How to Get to Times Square from Philadelphia [2025-2026 Guide]
Traveling from Philadelphia to Times Square is simple by train, bus, or car. This 2025-2026 guide covers travel times, ticket prices, and the best ways to reach Manhattan.
Heading from Philadelphia to Times Square in New York City is a trip many visitors and commuters take daily. Whether you’re planning a Broadway show, sightseeing in Midtown, or visiting for work, there are multiple ways to get there—each with its own pros and cons. From Amtrak trains to buses, flights, and driving, this guide explains the best options for 2025–2026 so you can travel stress-free.
🚆 Option 1: Amtrak (Fastest & Most Comfortable)
Taking Amtrak is the most convenient way to reach Times Square.
- Board Amtrak at Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station (PHL).
- Trains arrive at Penn Station (Moynihan Train Hall) in Midtown Manhattan.
- From Penn Station, Times Square is just a 10-minute walk.
⏱ Travel time: 1 hr 15 mins – 1 hr 30 mins
💵 Cost: $40–$120 (varies by time and demand)
👉 Check schedules at Amtrak.
🚌 Option 2: Greyhound, Megabus, or FlixBus (Cheapest Option)
If you’re traveling on a budget, buses are the best choice.
- Buses depart from Philadelphia Bus Station or 30th Street Station area.
- They typically arrive at Port Authority Bus Terminal (42nd Street, Manhattan).
- Times Square is just across the street from the terminal.
⏱ Travel time: 2 hrs – 2 hrs 30 mins
💵 Cost: $15–$35 one way
👉 Check fares at Greyhound, Megabus, or FlixBus.
✈️ Option 3: Flights from Philadelphia to New York
Flying is usually unnecessary because of the short distance, but it’s possible.
- Flights depart from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to Newark (EWR), LaGuardia (LGA), or JFK.
- From there, you’ll need a taxi, Uber, or public transit into Times Square.
⏱ Travel time: 3–4 hours (including check-in, flight, and transfer)
💵 Cost: $100–$250+
🚗 Option 4: Driving from Philadelphia to Times Square
Driving gives you flexibility, but parking in Midtown Manhattan is expensive.
- Take I-95 North toward New York City.
- Enter Manhattan via the Lincoln Tunnel or Holland Tunnel.
- Use parking garages near Times Square (expect high rates).
⏱ Travel time: 1 hr 45 mins – 3 hrs (traffic-dependent)
💵 Cost: $20–$40 in tolls + $40–$70 parking
🚖 Option 5: Taxi or Rideshare
A direct taxi or Uber/Lyft ride from Philadelphia to Times Square is possible but costly.
- Good for groups or when traveling with lots of luggage.
- Prices rise during peak traffic hours.
⏱ Travel time: 1 hr 45 mins – 3 hrs
💵 Cost: $200–$300+
📊 Travel Options Summary
| Option | Time (approx.) | Cost (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak 🚆 | 1 hr 15–30 mins | $40–$120 | Fast & comfortable |
| Bus 🚌 | 2–2.5 hrs | $15–$35 | Cheapest option |
| Flight ✈️ | 3–4 hrs total | $100–$250+ | Not recommended unless connecting |
| Driving 🚗 | 1.75–3 hrs | $60+ total | Flexible but costly |
| Taxi/Uber 🚖 | 1.75–3 hrs | $200–$300+ | Door-to-door service |
🙋 FAQs about Getting to Times Square from Philadelphia
Q1: What is the fastest way to Times Square from Philadelphia?
Amtrak is the fastest, taking about 1 hour 15 minutes to Penn Station, just steps from Times Square.
Q2: What is the cheapest way to Times Square from Philadelphia?
The bus is the cheapest, with fares as low as $15 if booked early.
Q3: Can I drive from Philadelphia to Times Square?
Yes, driving takes around 2–3 hours, but tolls and parking in Manhattan make it expensive.
Q4: Do buses from Philadelphia go directly to Times Square?
Yes, most buses arrive at Port Authority, which is right next to Times Square.
Q5: How far is Philadelphia from Times Square?
The distance is about 95 miles (153 km), with travel times ranging from 1 hour 15 minutes to 3 hours.
✅ In summary: If you want speed and comfort, Amtrak is best. For budget travelers, buses are unbeatable. Driving works if you need flexibility, but trains remain the most reliable way.