How to Get from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square

This is the recommended method for most travelers seeking the best balance of cost, reliability, and reasonable speed. It involves a short bus ride to a major subway hub, followed by a direct subway ride into the heart of Times Square.

Key Advantages: Very low cost ($2.90), predictable travel time (unaffected by road traffic), frequent service, and uses the official MTA system.

Best For: Solo travelers, couples, budget-conscious visitors, and those arriving outside of peak rush hours.

Step-by-Step: The Q70 LaGuardia Link + Subway (Recommended Route)

1. Find the Q70-SBS Bus Stop: Follow signs for "Public Transportation" or "Ground Transportation" at your terminal. The Q70 stops are located at the arrivals level of all terminals.
2. Board the Q70-SBS: This "Select Bus Service" route is frequent and has dedicated lanes for part of its journey. Use OMNY (tap credit card/phone) or MetroCard to pay the fare ($2.90).
3. Destination Choice: The Q70 goes to two major subway stations:
   • Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Ave (E, F, M, R, 7 trains): Best for direct access to Times Square (take the E or 7 train westbound).
   • Woodside–61st St (7 train): Take the 7 train westbound directly to Times Square-42nd St.
4. Transfer to Subway: Get off the bus, enter the subway station, and use your free transfer (included in the initial $2.90 fare) to board the correct train.
5. Ride to Times Square: Take the E or 7 train to "42nd St–Port Authority" (E) or "Times Square–42nd St" (7).

Alternative Bus Routes

Bus Route	From LGA To	Transfer Subway	Notes
M60-SBS	Harlem-125th St (Metro-North) & Upper West Side	Multiple lines at 125th St, or A/C/B/D at Columbus Circle	Useful if your hotel is on the Upper West Side. Less direct for Times Square.
Q47, Q48	Local Queens neighborhoods	E, F, M, R, 7 at Jackson Heights or 74th St	Slower, local stops. Use only if Q70 is unavailable.

Rideshares offer a modern, app-based alternative to taxis, providing door-to-door service from your terminal to your hotel in Times Square. Pricing is dynamic and based on demand (surge pricing).

Key Advantages: Door-to-door convenience, upfront price estimate, choice of vehicle size, cashless payment.

Major Drawbacks: Price can surge dramatically (rain, rush hour, airport congestion), pickup locations can be crowded and confusing, travel time is entirely dependent on unpredictable NYC traffic.

How to Use Uber/Lyft at LaGuardia

1. Proceed to Designated Pickup Zone: Do not request a ride until you are at the designated rideshare pickup area for your terminal. Signs will direct you (often in parking garages or specific lots).
2. Check the App for Exact Location: Both apps provide specific instructions (e.g., "Level 2, Row C").
3. Request Your Ride: Select your destination (e.g., "Times Square, NYC"). The app will show fare options:
   • UberX / Lyft Standard: Regular car for up to 4 passengers.
   • UberXL / Lyft XL: Larger SUV/Minivan for up to 6 passengers and more luggage.
   • Comfort / Green: Slightly nicer or hybrid vehicles.
4. Meet Your Driver: Confirm license plate and car model before entering.

New York City's iconic yellow cabs offer a straightforward, metered fare from LGA to Manhattan. The fare is regulated by the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC).

Key Advantage: Fixed rate structure from airports to Manhattan (see below). No surge pricing.

Considerations: The meter does not include tolls, tip (15-20%), or peak hour surcharges ($2.50, 4-8pm weekdays). Payment is by cash or card.

Flat Rate from LaGuardia

Trips from LaGuardia to any destination in Manhattan are charged a flat metered fare. The meter will start at a specific rate upon entering Manhattan.

• Approximate Total Cost: $42 - $53 (meter) + $6.12 - $10.17 (Tolls for Queens-Midtown Tunnel or RFK Bridge) + Tip.
• Total Expected Cost: $55 - $75+ all-in.

Pre-booked private transfers offer the highest level of comfort, reliability, and service. A driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a name sign and assist with luggage.

Key Advantages: Guaranteed availability, meet-and-greet service, fixed price paid in advance, ideal for large groups or special occasions.

Best For: Business travelers, families with small children, groups of 4+, travelers with excessive luggage, or those wanting a stress-free arrival.

What to Expect & How to Book

Book online in advance through reputable companies like Carmel, Dial7, or AirLink. You'll provide your flight details for tracking. The driver will monitor your flight and wait if it's delayed.

Navigate like a pro with these practical insights:

• Download Essential Apps: MYmta for real-time bus/subway schedules, and Google Maps/Apple Maps for integrated transit, walking, and rideshare comparisons.
• Get an OMNY Card or Use Your Phone: The OMNY contactless payment system is now the standard for MTA. You can tap your credit card, smartphone, or smartwatch, or buy a reusable OMNY card. It's easier than a MetroCard and offers fare capping.
• Beware of Rush Hour (Especially Evenings): Weekdays from 4-7 PM, traffic entering Manhattan via the Queens-Midtown Tunnel or bridges is brutal. During this time, the subway is almost always faster than any road vehicle.
• Luggage on Transit: It's manageable but avoid the 7 train during peak commuter hours if you have large suitcases. Use elevators where available (check the MTA app for elevator status).
• Late-Night Arrivals: After ~1 AM, public transit frequency drops to 20-30 minute waits. A taxi or pre-booked car is worth the cost for safety and simplicity.