How To Get To LaGuardia Airport?

Key Takeaway:

Public transportation options are a cost-effective way to get to LaGuardia Airport. Consider taking the MTA bus system or the subway and bus combo.
Taxi and ride-share services are a convenient option for those who don’t want to use public transportation. Check which taxi or ride-share service is allowed to drop off passengers at the airport before booking.
Driving to LaGuardia Airport is an option, but parking can be expensive. Consider using rental car services as an alternative, or park offsite and take a shuttle to the airport.

What is the fastest way to get to LaGuardia Airport from Manhattan?

For the fastest trip to LaGuardia Airport from Manhattan, check live traffic before you leave: drives can take 45 to 90 minutes in city traffic. BLADE’s scheduled by-the-seat Manhattan airport flights serve JFK and Newark rather than LaGuardia, and private charters can be requested through the BLADE app. For business travelers on a tight schedule, BLADE offers a faster alternative to taxis, ride-shares or public transportation, and travelers managing airport connections such as JFK to LGA transfers often look for the fastest routing.

A city skyline and airport seen from a helicopter at night.

Public Transportation Options for Getting to LaGuardia Airport

If you’re comparing airport routes across the city, reviewing a full guide on getting to Manhattan from JFK, Newark, or LaGuardia can help you understand typical travel times, pricing, and congestion patterns before planning your trip. Public transportation is the lowest-cost way to reach LaGuardia Airport. The two main options are the MTA bus system and a subway and bus combination.

Using the MTA Bus System

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s bus system provides a reliable and affordable way to get to LaGuardia Airport. Here are some useful tips for navigating the MTA Bus System when traveling to LaGuardia Airport:

Check the bus timetables and plan your journey in advance
Use the cash farebox or tap a contactless card, smartphone or OMNY Card when boarding the bus
Take a Q47, Q48, M60-SBS or Q70-SBS bus depending on your location
The Q70 LaGuardia Link is a free bus that serves Terminals B and C
MTA’s TripPlanner+ is a free online tool that provides step-by-step guidance for using the bus system.

Depending on traffic, the bus can take longer than a taxi or ride-share, so allow enough time for the trip.

The bus is also one of the lowest-emission ways to reach LaGuardia Airport.

The Q70 LaGuardia Link is free, which makes the bus the cheapest way to reach Terminals B and C.

Another option combines the subway with a bus.

Taking the Subway and Bus Combo

The subway and bus combination is an affordable way to reach LaGuardia Airport. Follow these steps:

Board the NYC Subway train closest to your location that will take you to the bus station at Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Avenue Station.
Exit at this stop and transfer to the free Q70 LaGuardia Link bus going toward LaGuardia Airport.
Stay on the bus until you reach your desired terminal at LaGuardia Airport.
Check which terminal your airline uses before you board the bus.

This option can take longer than a taxi, but it costs much less.

Riding the Long Island Rail Road and the Q70 Bus

For a faster rail option to LaGuardia Airport, combine the Long Island Rail Road with the Q70 bus. Take the train from Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan or Jamaica to Woodside, then transfer to the free Q70 LaGuardia Link bus to Terminal B or C.

With trains departing frequently throughout the day and night, taking the LIRR is a convenient choice for travelers looking to avoid traffic on their way to LaGuardia Airport.

If you would rather not use transit, a taxi or ride-share takes you straight to the terminal.

It’s worth mentioning that during peak travel times, such as holidays or special events, train schedules can fill up fast and waiting times may increase. Be sure to plan ahead and purchase your tickets online beforehand. By doing so, your journey will be smoother from start to finish.

Taxis and ride-share services both take you directly to your LaGuardia terminal.

Taking a Taxi to LaGuardia Airport

Getting a taxi to LaGuardia Airport is effortless with the numerous taxi services available in the area, and many visitors also plan their return route in advance by checking how to get from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square or other central Manhattan destinations. Book a taxi ahead of time or hail one on the street.

Once you have gotten into your chosen Taxi, it will typically take 20-40 minutes from most parts of New York City to get to the airport, depending on traffic conditions. You should be mindful of delays that may arise due to severe weather or construction works.

It is best to ensure that you have some cash with you if paying by card isn’t an option, since not all taxis accept card payments. To avoid surprises, confirm the cab is metered; trips to and from LaGuardia are charged the metered fare plus a $5.00 surcharge and other applicable surcharges.

If you prefer to pay in an app, a ride-share is the alternative.

Ride-share costs vary, so compare a shared ride with a private one before you book.

Best Time to Travel to LaGuardia Airport

Timing your journey can make a significant difference in reaching LaGuardia efficiently, especially if you first check how far LaGuardia Airport is from New York City and estimate your expected travel time. Early mornings and late evenings generally offer lighter traffic conditions, while mid-day hours and weekends tend to be busier. If you’re catching a flight, plan to leave at least 2 to 3 hours before departure, especially during peak weekday rush hours. Apps like Google Maps and Waze can help monitor real-time congestion and suggest the fastest alternate routes.

Does Blade offer helicopter transfers to LaGuardia Airport?

Not on a scheduled basis: BLADE’s by-the-seat Manhattan airport flights serve JFK and Newark rather than LaGuardia, and private helicopter charters can be requested through BLADE. This service is commonly used by business travelers and frequent flyers who want to avoid congestion on city roads and reduce total airport travel time.

A helicopter on a rooftop helipad with the Manhattan skyline at dusk.

