Flying into Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and planning to visit Times Square? This 2025 guide shows you exactly how to get to Times Square from EWR, including all travel options—trains, buses, rideshares, and shuttles. Whether you’re visiting for business, Broadway, or the ball drop on New Year’s Eve, this Times Square transit guide ensures your journey is smooth, fast, and stress-free.
🚆 By AirTrain + NJ Transit + Subway – Best Budget-Friendly Option
This is the most cost-effective and popular route from Newark Airport to Times Square.
Step-by-Step Directions (2025):
- From your arrival terminal, take the AirTrain Newark to Newark Liberty Airport Station
- Transfer to a NJ Transit train headed to New York Penn Station
- Walk 10–12 minutes or take the 1/2/3 subway line uptown to Times Square–42nd Street Station
🕒 Travel Time: 45–60 minutes
💰 Cost:
- AirTrain: Free within EWR; $8.25 if exiting to NJ Transit
- NJ Transit train: ~$14.50 to Penn Station
- Subway (if needed): $2.90
📱 Tip: Use NJ Transit for schedules and mobile ticketing
🚖 By Taxi or Uber – Convenient but Costly During Traffic
Direct car service is convenient, especially with luggage or late-night arrivals.
From Terminal to Times Square:
- Get a yellow cab or Uber/Lyft from outside arrivals
- Ask driver for Times Square (7th Ave & W 42nd St)
🕒 Travel Time: 45–90 minutes (depending on traffic)
💰 Fare Estimate (2025): $70–$100 including tolls and tip
🚦 Best Time to Travel: Before 7:30 AM or after 8 PM to avoid rush hour
🚌 By Express Bus – Straight Shot to Midtown Manhattan
The Express Bus to Manhattan is a reliable and affordable option with no transfers.
Details (2025):
- Board at Terminals A, B, or C
- Drop-off near Port Authority Bus Terminal (8th Ave & 42nd St)—just 1 block from Times Square
- Operated by Coach USA or NJ Transit Bus 107
🕒 Travel Time: 60–75 minutes
💰 Fare: ~$18 one way
🧳 Best For: Solo travelers or those with moderate luggage
🌐 Port Authority Bus Terminal Info
🚗 By Rental Car – Best for Multi-Day Travelers
Renting a car is ideal only if you’re continuing beyond Manhattan.
Route (2025):
- Take I-78 East → Holland Tunnel → West Street → 42nd Street
- Parking near Times Square is limited and expensive
🕒 Drive Time: 45–90 minutes
💰 Car Rental: Starts at ~$70/day
🅿️ Parking: $40–$70/day near Times Square
🚫 Not recommended if you’re only staying in Manhattan
✈️ Airport Shuttle – Great for Groups or Hotels Near Times Square
Shared airport shuttle vans operate between EWR and Midtown.
Details (2025):
- Pre-book online or via hotel concierge
- Door-to-door drop-off at major hotels near Times Square
- Operated by SuperShuttle, Go Airlink NYC, and others
🕒 Travel Time: 75–90 minutes
💰 Fare: ~$30–$40 per person
🚐 Tip: Cheaper for groups of 3+
🧑🦽 Accessibility Notes
- AirTrain Newark, NJ Transit, and NYC Subway (1/2/3 lines) are ADA compliant
- Accessible drop-offs available at Times Square 42nd Street
🔗 MTA Accessibility Guide
🗓️ Holiday Travel Note: Christmas & New Year’s Eve 🎄🎉
If traveling on December 25 (Christmas Day) or December 31 (New Year’s Eve):
- Expect heightened security and heavy traffic near Times Square
- Streets close early on New Year’s Eve, so public transit is strongly recommended
- Book travel well in advance, especially if staying overnight for the NYE ball drop
🧠 FAQs
How far is Times Square from Newark Airport (EWR)?
Times Square is approximately 16 miles (26 km) from Newark Liberty International Airport. Travel time ranges from 45 to 90 minutes depending on the method.
What is the fastest way to get from EWR to Times Square?
The fastest and most affordable way in 2025 is via AirTrain + NJ Transit, taking about 45 minutes to reach New York Penn Station near Times Square.
Is there a direct train from Newark Airport to Times Square?
No direct train, but you can take NJ Transit to Penn Station and walk or take the 1/2/3 subway one stop to Times Square–42nd Street.
Does Uber go to Times Square from EWR in 2025?
Yes, rideshare apps like Uber, Lyft, and yellow cabs operate between EWR and Times Square, costing between $70–$100 based on traffic.
Is public transport safe from Newark Airport to Times Square?
Yes, NJ Transit and NYC Subway are safe for tourists in 2025, especially during daytime. Stick to well-lit areas and follow signage.
Trusted Government Sources: