5 Best Ways to Group Travel from LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan
/New York city is full of things to do, it is one of the most visited cities not only the US but in the world. We understand how overwhelming it can be to plan a trip, especially if you travel in a group, on top of the most frequently asked questions, such as “What hotel to choose?”, “Which attractions/museums to visit?”, “In what restaurants to eat?”, you should also think of details, in order to have your group organized, happy and have an unforgettable New York experience!
If you arrive to La Guardia Airport, it might be challenging to understand where to go, how to find transportation, etc. But don’t worry, we have you covered!
Here you will find the best ways to get to Manhattan (when travelling in big or small groups), prices, schedules and services, pros and cons for every option.
EASY SEARCH FOR CHARTER BUSES
LaGuardia Airport to Manhattan – SUBWAY
The airport is located in Queens, which is actually very close to the Midtown Manhattan (about 8 miles away). Subway is a very fast option, but also the cheapest one - $2,75
You can get to and from LaGuardia using public transportation, but most likely you will have to change lines, what might be challenging and tiring if you travel in a group. Using Google Maps, entering your exact destination is what we recommend if you choose this method.
You will have to take a Q72 (or Q70) bus provides a 24 hours service from the airport to Junction Blvd/Roosevelt Av from where you can take the line 7 (Junction Blvd station) and get to Manhattan directly.
You will need to purchase MetroCards for your group at the airport (vending machines are located throughout the terminals).
Total cost: $2,75 per person. BUT, if you are buying a new MetroCard there is a $1 fee, so do not throw it out, you can refill it later.
Time: from 60 to 100 minutes to get to Midtown Manhattan.
Pros: the cheapest option.
Cons: not very comfortable, when you have luggage; hard to handle when travelling in big groups; includes some walking.
TAXI
Since LaGuardia is located closer to Manhattan than JFK, taxi trips to Manhattan will be cheaper, but still not convenient when you travel in big groups. You will have to split your group and it can be hassling.
Taxi Stand is located outside of Baggage Claim.
Total cost: in between $30-45, depending on destination.
Time: faster than subway, from 20 to 30 minutes.
Pros: fast, door to door, no carrying luggage around.
Cons: you will have to split the group, 4 passengers by car.
PRIVATE CAR service
If you consider taking private car service, there are also options. For example, GroundLink specializes on airport transfer. It is not the best choice when it comes to group travels, since it is quite expensive, and a group will have to split up.
Total cost: depends on the destination (can check on the website or through the App). Price is fixed.
Time: to Midtown Manhattan from 20 to 30 minutes.
Pros: can order ahead, total price is fixed (no surprise), high level of service, very reliable and easy. If the driver is late for more than 5 minutes, you get $75 credit added to your account.
Cons: suits only for single travelers or small groups, otherwise you will have to order few cars, what is not very convenient.
UBER and other ride share apps are not the best options for group travels, but if you still consider it, you can download the App and follow the instructions.
RENT A COACH BUS (BookBuses)
If you want everything to be 100% organized, then a shuttle bus is the best fit for you (it can be a mini bus, depending on the size of the group). Bookbuses can help you with airport transfer, as well as with moving around the city during the trip. Providing amazing service, customer support, best prices and fast bookings. You might also get group discounts.
You can book online or through the phone in advance, discuss all the details of your trips, special requirements, etc. The company will provide you with information where to find us after you get your luggage (depends on the terminal/exit) as well as emergency contact, in case you cannot find the driver or have other issues.
Total cost: May vary.
Time: 35 - 45 minutes from LaGuardia to Midtown Manhattan.
Pros: has the convenience of private car rental, but cheaper (cost per person); high quality service; the best option for group travels.
Cons: traffic.
EXPRESS SHUTTLE BUS
It belongs to NYC Department of Transportation and it is called NYC Express Bus. You will find this service at LaGuardia (terminals B, C, D) - look for red signs. For big groups it can be challenging to stay organized when using this option. Also, it won’t bring you to your final destination (might have to take public transportation or walk after)
It goes to three locations (drops people at each one):
Grand Central Terminal (corner of 41st Street & Lexington Ave)
Times Square / Bryant Park (42nd Street between 5th and 6th Avenue)
Port Authority Bus Terminal (42nd Street between 8th and 9th Avenues)
Cost: the same for all destinations - $16
Time: 60 – 120 minutes
Hours of operation: from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (every hour)
Pros: reasonable price, children under 5 are free; book online – save your time at the airport; you can take any bus of the day (if you booked online); all three stops are in Midtown Manhattan near subways and other public transportation.
Cons: doesn't bring you to your final destination; challenging and tiring for big groups; cannot use it if you arrive before 11 a.m. or after 7 p.m.; not located at all terminals (only at B, C and D).
You can take the NYC Express Bus at the same locations to go back to LaGuardia Airport.
WHAT TO CHOOSE?
| Time | Total Price $ | Price $ per Passanger (50) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subway | 70 minutes | $ 138 | $ 2.75 |
| Taxi | 40 minutes | $ 630 | $ 13 |
| Private Car Rent | 30 minutes | $ 750 | $ 15 |
| Bookbuses | 30 minutes | $450-650 (round trip) | $10-13 |
When you plan a group trip, it is better to be 100% ready and plan every aspect of the trip. Transportation choice totally depends on your needs, amount of people and budget.
If you want to have the most budget friendly trip, using public transportation is your best option (subway/buses) - only $2,75 per person. But don’t forget that it might get very distractive, tiring and challenging if you don’t know the city.
On the other hand, if comfort is your priority and the group is not too big, you can use Private Car rental service, it might be pricy though.
After reviewing all the options, we concluded that the best quality-to-price option is renting a shuttle bus. It will help you have your trip 100% organized, comfortable and careless.
