January 01, 2003
NewYorkology Basics: From the airport to Manhattan
There are there major airports serving New York City -- JFK, LaGuardia and Newark -- and the easiest way to get into Manhattan from any of them is to take a taxi. The reason why you want a cab is this: It’s low-stress and reliable. Outside baggage claim, line up at the main taxi stand, ignoring the guys who yell "taxi" as you walk by. They are working illegally.
The attendant at the taxi kiosk will direct you to which cab to take and he'll ask you where you’re going. It's a flat rate to Manhattan from JFK (now $45,) though it ranges for La Guardia and Newark. (A trip to Newark from NYC carries a $15 surcharge.) There is no extra charge for bags, though you do need to pay any bridge or tunnel tolls plus the tip. In general, allow at least 45 minutes for a trip into the city. Find more taxi tips in the transportology section.
The newest option to the airport is AirTrain, which runs to Newark and JFK airports. The Newark branch dumps passengers off at Penn Station in Manhattan; the JFK branch links up with the subway or Long Island RailRoad. This is a good option if you don't have lots of luggage and time isn't your top priority.
Super Shuttle buses are good for getting to the airport if you are a solo traveler but not so great if you're headed into Manhattan. One of their drivers told me they aren't supposed to leave the airport until they're full with riders and then they have to drop people all over the city - which on bad days can leave you in the van for two hours. This isn't how you want to start your trip.
The city operates buses to and from LaGuardia, allowing a passenger to get into Manhattan for a mere $2 (metro card or exact coin change required.) Again, this option takes more time and a little travel savvy. The M60 bus is an especially popular choice for Columbia University.
Full bus, taxi and car service listings are available at the Web sites for JFK LaGuardia and Newark.
You can also take a helicopter into Manhattan.
Related links: AirTrain transfers absolutely miserable with luggage
Pricing a cab ride from LaGuardia to Manhattan
Taxi docket: credit card fares and $45 flat-rate to JFK
Emmanuelle takes an AirTrain safari
JetBlue guiding passengers to AirTrain
Airtrain approaches 1-year anniversary, still short of goal
Buses get funds intended for LaGuardia subway
January 1, 2003 11:47 AM in Basic NYC Guide
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