MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Manhattan

How to Get to Manhattan

Manhattan New York, USA Travel Guide

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Major Airports

New York City's main international gateways include JFK and EWR, with LGA handling mainly domestic flights.

Airport Locations & Airlines

  • JFK (Queens): Main international hub, served by most major airlines.
  • EWR (Newark, NJ): Major international/domestic hub for United Airlines.
  • LGA (Queens): mainly domestic flights, Delta and American Airlines hub.

Flight Availability & Services

Direct flights are widely available from major global cities to JFK and EWR. Prices fluctuate seasonally.

Airport Amenities

  • Duty-free shops, diverse retail, and dining options.
  • Lounges, currency exchange, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi access.
  • Car rental agencies and baggage services at all airports.

Flight Costs

Flight prices peak during summer and holiday seasons. Consider Dollar Flight Club for deals and Skyscanner for comparisons.

JFK Transfers

AirTrain JFK + Subway/LIRR (most economical/fastest). Taxi/Ride-Shares are also options.

EWR & LGA Transfers

EWR: AirTrain Newark + NJ Transit. LGA: Bus + Subway (most cost-effective).

Land Transportation

Train Connections

  • Amtrak operates from Moynihan Train Hall for national rail.
  • NJ Transit and Metro-North Railroad serve commuter routes.
  • Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) connects Manhattan to Long Island.
  • Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal are major rail hubs.

Bus & Car Travel

  • Port Authority Bus Terminal is the main hub for intercity buses (Greyhound, Megabus).
  • Driving within Manhattan is not recommended due to traffic and parking.
  • An IDP is wise for non-U.S. Citizens if renting a car for day trips.
  • Roads are generally well-maintained but congested; parking is limited and costly.

Sea & River Arrivals

Cruise Terminals

Manhattan Cruise Terminal (Piers 88/90) and Brooklyn Cruise Terminal serve major cruise lines for arrivals and departures.

Ferry Services

Staten Island Ferry (free, iconic views) and NYC Ferry ($4.00, connects boroughs) offer scenic transport options.

Water Taxis

Various private companies offer boat tours and water taxis for sightseeing or transport between attractions.

Departure Information

Airport Departure Procedures

The United States does not have specific exit fees or taxes paid upon departure, as these are typically included in your airline ticket.

Departure Timing

  • Arrive 2-3 hours before domestic flights.
  • Arrive 3-4 hours before international flights.
  • Check in online with your airline to save airport time.

Airport & Station Facilities

All major airports offer comprehensive facilities, while train and bus stations provide essential services for departing travelers.

Departure Amenities

  • Airports feature check-in, security, dining, retail, and lounges.
  • Train/bus stations offer waiting areas, ticketing, and dining.
  • Be prepared for TSA security screening procedures.

Optimal Airport Transfer

Choose your airport transfer based on budget, convenience, and traffic. Public transport is often more predictable during rush hour.

Transfer Considerations

  • Rush hour significantly increases taxi and ride-share travel times.
  • AirTrain, subway, and train options offer reliable alternatives.
  • Designated pick-up zones for ride-shares are standard at airports.

Intercity Travel

Manhattan functions as a major rail and bus hub, offering extensive travel options throughout the U.S. Northeast and beyond.

Connections & Services

  • Amtrak offers national rail connections from Moynihan Train Hall.
  • Port Authority Bus Terminal hosts major intercity bus companies.
  • Cruise terminals and ferry services provide sea and river arrival/departure options.

Important Considerations

  • Border crossing information applies for road travel from Canada or Mexico.
  • Driving within Manhattan is not recommended for tourists due to congestion and parking.
  • Proof of insurance and vehicle documentation are mandatory for rental cars.
  • Road conditions can be congested with frequent potholes, especially after winter.
  • Pedestrian and bicycle traffic is heavy; drivers require extreme caution.
  • Certain bridges and highways restrict pedestrian and cyclist access for safety.

Getting Around Manhattan

Public Transit Overview

The MTA operates New York City's comprehensive public transit network, including the subway and bus systems.

System Highlights

  • NYC Subway: Iconic, 24/7 operation, over 472 stations, fastest for long distances.
  • MTA Buses: Complement the subway, offer scenic views, some operate 24 hours.
  • Subway maps and apps like Citymapper facilitate navigation.

Ticketing & Accessibility

The MTA uses OMNY (tap-and-go) and MetroCard for fare payment. Accessibility features are continuously improving.

Fare Options & Accessibility

  • OMNY: Contactless credit/debit or digital wallet, $2.90 per tap, 7-day fare cap.
  • MetroCard: Reloadable plastic card ($1.00 fee), $2.90 per ride, or $34 for 7-day unlimited.
  • Accessibility: All buses are wheelchair accessible; increasing number of subway stations have elevators.

Navigation Apps

Apps like Citymapper or Google Maps provide real-time tracking, optimal routes, and service alerts for efficient travel.

Subway Directions

"Uptown" means northbound; "Downtown" means southbound. Check train displays for local vs. Express services.

Operating Hours

Subways operate 24/7; most bus lines also run around the clock, though frequency varies.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Yellow Cab Information

Look for official yellow cabs with illuminated roof lights to hail them on the street. All accept cash and major credit cards.

Hailing & Fares

  • Greenboro Boro Taxis serve outer boroughs and northern Manhattan.
  • Metered fares start at $3.00, plus $0.70 per 1/5 mile or 60 seconds idling.
  • Surcharges for late-night trips and Manhattan congestion apply.

Ride-Sharing Services

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular in Manhattan, booked through their mobile apps.

Booking & Safety

  • Enter your destination for estimated fares and vehicle types.
  • Confirm driver name, license plate, and car model before entering.
  • Share trip details with a friend or family member for added safety.

Driving & Walking

Car Rentals

Not recommended for navigating Manhattan itself; useful for day trips outside the city. Major companies like Hertz and Avis have locations.

Walking Paths

Manhattan is highly walkable with extensive sidewalks. Pedestrianized areas like Times Square and parks are excellent for strolling.

Cycling Safety

New York City features expanding dedicated bike lanes. Cyclists require awareness of traffic, pedestrians, and potholes.

Mobility Insights

Manhattan provides diverse transportation modes. Public transit often has the most efficient choice for navigating the city.