How to Get from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Manhattan & Brooklyn

Quick Answer

The best way to get from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan for most travelers is the M60-SBS Select Bus Service (40-60 minutes, $2.90). This bus runs 24/7 from all terminals to Harlem's 125th Street, with connections to multiple subway lines. For fastest service: Taxi or rideshare (20-45 minutes, $35-60 plus tolls and tip). For Brooklyn: Take the M60 to 125th St, then transfer to 2/3/A/C trains (60-90 minutes, $5.80 total) or take a taxi directly (30-60 minutes, $40-80+). LaGuardia has no direct subway or train connection, making buses the primary public transit option.

M60-SBS Select Bus Service from LGA to Manhattan

Taking the M60-SBS Select Bus Service from LaGuardia to Manhattan is the most popular and economical public transit option. This bus runs 24/7, connecting all LGA terminals to Manhattan via the RFK/Triborough Bridge. The ride takes 40-60 minutes to Harlem's 125th Street, where you can transfer to multiple subway lines: 4/5/6, A/B/C/D, 2/3. Cost is only $2.90, making it the best value for solo travelers or couples with manageable luggage. During NYC's rush hour traffic, the bus can be slower but uses dedicated bus lanes on 125th Street.

Transport Option	Travel Time	Approximate Cost	Best For	Notes
M60-SBS Bus	40-60 minutes	$2.90 per person	Upper Manhattan, budget travelers	24/7 service, multiple subway connections
Q70-SBS + Subway	50-70 minutes	$5.80 per person	Midtown, Lower Manhattan	Faster to some destinations
Taxi (metered)	20-45 minutes	$35-60+ with tolls/tip	Door-to-door convenience	Available 24/7 at taxi stands

Step-by-Step: How to Take the M60 from LGA

When you exit baggage claim at LaGuardia Airport (LGA), follow signs for "Public Transportation" or "Buses." Each terminal has clearly marked MTA bus stops: Terminal A near Door 5, Terminal B on lower level, Terminals C/D outside baggage claim. Board the M60-SBS (look for "Select Bus Service" on the front). You must pay before boarding: use the MetroCard/OMNY reader at the bus stop, get a receipt, board through any door. The bus runs every 10-20 minutes during daytime, 20-30 minutes overnight. The internet says it's easy, but I've seen confused tourists trying to pay on the bus—you must pay at the curb-side machine first.

M60 Ticket Options and Payment

Single ride: $2.90 (exact change not accepted). Payment methods: MetroCard, OMNY contactless, or coins at the curbside machine (dollar coins, quarters). The machine gives you a receipt—keep it, though inspectors rarely check. Transfer to subway: Free within 2 hours with same payment method. Important: The M60 is a Select Bus Service, which means you pay before boarding. If you try to pay on the bus, the driver will tell you to get off and pay at the machine. I've seen this happen to tired travelers—don't be that person.

Late Night M60 from LGA

For late night arrivals (after 1:00 AM), the M60 still runs 24/7 but with reduced frequency. Buses run every 20-30 minutes overnight. If your flight arrives after midnight, you might wait 20+ minutes. The bus is generally safe with other airport travelers and night shift workers. The internet says the M60 runs 24/7, but doesn't mention the longer wait times overnight. If you're arriving after 1 AM and don't want to wait, a taxi might be worth the extra cost.

M60 Accessibility and Luggage

The M60-SBS buses are accessible with wheelchair ramps and dedicated spaces. There's room for luggage near the front and back, but during peak times (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM), the buses can get crowded with commuters. If you have multiple large suitcases, you might block the aisle. I've been both the tourist with luggage and the commuter—one large bag and a carry-on is manageable; more than that and you're better off with a taxi or rideshare, especially during rush hour when buses are packed.

Q70-SBS + Subway to Manhattan

The Q70-SBS bus connects LGA to the Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Av subway station, where you can catch E, F, M, R, and 7 trains to Manhattan. Total cost: $5.80 ($2.90 bus + $2.90 subway). Travel time: 50-70 minutes to most of Manhattan. This option is often faster to Midtown and Lower Manhattan than the M60. The Q70 runs from Terminals B, C, D (not Terminal A) every 8-15 minutes, 5:00 AM-1:00 AM daily. It's a limited-stop service, making it quicker than local buses.

