The Best Way to Get From LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Times Square: Complete Transportation Guide

After landing at LaGuardia Airport (LGA), many travelers have one destination in mind: the iconic Times Square in Manhattan. Finding the most efficient route between these two points can significantly impact the start of your NYC adventure. This comprehensive guide breaks down all possible routes, costs, travel times, and insider tips to help you choose the best way to get from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square based on your preferences, budget, and luggage situation. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest option, fastest route, or most comfortable journey, we’ve got you covered with expert advice for your next trip from LGA to the heart of Manhattan.

What Are the Transportation Options From LaGuardia Airport to Times Square?

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) offers several transportation options to reach Times Square in Manhattan. Public transportation includes the LaGuardia Link Q70 bus that connects to subway lines, the M60 bus service that links to multiple subway stations, and various combinations of bus and subway routes through Queens. The MTA operates these services, making them the most budget-friendly way to travel from LaGuardia Airport.

For travelers who prefer door-to-door service or are carrying substantial luggage, private transportation options include taxi services available at the taxi stand, ride-sharing services like Uber, shuttle bus services, and car services that can be booked in advance. These options provide more comfort but come with an extra cost compared to public transportation options.

When deciding on your transportation method, consider factors like travel time, fare cost, luggage space, and your familiarity with NYC’s public transit system. During peak hours, the subway or bus might be faster than sitting in Manhattan-bound traffic, while a private car might be preferable during off-hours or when traveling with family.

Is the LaGuardia Link Q70 the Best Way to Get From LGA to Manhattan?

The LaGuardia Link Q70 is often considered the best public transportation option from LGA to Times Square. This select bus service travels nonstop from the airport to two key subway stations in Queens: Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave and Woodside, where you can transfer to the subway for Manhattan. The Q70 LaGuardia Link operates frequently, running every 8-10 minutes throughout most of the day, making it a reliable option for travelers.

One of the biggest advantages of the Q70 bus is that it’s designed specifically for airport travelers, with dedicated space for luggage and express service to subway connections. To take the Q70, simply follow the signs for “Public Transportation” or “Q70 LaGuardia Link” at any terminal. The bus service connects all terminals at LaGuardia, so you won’t need to worry about which terminal you arrive at.

For those concerned about cost, the LaGuardia Link Q70 is particularly appealing as it’s essentially a free bus when combined with the subway, as you can use the free transfer between the bus and subway with your MetroCard or OMNY payment. The total fare is just the standard MTA fare of $2.90 (as of 2024), making it the cheapest way to get from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan. If you’re heading to Times Square specifically, this route offers excellent value. Looking for professional NYC car service for your entire stay? CoreCar has you covered.

How to Take the Q70 Bus From LaGuardia Airport to Connect With the Subway?

To take the Q70 bus from LaGuardia Airport, first follow the signs for “Public Transportation” or “Q70 LaGuardia Link” after exiting the baggage claim area. The bus stops are clearly marked at each terminal. Once you locate the bus stop, you can board the bus without paying on the vehicle itself, as the Q70 is a Select Bus Service that requires payment before boarding.

Before you board the bus, look for the ticket machines near the bus stop where you can pay the fare using a MetroCard, OMNY system with a debit or credit card, or your smartphone. If you don’t have a MetroCard, you can get a paper MetroCard from the machines at the airport. After paying, board the Q70 LaGuardia Link bus, which will take you to either Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave or Woodside, depending on your final destination in Manhattan.

For Times Square specifically, the recommended route is to take the Q70 to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave station, where you can transfer to the 7 train to Times Square. When you exit the bus at Jackson Heights, follow the signs to the subway station and take the 7 train heading to Manhattan. The entire journey from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square using this method typically takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on wait times and the time of day.

Can I Take the Subway Directly From LGA to Times Square?

No, you cannot take the subway directly from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square as there is no subway station at LGA. Unlike JFK Airport, which has the AirTrain connecting to the subway system, LaGuardia requires using a bus connection to reach the nearest subway station. This is why the MTA created the LaGuardia Link Q70 bus service, which serves as the missing link between the airport and the subway system.

To get to Times Square using the subway, you must first take a bus from LaGuardia Airport to connect with the subway line. The most efficient route is taking the Q70 LaGuardia Link bus to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Avenue station, where you can transfer to the 7 train to Times Square without any additional fare when using OMNY or a MetroCard, thanks to the free transfer between bus and subway services within a two-hour window.

