How to Get from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square: Best Options, Prices, and Tips

Traveling from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square in Manhattan can feel overwhelming if you’re new to New York City. There are scams to watch out for, multiple transportation choices, and big differences in price and travel time.

I put this information together based on my experience working with visitors through Khonsu. At Khonsu, we connect visitors with local Experience Designers who create customized travel guides. After years of helping travelers navigate New York, I’ve managed lots of questions from visitors and seen where people make mistakes. 

In this guide, I’ll review the cheapest and fastest ways to travel, share estimated pricing, and give you practical tips about taking taxis, rideshares like Uber and Lyft, public transportation, and airport shuttles.

But before we dive in, let’s talk about a common scam that unsuspecting visitors fall into.

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The LaGuardia to Times Square Classic Overcharge

Picture this: you just landed at LaGuardia Airport, and before you even find the taxi line, someone approaches and asks if you need a ride to Times Square. It feels convenient, so you agree.

The driver loads your bags, offers a “tour,” and by the time you arrive at your hotel in Manhattan, the fare is $300—far more than the standard price. At this point, most people simply pay to avoid conflict.

The good news? This doesn’t have to happen to you. Because you’re doing your research now, you’ll arrive prepared, know your options, and avoid getting overcharged.

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Transportation Options from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square

1. Taxi

* Cost: $50–$80 (plus tolls and congestion pricing)

* Time: 30–45 minutes

Taxis are convenient and iconic, with stands at each terminal. Unlike JFK, there’s no flat fee to Manhattan, so expect the meter to run. Keep in mind:

* Tolls add around $7–$12.

* Congestion pricing adds $3.25.

* Tip 15–20%, ideally in cash.

Pro tip: Always give your driver the street name and cross streets for your hotel in Times Square. For example, “Fairfield Inn on 40th between 8th and 9th,” not just “Fairfield Inn.” This avoids confusion and can save you money if traffic is heavy.

You can tell your hotel's cross streets when you put your hotel into the Free Trip Planner we created. 

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2. Rideshares (Uber & Lyft)

* Cost: $65–$110, depending on surge pricing and vehicle type

* Time: 30–45 minutes

Always book through the app—never accept rides from drivers approaching you. At LaGuardia:

* Terminals A & C: pickup is just outside.

* Terminal B: go to the parking garage, Level 2.

You can request extras like a car seat or larger vehicle (SUV/XL) if traveling with a group.

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3. Airport Shuttle

* Cost: $35 per person (shared) | $275+ (private, up to 13 people)

* Time: 45–75 minutes

The most popular shuttle service is Go Airlink, which is connected with the NYC Transit Authority. You’ll find help at the airport Welcome Center if needed.

* Shared Shuttle: Cheaper, but makes multiple stops.

* Private Shuttle: Faster, fits large groups, and can even include a short driving tour of Manhattan.

4. Public Transportation

* Cost: $2.90 (MetroCard or OMNY tap)

* Time: 60–90 minutes

If you’re traveling light, this is the cheapest option. LaGuardia isn’t directly connected to the subway, so you’ll take a bus first:

* M60: Stops in Queens and Harlem. Transfer at 31st Street Astoria to the N/W train or at 125th Street to a downtown train.

* Q70 (Select Bus Service): Free and only makes two stops before connecting to the 7 train, which goes directly to Times Square. Note: the Q70 doesn’t stop at Terminal A—you’ll need to walk or take the shuttle to Terminals B or C.
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Final Thoughts

Whether you want the speed of a taxi, the flexibility of Uber/Lyft, the affordability of the bus and subway, or the group-friendly shuttle, there’s an option for every traveler. The key is arriving prepared so you don’t waste time or money.

And if you want a stress-free experience, Khonsu can connect you with a local Experience Designer who will build a custom travel guide tailored to your trip. That way, you’ll know exactly how to get from LaGuardia Airport to Times Square in Manhattan—and make the most of your New York City adventure.

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