5 Ways to Get from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square

Travelers arriving at LaGuardia Airport (LGA) often want the fastest, easiest, or most affordable way to reach Times Square. The connection between LaGuardia and Midtown Manhattan involves several transportation choices—each offering different levels of comfort, cost, and convenience.

This comprehensive guide explains every option clearly, including travel times, fares, pros and cons, and who each method is best suited for. Whether you’re visiting New York City for the first time or commuting regularly, this article helps you make the right choice.

Below are the five most common and practical ways to get from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square, each with its own advantages depending on your schedule, budget, and travel style.

1. Taxi (Yellow Cab)

A traditional yellow taxi remains one of the most popular ways to travel from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square. Cabs are available directly outside each terminal, and you do not need a reservation. This option offers a direct, private ride to any location in Midtown Manhattan without the need to navigate public transit or transfer between vehicles.

Passenger Capacity:

Up to 4 passengers in standard sedans; 5–6 in larger taxis (if available at the line).

Average Time:

25–45 minutes depending on traffic, with longer travel times during peak hours.

Cost:

Usually $45–$70+, including tolls, airport fees, and potential surcharges.
Metered fares vary based on real-time traffic.

Pros:

• Direct ride with door-to-door convenience
• No advance planning or apps needed
• Taxi pickup zones are well-organized

Cons:

• Metered fares can increase significantly during traffic
• Limited luggage space in some sedans
• No cost predictability

Best For:

First-time NYC visitors, late-night arrivals, travelers with moderate luggage, and anyone who prefers a simple, direct trip without transfers.

2. Rideshare (Uber, Lyft)

Rideshare services offer another straightforward way to reach Times Square from LaGuardia Airport. These trips are booked through mobile apps, giving travelers greater control over vehicle type, pickup timing, and fare expectations. Pricing, however, can fluctuate due to surge pricing.

Passenger Capacity:

Varies by vehicle type—from 1–4 passengers for standard rides to 5–6 for SUVs.

Average Time:

25–45 minutes, depending on traffic and pickup availability.

Cost:

Approximately $40–$85+, depending on demand, time of day, and vehicle type.

Pros:

• Book directly through your phone
• Vehicle type selection (standard, XL, premium)
• Track the driver’s arrival in real time

Cons:

• Surge pricing during busy hours
• App errors or driver cancellations during peak demand
• Wait times can vary by terminal

Best For:

Travelers who want flexible booking, upgraded vehicles, or predictable pickup timing.

3. Private Car Service / Chauffeur

Private car services provide the most comfortable and reliable way to travel from LaGuardia to Times Square. This option includes pre-scheduled pickup, professional chauffeurs, and luxury vehicles. Car services offer fixed pricing, meet-and-greet options, and real-time flight monitoring, ensuring a seamless transition from the airport to Midtown Manhattan.

Passenger Capacity:

Sedans (1–3 passengers), SUVs (4–6 passengers), and vans (up to 10 passengers depending on provider).

Average Time:

25–40 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

Cost:

Flat-rate pricing varies by company and vehicle type but remains consistent regardless of traffic or time of day.

Pros:

• Guaranteed pickup and professional service
• Flat-rate pricing—no hidden costs or surges
• Ideal for families, groups, executives, and travelers with large luggage
• Clean, quiet, comfortable vehicles

Cons:

• Must be booked in advance
• Higher cost than public transit or shuttle

Best For:

Business travelers, families, international passengers, and anyone who values comfort and predictability.

4. Airport Shuttle / Shared Vans

Shuttle and shared-ride vans operate between LaGuardia Airport and Midtown Manhattan, including major hotel corridors near Times Square. Shared shuttles are an economical option, though travel times increase because of multiple passenger drop-offs.

Passenger Capacity:

Up to 10–14 passengers depending on the shuttle provider.

Average Time:

60–90 minutes due to multiple stops.

Cost:

Generally $25–$40 per person.

Pros:

• More affordable than taxis or rideshares
• No need to navigate public transportation
• Convenient for solo travelers

Cons:

• Longer travel time
• Crowded vehicles during peak periods
• Pickup times may not always align with flight schedules

Best For:

Solo travelers, student travelers, and visitors on a budget who still prefer a vehicle-based transfer.

5. Public Transportation (Bus + Subway)

Since LGA does not have a direct subway or train station, passengers use a bus to connect to New York City’s subway system. This is the cheapest but the most complex method, especially for those unfamiliar with the city or carrying heavy luggage.

Key Bus Options from LaGuardia:

• Q70 SBS (Select Bus Service) to Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Ave or Woodside (connects to E, F, R, 7 subway lines).
• M60 SBS to Astoria or Harlem (connects to N, W trains and the 125 St corridor).

Overall Trip Breakdown:

• Step 1: Ride the Q70 or M60 to a subway hub
• Step 2: Take the subway to Times Sq–42 St
• Step 3: Walk to your hotel or final destination

Passenger Capacity:

Open to all passengers; good for solo or light-luggage travelers.

Average Time:

45–70 minutes depending on bus wait time and subway frequency.

Cost:

$2.90 per ride (or $5.80 total depending on transfers).
Free transfers apply with OMNY or MetroCard.

Pros:

• Most affordable travel option
• Reliable bus frequency
• Avoids traffic delays during heavy congestion

Cons:

• Requires transfers
• Not ideal for large luggage
• Can be crowded during peak hours
• May be confusing for first-time visitors

Best For:

Budget travelers, backpackers, and NYC-savvy visitors who prioritize cost savings over convenience.

What Is the Best Way to Travel from LGA to Times Square?

The best way to travel from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Times Square depends on what you value most—speed, comfort, or affordability. If you want the most stress-free and reliable ride, a private car service offers the best overall experience, with flat-rate pricing, professional chauffeurs, and direct door-to-door travel. If you prefer a quick and simple option, taxis and rideshares are fast and convenient, especially if you’re traveling with luggage. For travelers on a tight budget, the Q70 or M60 bus plus subway transfer is the cheapest method, though it requires more steps and isn’t ideal for heavy luggage.

Each option is ranked differently based on cost, time, comfort, and convenience. The table below provides a clear comparison to help you choose the right method.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get from LGA Airport to Times Square?

The fastest method is generally by taxi, rideshare, or private car service, with travel times averaging 25–40 minutes. These options avoid the delays associated with transfers and are efficient during off-peak traffic periods.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get from LaGuardia to Times Square?

The cheapest route is public transportation, costing $2.90–$5.80 depending on transfers. Travelers use the Q70 or M60 bus to connect with subway lines that stop at Times Sq–42 St. This method requires more effort but offers excellent savings.

How Long Does It Take from LGA to Times Square?

Typical travel time ranges from 25 to 70 minutes, depending on the transportation option:

• Taxi / Rideshare / Car Service: 25–45 minutes
• Airport Shuttle: 60–90 minutes
• Public Transit: 45–70 minutes

Weather, traffic, and arrival time can influence total travel time.

What Is the Distance from LGA Airport to Times Square?

LaGuardia Airport is approximately 8–10 miles from Times Square, depending on the route. Although the distance is relatively short, heavy New York City traffic can significantly impact travel time—especially during rush hour or major events.

Which Airport in New York Is Closest to Times Square?

LaGuardia Airport is generally the closest major airport to Times Square:

• LaGuardia (LGA): Closest, about 8–10 miles
• JFK Airport: 15+ miles
• Newark (EWR): 16–18 miles, depending on route

This proximity is why many travelers arriving for Midtown Manhattan or Times Square events choose LGA.

Which Transportation Option Is Most Popular for LGA to Times Square?

The most commonly chosen method is rideshare, followed closely by yellow taxis. Travelers prefer these because they offer direct, door-to-door service without the need to understand the subway system or manage transfers. Private car services are increasingly popular among travelers seeking reliability and comfort, especially after long flights.

Why Private Car Service Is the Most Popular Option?

Private car services provide an unmatched level of predictability and comfort. With flat-rate pricing, professional chauffeurs, and no wait times at the terminal, travelers can relax from the moment they land. Unlike taxis or rideshare, private car services avoid surge pricing and ensure that your driver is ready before you reach the pickup area.

Why Ride Soho Is the Best Choice for LGA to Times Square?

Ride Soho focuses on delivering a seamless airport-to-city experience through:

• Clean, luxury vehicles
• Courteous, professional chauffeurs
• Flat-rate pricing with no surprises
• Flight-tracking technology for on-time pickup
• Comfortable seating and luggage assistance

This makes Ride Soho an ideal choice for families, business travelers, and visitors who want a smooth transfer into Midtown Manhattan.