How to Get to Times Square from UBS Arena [2025-2026 Guide]
Traveling from UBS Arena to Times Square is simple by train, bus, or car. This 2025-2026 guide explains travel times, fares, and the fastest ways to reach Manhattan.
Whether you’re heading to a New York Islanders game, a concert, or another event at UBS Arena in Elmont, Long Island, you’ll likely want to explore the bright lights of Times Square afterward. Luckily, UBS Arena is well-connected to Manhattan, and there are multiple ways to travel—from the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to subways, buses, taxis, and rideshares. This guide will help you choose the best route depending on your budget, timing, and convenience.
🚆 Option 1: Long Island Rail Road (Fastest & Most Reliable)
The LIRR is the most efficient way to reach Times Square from UBS Arena.
- You can catch the LIRR at Elmont–UBS Arena Station or nearby Queens Village Station.
- Trains head directly to Penn Station (Moynihan Train Hall) in Midtown.
- From Penn Station, it’s just a 10-minute walk or one subway stop to Times Square.
⏱ Travel time: 35–50 minutes
💵 Cost: $7–$12 (off-peak), $10–$17 (peak)
👉 Check schedules at MTA LIRR.
🚇 Option 2: Subway from Queens
While UBS Arena doesn’t have a subway station right outside, you can take a short bus or taxi ride to nearby subway stops.
- The F train at Jamaica–179th Street is the most convenient option.
- From there, ride into Manhattan and transfer at 42 St–Bryant Park or 42 St–Port Authority to reach Times Square.
⏱ Travel time: 60–75 minutes (including transfer)
💵 Cost: $2.90 (one-way subway fare)
🚌 Option 3: MTA Bus + Subway Combo
Buses from Elmont and Queens connect you to subway stations that head straight to Manhattan.
- The N6 bus from Hempstead Turnpike goes to Jamaica Center–Parsons/Archer, where you can transfer to the E train to Times Square.
- This option is cheap but slower, especially during traffic.
⏱ Travel time: 75–90 minutes
💵 Cost: $2.90 (bus) + $2.90 (subway) = $5.80 total
🚖 Option 4: Taxi from UBS Arena to Times Square
A taxi can take you directly from UBS Arena to Times Square, though it’s quite expensive.
- Convenient after late-night events.
- Expect additional tolls if routes pass through tunnels or bridges.
⏱ Travel time: 40–70 minutes (traffic-dependent)
💵 Cost: $80–$120+ (plus tolls and tips)
🚗 Option 5: Uber or Lyft
Ride-hailing apps are widely available at UBS Arena.
- Offers door-to-door service with flexible pickup.
- Surge pricing may apply after major events.
⏱ Travel time: 40–70 minutes
💵 Cost: $70–$110+ depending on demand
🚙 Option 6: Driving Yourself
If you have a car, you can drive into Manhattan.
- Use the Cross Island Parkway and Long Island Expressway (I-495) toward Midtown.
- Parking near Times Square is expensive and limited.
⏱ Travel time: 45–90 minutes (traffic-dependent)
💵 Cost: $15–$20 in tolls + $30–$70/day parking
📊 Travel Options Summary
| Option | Time (approx.) | Cost (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| LIRR 🚆 | 35–50 mins | $7–$17 | Fast & reliable |
| Subway 🚇 | 60–75 mins | $2.90 | Budget-friendly |
| Bus + Subway 🚌🚇 | 75–90 mins | $5.80 | Cheapest route |
| Taxi 🚖 | 40–70 mins | $80–$120+ | Direct but pricey |
| Uber/Lyft 🚗 | 40–70 mins | $70–$110+ | Flexible pickup |
| Driving 🚙 | 45–90 mins | $50+ total | Drivers & rentals |
🙋 FAQs about Getting to Times Square from UBS Arena
Q1: What is the fastest way to Times Square from UBS Arena?
The LIRR from Elmont–UBS Arena Station to Penn Station is the fastest and easiest option, taking under an hour.
Q2: Can I take the subway directly from UBS Arena to Times Square?
No direct subway, but you can take a short bus/taxi to Jamaica–179th St (F train) or Jamaica Center (E train), then ride to Times Square.
Q3: How much does it cost to get to Times Square from UBS Arena?
LIRR costs $7–$17, subway is $2.90, and taxis/Uber range from $70–$120+.
Q4: Is it easy to find Uber or Lyft after events at UBS Arena?
Yes, but prices often surge due to high demand after games and concerts.
Q5: How far is UBS Arena from Times Square?
It’s about 18 miles, and travel times range from 35 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on transport and traffic.
✅ In summary: The LIRR is the most efficient way from UBS Arena to Times Square, while subways and buses offer budget options. Taxis, rideshares, and driving work if convenience is your priority.