How to Get From LaGuardia to Manhattan: A Quick & Easy Guide

I can still remember my first time flying to LaGuardia.

It was the morning of my 16th birthday, and my family had surprised me with a trip to NYC to see my favorite show, The Phantom of the Opera.

I think they secretly hoped this visit would change my mind about wanting to move to the city for school, but all it did was convince me I had to be a New Yorker.

Since then, I bet I’ve flown into LaGuardia at least 100 times.

As an ex-Upper East Sider, it was always my preferred airport because it was so easy to reach via car or using public transit.

These days I prefer it because I can swing by Beechers only NYC location (by Terminal B Gate 30) to grab some of their famous tomato soup and aged cheese.

Either way, I’m a total expert on how to get from LaGuardia to Manhattan, so grab a pen, because I’m about to tell you everything you need to know, and I’ll even show you, in my YouTube video below!

Choosing Your Mode of Transportation

Take a Taxi from LGA to NYC

Taking a taxi is the easiest option to get from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan.

The taxi meter will determine the fare for your trip, and each cab can normally accommodate up to 4 passengers.

I always use one with I have a ton of luggage or am just exhausted from traveling.

Taking Public Transit From LGA to Manhattan

If you’re looking for the cheapest option, take public transport.

The LaGuardia Link Q70 is a free bus that connects the airport to the subway lines in Jackson Heights, Queens.

From there, you can easily access various areas of Manhattan via the subway system.

I used this the last time I flew into LGA and it was super easy and quick to get to midtown.

Another option for reaching Manhattan is to catch the M60 bus, which connects the airport to multiple subway lines. This option costs only $2.75.

I used to do this all the time when I was living on the Upper East Side.

Local’s Tip: If you have big luggage or are traveling during peak hours, public transportation might not be comfortable and may take longer.

Transfer Services for Ease

It’s easy to use mobile apps or websites to book transportation services from LGA to Manhattan.

Depending on how much luggage you have or how people are in your party, this can be a fabulous option.

Popular apps are Uber, Lyft, or if you’re old-school, hire a car company to wait for you.

Rates may vary depending on the time of day and demand.

There’s also a shuttle bus service, which can accommodate larger groups and offers pre-arranged pickup and drop-off.

Navigating Through Public Transportation

Begin your journey with the free LaGuardia Link Q70 bus that connects LaGuardia to subway lines in Jackson Heights, Queens.

If you prefer, you can ride one more stop to Woodside for the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).

Once in Jackson Heights, you’ve got options including the 7, E, and R trains, at the Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave Subway Station.

The 7 train is a great option for reaching Midtown Manhattan, whereas the E and R trains can take you to Penn Station and the Port Authority.

Remember that subway fares are $2.75 per person, and you will need to purchase a MetroCard, which comes with a $1.00 fee.

Or you can scan your credit card at the new turnstiles, and they’ll automatically charge you.

Another option for traveling from LGA to Manhattan is the M60-SBS, a Select Bus Service that runs from the airport to 125th Street in Manhattan.

This route passes through Astoria, Queens, where you can transfer to the N and Q trains to reach your desired destination. The M60-SBS also stops near Penn Station, allowing for convenient transfers to the LIRR or various subway lines.

If you are heading to Woodside Station, consider taking the LIRR.

From there, you can quickly reach Manhattan, making it an efficient option for those looking to minimize travel time.

Don’t forget to check the train schedules and fares when planning your trip, since construction and delays can affect the schedule.

Popular Destination Points

When traveling from LGA to Manhattan, there are several popular destinations to consider. You can choose to stay at various hotels in and around the city, depending on your preference and budget.

Times Square: As the heart of New York City, Times Square is a bustling tourist hotspot. To get there, you can take a taxi for a relatively reasonable price. The taxi stand is located outside of baggage claim at the airport, and the fare is determined by the meter.

Or you can save money and use the LaGuardia Link Q70 bus to connect with the subway lines at Jackson Heights, Queens, and then take a train to Times Square.

Grand Central Terminal: This iconic landmark serves as a major transportation hub in Manhattan. You can take a taxi, ride-share, or use the Q70 bus and subway to get there.

FAQs About Getting to Manhattan From LGA

What is the best mode of transport from LGA to Times Square?

The best mode of transport from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Times Square depends on your preferences and budget.

If you’re on a budget, the Q70 bus and subway combo is the cheapest option for transportation, costing only $2.75.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi, Uber, or pre-book a private transfer if you prefer a more convenient ride.

How can I reach Penn Station from LaGuardia?

To reach Penn Station from LaGuardia Airport, you can take the Q70 bus to connect with the subway.

The Q70 bus will take you to the Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Avenue subway station, where you can transfer to the E train towards Manhattan.

The E train will make a stop at 34th Street-Penn Station.

What is the cost of a taxi from LaGuardia to Manhattan?

The cost of a taxi from LGA to Manhattan can vary depending on traffic and your destination within Manhattan.

You can expect to pay around $30 to $50 for a one-way taxi ride.

Is Uber or taxi cheaper from LGA to Manhattan?

Uber fares fluctuate depending on demand, so the price will depend on the time and day you’re traveling.

I almost always opt for Uber because prices are slightly cheaper than taxis. But it’s always a good idea to compare prices upon your arrival at LGA using the Uber app.

Does the Q70 bus connect LaGuardia to Manhattan?

The Q70 bus does not directly connect LGA to Manhattan.

However, it serves as an important link between the airport and the subway system, enabling travelers to reach Manhattan from the airport.

The Q70 bus connects LaGuardia to the Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Avenue subway station, from which you can take the E, F, M, R, or 7 trains into Manhattan.

Are there any express buses available from LaGuardia?

There are no direct express buses from LaGuardia to Manhattan. However, the Q70 bus, which is also known as the “LaGuardia Link”, offers a swift connection to the subway system. After that, it’s a quick ride to Manhattan.

Final Thoughts on How to Get From LaGuardia to Manhattan

I hope this guide has you excited to fly into LGA on your next trip to New York City.

Now that you’re ready to fly, here’s a funny Saturday Night Live clip about LGA to give you a laugh as a reward for doing your research on how to get from LaGuardia to Manhattan

Though, full disclaimer, they’re making fun of the old airport.

Since then, there’s been a lot of construction and LaGuardia is a lot nicer now.

Though, I’d still skip the airport sushi (watch the video to find out why).