How to Get to Times Square in NYC
What kind of transportation can get you to your Broadway show? We have the answers!
You're making plans for your first trip to one of the choicest tourist destinations in New York City — Times Square — and rightly so. It's no secret that Times Square is the entertainment hub of NYC, thanks to its iconic aesthetics and eye-catching Broadway shows.
So, we get it that you've booked your travel, confirmed your hotel stay, and of course, secured tickets to your favourite Broadway show. And now, the big question is: How do you get there?
Well, New York City sprawls over 300 square miles and five boroughs, and can be difficult to navigate for first-timers. But that doesn't mean you have to pull the plug on your trip to the Theatre District.
In this post, we'll be revealing the transportation options available to you from different locations and giving you directions that will get you to your show in time for the curtain.
The Best Ways to Get to a Broadway Theater
1. Getting to a Broadway Theater on Foot
The streets of NYC are teeming with pedestrians, especially in the theatre district (40th Street-54th Street, 6th Ave-8th Ave). If you're already staying in midtown and you're up for a nice walk, there is no reason that you can't approach your theatre on foot.
Keep in mind that 10 short blocks (north-south) cover about a half a mile, while one long block (east-west) is generally three times the distance of one short block.
What does that mean? John Tauranac, tells the New York Times: "At a pace of three miles an hour, you should figure an uptown-downtown walk at about one minute per block, and three to five minutes per crosstown block."
2. Getting to a Broadway Theater by Subway
The New York City subway system is expansive, and every Broadway theatre is no more than a couple of blocks from a subway station. That means that no matter where you are staying in the city, whether it be Harlem or Queens, Broadway is no more than a train ride away.
Most Broadway theatres (with the exception of the Vivian Beaumont) are within walking distance of the Times Square-42nd St stop (A, C, E, N, Q, R, W, S, 1, 2, 3, and 7 trains), though some are slightly closer to local stops like 50th Street or 49th Street. Check your theatre location first to find the subway stop that is closest to you.
To use the subway, purchase your Pay-Per-Ride OMNY Card for $1 at an underground vending machine at subway stations or other select retail locations. Each subway ride costs $3.00.
Furthermore, do well to check the MTA website before you leave to make sure that there are no scheduled service changes for the train you intend to take!
Let's quickly throw light on all you need to know about an OMNY card to make your first ride seamless.
What Is an OMNY Card?
OMNY Card is a new contactless and reloadable method that allows riders in NYC tap to ride. They are available for purchase at selected retail locations and subway stations. The OMNY Card also allows riders to count rides towards weekly fare capping.
How To Tap an OMNY Card To Ride in NYC
Tap to pay is the easiest way to pay your fare at the subway or bus station in New York City. Simply tap your contactless pay method (credit, debit card, wallet app on your smartphone or watch, or OMNY card) on the screen at the front of the turnstile, at an AutoGate, or as you board a bus. The screen will indicate if the payment went through.
If it's your first time tapping, note that you can't use the same payment method to swipe for more than one rider in a row. Hence, if you are paying for more than one person in your group, you will need to use a different payment method each time. After your bank processes the payment, you can pay for up to 4 people on the same trip.
After paying for 12 rides ($34) in a one-week period with the same payment method, future rides within that week are free. NB: Fare capping resets every 7 days.
3. Getting to a Broadway Theater by Bus:
New York City buses work similarly to the subways (purchase an OMNY card and ride for $3.00), and generally, bus routes stop in areas that are farthest from subway stations. The biggest con? While the ride is cheap, buses are subject to traffic, and since you are heading towards Manhattan's busiest intersection, delays can be frequent.
4. Getting to a Broadway Theater by Yellow Cab/Taxi:
Despite the popularity of car services like Uber and Lyft, New York City's streets are still spotted with yellow. Hailing a cab is easy; just throw your arm into the air to flag an oncoming taxi. If the numbers on the sign on the car's roof are lit, that means it is available. If the sign is unlit, it's already occupied.