Alternatively, you can take the M60-SBS bus service, which connects to several subway lines across Manhattan and Queens. However, for Times Square specifically, the Q70 to the 7 train is typically faster as the 7 train provides direct service to Times Square without additional transfers. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has designed these routes to offer the best public transportation options from LaGuardia to Manhattan destinations like Manhattan Airport Transportation destinations.

What’s the Most Affordable Way to Get From LaGuardia Airport to Times Square?

The cheapest way to get from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square is undoubtedly using public transportation. The combination of the free Q70 bus that travels nonstop from the airport to subway connections, followed by the subway, costs only $2.90 (the standard MTA fare) when using a MetroCard or OMNY payment system. This single fare covers both the bus ride and subway transfer as long as you make the transfer within two hours of starting your journey.

The M60 bus is another affordable option, costing the same $2.90 base fare. The M60-SBS service costs the same as the Q70 but takes a different route through Queens and Manhattan, connecting with different subway lines. For budget travelers, these public transit options offer significant savings compared to taxis or ride-sharing services that can cost $40-60 for the same journey.

To maximize your savings, consider purchasing a 7-day unlimited MetroCard if you plan to use public transportation frequently during your stay in New York City. At $34, it pays for itself after just 12 rides (6 round trips), making it an excellent value for tourists spending several days exploring the city. Plus, using the subway and bus gives you an authentic New York experience that many first-time visitors to NYC find adds to their trip. If you need NYC taxi alternative options later, CoreCar provides reliable services.

Is Uber or a Private Car Service Better for Getting From LGA to Times Square?

When deciding between Uber and a private car service for your ride from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square, several factors come into play. Uber offers convenience through its user-friendly app, allowing you to request a ride immediately upon landing without pre-booking. The Uber app also provides fare estimates and tracking features, which many travelers appreciate. However, during peak hours or high-demand periods, Uber prices can surge significantly, sometimes matching or exceeding traditional car service rates.

A private car service from LGA to Manhattan offers the advantages of guaranteed availability with advance booking, fixed pricing (no surge pricing), and often a more premium experience with professional drivers who know efficient routes through Queens to Manhattan. Many services also offer meet-and-greet options where drivers track your flight and wait for you with a name sign, which can be particularly helpful for first-time visitors to New York. For those traveling with family or who have substantial luggage, car services typically use larger vehicles that can accommodate your needs.

The decision ultimately depends on your priorities. If spontaneity and potential savings during off-peak hours are important, Uber might be your best bet. If you prefer the peace of mind that comes with pre-arranged transportation, guaranteed pricing, and a more personalized service, then a car service from LaGuardia airport is likely worth the extra cost. Either option will get you from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square in approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions, significantly faster than public transportation options.

How Does the Airport Shuttle Bus Service Work From Terminal B?

Airport shuttle bus services from Terminal B at LaGuardia provide convenient connections for travelers heading to Times Square. These dedicated shuttles operate regularly throughout the day, with services typically running every 15-30 minutes depending on the shuttle company. To access the shuttle bus service, follow the signs for “Ground Transportation” or “Shuttle Services” after exiting the baggage claim area at Terminal B.

Most shuttle services offer both shared rides and private options. Shared shuttles are more affordable but may make multiple stops to pick up other passengers before heading to Manhattan. These services typically charge a flat rate per person and follow set routes with designated drop-off points near major hotels and attractions, including Times Square. Private shuttle services offer door-to-door service, taking you directly from LaGuardia to your specific destination in Times Square without additional stops.

When using shuttle bus services, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during busy travel periods. Many shuttle companies offer online booking with discounts for round-trip reservations. While these services are typically more expensive than public transportation, they’re usually more affordable than taxis or private car services, making them a good middle-ground option for travelers who want direct service without the highest price tag. Some shuttles even offer amenities like free WiFi, making your journey from LGA to Midtown Manhattan more comfortable. Consider NYC sightseeing tour options for once you’ve settled in.

What Are the Alternative Transportation Methods From LaGuardia to Times Square?

Beyond the standard options, several alternative transportation methods exist for traveling from LaGuardia to Times Square. One interesting option is combining the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) with bus service. You can take the Q70 LaGuardia Link to Woodside, where you can connect to the LIRR for a quick ride to Penn Station, which is within walking distance of Times Square. This option can be faster than the subway during certain times of day, though it costs slightly more than the subway-only option.

For travelers who prefer the flexibility of having their own vehicle but don’t want to drive in Manhattan, there are ride-sharing services beyond Uber, such as Lyft and Via. Some of these services offer more affordable options like UberPool or Lyft Shared, where you might share your ride with other passengers heading in the same direction, reducing the cost while slightly increasing travel time. The Uber Shuttle option can also be a cost-effective middle ground between public transit and private rides.

Local bus routes beyond the Q70 and M60 exist as well. While these local bus services typically take longer because they make more stops, they might be convenient depending on your exact destination or if you’re looking to explore parts of Queens on your way to Manhattan. The MTA bus system is extensive, and using a combination of different bus routes might work well for travelers with specific needs or those looking to avoid the subway system entirely during their travel from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square.

What’s the Fastest Way to Get From LGA to Times Square?

The fastest way to get from LGA to Times Square depends largely on the time of day and traffic conditions. During off-peak hours when traffic is light, a taxi, Uber, or private car service provides the quickest journey, typically taking 25-35 minutes door-to-door. These services offer the advantage of direct transportation without transfers or waiting for public transit, and drivers familiar with the quickest routes between LaGuardia Airport and Midtown Manhattan.

However, during peak traffic hours—particularly weekday mornings and evenings—public transportation can actually be faster than road vehicles. The combination of the Q70 LaGuardia Link bus to Jackson Heights followed by the 7 train to Times Square bypasses congested roads, potentially cutting travel time to 40-50 minutes when traffic is at its worst. The 7 train travels under the East River through dedicated tunnels, avoiding the bottlenecks that vehicles face at bridges and tunnels.

For the absolute fastest option regardless of cost, helicopter services are available from LaGuardia to Manhattan heliports, though this premium service comes with a significant price tag and still requires ground transportation to Times Square from the heliport. For most travelers, the balance of speed, convenience, and cost makes a NYC town car service the fastest practical option during off-peak hours and the Q70/subway combination the fastest during heavy traffic periods. If punctuality is critical for your next trip from LaGuardia Airport, consider traffic patterns when choosing your transportation method.

How to Use the Long Island Rail Road as Part of Your Journey From LaGuardia?

The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) offers an excellent alternative for reaching Times Square from LaGuardia, particularly for travelers who prefer train travel over the subway or want to avoid Manhattan subway congestion. To use this option, start by taking the LaGuardia Link Q70 bus from any terminal at LGA to the Woodside LIRR station in Queens. The Q70 bus is designed for airport travelers and has space for luggage, making the first leg of your journey comfortable.

Once at Woodside, you can purchase LIRR tickets from the machines available at the station or use the MTA’s eTix app for mobile ticketing. The LIRR from Woodside to Penn Station is one of the quickest rail connections in the system, typically taking just 15-20 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day, with service approximately every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during off-peak times. From Penn Station, Times Square is a short 10-minute walk west, or you can connect to the 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, or W subway lines for a single stop to Times Square.

This combination of the Q70 bus and LIRR provides several advantages: it’s faster than the subway-only route during many hours of the day; LIRR trains are generally more comfortable than subway cars, with dedicated seating and space for luggage; and it allows you to avoid potentially crowded subway transfers. While this option costs more than using only the subway and bus ($2.90 for the Q70 plus approximately $7.50-$10.75 for the LIRR, depending on peak/off-peak travel), many travelers find the added comfort and speed worth the extra expense, especially after a long flight to LaGuardia Airport. If you need airport transfer service for your return trip, CoreCar can arrange that for you.

Key Things to Remember When Traveling From LGA to Times Square

• The Q70 LaGuardia Link bus provides free transfers to the subway system, making it the most affordable option at just $2.90 total.
• During peak traffic hours (weekday mornings and evenings), public transportation can be faster than taxis or car services.
• Private car services and Uber offer the most convenience but cost $40-60 depending on traffic and demand.
• Always budget extra time for your journey, especially during rush hour or bad weather conditions.
• The subway does not directly connect to LaGuardia Airport – you must take a bus to connect with the subway system.
• OMNY contactless payment system works on all buses and subways, eliminating the need for a MetroCard if you have a contactless credit/debit card.
• The LaGuardia Link Q70 bus has designated luggage space, making it more comfortable for airport travelers than regular local buses.
• For fastest service during off-peak hours, a private car or taxi will typically get you to Times Square in 25-35 minutes.
• Consider the Long Island Rail Road from Woodside as an alternative to the subway for a more comfortable train experience.
• Always follow the signs at LaGuardia for ground transportation to easily find your preferred transportation option.

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