30–40 minutes from LGA to Penn makes this the speed play
The Long Island Rail Road via Woodside and the Q70 SBS is the fast public‑transit move from LaGuardia’s Terminals B and C to Penn Station or Grand Central. The Q70 runs every 7–10 minutes and takes about 10–15 minutes to Woodside, then the LIRR ride to Penn or Grand Central runs about 8–10 minutes if you catch the next train.
You pay two fares: $2.90 for the Q70 bus, then usually around $5–$8 off‑peak from Woodside to Penn on the LIRR. Peak pricing runs higher, but many riders on r/nyc report the off‑peak Woodside–Penn ticket is only a few dollars more than the subway while cutting total time by 10–20 minutes.
The Q70 SBS stops at Terminal B and Terminal C; look for the Q70 signage outside arrivals and use OMNY or a MetroCard to tap in for $2.90. The bus goes non‑stop to Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Ave and 61 St–Woodside, and you want the last stop at 61 St–Woodside for the LIRR connection upstairs.
At Woodside, LIRR trains to Penn Station and Grand Central–Madison typically run every 5–15 minutes off‑peak, but Reddit regulars warn that missing a train can add 20 minutes of platform time and erase the speed edge over the E or 7 subway. Check the MTA TrainTime app before you board the Q70 so you know which departure you’re aiming for.
Big caveat: Woodside station involves stairs between street level, the subway platforms, and the LIRR platforms, and complaints focus on hauling 50 lb suitcases up those stairs. If you travel heavy, this might feel rough compared with rolling a bag straight into a taxi at Terminal B.
Step-by-step: LGA to Penn or Grand Central via Q70 + LIRR
- 1. From Terminals B or C, follow signs to “Q70 SBS LaGuardia Link.” Tap OMNY or MetroCard and board the Q70 ($2.90).
- 2. Ride 10–15 minutes to 61 St–Woodside, the final stop. Get off with the crowd heading to the LIRR.
- 3. Use stairs or elevators to reach the LIRR concourse and platforms. Follow signs for trains to Penn Station or Grand Central–Madison.
- 4. Buy an off‑peak Woodside–Penn or Woodside–Grand Central ticket in the MTA TrainTime app or at a machine (around $5–$8 off‑peak) before boarding.
- 5. Board the correct LIRR train; ride roughly 8–10 minutes to Midtown, then follow station signs for taxis, subways, or walking connections.
One tip: while taxiing to the gate at LGA, open the MTA TrainTime app, buy your Woodside ticket, and pick a specific departure; then you know exactly which Q70 you need to catch to keep the total trip in the 30–40 minute window.