Planning a trip to New York City often starts with one simple question about which airport is closest to Times Square. Knowing the exact options and travel time helps you move through the city smoothly from the moment you arrive.
Did you know that multiple major airports serve the Times Square area, and the fastest option is not always the one you might expect? Understanding your choices can save money, time, and stress on a busy itinerary.
| Airport | IATA Code | Distance to Times Square | Typical Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| LaGuardia Airport | LGA | 8 miles / 13 km | 20–40 minutes |
| John F. Kennedy International Airport | JFK | 16 miles / 26 km | 40–90 minutes |
| Newark Liberty International Airport | EWR | 16 miles / 26 km | 40–80 minutes | cab>
| Westchester County Airport | HPN | 28 miles / 45 km | 50–90 minutes |
LaGuardia Airport the nearest major option to Times Square
Among commercial airports, LaGuardia is generally the closest major airport to Times Square at roughly 8 miles away. Travelers often choose LGA for shorter flights from domestic hubs, and the reduced distance can mean a smoother arrival into Manhattan.
Traffic patterns and the time of day heavily influence how long the ride actually takes, so you may still encounter delays even with the shorter distance to Times Square. Planning ahead and checking real-time conditions helps you choose the most reliable route from LaGuardia.
JFK and Newark Liberty international options
John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport are larger hubs with more global connections, but they sit farther from Times Square. Travelers flying internationally or from distant regions typically arrive through one of these airports, making ground transfer strategy important.
Both JFK and EWR require crossing tunnels or bridges to reach Manhattan, so tolls and peak-hour congestion can significantly impact total travel time. Comparing flight costs, arrival times, and transfer options helps you balance convenience and budget.
Transportation modes and quick transfers
From the closest airport to Times Square, you can choose among rideshares, public buses, shared vans, and express trains to suit your budget and schedule. Each option offers trade-offs between price, direct routing, and how predictably you can reach your hotel or meeting on time.
Rideshares and taxis provide door-to-door comfort but can be expensive during high-demand periods, while buses and shuttles are budget-friendly but may involve multiple stops. Train services like the AirTrain combined with subway lines are often the fastest way to bypass traffic if you are comfortable with public transit.
Choosing the best airport for your Times Square visit
- Check flight prices and arrival times at LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark to compare total cost including transfers.
- Consider your comfort with public transit if you want faster, predictable travel via AirTrain and subway from nearby airports.
- Factor in time of day and traffic, as rush hours can significantly lengthen transfers even from the closest airport to Times Square.
- Book rideshares or taxis in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid surge pricing and long waits at curbs.
- Use official airport signage and maps to locate transportation options quickly and avoid unofficial drivers.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which airport is closest to Times Square overall?
LaGuardia Airport is generally the closest major commercial airport to Times Square, with an average distance of about 8 miles and typical travel times between 20 and 40 minutes depending on traffic.
How long does it take to get from JFK to Times Square?
Traveling from John F. Kennedy International Airport to Times Square usually takes 40 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic, your chosen transportation mode, and toll bridge delays during peak hours.
Is Newark Liberty closer than LaGuardia to Times Square?
No, Newark Liberty International Airport is farther from Times Square than LaGuardia, at about 16 miles away, with typical travel times ranging from 40 to 80 minutes based on congestion and transport option.
What is the cheapest way to reach Times Square from an airport?
The most affordable option is often a public bus or shared shuttle, especially from LaGuardia or JFK, though trains and budget rideshare options can also offer good value if you time your trip wisely.