Quick Answer
For most travelers, the best overall way to get from LaGuardia Airport to Arthur Ashe Stadium is via public transit (bus + subway), combining the Q70 LaGuardia Link bus with the 7 subway train. This journey takes 60-75 minutes and costs only $2.90. The fastest way during off-peak hours is a taxi or rideshare (20-40 mins, $35-$80+), while the cheapest way is the M60-SBS bus to the subway ($2.90, 70-90 mins).
Subway & Bus: The Step-by-Step Guide (Best Value)
New York's subway is the backbone of city transit. While LaGuardia lacks a direct subway station, a seamless bus connection makes this the most efficient and affordable method for most visitors.
Core Concept: Take a dedicated bus from your LGA terminal to a major subway hub, then take the train directly to the stadium stop.
Option 1: The Recommended Route (Q70 + 7 Train)
This is the official, streamlined route promoted by the MTA and airport.
- Find the Q70 LaGuardia Link Bus: Look for signs for “Public Transportation” or “Bus” inside your terminal. The Q70 stop is clearly marked outside Terminals B, C, and D. It’s a bright blue, Select Bus Service (SBS) bus.
- Board the Q70: Pay before boarding using an OMNY tap (credit/debit/phone) or a MetroCard at the street-side machine. Fare is $2.90. Get a receipt if using MetroCard.
- Ride to Subway Hub: Take the Q70 to its final stop: 74th St-Broadway / Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave. This journey takes 15-25 minutes. This station connects to the E, F, M, R, and 7 trains.
- Transfer to the 7 Train: Follow signs for the 7 train (Flushing-bound). Use your free transfer (within 2 hours) to enter the subway. Take any 7 train (Local or Express) for 6 stops to Mets-Willets Point.
- Walk to Arthur Ashe: Exit the station and follow the crowd and signage into the tennis complex. The stadium is a 5-10 minute walk.
Total Time: 60-75 mins | Total Cost: $2.90 | Best For: All travelers seeking reliability and low cost.
Option 2: The Direct-but-Slower Bus (M60 + N/W Train)
A good alternative, especially from Terminal A, but involves a more complex transfer.
- Board the M60-SBS Bus: Available at all terminals. Pay via OMNY/MetroCard. This bus crosses into Manhattan.
- Ride to Astoria, Queens: Stay on the bus until the stop at Astoria Blvd and 31st St (near the Astoria-Ditmars Blvd N/W subway station).
- Transfer to the N or W Train: Walk to the subway station and take a Manhattan-bound N or W train. Ride to Times Sq-42nd St.
- Second Transfer to the 7 Train: At Times Square, transfer to the Flushing-bound 7 train. Ride it to the end of the line at Mets-Willets Point.
Total Time: 70-90 mins | Total Cost: $2.90 | Best For: Those near Terminal A or going to Manhattan first.
Public Bus: The Most Economical Option
Beyond the dedicated airport buses (Q70, M60), standard local buses serve LGA but are slower due to more stops. They are only recommended for the most budget-conscious or if your origin/destination aligns perfectly.
- Q47 Bus: Connects LGA (Terminals A, B) to the Jackson Heights subway area (E, F, M, R, 7) and the LIRR at Woodside. Useful for specific hotel locations.
- Q48 Bus: Runs along Roosevelt Ave, connecting Flushing's Main St (end of the 7 train) to LGA Terminals C and D. Can be used as an alternative loop.
Key Advice: Always use the MTA's Trip Planner or Google Maps for real-time bus schedules and the best current route from your specific terminal.
Private Car & Limousine Service
For the ultimate in comfort, reliability, and style, especially for groups or business travel.
- How it Works: Pre-book online or by phone. A driver will meet you at baggage claim with a name sign.
- Cost: Typically $100 - $200+ (sedan) depending on company, vehicle class, and wait time.
- Best For: Corporate travel, families with lots of luggage, special occasions, or travelers who value time and certainty above all else.
- Recommended Companies: Carmel, Dial7, Blacklane. Always read recent reviews before booking.
