What Amtrak Station is Closest to LaGuardia Airport?

Wondering, what Amtrak station is closest to LaGuardia Airport? The closest Amtrak station to LaGuardia Airport is New York Penn Station, also known as Moynihan Train Hall. Located at 351 West 31st Street, New York, NY 10001, it serves as the main Amtrak hub in New York City. Although there is no direct train service to LaGuardia Airport, travelers can easily reach the airport from Penn Station using ground transportation options such as buses, taxis, or ride-shares. Keep reading this guide for tips on how to navigate your trip smoothly and make the most of your journey to LaGuardia Airport.

Getting to LaGuardia Airport from Penn Station

Getting to LaGuardia Airport is easy with several transportation options available, including buses, shuttles, taxis, rideshares, and driving yourself.

• Public Transit: The Q70 bus is free and goes quickly between LaGuardia and subway stops like Jackson Heights. It runs every 8-10 minutes and helps you get around the city cheaply.
• Shared Ride Shuttle: Companies like GO Airlink and ETS have shared shuttles that take you between LaGuardia and Manhattan. They pick you up right outside the terminals and cost about $35 per person.
• Private Car & Rideshare: You can use Uber, Lyft, or book private cars for a direct ride to or from LaGuardia. These services pick you up at curbside in all terminals and offer different price options.
• Taxi & Car Service: Taxis wait outside each terminal and are available anytime. Private car companies also let you book rides ahead for a more personal trip.
• Driving & Parking: You can drive to LaGuardia using highways like the Grand Central Parkway. The airport has many parking spots for short or long visits.

Why Penn Station Is the Best Amtrak Stop for LaGuardia Airport?

• Central Location: Penn Station is indeed in Midtown Manhattan and serves as a major hub for Amtrak, making it easy for many travelers to reach.
• Easy Transit Connections: While the E subway and MTA buses serve the area, the free Q70 Select Bus Service now offers the fastest and most direct connection to all LaGuardia terminals from subway hubs like Jackson Heights and Roosevelt Avenue.
• Reliable Rideshare & Taxi Options: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft pickups are readily available outside Penn Station, providing direct and flexible transport to the airport.
• More Frequent Amtrak Service: Penn Station is the busiest Amtrak station in the region, with more arrivals and departures than nearby stations, offering flexible scheduling.
• Better Travel Time: Travel from Penn Station to LaGuardia is typically faster and simpler compared to stations like Newark or Stamford due to the closer proximity and variety of transport options.

Overall, Penn Station is the most convenient Amtrak stop for travelers heading to LaGuardia because of its central location, connection to efficient ground transportation options, including the Q70 bus, and ample taxi and rideshare services.​

Tips for an Easy and Stress-Free Journey to LaGuardia Airport

Planning can make your trip to LaGuardia Airport smooth and stress-free. Follow these helpful tips to save time and travel comfortably.

• Arrive at least 2 hours before your domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight to allow enough time for check-in and security.
• Use the free shuttle buses to move between terminals and parking lots; they run every 8 to 10 minutes during busy times.
• Take advantage of the Q70 LaGuardia Link bus for a quick and free connection to subway lines in Queens, such as Jackson Heights.
• If using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, remember that pickup locations are at designated spots like Terminal B parking garage level 2.
• Pre-book parking or shuttles during busy times to ensure availability and save money with online reservations.
• Pack light and prepare for security by knowing TSA rules, especially regarding liquids and electronics.
• Check live security wait times on the airport website to choose the best terminal and time for your travel. 

Note: By following these simple tips, you can avoid delays and enjoy a comfortable, stress-free journey through LaGuardia Airport every time. Planning and staying informed will help make your travel experience smooth and hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions