LaGuardia Airport
New York, US · 8 mi (13 km) east of Midtown Manhattan
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| All Terminals Shuttle Shuttle · On a frequent loop; user reports suggest every 10–15 min | Roughly 10–20 min terminal to terminal per traveler reports | Free |
| Hotel Courtesy Shuttles Shuttle · Often every 20–30 min; varies by hotel | Around 5–15 min between LGA and nearby hotels per FlyerTalk posts | Free for hotel guests per hotel reports |
| Long Island Rail Road via Woodside and Q70 SBS Rail and bus combo · Q70 every 7–10 min; LIRR trains from Woodside to Penn or Grand Central frequently, often every 5–15 min off‑peak | Roughly 10–15 min Q70 + 8–10 min LIRR ride + transfer time; many users cite ~30–40 min total to Penn | Q70 $2.90; LIRR Woodside–Penn off‑peak commonly reported around $5–$8 depending on ticket |
| Lyft Rideshare · On demand with typical waits 5–15 min | 30–60+ min depending on traffic | User reports similar to Uber: roughly $35–$45 off‑peak LGA–Midtown; higher with surge |
Insider notes
For an unrivalled meal, route through Terminal B or C, where dining feels part-gourmet tour of New York rather than your typical layover snack.
Allocate extra minutes for inter-terminal transfers as distances are deceptive and security lines, particularly during peak operations, can stretch.
During busy periods, avoid curbside pickups; utilize app-based pickup zones to streamline your exit adventure.
Welcome
LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in New York has transformed from a long-standing punchline into a destination worth experiencing. A significant makeover has shifted focus to its completely revamped terminals, especially Terminal B and Delta’s Terminal C. Here, travelers now find dining resembling a mini food hall, featuring NYC staples rather than usual airport chains. Moreover, the extensive public art displays and ample natural light create an inviting ambience for this mainly domestic-focused airport.
At a glance
Handling 29.8 million passengers annually, LaGuardia is 8 miles (13 km) east of Midtown Manhattan. With two runways and three terminals (A, B, and C), it serves as a hub for both Delta Air Lines and American Airlines. While the airport remains a domestic center, the quality of its facilities elevates the travel experience for many flyers coming through its gates.
Terminals & layout
Terminal A, also known as the Marine Air Terminal, caters primarily to JetBlue, Spirit, and other smaller airlines. Terminal B, the most heavily renovated, hosts Air Canada, American Airlines, JetBlue, and others, with famous NYC culinary options like Shake Shack and Dos Toros Taqueria. Terminal C is dominated by Delta, featuring WestJet services and dining options such as Biergarten and Bubby’s. Though the airport's layout has been consolidated, travelers should anticipate longer walks within the terminals than maps might suggest.
Getting to and from the city
Reaching LaGuardia from Midtown Manhattan typically involves a 30–60 minute journey, traffic-dependent. Taxis are metered, generally costing $35–$55, while rideshares like Uber and Lyft hover around $35–$45 off-peak. Alternatively, the MTA’s Q70 SBS provides a reliable $2.90 connection to nearby subway stations at Jackson Heights and Woodside, taking approximately 10–15 minutes. For those considering shuttles, authorized services charge approximately $20–$30 per person but do account for possible extra stops.
Traveller essentials
Parking fees standardize at $30 per day across terminals A, B, and C. Importantly, budget-conscious travelers might look to economy lots for $15 per day alternatives. Within the airport, designated app-based pickup areas are advisable for ride shares to avoid curb congestion. Remember to prepare for potentially slow security processing during peak hours, notably in Terminal B where wait times can exceed 30 minutes.
Dining & shopping highlights
LaGuardia has elevated its dining game with over 30 restaurants that showcase beloved NYC-born brands. Terminal B is the epicenter, boasting culinary highlights such as Hill Country Barbecue Market and Junior’s Restaurant and Bakery. Terminal C keeps pace with Flatiron Tavern and Provisions alongside Chuko Ramen. Shoppers can visit LaGuardia Duty Free or the Museum of Modern Art Store in Terminal B for unique gifts or travel essentials.
Lounges
Boasting 14 lounges, LaGuardia offers elite options such as the Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club in Terminal B—where a $75 day pass delivers a superior dining experience. The Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge presents an understated alternative with bright tarmac views and self-serve refreshments. Terminal C features the Delta Sky Club, a popular but possibly crowded choice due to its high demand.
Insider tips
- Insider: For an unrivalled meal, route through Terminal B or C, where dining feels part-gourmet tour of New York rather than your typical layover snack.
- Time: Allocate extra minutes for inter-terminal transfers as distances are deceptive and security lines, particularly during peak operations, can stretch.
- Avoid: During busy periods, avoid curbside pickups; utilize app-based pickup zones to streamline your exit adventure.
- Local: Experience the Maple Leaf Lounge in Terminal B for self-serve Lavazza coffee in a quieter setting, away from the typically crowded United Club.
- Money: Food bloggers suggest grabbing meals at centralized hubs rather than near gates, for better local options without the premium prices.
- Quiet: Find calmer environments at Delta’s concourse ends in Terminal C, ideal for work or calls away from the main food court buzz.
- Time: Arrive early to beat the rush and check out the Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club in Terminal B—regarded among the best domestic credit-card lounges for its cocktails and serene atmosphere.