Cost & Time Comparison: LaGuardia to Arthur Ashe Stadium
Use this table to quickly compare all your options at a glance.
| Transport Method | Approx. Total Time | Approx. Total Cost | Best For | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q70 Bus + 7 Subway | 60 - 75 mins | $2.90 | Most travelers, best value | Free transfer, dedicated airport bus, minimal walking. |
| M60 Bus + N/W & 7 Subway | 70 - 90 mins | $2.90 | Budget travelers, Terminal A | One more transfer, can be crowded. |
| Yellow Taxi | 20 - 50 mins | $35 - $55+ (incl. toll/tip) | Convenience, fixed fare | Traffic-dependent, queues at airport. |
| Uber/Lyft (Standard) | 20 - 50 mins | $35 - $120+ (surge possible) | App users, upfront pricing | Price surges dramatically on event days. |
| Private Car Service | 20 - 50 mins | $100 - $200+ | Groups, luxury, business | Must pre-book, most expensive option. |
Note: All times are estimates and heavily dependent on traffic, time of day, and terminal of origin.
Traveler Tips & Insider Advice
🛄 Luggage Strategy
If you're going straight to the stadium with bags, be aware: Arthur Ashe Stadium has strict bag policies (often only small bags allowed). Large luggage will not be permitted inside. Consider:
- Hotel First: If possible, go to your hotel to drop bags before heading to the event.
- Luggage Storage: Services like Bounce offer short-term storage at locations around NYC.
- Travel Light: For a day trip, use a backpack that meets stadium size requirements.
⏰ Timing is Everything
- Event Days: Allow at least an extra 30-60 minutes for any method due to increased traffic and crowds on subways/buses.
- Rush Hour: Weekdays 7-9 AM and 4-7 PM will slow down all road-based transport. Subway is more consistent but more crowded.
- Check Schedules: For late-night arrivals, always verify the current bus and subway schedules on the MTA website.
🎾 At the Stadium (Mets-Willets Point Station)
The 7 train is your best friend. After the event, follow signs back to the "Mets-Willets Point" station. Be prepared for large, slow-moving crowds. Trains will be frequent but packed. For a less crowded experience, consider walking one stop east to the "Flushing-Main St" terminal station to board an empty train.
FAQs: Getting from LaGuardia to Arthur Ashe Stadium
What is the cheapest way to get from LaGuardia to Arthur Ashe Stadium?
The cheapest way is by public bus (M60-SBS) combined with the subway, costing just $2.90 (with a MetroCard/OMNY transfer). It connects directly from LGA terminals to multiple subway lines heading towards Queens.
What is the fastest way to get from LaGuardia to Arthur Ashe Stadium?
During light traffic, a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) can be the fastest, taking 20-40 minutes door-to-door. However, during peak traffic or event times, the subway (via the E or 7 train) is often more reliable and takes 50-70 minutes.
Is there a direct train or subway from LaGuardia Airport to Arthur Ashe Stadium?
No, there is no single direct train. All routes require at least one combination: a bus or taxi to a subway station, then a subway ride, followed by a walk. The most straightforward public transit route is the LaGuardia Link Q70 bus to the 74th St-Broadway/Jackson Heights station, then the 7 train to Mets-Willets Point.
How do I get to Arthur Ashe Stadium if I arrive at LGA late at night?
After about 1:00 AM, public bus and subway frequency drops significantly. Your most reliable options are taxi, rideshare, or pre-booked private car service. The M60-SBS bus runs 24/7 but on a reduced schedule; always check the current MTA schedule for late-night service.
Is it easy to travel with luggage from LGA to the stadium using public transit?
It can be challenging during rush hour. Buses and subneys can be crowded. The Q70 LaGuardia Link bus has dedicated luggage racks. For a smoother experience with multiple bags, consider a taxi/rideshare or factor in extra time and use subway cars that are typically less crowded (often at the ends of the train).
Can I use the same MetroCard for the bus and subway transfer?
Yes. With a Pay-Per-Ride MetroCard or OMNY contactless payment (credit/debit card, phone, wearable), you get one free transfer between bus and subway (or between buses) within a 2-hour window. A single ride costs $2.90. Ensure you tap the same payment method for both legs of your journey.
Where exactly does the subway drop me off for Arthur Ashe Stadium?
Take the 7 subway train (Flushing Local or Express) to the 'Mets-Willets Point' station. This station is located within the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center complex. Follow signs for the US Open/Arthur Ashe Stadium. The walk to the stadium gates is approximately 5-10 minutes.
Is it better to take a taxi or rideshare from LaGuardia to Arthur Ashe?
It depends on budget and convenience. Taxis offer fixed fares from LGA to destinations in Queens (around $35-45 plus toll/tip), providing certainty. Rideshares (UberX/Lyft Standard) offer variable pricing ($35-80+) which can surge dramatically on event days. For a stress-free, door-to-door trip, they are excellent, but public transit is far more economical.