Q70 vs M60: Which to Choose?

M60 advantages: 24/7 service, goes to all terminals, direct to Upper Manhattan/West Side. M60 disadvantages: Can be slow in traffic, limited subway connections (only 125th St). Q70 advantages: Faster to subway connection, more subway options (E/F/M/R/7), often less crowded. Q70 disadvantages: Doesn't serve Terminal A, not 24/7, requires subway transfer. If you're going to Midtown or Lower Manhattan: Q70+subway. If you're going to Upper West Side/Harlem: M60. I've taken both many times—the Q70+subway is usually 10-20 minutes faster to Midtown.

Q70 Bus Experience

The Q70 is a dedicated airport bus with luggage racks and more space for suitcases. Like the M60, it's a Select Bus Service—pay before boarding at the curbside machine. The ride to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Av takes 15-20 minutes. From there, follow signs to the subway. The station has elevators and is accessible. Trains to Manhattan run every 4-10 minutes. I've taken the Q70 with luggage—it's more comfortable than the M60 for airport travelers, with more luggage space and fewer local stops.

A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake

You arrive at Terminal A with a hotel near Penn Station. You see signs for the Q70 and think, "That goes to the subway, faster to Midtown." You wait 15 minutes, but the Q70 doesn't come because it doesn't serve Terminal A. You finally ask and learn you need to take a shuttle to another terminal or take the M60. You've wasted 20 minutes. Meanwhile, another traveler at Terminal A took the M60 immediately and is halfway to Manhattan. I see this happen at Terminal A—always check which buses serve your terminal.

Taxi from LaGuardia to Manhattan & Brooklyn

The taxi stand at LaGuardia is outside each terminal at the ground transportation area. Follow the "Taxi" signs. Taxis to Manhattan use meters, not flat rates. The fare starts at $3.00 plus $0.70 per 1/5 mile. Expect to pay $35-60+ to most Manhattan destinations, plus toll ($6.94-10.17) and tip (15-20%). To Brooklyn: $40-80+ depending on destination. Taxis are available 24/7. The ride takes 20-35 minutes without traffic, but during rush hour on the Grand Central Parkway or Queensboro Bridge, it can take 45-60 minutes.

LaGuardia Taxi Experience: The Reality

Many travel guides present taxis as the "easy" option. The reality from LGA: it's often the most expensive choice, and traffic can be brutal. The meter keeps running in traffic, so a rush hour trip to Midtown can cost $60+. For a family of four with luggage, the math might work out—$15-20 per person for a taxi versus $12-24 total for buses. I've taken taxis from LGA when arriving exhausted with multiple bags or with elderly family—the door-to-door convenience is worth the premium, but for most solo travelers, the bus is the better choice if you can handle your luggage.

Tolls and Surcharges Explained

Tolls from LGA to Manhattan: Queensboro Bridge: Free (southbound only, northbound has toll). Midtown Tunnel: $6.94 (off-peak), $10.17 (peak). The driver will add these to your fare. Additional surcharges: Peak hour (weekdays 4-8 PM) +$5.00, Night surcharge (8 PM-6 AM) +$0.50. The meter should be running and visible. Don't accept a flat rate quote from a taxi driver—they should use the meter. If a driver offers a flat rate, it's usually higher than the metered fare would be.

Another Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake

You arrive at LGA at 5:00 PM on a Friday—peak rush hour. You see the taxi line and think, "It's about $40, I'll just take a taxi." The ride takes 55 minutes stuck in traffic on the Grand Central Parkway. The meter reads $52, plus $10.17 toll, plus $12 tip = $74 total. You arrive at your Midtown hotel $74 poorer and exhausted. Meanwhile, another traveler took the M60, spent $2.90, and arrived in 50 minutes. For a solo traveler, that's $71 extra for a slower, more stressful trip. I see this happen all the time—the taxi is tempting, but the bus is a much better value if you're traveling light and alone, especially during rush hour.

