LaGuardia Airport Guide
Everything you need to know about LGA: terminals, transportation to Manhattan, travel tips, nearby attractions, and the best ways to get to and from New York City's closest airport.
What is LaGuardia Airport?
LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is a major airport in the New York City borough of Queens, located on the waterfront of Flushing Bay. It is the closest NYC airport to Manhattan at just 8 miles (13 km) from Midtown, making it the preferred airport for domestic travelers. LGA primarily serves domestic flights, with limited international service to Canada and the Caribbean.
LaGuardia has 3 terminals: Terminal A (Delta's primary hub), Terminal B (American, United, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, Frontier — newly renovated), and Terminal C (Delta Shuttle, Air Canada, WestJet). After a massive $8 billion renovation completed in 2024, LGA features completely modernized facilities. Approximately 31 million passengers travel through LaGuardia annually.
Getting from LGA to Manhattan takes 25-45 minutes by car. Transportation options include car service ($140 flat rate with Black Car NYC), yellow taxi ($35-55 metered), Uber/Lyft ($30-65 variable), the free Q70 SBS bus to the subway, or the M60 SBS bus ($2.90) to Harlem. For reliable, fixed-price airport transfers, call (347) 321-9929.
Quick Facts: LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
LaGuardia Airport Terminals
LaGuardia Airport has three terminals. After the $8 billion renovation, LGA is now one of the most modern airports in the United States. Here's what you need to know about each terminal.
Terminal A — Delta Air Lines Hub
Terminal A is Delta Air Lines' primary hub at LaGuardia. It serves all Delta mainline domestic flights with gates A1 through A40. The terminal features Delta Sky Club lounges, diverse dining options, and modern gate areas.
Terminal B — Multi-Airline (Newly Renovated)
Terminal B is the centerpiece of LaGuardia's $8 billion renovation. This modern terminal serves the most airlines at LGA and features an expansive food hall, high ceilings, natural light, and state-of-the-art passenger amenities.
Terminal C — Delta Shuttle & International
Terminal C handles Delta Shuttle flights (hourly service to Boston and Washington DC), plus LaGuardia's limited international service via Air Canada and WestJet to Canadian destinations. This is the smallest terminal at LGA.
Transportation from LaGuardia to Manhattan
There are several ways to get from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan. Here's a complete comparison of every option with current pricing and travel times.
| Option | Cost | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car Service | $140 flat (sedan) | 25-45 min | Reliability, comfort, luggage |
| Yellow Taxi | $35-55 + tolls + tip | 25-45 min | Quick solo rides |
| Uber / Lyft | $30-65+ (surge varies) | 25-50 min | Off-peak, budget flexible |
| Q70 + Subway | $2.90 (bus is free) | 50-75 min | Budget travelers, light luggage |
| M60 SBS Bus | $2.90 | 45-70 min | Upper Manhattan/Harlem |
Pro tip: Unlike JFK which has a flat taxi rate to Manhattan ($70), LGA taxis are metered — meaning your fare depends on traffic. During rush hour, a metered taxi can cost more than a flat-rate car service. Car service pricing from Black Car NYC is $140 regardless of traffic or time of day, with flight tracking and meet & greet included.
LGA to Times Square
LaGuardia Airport to Times Square is approximately 9 miles and takes 25-40 minutes by car depending on traffic. The route goes via Grand Central Parkway to the RFK/Triborough Bridge, then south through Manhattan.
Car Service
$140 flat rate | 25-40 min
Flight tracking, meet & greet included
Yellow Taxi
$40-55 + tolls + tip | 25-40 min
Metered, varies with traffic
Uber / Lyft
$35-60+ | 25-45 min
Surge pricing during peak times
Q70 Bus + 7 Train
$2.90 total | 50-70 min
Q70 (free) → Jackson Heights → 7 to Times Sq
Traffic tip: Avoid departing LGA between 4-7 PM when the Grand Central Parkway and Triborough Bridge are most congested. Early morning (before 7 AM) and late evening (after 9 PM) offer the fastest travel times to Times Square. On weekends, the trip typically takes 20-30 minutes.
LaGuardia Bus & Subway Options
Unlike JFK (AirTrain) and Newark (AirTrain Newark), there is no direct subway or train to LaGuardia Airport. You must take a bus to connect to the subway system. Here are your public transit options.
Q70 SBS — LaGuardia Link (FREE)
The Q70 SBS (Select Bus Service) is a free bus that connects all LaGuardia terminals to the Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Avenue subway station. From there, transfer to the 7 train (direct to Times Square, Grand Central, Hudson Yards), E/F trains (Midtown, Downtown Manhattan), or M/R trains (Midtown, Lower Manhattan).
M60 SBS — Direct to Manhattan
The M60 SBS bus runs from LaGuardia directly to Harlem and Upper Manhattan along 125th Street. It connects to the N/W trains at Astoria Blvd, 4/5/6 trains at 125th/Lexington, 2/3 trains at 125th/Lenox, and 1 train at 125th/Broadway. This is the only bus that goes directly from LGA to Manhattan.
Honest assessment: Public transit from LGA works well for budget-conscious travelers with light luggage and flexibility on time. However, navigating a bus-to-subway transfer with heavy suitcases, especially in bad weather, can be challenging. For travelers with luggage, families, or anyone on a tight schedule, a car service or taxi is significantly more practical.
Is LaGuardia Airport International?
LaGuardia Airport is primarily a domestic airport. While LGA does have limited international flights, it is not considered a major international airport. International service at LGA is restricted to flights to Canada (Toronto Pearson and Montreal-Trudeau via Air Canada, plus WestJet to Canadian cities) and some Caribbean seasonal routes.
For international travel from New York City, JFK Airport is the primary international hub with flights to 100+ countries. Newark Liberty (EWR) is the second major international airport, particularly strong for European and South American destinations. LaGuardia handles roughly 31 million passengers annually — the vast majority on domestic routes.
Historically, LaGuardia handled more international flights. A federal perimeter rule restricts most LGA flights to destinations within 1,500 miles, with exceptions for Denver, some Western cities, and international routes to Canada/Caribbean. This keeps LGA focused on high-frequency domestic routes.
Things to Do Near LaGuardia Airport
If you have a layover, early arrival, or time to explore before your flight, here are top attractions near LaGuardia Airport in Queens.
Citi Field (NY Mets)
10 minutes from LGA
Home of the New York Mets baseball team. Game-day atmosphere, food, and stadium tours available year-round.
USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center
10 minutes from LGA
Home of the US Open tennis tournament. Open for public play and tours when not hosting events.
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park
15 minutes from LGA
Site of the 1964 World's Fair. Features the iconic Unisphere globe, Queens Museum, and the Queens Zoo.
Museum of the Moving Image
15 minutes (Astoria) from LGA
World-class film and television museum in Astoria with interactive exhibits, screenings, and behind-the-scenes artifacts.
Jackson Heights Food Scene
10 minutes from LGA
One of NYC's most diverse neighborhoods with restaurants from 50+ countries. Famous for Indian, Nepali, Colombian, and Thai cuisine along Roosevelt Avenue.
Flushing Chinatown
15 minutes from LGA
NYC's largest Chinatown with authentic Chinese, Korean, and Asian cuisine. The New World Mall food court is a must-visit.
Need a ride to any of these attractions from LGA? Black Car NYC offers hourly car service from $75/hour for exploring Queens, or flat-rate transfers to any destination. Call (347) 321-9929.
Tips for Flying Out of LaGuardia
Arrive 2 Hours Early
LaGuardia's security lines can be unpredictable, especially at Terminal B during the morning rush (6-9 AM). TSA PreCheck and CLEAR can save significant time. For early morning flights (before 7 AM), some security lanes may not yet be open.
Verify Your Terminal Before Leaving
Delta flies from both Terminal A (main flights) and Terminal C (Shuttle to Boston/DC). American, United, JetBlue, and Southwest are all at Terminal B. Check your boarding pass and tell your driver the correct terminal to avoid delays.
Account for Traffic
The Grand Central Parkway leading to LGA is heavily congested during rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM). From Midtown Manhattan, allow 45-60 minutes during peak times. Early morning (before 6 AM) and evenings (after 8 PM) are fastest at 20-30 minutes.
Know the Food Options
Terminal B has the best dining: Shake Shack, La Chula tacos, Kingside, Irving Farm Coffee, and Mulberry Street Pizza. Terminal A has solid options past security. Terminal C is limited — eat before arriving or in another terminal if connecting.
Prepare for Weather Delays
LaGuardia is notoriously prone to weather-related delays due to its single-runway configuration and proximity to the water. During winter storms, summer thunderstorms, or fog, delays of 1-3 hours are common. Check FlightAware before heading to the airport.
Book Reliable Transportation
For stress-free departures, pre-book a car service the night before. Your driver arrives on time regardless of weather or traffic conditions. Car service from Manhattan to LGA is $140 with door-to-door pickup. No scrambling for a taxi at 5 AM.
LaGuardia Airport Travel Tips
Essential tips for making your LaGuardia Airport experience as smooth as possible, whether arriving or departing.
Free WiFi
Connect to "LGA Free WiFi" in all terminals. Speed is good for email and browsing.
