How to Get to Times Square from Jersey Gardens [2025–2026 Guide] 🛍️🗽🚆

The best way to get from The Mills at Jersey Gardens to Times Square without a car is to bus which takes 46 min and costs $9 – $65.

🛍️ Why This Route Matters

Jersey Gardens Mall (The Mills at Jersey Gardens) in Elizabeth, New Jersey is one of the most popular shopping destinations near NYC, especially for tax-free clothing deals. After a shopping spree, many travelers head straight to Times Square, the heart of Manhattan. Luckily, there are multiple transportation options to get you there—fast, affordable, and convenient.

🚌 Option 1: NJ Transit Bus (Direct Route to Manhattan)

The easiest and most direct public transit option is the NJ Transit Bus.

• Route: Take the NJ Transit Bus 111 or 115 from Jersey Gardens directly to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan (just steps from Times Square).
• Travel Time: 40–60 minutes (depending on traffic).
• Cost: Around $7 one-way.

👉 Best for shoppers looking for a simple, direct ride into Times Square.

🚆 Option 2: Train via Elizabeth Station

If you prefer trains, you can connect to NJ Transit Rail.

• Step 1: Take a short taxi, Uber, or local bus to Elizabeth Station.
• Step 2: Board an NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station.
• Step 3: From Penn Station, either walk (10–12 minutes) or take the subway (1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W, or 7) one stop to Times Square–42nd Street.
• Travel Time: 50–70 minutes total.
• Cost: About $8.25 train fare + $2–$5 local transfer.

👉 Best for those who want more flexible departure times or to avoid bus traffic.

🚖 Option 3: Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

Door-to-door service is always available.

• Travel Time: 35–60 minutes (depends on tunnel/bridge traffic).
• Cost: $40–$70 (including tolls).

👉 Best for families or shoppers with multiple bags.

🚗 Option 4: Driving Yourself

If you have a car or rental, you can drive directly into Manhattan.

• Route: Take the NJ Turnpike (I-95 N) toward the Lincoln Tunnel into Midtown Manhattan.
• Travel Time: 35–60 minutes (traffic-heavy during rush hours).
• Cost: $15–$20 tolls + $40–$60 parking near Times Square.

👉 Best for groups splitting costs, but parking can be tricky.

🚌 Option 5: Shopping Shuttles (Occasional)

During peak shopping seasons, tour operators sometimes run shuttles from Jersey Gardens to Times Square or nearby Manhattan stops.

• Travel Time: 45–60 minutes.
• Cost: Varies ($10–$20).

👉 Best for tourists booking package deals.

📊 Travel Options Summary

🕒 Best Times to Travel

• Morning (9–11 AM): Easier to get buses and trains before mid-day rush.
• Afternoon (12–4 PM): Smoothest travel window for both bus and car.
• Evening (5–8 PM): Heavy traffic in tunnels—expect delays.
• Late Night (After 9 PM): Fewer buses, but Uber/Lyft and trains still work.

❓ FAQs About Getting to Times Square from Jersey Gardens

Q1: What’s the cheapest way to get from Jersey Gardens to Times Square?
The NJ Transit Bus (111 or 115) is the cheapest and most direct, at about $7 per trip.

Q2: How far is Jersey Gardens from Times Square?
Roughly 16 miles (25 km), depending on the route.

Q3: Can I take a train directly from Jersey Gardens?
Not directly. You must first reach Elizabeth Station for an NJ Transit train.

Q4: Is Uber or Lyft available at Jersey Gardens Mall?
Yes, rideshares are easily available from the mall entrance.

Q5: Do buses from Jersey Gardens run late?
Yes, but frequency drops after 10 PM. Late-night travelers should consider Uber/Lyft or trains.

✅ Whether you’re shopping for deals or visiting NYC, getting from Jersey Gardens Mall to Times Square (2025–2026) is simple. For budget and convenience, NJ Transit Bus 111/115 is best, while Uber or car rides are perfect for carrying bags, and trains offer a good backup option.