortable and personalized transport option. After your reservation is confirmed, you are greeted by your driver who will be waiting with a sign bearing your name and will assist with your luggage. This service provides door-to-door transportation and a luxury travel experience, allowing you to reach your accommodation without the hassle of carrying luggage. You don't need to worry about flight changes, as your driver monitors your flight information and will meet you on time, regardless of any alterations.
Private transfers are generally a bit more expensive than standard taxis, but they offer the advantage of fixed prices without any extra charges. Additionally, a wide range of vehicle options are available to suit your needs. The drivers, with their local knowledge, can make your journey more enjoyable and informative. At JFK airport, you can easily find service desks for companies offering private transfers and make reservations on the spot. This service is particularly ideal for those seeking a relaxed and hassle-free mode of transportation after a busy and long flight.
Traveling from John F. Kennedy International Airport to Manhattan by taxi is a popular option in New York. Yellow cabs offer a journey from the airport to Manhattan at a fixed fare of approximately $70. Additional charges may include bridge or tunnel tolls and an extra $5 during peak traffic hours (4 pm to 8 pm). Typically, a tip of about 15% of the total fare is customary for the driver.
Alternative transportation services such as Uber and Lyft are also available from JFK Airport to Manhattan. The cost of these services can vary significantly based on the time of day and traffic conditions. For example, a trip with Uber or Lyft might cost as low as $50-60, but it can go up to $150 in some cases.
The pickup locations for Uber and Lyft differ across various terminals at the airport. For Uber, passengers need to head outside from arrivals or baggage claim at Terminals 1-4 and 7-8. For Terminal 5, the pickup area is outside on the arrivals or departures level. For Lyft, the pickup zones are at the arrival levels of Terminals 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, and 8.
When choosing the most suitable transportation option, it's important for travelers to consider factors such as cost, comfort, and journey duration. By weighing these factors, one can plan their trip to Manhattan in a way that is both convenient and budget-friendly.
LaGuardia Airport
LaGuardia Airport is located in Northern Queens, on Flushing and Bowery Bays, and is approximately 13 kilometers from the center of Manhattan. It hosts domestic flights from all over America, making it one of New York City's significant air travel hubs. Although not as large as John F. Kennedy Airport, LaGuardia offers a quieter travel alternative for those arriving in New York.
There are various options for getting from LaGuardia to the city center. These include buses and trains operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), taxis, car rental services, and private shuttle services. These transportation options provide flexible solutions tailored to the needs of each traveler, ensuring a comfortable journey to the "City That Never Sleeps". Transportation from LaGuardia Airport to the city center adapts to the dynamic nature of New York, offering a fast and efficient experience.
Private airport shuttle services from LaGuardia Airport to the center of New York City offer a comfortable alternative. These services operate to various stops in Midtown Manhattan, including Times Square. Although they are generally more expensive than public transport, the door-to-door service they provide is a significant advantage.
Several companies offer private shuttle services from LaGuardia to Manhattan. Go Airlink NYC provides shared transfers from LGA 24 hours a day, while NYC Express Bus (formerly known as NYC Airporter) is the official bus service for the three airports in the NYC area. With NYC Airporter, you can access services between Grand Central, Port Authority, or Penn Station and LGA, JFK, and Newark Airports. SuperShuttle is also a good option, as it doesn't require advance reservations for use from the airport.
There are several bus options available for transportation from LaGuardia Airport to the center of New York City. Among these options, the most notable is the LaGuardia Link Q70-SBS bus line. This line offers direct service from the airport to the Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Avenue subway station, providing easy transfers to the E, F, M, R train lines, or the 7 train at 74th St-Broadway station.
For passengers departing from Terminal A, the Q48 and Q47 bus lines are available. The Q48 bus connects to the 7 subway line at 111 St/Roosevelt Ave, while the Q47 bus provides connections to the 7, E, F, M, R subway lines at 74 St/Roosevelt Ave.
Additionally, passengers can take the M60 bus from all terminals at LaGuardia Airport to 125th Street in Manhattan, where they can transfer for free to the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, A, C, and D subway lines. These routes offer a convenient and practical transportation alternative from LaGuardia Airport to the heart of New York City.
Traveling from LaGuardia Airport to the center of New York City by subway offers a fast and practical transportation option. You can take advantage of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's (MTA) extensive subway network for access to Manhattan. With subway stations available at each terminal of the airport, you can start your journey immediately.
The E and F lines provide transportation from LaGuardia to Midtown Manhattan, and during your trip, you can switch between different subway lines as needed. Remember that the subway can be crowded during peak hours and carrying luggage might be challenging. Therefore, when planning your trip, consider these factors and allow extra time if necessary.
Using hotel shuttle services for transportation from LaGuardia Airport to the center of New York City, especially to the Times Square area, is a very convenient option. These services, offering reliable and comfortable transportation, can be easily pre-booked before arriving in the city. Many hotels around Times Square offer these services either complimentary or for a fee, so it's beneficial to check with your hotel about their shuttle services.
These shuttle services are generally more economical compared to taxi or private car services. The comfortable hotel vans or buses are equipped with air conditioning and heating systems and have ample space for luggage. Some hotel shuttles offer round-trip transfers, while others provide only one-way service. Therefore, it's important to gather information in advance about the service hours and conditions of your hotel's shuttle service.
Renting a car from LaGuardia Airport to the center of New York City is a suitable option for those who prefer to make their own travel plans. At the airport, you have a variety of car rental companies to choose from, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Payless, Sixt, and Thrifty. These companies provide a comfortable transportation option from the airport to the city center, and many offer free shuttle services from the airport to the parking area.
When opting to rent a car, it’s important to have your driver's license, identification documents, and a credit card in your name. After completing the rental process, you will receive directions on where to pick up your car.
To drive from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square, exit the airport and take the Grand Central Parkway towards East 34th Street in Manhattan. Continue towards the Midtown Tunnel, and enter East 34th Street from the right lane. Then, turn right onto Fifth Avenue and left onto West 44th Street to reach Times Square. This journey offers a great opportunity to explore the vibrant streets of the city.
Taking a taxi from LaGuardia Airport to the center of New York City is a convenient and comfortable option. You can easily follow the signs leading to the taxi stand upon exiting the arrivals terminal and join the line to catch a cab. Yellow cabs available at all terminals of the airport provide direct transportation to the city center.
Alternatively, you can quickly connect with drivers through apps like Lyft and Uber. After retrieving your luggage, you can conveniently summon a vehicle through these apps. It's worth noting that private car services and taxis may be more expensive than ride-sharing services. Therefore, if you plan to use these transportation options, familiarizing yourself with the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) Fare Guide and the Taxi Rider's Bill of Rights can be beneficial.
Newark Liberty International Airport
Newark Liberty International Airport is conveniently located in New Jersey, close to New York City Center. Compared to JFK or LaGuardia airports, the travel time to Manhattan can be similar or sometimes even faster.
One of the most convenient and popular ways to reach the city center is by taking the train directly from the airport to New York's Penn Station. This journey is both economical and quick, typically taking less than 30 minutes to reach Manhattan. Alternatively, bus or shuttle services from the airport are also available, offering transportation to various destinations in the city.
Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are another option for traveling from Newark Liberty International Airport to the city center. These services are particularly useful for those needing to reach a specific address or location directly. You can easily hail a ride through the app and plan the details of your journey in advance. This option is ideal for passengers who prefer not to use public transportation or seek a more personalized travel experience.
Traveling from Newark Liberty International Airport to the center of New York City by bus is both an affordable and comfortable option. Various bus lines operated by New Jersey Transit, including routes 28, 37, 62, 67, and 107, service the airport. For up-to-date schedule and route information, you can visit the NJ Transit website.
In addition, there is a daily Express Bus service running between the airport and Manhattan. This service operates every day of the year from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. The fare for a one-way ticket is $18, and a round-trip ticket costs $30. The Express Bus makes stops at key locations in New York City, including Grand Central Station, Bryant Park, and the Port Authority Bus Terminal.
Passengers can board these buses at designated stops at Newark Liberty International Airport: Terminal A at stop 5, Terminal B at stop 2, and Terminal C at stops 5 and 6. These stops are located on the first level of the airport, making access to the city center straightforward and convenient.
Traveling from Newark Liberty International Airport to New York City Center by train is both an affordable and swift option. The journey begins with the AirTrain, a monorail system that circulates among all the terminals at the airport and takes passengers to the Newark Airport train station.
At this station, passengers transfer to NJ Transit trains. NJ Transit provides a direct connection from the airport to the famous Penn Station in New York. This part of the journey usually takes about half an hour, and the cost of an adult ticket is approximately $15.25, which includes the AirTrain ride.
Once you arrive at New York Penn Station, you can use the city's subway network to reach other areas of the city or your accommodation. However, keep in mind that this journey, especially after a long and tiring flight, can be challenging in terms of carrying luggage and navigating a new city.
Renting a car for transportation from Newark Liberty International Airport to New York City Center is an option for those who prefer to have control over their journey. At the airport, there are various car rental companies available, such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Payless, SIXT, and Thrifty. These companies offer a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets.
When renting a car, it is important to be mindful of toll charges. Rental car companies often provide E-ZPass® transponder tags, which automatically process toll fees. However, it's important to inquire about any potential extra charges associated with using this system. If you prefer to use your own E-ZPass® account, it is advised not to add the rental car’s license plate number to your account, as this could lead to additional costs. Keeping these considerations in mind will help you determine the most suitable option for your trip.
Traveling from Newark Liberty International Airport to New York City Center by taxi is a convenient and quick option. Taxis can be easily hailed at the stands located outside the baggage claim areas of each terminal. Remember that most roads and bridges in the New York area have tolls, which are not included in the taxi fare. Additionally, there is a $5 extra charge during rush hours and a 10% senior citizen discount is available. Tipping the driver is also a common practice.
Alternatively, app-based transportation services like Uber and Lyft are also a viable option. These services offer a comfortable journey to Manhattan, typically taking around 45 minutes, and are generally more affordable compared to traditional taxis. Both Uber and Lyft are ideal for those who need direct transportation to a specific destination. With these apps, you can easily book a ride, see the details of your trip, and estimate the fare in advance, allowing you to plan your journey accordingly.