How to Get from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Times Square?
Traveling from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Times Square in Manhattan is one of the most common scenarios for tourists and business travelers. The distance from JFK Airport to Times Square is around 16 miles, and many transportation options, including car rentals, are available.
Go through this comprehensive guide to know the best and cheapest ways to get from JFK to Times Square.
What is the Best Way to Get from JFK Airport to Times Square?
You will find numerous options for convenient travel at JFK. Below are some of the best ways to get from JFK Airport to Times Square:
Taxis:
Yellow taxis in NYC have ‘flat-rate’ based fares, i.e., USD 70 between Kennedy Airport and Times Square, Manhattan. Here are some aspects you must know before using it:
Pros:
No sudden price surge like Lyft and Uber
Easy-to-predict costs for better planning.
Regulated by NYC authorities, it is a trusted option.
Highly useful during holidays, rush hours, and late-night travels due to 24/7 availability.
Air conditioning with more luggage space.
Cons:
Take more time when traffic is heavy.
They are more expensive than public transit due to added tips and tolls.
Not a great option for larger groups.
Cost:
Flat Fee: USD 70
During Rush Hours and Heavy Traffic: USD 110+
Tip: ~USD 12 to ~USD 20
Tolls: ~USD 7 to ~USD 12
Travel Time:
During Normal Traffic (Day Time): 45-60 minutes
Early Morning/Late Nights: 35-45 minutes
Rush Hours: 90+ minutes
2. AirTrain + Subway
When you need the cheapest travel option, you can opt for AirTrain and Subway. Just take the AirTrain from your preferred JFK terminal to Jamaica Station. After this, get down and take the E-Train (Subway) to reach Times Square. Here are some pointers to remember:
Pros:
It is a budget-friendly option.
You can avoid traffic congestion.
24/7 availability makes it a sensible choice.
E-train provides direct connectivity to 42nd St. Port Authority, near Times Square.
Cons:
During peak travel hours, the AirTrain and Subway are too crowded.
The frequency of Subway decreases during the night
It is not suitable when you have heavy and multiple bags to carry.
Cost:
AirTrain: USD 8.75 (pay with a credit card or OMNY)
Subway: USD 2.90 (standard fares)
Travel Time:
JFK Terminal to Jamaica Station: 10-20 minutes
Jamaica Station to Times Square: 50-60 minutes
3. Shuttle Services
This is more like a ‘middle ground’ travel option. It is cheaper than taxis and more convenient than the E-Train. Before pre-booking it, learn about the pros, cons, costs, and travel time:
Pros:
For couples and solo travelers, it is the most affordable option.
Get a door-to-door facility to manage heavy luggage seamlessly.
Most shuttle service providers, such as Go Airlink, provide fixed, predictable, and pre-booked rates.
It is less hectic and more comfortable than the subway.
Cons:
Since stops are shared, the overall travel time increases.
To secure a spot, pre-booking is mandatory.
Cost:
Per Person One-Way Fee: USD 20 to USD 35
Round Trip Discounts: USD 2 off for each way
Travel Time:
Duration: 90 minutes or more
4. Car Rentals
Using a car rental in New York to transit between JFK Airport and Times Square is recommended due to the benefits attached. Other crucial details have been listed below:
Pros:
Due to many car options, such as economy, compact, vans, and convertibles, it is ideal for families and groups of different sizes.
You can have more space to travel comfortably and keep your luggage safe.
Car rentals are perfect when traveling with pets, as most companies, including Enterprise, welcome dogs, cats, etc.
When traveling beyond Times Square from JFK, car rentals offer convenience and affordability.
Cons:
Traffic congestion during peak hours can increase the overall travel time.
For shorter trips, you may find car rentals a little expensive.
To travel outside the city, you may need toll tags.
Parking in Manhattan is expensive, i.e., USD 50 to USD 70 per night.
International travelers will need to familiarize themselves with the usual road and traffic signs.
Cost:
Daily Cost: USD 52 to USD 70
Travel Time:
During Traffic Hours: 45 to 90 minutes
Pick-Up: Arrive at least 40-60 minutes before the given time to complete the paperwork for a smooth pickup
Tip: At ZadCars, you can check availability, compare prices, ongoing deals, and book your preferred car within a few simple clicks.
Why Choose Rental Cars Over Others to Travel Between JFK and Times Square?
Since many transportation options from JFK to Times Square are available, rental cars are considered the most convenient, flexible, and somewhat affordable options. Look at the following to know why it is a preferred choice:
Car rentals are the best way to get from JFK Airport to Times Square, as you have more personal space.
You can travel at your own pace and avoid the hustle of the fixed schedule of public transit.
If you want to explore nearby places, such as New Jersey and Niagara Falls, car rentals offer flexibility and affordability for excursions.
A rental car is a superior choice while traveling in groups or with families.
You can have a comfortable and direct transit with car rentals in New York City.
Note: Before booking at ZadCars, always consider the best time to reserve, understand parking and traffic rules, and toll-related details.
Quick Comparison of Taxi vs. Subway vs. Rental Cars
To make an informed decision, here is the quick comparison table consisting of cost and other factors:
Note: Browse through ZadCars to check the availability of your desired rental cars as per your travel plans.
Travel Time and Distance between JFK Airport and Times Square
Before you decide on the travel mode to go to Times Square from JFK, the following details regarding the travel distance and time must be kept in mind:
The straight distance between these two destinations is 16 miles (approximately).
However, it varies depending on the route chosen and the terminal assigned.
With the fastest route and no traffic congestion, the total travel time is around 35-40 minutes.
If traffic is heavy, it can take up to 2 or more hours to cover the same distance.
Summary,
There are many transport options to travel from JFK Airport to Times Square. Each option carries some pros and cons. Also, the costs and travel duration vary, depending on the transfer mode chosen. For instance, when you need privacy, speed, and convenience, choose car rentals. To learn more and book at the lowest rates, visit ZadCars.