When it comes to accessing LaGuardia Airport, using ride-share services is a popular mode of transportation. These services offer convenient and flexible transportation for passengers, making them an appealing option for many. Using ride-share services like Uber or Lyft is easy and efficient, as they can be accessed through a mobile app on your smartphone.

You can simply request a ride from your current location, and the driver will arrive shortly to pick you up. Payment is also automated through the app, so there’s no need to worry about carrying cash or exchanging money with the driver. Additionally, using ride-share services may be more cost-effective than taking a traditional taxi.

It’s important to note that while ride-share companies are allowed to operate at LaGuardia Airport, there are specific pick-up locations designated for them. These locations vary depending on the terminal you’re in, so make sure to confirm the exact location with your driver before heading their way.

To guarantee a smooth experience when using ride-share services at LaGuardia Airport, consider ordering your pick-up as soon as you’ve collected all of your baggage and ready to leave the airport facility. This will allow sufficient time for your driver to arrive and avoid any potential delays or missed flights.

Know where the designated pick-up locations are and order your ride ahead of time.

Driving yourself is another option, with parking at and near the airport.

Tips to Make Your Airport Commute Stress-Free

To ensure a smooth trip to LaGuardia, always confirm your terminal in advance, track flight updates, and review how many flights arrive and depart LaGuardia Airport so you can anticipate busy travel periods. Keep digital copies of your boarding pass, check TSA wait times online, and opt for drop-off zones closest to your terminal entrance. For frequent flyers, enrolling in TSA PreCheck can save valuable minutes at security checkpoints. Planning ahead reduces last-minute stress and helps you reach your flight with time to spare.

Driving to LaGuardia Airport

If you drive to LaGuardia Airport, you can park on site or rent a car. The sections below cover both.

Parking Options at LaGuardia Airport

Looking for where to park at LaGuardia Airport? Here’s what you need to know:

Parking options include daily, long-term and short-term parking.
Terminal parking garages cost more than economy lots.
Parking prices vary based on the duration of stay and type of lot.
Off-site parking facilities tend to be cheaper but may require shuttle service.

If you’re looking for affordable rates, try off-site parking facilities that provide shuttle services.

Did you know? According to The New York Times, as of 2020, LaGuardia Airport has plans to expand its parking and add 3,100 additional spaces.

Rental Car Services at LaGuardia Airport

Several well-known car rental companies serve LaGuardia Airport.

Major rental car companies such as Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz and National operate from the terminal of LaGuardia Airport.
The rental car counters are located on the first floor of Terminal A and Terminal B.
Shuttle buses transport passengers to vehicle pick-up locations operated by these 8 major rental car providers near the airport.
The vehicles are parked in parking garages adjacent to the terminals providing convenient access to travelers.
Rental rates depend on factors such as location, duration and mileage needed.
Additionally, some of these companies offer special discounts and promotions during holiday seasons and for frequent travelers.

In addition to this information, it’s essential to note that there are no private cars allowed at the terminals for pick-up or drop-off purposes. Therefore, visitors must utilize shuttle buses or taxis to reach designated areas for rental cars.

Interestingly, LaGuardia Airport has been serving as an aviation hub since 1939 when it was initially established under Mayor Fiorello La Guardia’s vision of providing world-class air travel facilities for citizens. Over time the airport transformed into one of New York City’s vital transportation hubs recognized worldwide.

Choosing the Right Travel Option for Your Budget and Schedule

When deciding how to get to LaGuardia Airport, balance cost, comfort, and convenience. Public transportation options like the MTA and LIRR are ideal for budget-conscious travelers, while taxis and ride-shares provide flexible, door-to-door service, and travelers evaluating the best way to get to Manhattan from airport locations often compare travel time, luggage convenience, and traffic reliability. For those prioritizing time savings, BLADE’s helicopter transfers offer a flight of about five minutes between Manhattan and JFK or Newark. Selecting the right option depends on your departure time, luggage, and overall travel goals.

FAQs about How To Get To Laguardia Airport?

How do I get to LaGuardia Airport by public transportation?

To get to LaGuardia Airport by public transportation, you can take the MTA bus or subway. The M60-SBS bus provides service from Manhattan and Queens, while the free Q70 LaGuardia Link provides service from Queens. You can also take the subway to the airport using the 7 train or the E, F, M, or R trains.

Is there a shuttle service to LaGuardia Airport?

Yes, there are shuttle services available to LaGuardia Airport. Some of the popular shuttle services include GO Airlink NYC. You can book these shuttle services online or at a ticket counter in the airport.

The cost of a taxi or ride-sharing service to LaGuardia Airport will depend on your pickup location and the time of day. On average, a taxi ride to the airport can cost between $25 and $45. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft will also vary in price, but can typically be a bit cheaper than a taxi ride.

Can I park my car at LaGuardia Airport?

Yes, you can park your car at LaGuardia Airport. The airport has several parking options, including long-term parking, short-term parking, and valet parking. The cost of parking will depend on the length of your stay and the type of parking you choose.

How do I get to LaGuardia Airport from JFK Airport?

You can how to get from JFK to LaGuardia Airport by taking a taxi, ride-sharing service, or public transportation, depending on your luggage, connection time, and traffic conditions. If you choose to take public transportation, you can take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station, then the E train to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Avenue and transfer to the free Q70 LaGuardia Link bus to the airport.

How early should I arrive at LaGuardia Airport?

It is recommended that you arrive at LaGuardia Airport at least 2 hours before your domestic flight and 3 hours before your international flight. This will allow you enough time to check in, go through security, and arrive at your gate on time.