27/11/2015
Arriving at LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and setting your sights on the vibrant borough of Brooklyn? You're in for a treat! Brooklyn offers a unique charm, from its bustling neighbourhoods to its thriving arts scene, and getting there from LGA is a common journey for many visitors. Whether you're prioritising speed, cost, or convenience, there are several reliable options available to suit every budget and travel style. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each method, providing all the essential details to ensure a smooth transition from the airport to your Brooklyn destination.
LaGuardia Airport, one of New York City's three major air hubs, is situated in the borough of Queens, just north of Brooklyn. Brooklyn itself is a vast area, covering approximately 70 square miles – that's three times the size of Manhattan! This means the distance and travel time from LGA will vary significantly depending on your specific Brooklyn neighbourhood. For instance, Greenpoint, Brooklyn's northernmost point, is a mere 7 miles from the airport, while Brighton Beach, at the southernmost tip, is about 21 miles away. Understanding this geographical spread is key to planning your journey effectively.
Public Transport: The Budget-Friendly Choice
For the cost-conscious traveller, New York City's extensive public transport network offers the most economical way to get from LGA to Brooklyn. While it might involve a few transfers and a bit more time, the savings are significant. A single one-way trip, including transfers between subway and bus, costs just $2.75 when using a MetroCard, which can be purchased from vending machines at the airport.
The primary public transport route involves starting with a bus from the airport. You'll begin by taking the Q70 Bus, which conveniently departs from all airport terminals. This bus will take you to Roosevelt Avenue. From there, your journey continues on the subway. You have a couple of main options to reach Brooklyn's central transit hub, Atlantic Terminal:
- Option 1 (via E or M train): From Roosevelt Avenue, board either the E or M train towards Manhattan. Alight at Court Square and 23rd Street Station. Here, you'll switch to the G train. Take the G train and get off at Fulton Street, which is a manageable six-minute walk from Atlantic Terminal. This route is also excellent if your destination is in northern Brooklyn neighbourhoods like Greenpoint, Williamsburg, or Bedford-Stuyvesant, as the G train services these areas directly.
- Option 2 (via N train - more circuitous): An alternative is to take the N train, which can drop you directly at Atlantic Terminal. However, this route often takes over an hour and involves transferring from the M60 bus at 31st Street to the Astoria Boulevard station, then taking a more roundabout route through Manhattan. It's generally less recommended for efficiency.
The total journey time to Atlantic Terminal using public transport is typically around 1 hour and 15 minutes, though this can vary with wait times and connections. While it's the cheapest option, be prepared for potential challenges if you're travelling with a lot of luggage, as buses and trains can get crowded, especially during peak hours.
If speed and convenience are your top priorities, then a taxi or a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft is your best bet. This option offers a direct and relatively stress-free journey from LGA straight to your Brooklyn destination. Without traffic, the drive from the airport to Atlantic Terminal can take as little as 25 minutes along the I-278. However, it's crucial to remember that New York City traffic is notoriously unpredictable, so always factor in potential delays.
Upon arrival at LaGuardia, you can easily hail a classic yellow cab from the designated taxi stands outside each terminal. Alternatively, if you prefer using a ride-sharing app, simply request your car via Uber or Lyft. A helpful tip for those arriving at Terminal B: ride-share pickups aren't permitted at the kerbside. You'll need to follow the signs to the designated parking garage for your ride-share driver to meet you.
The cost of a taxi or ride-share from LGA to Brooklyn can vary significantly based on your exact destination within Brooklyn, the time of day, and traffic conditions. For instance, a taxi to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal typically costs between $55 and $70. Generally, you can expect fares to range from approximately $40 to $80, depending on how far south you're heading within Brooklyn. Unlike some other routes in NYC, there are no tolls directly on the route from LGA to Brooklyn. However, it's important to account for other potential costs such as tipping (standard practice in the US is 15-20%) and any surcharges for time spent stuck in traffic, which can affect the final fare on metered taxis.
