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How to Get to New York City

How to Get to New York City

New York City New York, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel to New York City

Major Airports & Airlines

New York City is served by three major airports, providing extensive domestic and international connections.

Airport Information

  • JFK (Queens): Main international gateway with global connections.
  • EWR (Newark, NJ): Major international gateway for the NYC the greater city area.
  • LGA (Queens): Primarily domestic flights, recently renovated.

Flight Availability & Facilities

All major international and domestic airlines operate extensive routes to these airports.

Flight & Airport Details

  • Prices increase during peak summer (June-August) and holiday seasons. Cheaper fares in late winter/early spring. Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.
  • All airports offer duty-free shopping, dining, lounges, car rental, currency exchange, and Wi-Fi.
  • Terminals are modern and equipped for large passenger volumes.

JFK Airport Transfers

AirTrain JFK connects to NYC subway or LIRR. Taxis have a flat fare to Manhattan ($70 + tolls + surcharge + tip).

EWR Airport Transfers

AirTrain Newark connects to NJ Transit and Amtrak for Penn Station. Taxis are metered ($60-80+).

LGA Airport Transfers

Bus services (M60 SBS, Q70 SBS) connect to subway. Taxis are metered ($30-50+).

Ride-shares & Airport Access

Ride-sharing Services

  • Uber and Lyft are available at all airports.
  • Book rides by means of their smartphone apps.
  • Fares vary by demand, with surge pricing common.
  • Always verify the driver's name, license plate, and car model for safety.

Airport & Station Taxi Arrangements

  • Designated taxi stands are available at all airports and major transportation hubs.
  • Follow signs for "Ground Transportation" to locate legitimate, licensed taxis.
  • Avoid unmarked cars offering unofficial services.
  • Shared-ride shuttle buses are also available at JFK.

Flight Tips

Booking Ahead

Arrange accommodations and flights well in advance, especially for peak seasons, to obtain better prices.

Baggage Allowances

Check baggage allowances with your airline before packing to avoid extra fees.

Loyalty Programs

Join airline loyalty programs to earn miles or enjoy benefits for future travel.

Land Transportation to NYC

Train Connections & Services

Travelers can reach Nyc by train from other parts of the U.S. And Canada.

Rail Services

  • Amtrak: Intercity service from Moynihan Train Hall (Penn Station), connects NYC to Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Chicago.
  • NJ Transit: Commuter rail service connects New Jersey to Penn Station.
  • Metro-North Railroad: Commuter rail service connects areas north of NYC to Grand Central Terminal.

Long-Distance Bus Options

The Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) in Midtown Manhattan is the main hub for intercity bus services.

Bus Companies

  • Companies like Greyhound, Megabus, Peter Pan Bus Lines, and FlixBus.
  • Bus travel is a budget-friendly option compared to trains or flights.
  • Routes to various cities across the U.S. And Canada.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Driving into or around Manhattan is not recommended due to heavy traffic, expensive parking, tolls, and complex one-way street systems.

Driving Considerations

  • Public transportation is more efficient and less stressful.
  • Valid US.S. Or international driver's license is required for driving.
  • Roads are generally well-maintained but congested; aggressive driving is common.

Car Rental & Safety

If you plan to rent a car for day trips outside the city, major companies (Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, National) have locations at airports and in the city. Compare prices at DiscoverCars.com.

Rental & Safety

  • Car rental requires a current driver's's license, credit card, and minimum age (21-25).
  • Expensive parking, tolls, and complex parking rules in NYC.
  • Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists.

Driving Laws & Challenges

  • Follow standard U.S. Traffic laws; speed limits typically 25 MPH.
  • Parking is extremely expensive and scarce.
  • Complex alternate-side parking rules on streets.
  • Potholes are common, especially after winter.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are not as common for visitors.
  • Driving around Manhattan is not recommended.

Sea & River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

The Big Apple's waterfront location allows arrivals by ferry or cruise ship.

Ports & Ferries

  • Manhattan Cruise Terminal: Serves major cruise lines (Norwegian, Carnival, Disney).
  • Brooklyn Cruise Terminal: Serves Cunard and Princess.
  • NYC Ferry: Commuter and recreational ferry service connecting waterfront neighborhoods.

River Transportation Options

Explore the city from the water with unique river transportation options.

River Transit

  • Staten Island Ferry: Free commuter ferry, excellent views of Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Manhattan skyline.
  • Circle Line Cruises: Sightseeing cruises around Manhattan.
  • NY Waterway: Commuter ferry service connecting New Jersey to Manhattan.

Seaport Immigration

Cruise passengers arriving from international destinations undergo U.S. Customs and Border Protection inspection at the terminal.

Terminal Connections

Cruise terminals typically have taxis, rideshares, and sometimes local bus or subway connections for continuing your journey.

Coastal Views

Ferry rides and cruises provide distinctive viewpoints of the city's landmarks and skyline.

Departure Information

Departure Fees & Procedures

No separate exit fees or taxes are typically paid upon departure from the U.S. These are usually included in your airline ticket price.

Departure Guidelines

  • International Flights: Arrive THREE hours beforehand to departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive 2 hours prior to departure.
  • Trains/Buses: Arrive at least 30-60 minutes before departure.

Airport & Station Facilities

Airports and major stations offer various facilities for departing travelers.

Amenities Available

  • Waiting areas and restrooms.
  • A range of places to eat and retail shops.
  • Lounges, Wi-Fi, and charging stations.

Departure Considerations

Security Screening

Allow ample time for security screening, which can be long during peak travel times.

Gate Finding

Locate your gate well in advance to avoid last-minute rushing.

Travel Documents

Keep your passport and boarding pass readily accessible.

Final Departure Reminder

Check your flight status before heading to the airport for any delays or gate changes.

How to Get to New York City. Flights, Transportation, Airlines