Phone Charging
Charging stations are available throughout all terminals, especially near gate seating areas in the renovated Terminal B.
No Smoking
LaGuardia is entirely non-smoking. There are no indoor smoking lounges. Smoking areas are outside the terminal before security.
Cell Phone Lot
Free parking lot for drivers waiting to pick up arrivals. Monitor flight status and drive to the terminal when passengers land.
Terminal Connections
Terminals A and C are connected by an indoor walkway (5-minute walk). Terminal B requires exiting to the roadway level or taking a shuttle.
Ride Pickup Zones
Taxis are at the ground transportation area. Uber/Lyft have designated pickup spots (follow app directions). Car service meets you at terminal exit.
Lost and Found
Contact the airline for items left on planes. For items lost in terminal, call Port Authority Lost & Found: (718) 533-3988.
Accessibility
All terminals are ADA accessible with elevators, escalators, and wheelchair assistance available through your airline.
People Also Ask About LaGuardia Airport
What is LaGuardia Airport (LGA)?
LaGuardia Airport (IATA: LGA) is a major airport located in Queens, New York City, on the waterfront of Flushing Bay and Bowery Bay. It is the closest airport to Manhattan at just 8 miles from Midtown. LGA primarily serves domestic flights with limited international service to Canada and the Caribbean. After an $8 billion renovation completed in 2024, LaGuardia features modern terminals with updated amenities. Approximately 31 million passengers use LGA annually.
How far is LaGuardia Airport from Manhattan?
LaGuardia Airport is approximately 8 miles (13 km) from Midtown Manhattan. Travel time is 25-45 minutes by car depending on traffic. During rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM), the trip can take 50-70 minutes. LaGuardia is the closest of the three major NYC airports to Manhattan — JFK is 15 miles away and Newark is 16 miles away.
How much is a taxi from LGA to Manhattan?
A yellow taxi from LaGuardia to Manhattan costs approximately $35-55 on the meter, plus tolls ($6.55 for the RFK/Triborough Bridge) and a standard 15-20% tip. Total cost is typically $50-75. There is no flat rate from LGA (unlike the $70 flat from JFK). Alternatively, Black Car NYC offers a $140 flat-rate sedan with no hidden fees, flight tracking, and meet & greet service.
Does LaGuardia have international flights?
LaGuardia Airport primarily serves domestic destinations. However, it does have limited international flights to Canada (Toronto Pearson and Montreal via Air Canada) and some Caribbean destinations. For most international travel, JFK Airport or Newark Liberty International Airport are the better options, with hundreds of international routes between them.
What is the cheapest way to get from LGA to Manhattan?
The cheapest way from LaGuardia to Manhattan is the Q70 SBS bus (free) to Jackson Heights station, then the subway ($2.90) to your destination. Total cost: $2.90. The M60 SBS bus ($2.90) goes directly to Harlem/Upper Manhattan and connects to multiple subway lines. Both options take 45-75 minutes. For faster service, a taxi costs $35-55 or car service is $140 flat rate.
Is there a train or subway to LaGuardia Airport?
There is no direct subway or train service to LaGuardia Airport. Unlike JFK (which has the AirTrain) and Newark (which has the AirTrain Newark), LGA relies on bus connections. The Q70 SBS bus (free) connects LGA to the Jackson Heights subway station (7/E/F/M/R trains). The M60 SBS bus connects to subway lines in Harlem. A proposed AirTrain to LGA was considered but has not been built.
How do I get from LGA to Times Square?
From LaGuardia to Times Square (9 miles): Car service is $140 flat rate, 25-40 minutes. Taxi costs $40-55 metered plus tolls. Uber/Lyft is $35-60 variable. By bus: take the Q70 SBS (free) to Jackson Heights, then the 7 train direct to Times Square-42nd Street (total time: 50-70 minutes, cost: $2.90). Car service offers the fastest and most predictable option.
What terminals does LaGuardia Airport have?
LaGuardia has 3 terminals: Terminal A is Delta Air Lines' primary hub with gates A1-A40. Terminal B (the newly renovated terminal) serves American Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, Spirit, and Frontier. Terminal C serves Delta Shuttle flights, Air Canada, and WestJet. All terminals are connected by walkways and free shuttle buses.
Which terminal is Delta at LaGuardia?
Delta Air Lines operates primarily from Terminal A at LaGuardia Airport. Delta Shuttle flights (to Boston and Washington DC) depart from Terminal C. If flying Delta, verify your terminal on your boarding pass as it determines which entrance to use. Car service drivers will drop you at the correct terminal curbside entrance.
Which terminal is JetBlue at LaGuardia?