Comparing Your Options: Public Transport vs. Taxi
| Feature | Public Transport (Bus + Subway) | Taxi / Ride-Share |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Cost | $2.75 (one-way with MetroCard) | $40 - $80 (estimated, varies by destination) |
| Journey Time | 1 hour 15 minutes + | 20 - 45 minutes (traffic dependent) |
| Convenience | Lower (multiple transfers, crowds) | High (door-to-door, private) |
| Luggage Friendly | Less ideal (can be difficult with lots of bags) | Very (ample space) |
| Best For | Budget travellers, solo travellers, light luggage | Speed, comfort, groups, heavy luggage |
Other Transportation Services
While public transport and taxis are the most common, you also have other options:
- Airport Shuttles: Services like Shuttlefare.com offer a range of ground transportation options, from shared, cheaper airport shuttle fares to more luxurious private car services. These can be a good middle-ground, often more comfortable than public transport but less expensive than a private taxi, especially for solo travellers or small groups.
- Long Island Rail Road (LIRR): While technically an option, the LIRR route from Woodside (near LGA) to New York Penn Station and then requiring a further connection to Brooklyn (e.g., Church Av) is often more convoluted than the direct bus-to-subway approach for most Brooklyn destinations. It's generally not the most straightforward route for reaching Brooklyn directly from LGA.
- Car Rental: Renting a car at LGA is possible, but it's generally not recommended for exploring New York City, particularly Brooklyn. Parking is notoriously expensive and difficult to find, and navigating city traffic can be incredibly stressful. For most visitors, relying on public transport, taxis, or ride-shares is a far more sensible and cost-effective approach.
When Is the Best Time to Travel to Brooklyn?
Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, timing your journey can significantly impact your experience. It's always advisable to avoid New York City's notorious rush hour. These periods are typically between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM in the morning and 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM in the evening. During these times, you'll encounter not only heavier traffic on the roads but also packed buses and subway trains, making travel with luggage particularly challenging and uncomfortable.
In terms of the best time of year to visit Brooklyn, many agree that the summer months truly bring the borough to life. With an abundance of outdoor restaurants and rooftop bars, it's the perfect season to enjoy Brooklyn's vibrant atmosphere al fresco. Summer also boasts a fantastic calendar of free outdoor music events, such as the Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital Series at Brooklyn Bridge Park or the BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival at Prospect Park, offering unique cultural experiences.
What Is There to Do in Brooklyn?
Brooklyn has firmly established itself as a premier destination, with many visitors now preferring its relaxed, authentic vibe to the relentless pace of Manhattan. There's an endless array of things to see and do. Dive into its quirky museums, admire the diverse street art, browse unique vintage shops, or immerse yourself in its unrivalled coffee scene. Brooklyn also boasts a fantastic selection of high-end hotels, often offering more spacious rooms and sometimes even better views than their Manhattan counterparts.
If you only have a day to explore, make sure you don't leave without sampling some of the borough's famous pizza – Brooklyn is home to some of the best pizzerias in the world! A leisurely walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, is also an absolute must-do.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How far is New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) from Brooklyn?
The driving distance between New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Brooklyn is approximately 11 miles (about 17.7 kilometres). By car, this typically takes around 21 minutes, though this can increase significantly with traffic.
Is there a direct bus from New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to Brooklyn Cruise Terminal?
No, there is no direct bus service from New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. The fastest way to get there directly is by taxi or ride-share, which takes about 20 minutes and costs roughly $55 - $70.
What is the cheapest way to get from LaGuardia Airport to Brooklyn?
The cheapest way to get from LGA to Brooklyn is by using public transport (bus and subway). A one-way trip costs $2.75 with a MetroCard, including transfers.
What is the fastest way to get from LaGuardia Airport to Brooklyn?
The fastest and most convenient way to travel from LGA to Brooklyn is by taxi or ride-sharing service. Without traffic, the journey can take as little as 20-25 minutes. However, always factor in potential delays due to New York City traffic.
How much does a taxi cost from LaGuardia Airport to Brooklyn?
A taxi from LaGuardia Airport to Brooklyn can vary significantly in cost depending on your exact destination within Brooklyn. Fares typically range from approximately $40 to $80. For example, a taxi to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal is estimated to cost between $55 and $70. Remember to account for tips and potential surcharges for time spent in traffic.
With these options and tips in hand, your journey from LGA to Brooklyn should be a breeze, allowing you to quickly immerse yourself in all the incredible experiences this unique New York borough has to offer. Enjoy your trip!
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