Uber & Lyft from LaGuardia Airport

Rideshare Pickup at LGA

Uber and Lyft pickup at LaGuardia is at designated zones outside each terminal. Follow signs for "Ride App Pickup" or check your app for specific pickup location. Typical cost to Manhattan: $35-60 depending on vehicle type and demand. During surge pricing (Friday evenings, holidays, bad weather, peak travel times), prices can exceed $80-100. For 2-3 people sharing, this can be cost-competitive with a taxi and more convenient than the bus with luggage.

When Rideshare Makes Sense vs. Taxi

Despite the similar cost, rideshare is worth it when: 1) You want to know the price upfront (taxis are metered so variable). 2) You need a larger vehicle (UberXL, UberSUV). 3) You're going to Brooklyn or Queens (some taxi drivers resist going to certain areas). 4) You prefer the app experience. 5) You want to avoid the taxi line (though rideshare can have waits too). The internet often says "just take a taxi," but during high-demand times, the rideshare pickup area might be less crowded than the taxi line.

Understanding Surge Pricing at LGA

Rideshare prices at LaGuardia fluctuate dramatically based on demand. High demand times: Friday evenings (3-9 PM), Sunday evenings (returning travelers), holidays, during bad weather, and peak travel seasons. I've seen UberX prices hit $90 for a Manhattan trip that normally costs $45 during Thanksgiving weekend. If you see surge pricing, consider: 1) Waiting 15-20 minutes (demand often subsides). 2) Taking a taxi instead (metered, but no surge). 3) Taking the bus to a nearby location and requesting from there to avoid airport surge pricing.

Airport Shuttle Services from LGA

Shared shuttle vans (like Go Airlink, SuperShuttle) operate from LaGuardia to Manhattan. Cost: $20-35 per person. While it's cheaper than a taxi for solo travelers, I don't actually recommend it for most visitors. The shuttles make multiple stops at different hotels, so your 30-minute ride could become a 60-90 minute tour of Manhattan. After a long flight, waiting for other passengers and making stops is frustrating. The only exception might be if you're traveling alone to a hotel not near a bus route and want door-to-door service at a lower cost than a taxi.

Shuttle Experience: What to Really Expect

The shuttle counters are in the baggage claim areas or you pre-book online. You wait for the next van, which loads 8-12 passengers with luggage, then begins the circuit of Manhattan hotels. If you're the first stop: 45-60 minutes. If you're the last stop: 75-90 minutes. The drivers are professional and help with luggage, but the multiple stops test your patience. Some travel blogs say "shuttles are fine," but they're usually written by people with unlimited time or those who got lucky with their stop order.

Who Should Take the Shuttle?

The shuttle is suitable for: 1) Solo travelers wanting door-to-door service at lower cost than taxi. 2) Those going to hotels not near bus routes. 3) People who aren't in a hurry. Not suitable for: Families (cost adds up quickly), those with tight schedules, anyone arriving exhausted, or travelers with lots of luggage (space is limited).

Shuttle vs Bus vs Taxi: A Reality Check

Shuttle advantages: Door-to-door, cheaper than taxi for solo travelers. Shuttle disadvantages: Multiple stops, unpredictable timing, shared with strangers. Bus advantages: Predictable timing, cheapest, avoids some traffic. Bus disadvantages: Not door-to-door, stairs with luggage, can be crowded. Taxi advantages: Direct, available 24/7. Taxi disadvantages: Most expensive for solo travelers, subject to traffic. For $2.90, the M60 gives you predictability the shuttle can't match.

Private Transfer & Car Service

Private transfer services can be pre-booked online. Cost: $80-150+ depending on vehicle type. A driver meets you at baggage claim with a sign, helps with luggage, and drives directly to your destination. While expensive, it's completely stress-free. Luxury sedan: $80-120. SUV for 6 passengers: $120-160. Limousine: $150-200+. This option makes sense for corporate travel, special occasions, or groups wanting luxury service.

