How to Get to LGA from New York City [2025-2026 Guide]

Posted on by John Mathew

How to Get to LGA from New York City [2025-2026 Guide]

Wondering how to get to LaGuardia Airport (LGA) from New York City? This 2025–2026 guide covers buses, subways, taxis, and rideshares with travel times, fares, and best routes.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is one of New York City’s busiest airports, located in Queens. Whether you’re flying domestic or connecting to another city, knowing how to get there efficiently is important. Luckily, there are multiple ways to travel from Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, or beyond—including public transit, shuttle buses, taxis, and rideshares. This guide explains each option with travel times, fares, and insider tips.

🚍 Option 1: MTA Bus + Subway (Most Affordable)

The MTA bus system, connected to the subway, is the most budget-friendly way to reach LGA.

  • From Manhattan or Brooklyn, take the subway to Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Avenue (E, F, M, R, 7 lines).
  • Transfer to the Q70 SBS (Select Bus Service) “LaGuardia Link”, which goes directly to all LGA terminals.

⏱ Travel time: 45–60 minutes from Midtown Manhattan
💵 Cost: $2.90 (with free transfer from subway to bus using OMNY or MetroCard)
👉 Check schedules on the MTA website.

🚐 Option 2: Shuttle Buses (Convenient)

Airport shuttles are a stress-free option if you’re carrying luggage.

  • NYC Airporter and private shuttle services run between Midtown Manhattan (Grand Central, Penn Station, Port Authority) and LGA.
  • They drop off at all terminals.

⏱ Travel time: 45–60 minutes
💵 Cost: $17–$20 one way

🚕 Option 3: Taxi (Direct and Reliable)

Taking a yellow cab is one of the simplest ways to travel.

  • You can hail a cab anywhere in the city or use taxi stands.
  • Taxis go directly to your terminal without transfers.

⏱ Travel time: 25–40 minutes (depending on traffic)
💵 Cost: $30–$45 + tolls + tip
👉 Regulated by the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission.

🚗 Option 4: Rideshares (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available across NYC.

  • Prices vary depending on time of day and surge pricing.
  • Convenient door-to-door drop-off at all terminals.

⏱ Travel time: 25–40 minutes
💵 Cost: $25–$50 (dynamic pricing)

🚊 Option 5: LIRR + Q70 Bus (Fast from Midtown)

For a faster, comfortable trip, combine the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) with the Q70 bus.

  • From Penn Station, take the LIRR to Woodside Station.
  • Transfer to the Q70 SBS bus to LaGuardia.

⏱ Travel time: 30–45 minutes
💵 Cost: $7.00 (off-peak LIRR fare) + $2.90 bus fare
👉 See schedules at MTA LIRR.

🚘 Option 6: Driving or Car Service

If you’re renting a car or using a private service, driving is straightforward but can be slower due to NYC traffic.

  • From Manhattan, take the Grand Central Parkway East directly to LaGuardia Airport.
  • Parking is available at all terminals.

⏱ Travel time: 25–50 minutes (depending on traffic)
💵 Cost: Tolls + $25–$45/day parking

📊 Travel Options Summary

Option Time (approx.) Cost (USD) Best For
Subway + Q70 Bus 🚍 45–60 mins $2.90 Budget travel
Shuttle Bus 🚐 45–60 mins $17–$20 Easy luggage handling
Taxi 🚕 25–40 mins $30–$45 + tolls Direct, reliable
Rideshare 🚗 25–40 mins $25–$50 Door-to-door
LIRR + Q70 🚊 30–45 mins $9.90 approx. Fast from Midtown
Driving 🚘 25–50 mins Tolls + parking Flexible schedule

🙋 FAQs about Getting to LGA from NYC

Q1: What is the cheapest way to get to LGA from NYC?
The cheapest option is the subway + Q70 bus, costing just $2.90 with free transfers.

Q2: How long does it take to get to LaGuardia from Manhattan?
It usually takes 25–60 minutes, depending on traffic and the transport option you choose.

Q3: Can I take the subway directly to LaGuardia?
No, there is no direct subway to LGA. You must transfer to the Q70 bus at Jackson Heights or Woodside.

Q4: Is there an AirTrain to LGA like JFK?
No, LGA does not have an AirTrain. The main public option is the Q70 SBS bus.

Q5: Are taxis to LaGuardia flat rate like JFK?
No, taxi fares to LGA are metered, typically $30–$45 plus tolls and tips.

✅ In summary: Getting to LaGuardia Airport (LGA) from New York City is simple, with options for every budget and schedule. The Q70 SBS bus is cheapest, taxis and rideshares are fastest, and shuttles are convenient for luggage.

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