How to Get to Times Square from Newark [2025-2026 Guide]
Traveling from Newark to Times Square is simple by train, bus, car, or rideshare. This 2025-2026 guide explains routes, costs, and times so you choose the best option.
Heading from Newark, New Jersey to the dazzling lights of Times Square in Manhattan is one of the most common journeys for travelers. Whether you’re landing at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) or staying in the city of Newark itself, there are multiple ways to reach Times Square. In this guide, I’ll walk you through each option—trains, buses, taxis, and rideshares—so you know the best choice for speed, budget, or convenience.
🚆 Option 1: NJ Transit or Amtrak Train (Fastest & Most Popular)
The quickest and most reliable way is to take a train from Newark Penn Station or Newark Liberty Airport Station into New York Penn Station. From there, Times Square is just a short walk or one subway stop away.
- NJ Transit trains run frequently between Newark and NYC.
- Amtrak also serves this route, though usually at higher fares.
⏱ Travel time: 20–30 minutes
💵 Cost: $5–$15 (NJ Transit), $20+ (Amtrak)
👉 Check schedules on NJ Transit and Amtrak.
🚌 Option 2: NJ Transit Bus from Newark to NYC
Another option is to catch an NJ Transit bus from Newark to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan, just a block from Times Square.
- Buses are frequent and direct, though traffic can cause delays.
- Best for those staying near a Newark bus stop.
⏱ Travel time: 30–60 minutes (traffic-dependent)
💵 Cost: About $7–$10
👉 Check routes on NJ Transit Bus Service.
🚖 Option 3: Taxi from Newark to Times Square
Taxis are available throughout Newark, and you can also take a yellow cab or airport taxi directly from Newark Liberty International Airport.
- Comfortable and door-to-door.
- Best if you have heavy luggage.
⏱ Travel time: 30–60 minutes (traffic-dependent)
💵 Cost: $70–$100 (plus tolls and tips)
🚗 Option 4: Uber or Lyft (Flexible but Pricey)
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are popular for Newark to Times Square trips. Prices vary depending on demand, traffic, and pick-up location.
- Convenient with app booking.
- Can be more expensive during peak hours.
⏱ Travel time: 30–60 minutes
💵 Cost: $60–$100+ depending on surge pricing
🚙 Option 5: Driving Yourself
If you’re renting a car, you can drive from Newark to Manhattan. However, parking in Times Square is expensive and traffic is heavy.
- Best only if you need the car afterward.
⏱ Travel time: 30–90 minutes (depending on traffic)
💵 Cost: Tolls ($15–20) + Parking ($30–60 per day)
📊 Travel Options Summary
| Option | Time (approx.) | Cost (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train 🚆 | 20–30 mins | $5–$15 | Fastest & most reliable |
| Bus 🚌 | 30–60 mins | $7–$10 | Budget & direct Midtown access |
| Taxi 🚖 | 30–60 mins | $70–$100 | Luggage & door-to-door |
| Uber/Lyft 🚗 | 30–60 mins | $60–$100+ | Flexible pick-up |
| Driving 🚙 | 30–90 mins | $50+ total | If renting a car |
🙋 FAQs about Getting to Times Square from Newark
Q1: What is the cheapest way from Newark to Times Square?
The NJ Transit train is the cheapest and fastest option, starting at around $5.
Q2: How far is Newark from Times Square?
Newark is about 10 miles from Midtown Manhattan. Travel time depends heavily on traffic.
Q3: Can I take a direct bus to Times Square?
Yes, NJ Transit buses go directly to the Port Authority Bus Terminal, which is one block from Times Square.
Q4: How long does an Uber from Newark Airport to Times Square take?
Usually 30–60 minutes, depending on traffic into Manhattan.
Q5: Which is better—train or taxi from Newark to Times Square?
The train is faster and cheaper, while a taxi/Uber offers more convenience if you have bags or want door-to-door service.
✅ In short, the NJ Transit train is the best balance of speed and price for getting from Newark to Times Square. But if convenience matters most, a taxi or Uber is your go-to choice.