How to get to New York City

New York City is a global hub for air travel, and it’s no surprise that the city has three primary airports that cater to millions of passengers every year: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in Queens, and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey. All three airports are well-connected to the city via public transportation, taxis, and ride-hailing services.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is the largest airport in New York City. It serves as the primary international gateway to the city, serving more than 70 airlines that fly to nearly 200 destinations worldwide. The airport has five active terminals, each with various restaurants, shops, and services for passengers, as well as several lounges, including those catering to specific airlines and independent lounges, like the American Express Centurion Lounge.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is in Queens, just a few miles from Midtown Manhattan. LaGuardia is primarily a domestic airport and serves several carriers, including Delta, American, and United Airlines. The airport is undergoing a massive renovation, including new terminals, parking garages, and improved transportation options, making for a more modern and efficient travel experience for passengers.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is located in Newark, New Jersey, about 16 miles from Manhattan. The airport serves several domestic and international airlines, including United Airlines, which has a hub at the airport. Newark has three terminals, serving more than 30 airlines.

When choosing an airline to fly to New York City, passengers have several options. Some major airlines operating in New York City include Delta, United, American, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, and international carriers like Lufthansa, Emirates, and Qatar. The price of airfare to New York City can vary depending on several factors, such as the time of year, the airline, the route, and how far in advance the ticket is purchased. Generally, booking tickets in advance and being flexible with travel dates can help save money. It’s also a good idea to compare prices across different airlines and booking websites to find the best deal.

If you’re looking for an alternative to flying, taking the train to New York City can be a comfortable and convenient option. The city has several major train stations, including Moynihan Train Hall (part of Penn Station) and Grand Central Terminal in Midtown Manhattan.

Amtrak is a national train service connecting New York City to several cities nationwide, including Boston, Washington, DC, and Philadelphia. Amtrak offers several train services, including the Acela Express, a high-speed train between Boston and DC, and the Northeast Regional, which provides service to several cities along the Northeast Corridor. Amtrak also offers long-distance train service, which connects New York City to other parts of the country, such as Chicago, New Orleans, and San Francisco.

Metro-North Railroad is a commuter train service that connects New York City to the suburbs of Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess counties. The service has two main lines—the Harlem Line and the Hudson Line—from Grand Central Terminal. The service also offers several branches, including the New Haven Line, which operates from Grand Central Terminal and serves several cities in Connecticut.

The cost of train tickets varies depending on your chosen service and the distance you travel. A one-way ticket from DC to New York City on Amtrak costs around $35, while a one-way ticket from Grand Central Terminal to Poughkeepsie on Metro-North costs about $20. Amtrak also offers several discount options, including student discounts, senior discounts, and military discounts, which can help save money.

Taking the bus to New York City can be budget-friendly and convenient. Several bus companies offer services to the city, including Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus. The main bus terminal in New York City is the Port Authority Bus Terminal, located in Midtown Manhattan. The terminal is easily accessible from different parts of the city via public transportation, taxis, and ride-hailing services.

Greyhound is the best-known national bus service that offers services to several cities in the United States, including New York. Greyhound operates from the Port Authority Bus Terminal, providing reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Megabus and FlixBus are similar low-cost bus services that operate in several cities across the United States and Canada. Both offer several amenities, including Wi-Fi, power outlets, and reserved seating.

Bus ticket costs vary depending on your chosen company and the distance you travel. A one-way ticket from Boston to New York City on Greyhound costs around $30, while a one-way ticket from Washington, D.C., to New York City on Megabus costs around $25.

If you’re planning a road trip to New York City, several main roads, including the New York State Thruway, the Garden State Parkway, and the New Jersey Turnpike, lead to the city. However, driving in the city can be challenging due to heavy traffic, limited parking options, and high tolls on certain roads and bridges.

If you’re driving from the north, you can take the New York State Thruway (Interstate 87) and connect to the Major Deegan Expressway, which leads to the George Washington Bridge, or the Harlem River Drive to Midtown Manhattan. If you’re driving from the south, you can take the New Jersey Turnpike (Interstate 95) and connect to the Lincoln Tunnel, which leads to Midtown Manhattan. If you’re driving from the west, you can take the Garden State Parkway and connect to the Holland Tunnel, which leads to Lower Manhattan.

When driving in the city, being aware of traffic conditions and parking regulations is essential. Traffic can be heavy during rush hour and on weekends, and parking can be limited and expensive in certain parts of the city. It’s a good idea to plan your route ahead of time and research parking options, including garages and street parking.

The cost of tolls varies depending on your route, but it’s a good idea to research toll prices ahead of time and bring cash or an E-ZPass to avoid surprises. Some major toll roads and bridges in the city include the George Washington Bridge, the Lincoln Tunnel, and the Holland Tunnel.

If you’re traveling from abroad or elsewhere in the US, boating to New York City can be an exciting option.

The city has several ports, including the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, and Cape Liberty Cruise Port, which are served by several cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line. The cost of taking a cruise to New York City varies depending on the duration of the trip, the cruise line, and the type of cabin you choose.

If you’re traveling from outside the United States, check the passport and visa requirements before planning your trip. Most visitors to the United States need a valid passport and a visa or an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to enter the country. The type of visa you need depends on your nationality, the purpose of your trip, and the length of your stay. Check the U.S. Department of State’s website for the most up-to-date information on passport and visa policies. Lastly don’t forget to check for travel restrictions.