If you’re not familiar with New York, it’s easy to forget just how vast it is. There are several airports serving the metropolitan area alone so it can be tricky trying to work out which one is best suited to your holiday needs.
So whether you’ve got a checklist of touristy favorites to tick off or are looking for a break with a more laid-back vibe, we take a look at some of New York’s major airports to suit every type of holiday.
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LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
If being as close as possible to the center of all the action is a priority, LaGuardia should be your airport of choice when you fly to New York City.
LGA is located in Queens and is only 12km from Manhattan. Several bus services connect LaGuardia to the New York subway system which includes the M60, Q48 and Q72 services and as it’s so close to the center, it’s also possible to get a taxi without having to pay over the odds.
The airport’s proximity to Manhattan and well-connected transport links make it an ideal choice for those on a mini or weekend break as your holiday can begin as soon as you land!
Once in Manhattan, you can start enjoying some of the most famous sites and attractions in the US. Take a stroll around Central Park, experience the vibrancy and fun of Times Square or climb the Empire State Building for some breathtaking views across the city. You might even have enough time to fit in a Broadway show!
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
JFK is one of the busiest airports serving the New York City metropolitan area and is situated in the borough of Queens, around 20km southeast of Manhattan.
The airport is well-connected to the city and surrounding areas. AirTrain JFK travels between terminals and will also connect you to both the subway system and Long Island Rail Road.
The airport is a hub for several major airlines including Delta, JetBlue and American Airlines. JFK also serves as an international gateway connecting travelers to a number of global destinations so is a great choice if you plan on jetting off to further climes after you visit the Big Apple.
If you’re heading to central Manhattan, the route from JFK is perfect for those looking for some interesting stop-offs along the way. Queens itself is a great place to explore, particularly if you’re a foodie. The borough is known for its ethnic and cultural diversity and this is reflected in its rich culinary scene and vibrant neighborhood.
It’s also worth stopping off at Brooklyn, which has made a name for itself as one of the more fashionable and chic broughs to visit. Brooklyn is choc-full of trendy bars and restaurants and is peppered with interesting boutiques and independent galleries which can be enjoyed before walking or driving across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge into Manhattan itself.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
This well-connected airport is located in Newark, New Jersey, around 24km southwest of Manhattan. The AirTrain provides a free connection to various transport options including Newark Liberty International Airport Station.
Both domestic and international flights are available via top carriers including United Airlines, British Airways and Virgin.
If you want to remain a little further from the hustle and bustle of the city center, then EWR is a great bet. Although New York City is still accessible, the airport is in a great location for those wanting a break with slightly more laid-back vibes!
Newark itself has a vibrant culture with plenty of museums, galleries, and historical attractions to explore. The airport is also well-placed for those wanting to visit the iconic Jersey Shore, with its beautiful beaches and famous boardwalks.
Long Island MacArthur (ISP)
ISP is located on Long Island in Ronkonkoma, Suffolk County
The airport offers flights with multiple carriers including American Airlines and Southwest Airlines and while the airport primarily handles domestic flights, it provides convenient access to and from several cities across the US.
Whilst not as expansive as some of the larger airports in the New York Metropolitan area, Long Island MacArthur provides a convenient option for travelers looking to explore Long Island and the surrounding areas.
Those looking for a holiday with a touch of class and sophistication should certainly fly into Long Island MacArthur. The airport is well-placed to explore the beautiful beaches and luxury estates of the famous, and very upscale, Hamptons.
Visitors can also discover North Fork, Long Island’s wine country full of vineyards offering tasting sessions of some world-class wines.
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Choosing the right airport for your New York City stay will of course depend on the type of holiday you’re looking for. Perhaps the easiest way to break it down is to decide whether you want to be in the heart of New York and its most famous attractions or whether you’re seeking a slightly quieter, dare we say more refined, vacation!
Whichever New York airport you choose, however, you can rest assured that there will be a wealth of stunning sites, fascinating attractions and plenty of entertainment to enjoy just beyond the terminal.