When Private Transfer Makes Sense

Despite the high cost, a private transfer is worth it when: 1) You're traveling for business on an expense account. 2) You're a group of 4+ people (splitting makes it reasonable). 3) You're celebrating a special occasion (honeymoon, anniversary). 4) You have mobility issues requiring special assistance. 5) You want absolute certainty and luxury service. The internet often says "just take the bus or a taxi," but for corporate travelers or those celebrating, the $100 sedan transfer is a worthwhile splurge.

Hotel Airport Shuttle Services

Very few Manhattan hotels offer complimentary airport shuttles from LaGuardia. Some airport-area hotels in Queens do, but Manhattan hotels generally don't. Always confirm when booking. Some luxury hotels (Waldorf Astoria, Plaza, etc.) can arrange paid private transfers starting around $80+. Budget and mid-range hotels rarely offer this service.

Bus Routes: All Stops from LGA to Manhattan & Brooklyn

From LaGuardia, you have three main bus options: M60 to Upper Manhattan, Q70 to subway connections, and Q47/Q72 to other subway lines. Here are the key stops and travel times:

M60-SBS Route (LaGuardia to Manhattan)

1. LaGuardia Airport Terminal A - (0 minutes)
2. LaGuardia Airport Terminal B - (5 minutes)
3. LaGuardia Airport Terminals C/D - (8 minutes)
4. Ditmars Blvd/94 St - (12 minutes)
5. Astoria Blvd/31 St - (15 minutes)
6. RFK/Triborough Bridge - (20 minutes, enter Manhattan)
7. 125 St/2 Av - Transfer to 4/5/6 trains (25 minutes)
8. 125 St/Lexington Av - Transfer to 4/5/6 trains (26 minutes)
9. 125 St/Park Av - (28 minutes)
10. 125 St/Madison Av - (30 minutes)
11. 125 St/5 Av - (32 minutes)
12. 125 St/Morningside Av - Transfer to A/B/C/D trains (35 minutes)
13. 125 St/Amsterdam Av - (37 minutes)
14. 125 St/Broadway - Transfer to 1 train (40 minutes)
15. Broadway/116 St - Columbia University (45 minutes)
16. Cathedral Pkwy/110 St - (50 minutes)
17. Broadway/106 St - (52 minutes)
18. Broadway/96 St - (55 minutes)
19. Broadway/86 St - (60 minutes)
20. Broadway/72 St - (65 minutes)
21. Broadway/60 St - Lincoln Center (70 minutes)

Q70-SBS Route (LaGuardia to Jackson Heights)

1. LaGuardia Airport Terminal B - (0 minutes, not Terminal A)
2. LaGuardia Airport Terminal C - (5 minutes)
3. LaGuardia Airport Terminal D - (8 minutes)
4. Roosevelt Av/74 St - Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Av subway station (15-20 minutes)

Subway Connections from Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Av

• E train: To Midtown (Penn Station, Port Authority), Lower Manhattan (World Trade Center)
• F train: To Midtown (Rockefeller Center), Lower Manhattan (East Village, Financial District)
• M train: To Midtown (Herald Square), Lower Manhattan (East Village, Financial District)
• R train: To Midtown (Times Square, Herald Square), Lower Manhattan (Union Square, Financial District)
• 7 train: To Midtown (Times Square, Grand Central)

To Brooklyn: Best Routes from LGA

To Downtown Brooklyn/Prospect Heights: M60 to 125 St/Broadway, transfer to 2/3 train to Brooklyn (Atlantic Av, Borough Hall). Or M60 to 125 St/Morningside Av, transfer to A/C train to Brooklyn (High St, Jay St, etc.).

To Williamsburg/Greenpoint: Q59 bus from LGA to Queens Plaza, transfer to G train to Brooklyn (Nassau Av, Metropolitan Av, etc.).

To Bay Ridge/Bensonhurst: Q47 bus from LGA to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Av, transfer to R train to Brooklyn.