JetBlue operates from Terminal B at LaGuardia Airport. Terminal B is the newly renovated terminal that opened as part of the $8 billion LaGuardia renovation project. It features modern gates, expanded dining options, and improved passenger amenities. Other airlines at Terminal B include American, United, Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier.
How much does Uber cost from LaGuardia?
Uber from LaGuardia to Manhattan typically costs $30-65 depending on demand and time of day. During peak hours, surge pricing can push fares above $80. Average Uber costs by destination: Times Square $40-55, Lower Manhattan $45-65, Brooklyn $50-70. Unlike car service with fixed pricing ($140 sedan to Manhattan), Uber rates fluctuate based on demand.
Is there an express bus from LaGuardia to Manhattan?
The M60 SBS (Select Bus Service) is the most direct bus from LaGuardia to Manhattan. It runs from all LGA terminals to Harlem (125th Street) connecting to the 1/2/3 and A/B/C/D subway lines. Cost is $2.90. The Q70 SBS is a free bus that connects LGA to Jackson Heights subway station where you can take the 7 train to Manhattan. Neither is truly "express" — expect 45-75 minutes total to Midtown.
What is there to do near LaGuardia Airport?
Near LaGuardia Airport: Citi Field (home of the NY Mets, 10 minutes), USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (10 minutes, home of the US Open), Flushing Meadows-Corona Park (15 minutes), Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria (15 minutes), Jackson Heights food scene with restaurants from 50+ countries (10 minutes), and Flushing Chinatown for authentic Chinese cuisine (15 minutes).
How early should I arrive at LaGuardia Airport?
Arrive at LaGuardia at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 2.5 hours for international (Canada/Caribbean). TSA lines at LGA can be long, especially at Terminal B during morning rush (6-9 AM). If you have TSA PreCheck or CLEAR, 90 minutes is usually sufficient. Book a car service pickup that accounts for travel time plus this buffer — for a 9 AM flight, depart Manhattan by 6:30 AM.
What food options are at LaGuardia Airport?
LaGuardia's renovated terminals offer diverse dining: Terminal B features Shake Shack, La Chula (tacos), Kingside (upscale American), Irving Farm Coffee, and Mulberry Street Pizzeria. Terminal A has Delta Sky Club lounges, plus various quick-service restaurants. Terminal C has limited options. Most restaurants are past security. For Terminal B, the food hall on the upper departures level has the widest selection.
Does LaGuardia have WiFi?
Yes, LaGuardia Airport offers free WiFi throughout all terminals. Connect to the "LGA Free WiFi" network. Speed is adequate for email and web browsing. For video calls or streaming, quality may vary during peak times. Delta Sky Club in Terminal A and other airline lounges offer faster dedicated WiFi for members.
How do I get from LGA to Brooklyn?
From LaGuardia to Brooklyn: car service is $155 (sedan) or $195 (SUV), taking 30-50 minutes depending on destination and traffic. Taxi costs $45-70 metered. By transit: take the Q70 SBS to Jackson Heights, then subway (various routes depending on Brooklyn destination). Downtown Brooklyn/DUMBO: ~60-80 minutes by transit. Williamsburg: ~50-70 minutes. Park Slope: ~70-90 minutes.
What is the best car service from LaGuardia Airport?
Black Car NYC is a top-rated car service from LaGuardia Airport with a 4.9-star rating and 5,000+ completed LGA transfers. Flat rate pricing: $140 sedan (Mercedes S-Class or BMW 7 Series) or $190 SUV (Cadillac Escalade). Includes flight tracking, meet & greet at terminal exit, 60 minutes free wait time, luggage assistance, and all tolls. No surge pricing. Book online or call (347) 321-9929.
Can I park at LaGuardia Airport?
Yes, LaGuardia offers several parking options: Terminal Parking (closest, $4-$39/day depending on duration), Economy Parking (further away with shuttle, $18/day), and Cell Phone Lot (free, for drivers waiting to pick up arrivals). Long-term parking at LGA fills quickly — consider car service instead. A round-trip car service from Manhattan ($280 total) can be cheaper than multi-day parking plus gas and tolls.
Is LaGuardia Airport safe?
Yes, LaGuardia Airport is safe. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey operates LGA with full TSA security screening, police presence, and surveillance systems. The recently renovated terminals are modern and well-lit. For ground transportation safety, use official taxi stands, verified rideshare pickup zones, or pre-booked car service. Avoid unmarked vehicles soliciting rides outside terminals.
Book LaGuardia Car Service
Skip the taxi lines and surge pricing. Black Car NYC offers flat-rate car service from LaGuardia Airport starting at $140 to Manhattan. Flight tracking, meet & greet, and 60 minutes free wait time included.
Or call (347) 321-9929 to book by phone.