How to Get to LaGuardia Airport

How to Get to LaGuardia Airport

After undergoing an $8 billion renovation, LGA makes for a much more pleasant flying experience than it once did. But one thing hasn’t changed about LaGuardia Airport: public transit options for getting there are limited. Although LaGuardia Airport may be the closest airport distance-wise from many points in Manhattan, that doesn’t mean it’s easy to reach. Unlike JFK Airport and Newark Airport, there’s no direct train service to LGA, so it can be a little tricky (and often more expensive) to get to and from this airport in East Elmhurst, Queens.

If you are flying domestically on Delta Airlines or American Airlines, there’s a pretty good chance that you’ll fly out of LGA. Wondering about how you’ll travel to LGA for your next flight? Here’s how to get to LaGuardia Airport.

Ride the M60 bus

This bus may be one of New York’s best-kept secrets in terms of transportation. Plenty of folks use the M60, but mostly to get across Manhattan (through Harlem) or possibly even Queens. Not a lot of people take it to the airport, and since it’s only the cost of a Metrocard swipe (currently $2.90), it’s totally a deal. Pick the bus up at 106th and Broadway and other stops on the way to LGA.

Bear in mind, this bus is SBS or Select Bus Service, so you must slide your Metrocard into the machine at the stop and pay before boarding the bus or tap your credit card or phone upon entering the bus. If you choose the Metrocard route, the machine will spit out a receipt to show that you’ve paid the fare. Do not lose this receipt. I have taken the M60 several times and I’ve seen the MTA police have checked fares and ticketed people. So pay the fare and keep the receipt.

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Hail a Taxi

You can easily hail a taxicab on the street in Manhattan at pretty much any hour of the day (unless it’s raining, then you may have to wait or move to another corner). Cabs from LGA to Manhattan are metered, but expect to pay $40 to $70 depending on where you’re picking up the taxi. Tolls and and tip are additional.

Schedule a Shuttle

Formerly NYC Airporter, NYC Express Bus is a service that picks up near Grand Central, Port Authority, and Penn Station between the hours of 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Similarly, Go AirLink NYC provides shared shuttle service, but runs around the clock. SuperShuttle offers affordable shared rides, non-stop rides, and luxury black cars and vans. Depending on budget, you can select the shuttle that’s right for you.

If You Own a Car, Consider Driving to LGA

You may be fortunate to own a car and decide to drive yourself to LGA. This option isn’t exactly economical for long trips – you’ll have to pay for gas and tolls and longterm parking starts at about $39 per day. You can also park off site for a fraction of the cost and ride a free shuttle to the airport. For short trips of two or three days, driving and parking off site may be the more sensible choice for transit to LGA. Here’s more info about parking off site at LaGuardia airport.

Book an Uber or Lyft

These ride apps are often more affordable than taxis. The meters don’t continue to run in an Uber or Lyft but prices can surge depending on traffic, weather, and day or time. The good news is that you’ll know what a ride will cost before booking it. Tolls are extra.

Take a Private Car Service

Dial-7 and Carmel are two of the most popular car services to get to LaGuardia Airport. If you go with a sedan and have a coupon, they’ll usually cost about the same as a taxi, and your rate will be set (in case traffic is heavy). You will have to pay tolls and tip is at your discretion. Use their apps or book in advance through their websites.

{You can book a local driver with Welcome Pickups, a highly rated airport shuttle service.}

How do you get to LaGuardia Airport?

Also, apps to use when you travel. And tips for solo female travelers.

Plus, skip flying and opt for a road trip instead.