Key Manhattan Transfer Points from M60

• 125 St/Lexington Av: Transfer to 4/5/6 trains to Grand Central, Union Square, Wall Street.
• 125 St/Morningside Av: Transfer to A/B/C/D trains to Times Square, Columbus Circle, West Village, Financial District.
• 125 St/Broadway: Transfer to 1 train to Times Square, Penn Station, West Village, Financial District.
• Broadway/72 St: Transfer to 1/2/3 trains to Times Square, Penn Station, Wall Street.

How to Navigate from Bus to Your Hotel

From 125th Street (M60's main transfer point): Most Upper West Side hotels are within a 5-15 minute walk from Broadway stops. For Midtown hotels: Transfer to downtown subway. For Upper East Side hotels: Transfer to 4/5/6 at 125th/Lexington. If you have heavy luggage, consider a taxi from 125th Street to your hotel (short ride, $10-20) or use a rideshare.

From Jackson Heights (Q70 transfer point): Take E train to Penn Station for Midtown west hotels, F/M/R to Herald Square/Times Square for Midtown east hotels, E to World Trade Center for Financial District hotels.

Return Trip: Manhattan/Brooklyn to LGA by Bus

From Manhattan: Take the M60 from Broadway/106th to 125th Street, or from any M60 stop along 125th Street. Travel time: 40-60 minutes. Fare: $2.90.

From Brooklyn: Take 2/3/A/C trains to 125th Street, transfer to M60. Or take E/F/M/R/7 trains to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Av, transfer to Q70. Travel time: 60-90 minutes. Fare: $5.80.

For early morning flights, check the schedule—first M60 from Manhattan is around 5:00 AM, arriving LGA around 5:40 AM. For flights before 7:30 AM, this may be cutting it close—consider a taxi instead.

LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan & Brooklyn Route Map

The map below shows the routes from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan and Brooklyn. The M60 crosses the RFK/Triborough Bridge to Harlem, while the Q70 connects to the extensive subway network in Jackson Heights.

View the route on Google Maps: View route from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan on Google Maps

The distance from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan is approximately 8-10 miles (13-16 km) depending on route. By car, the most direct routes are via the Grand Central Parkway to the Queensboro Bridge or RFK/Triborough Bridge, which takes 20-35 minutes without traffic. The bus covers a similar distance in 40-60 minutes but is subject to traffic delays.

LGA to Manhattan/Brooklyn: Ticketing & Costs

MetroCard vs. OMNY Contactless

The MetroCard is being phased out but is still available. Cost: $1 for the card plus fare. OMNY is the new contactless system: tap your credit card, phone, or wearable device. Benefits: No card fee, fare capping (never pay more than $34/week), can be used for multiple people (each needs their own payment method). For visitors: OMNY is easier if you have a contactless card. The $1 MetroCard fee is annoying but minimal. The internet says to get a MetroCard, but OMNY is actually simpler for most tourists now, especially for single rides.

Cost Comparison: The Real Math

Solo traveler: Bus $2.90 vs. Taxi $50 (save $47). Couple: Bus $5.80 vs. Taxi $50 (save $44). Family of 4: Bus $12 vs. Taxi $50 (save $38) but luggage space matters. Group of 4 with lots of luggage: UberXL $65 vs. Taxi $50 (taxi is cheaper). I've done all these calculations many times—the bus almost always wins on pure cost, but convenience and time have value too, especially after a long flight with lots of luggage.

Traveler Experience: Getting to NYC from LaGuardia

Arriving at LaGuardia Airport can be confusing due to ongoing construction. The airport has four terminals (A, B, C, D) that are being rebuilt. After collecting your bags, you'll see signs for ground transportation, but the layout changes frequently. The walk to bus stops or taxi stands can be long and poorly marked. The whole arrival process is functional but requires patience, especially during peak times.

First-Time Visitor Experience

As a first-timer, it's manageable but pay attention: If taking the bus, follow "Public Transportation" signs. The M60 stops at all terminals, Q70 at B, C, D only. If taking a taxi, follow "Taxi" signs right outside baggage claim. If using rideshare, check your app for which pickup zone to go to. The airport is under construction, so expect detours and temporary signage. During peak arrival times (11 AM-2 PM, 7-10 PM), there can be lines for taxis and rideshare.

The Reality of Queens Traffic

Queens traffic is notoriously bad, especially on the Grand Central Parkway and near the airport. Rush hour (7-10 AM, 4-7 PM) can double or triple travel times. The bus has some dedicated lanes on 125th Street but shares regular traffic elsewhere. The internet might say "20-30 minutes by car," but that's only at 3 AM. At 5 PM on a weekday, the same trip can take 45-60 minutes. I've sat in Friday evening traffic for 75 minutes from LGA to Midtown—a trip the M60 makes in 50-60 minutes consistently.

A Common Example of a Real-Life Mistake

You arrive at 5:30 PM on a Friday with one suitcase. To save $40, you choose Uber over the bus. The app says 30 minutes, $45. You request the ride, wait 12 minutes for pickup, then sit in bumper-to-bumper traffic on the Grand Central Parkway. The trip takes 65 minutes and costs $55 with surge pricing. You arrive exhausted and frustrated. Meanwhile, another traveler took the M60, spent $2.90, arrived in 55 minutes, and read a book the whole way. I see this miscalculation daily—during rush hour, the bus is both more predictable and dramatically cheaper.

Practical Tips & Advice for LGA to NYC

• With large luggage: Taxi or rideshare if you have more than one bag per person. The bus has limited space and requires moving bags on/off.
• First-time visitor tip: Take the M60 if you have one bag. It's cheap, reliable, and gives you a feel for the city. Save $40+ for a Broadway show ticket.
• Late night arrival (after 1:00 AM): Taxi is your most reliable option. Rideshare is available but may have surge pricing. M60 runs every 20-30 minutes.
• Early morning flights: First M60 from Manhattan is around 5:00 AM, arriving LGA around 5:40 AM. For flights before 7:30 AM, consider a taxi to be safe.
• With kids: Rideshare or taxi is easiest. The bus is doable with kids but requires managing them and luggage.
• Cost-saving tip: M60 for solo travelers. For 2+ people, compare: 2 bus tickets = $5.80 vs. rideshare = $45. The breakeven is around 3 people.
• Time-saving tip: During rush hour (4-7 PM), bus is more predictable than car. At 10 PM, taxi is fastest if no traffic.
• Group travel: 1-2 people: Bus. 2-3 people: Compare rideshare vs. bus cost. 4+ people: Taxi or UberXL.
• Buying tickets: Bus: Pay at curbside machine before boarding (MetroCard/OMNY/coins). Taxi: Pay driver cash/credit. Rideshare: App.
• Weekend vs weekday: Bus runs similar schedule. Traffic is lighter on weekends. Rideshare may have surge pricing on weekend evenings in Manhattan.
• Hotel location: Most Upper West Side hotels are near M60 stops. Most Midtown hotels require transfer from M60 or Q70+subway.
• Return trip: From NYC to LGA, allow: Bus 40-60 minutes. Taxi/rideshare 20-45 minutes + traffic buffer.
• Mobile apps: Download: MYmta (for bus/subway), Uber/Lyft, Citymapper, Google Maps.
• Rainy/snowy weather: Bus is fine—you wait under shelter at LGA. Taxi/rideshare means walking in bad weather to/from vehicle.
• Peak tourist season (June-August, December): All options are busier. Bus can be crowded with tourists. Rideshare may have surge pricing. Book private transfers in advance.
• Holiday travel: Allow extra time. The day before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year. All options will be overwhelmed.
• Accessibility: Buses are accessible. Taxis must accommodate wheelchairs. Notify rideshare in app if you need accessible vehicle.
• Safety: Bus is generally safe. Be aware of surroundings, especially late at night at 125th Street. Taxis are safest but most expensive.
• Bargaining: Not applicable. Taxis are metered. Bus is fixed fare. Rideshare shows price in app.
• Tipping: Taxi: 15-20%. Rideshare: Optional, 10-15% for good service. Bus: No tipping.

Frequently Asked Questions: LGA to Manhattan & Brooklyn