Once you're in the cab, simply tell your driver where you're going; whether that be an exact address or street corner — just be clear. When you reach your destination, you can pay for your ride with a credit or debit card (via the touch screen in the backseat), by syncing your ride with payment apps like Curb (info displayed on the touch screen), or by giving your driver cash.
5. Getting to a Broadway Theater by Rideshare:
Generally, a ride via Uber or Lyft will cost the same as a taxi ride. Though cabs are generally easier to spot on a busy street, there are two major pros in choosing a car service over a yellow cab.
- If you are traveling from an outer-borough, taxis can be harder to come by. Booking a car can be both faster and easier if you're traveling from outside Manhattan.
- There are no fare surprises. Instead of getting your grand total at the end of your trip, Uber and Lyft calculate the cost of your ride before you step into the car.
6. Getting to a Broadway Theater by Shuttle Services
NYC shuttle services from LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark Airports are convenient and offer door-to-door services, meaning you get dropped at your exact location without little to no stress.
How to Get to Times Square from Different Locations
Below are some of the most popular routes to explore.
1. Getting to Times Square from LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
a. Subway/Bus
This budget-friendly option involves using the airport link bus (Q70 SBS) and the NYC subway option. The Q70 Select Bus Service (SBS) bus is express, free, designated for airport travel, and comes with sufficient luggage space.
It takes off every 8–10 minutes from LGA Terminals B and C. So, pay attention to the signs for public transportation to avoid missing its arrival. In addition, the Q70 SBS reaches the subway hub in approximately 15 minutes.
Q70 SBS + 7 Train (Purple): Takes you directly to Times Square-42nd Street. Get on the Q70-SBS and until your next stop at Jackson-Roosevelt Ave station. Step into the station, make your payment, and ride with a Manhattan-bound 7 train (with 7 for local and <7> [IRT flushing line] for express). Stop at Times Square-42nd St.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 40 - 50 mins
Q70 SBS + E Train (Blue): Stops at 42nd St–Port Authority Bus Terminal, which is one block west of Times Square. Ride the Q70-SBS to the Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave/74 St station.
At the subway station complex, make your payment, and get on the Manhattan-bound E train (Blue). Get off the train at the 42nd St-Port Authority Bus Terminal station, situated in the heart of Times Square.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 45 - 60 mins
F Train (Orange): Stops at 42 St–Bryant Park station, which is one block east of Times Square. Take the free Q70 SBS right to the Jackson Height-Roosevelt ave station. Once you're at the station, pay to ride on the Manhattan-bound F train. Stop at the 42nd St-Bryant Park station.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 45 - 60 mins
M60 SBS + Subway: You can also opt for the M60 SBS to the subway. Take the M60 Select Bus Service (SBS) from LGA to 125th Street and Lexington Avenue. Transfer to the 4, 5, or 6 subway line downtown to Grand Central. From there, take the shuttle (S) or 7 train to Times Square.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 60 - 90 minutes
b. Taxi or Rideshare
This option is ideal for travellers moving in groups or with heavy luggage, offering door-to-door stops within the neighborhood.
Yellow Taxis: No flat fare to Manhattan, as the fares from LaGuardia airport are metered, alongside airport surcharge ($1.75), tolls ($6 - $10), and potential tips. As a result, this trip to Times Square may cost you around $40 – $70.
Uber/Lyft: Prices may fluctuate based on demand, traffic, or time of day. Hence, the typical ride costs between $50–$90.
Estimated Time: 20 - 60 minutes (depending on traffic or rush hour).
c. Shuttle Services
This door-to-door option is best suited to individuals who want an assured seat to their destination without the need to explore the subway options.
GO Airlink NYC: Shared van services like Go Airlink NYC can drop you off at popular hotels in Manhattan and hubs close to Times Square, starting at $35 per person.
NYC Express Bus: NYC Express Bus connects LGA terminals to well-known Midtown destinations and costs about $15 - $19 per person.
Estimated Time: 45 - 65 minutes
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2. Getting to Times Square from JFK Airport
a. Train/Subway
Air Train +E Subway Line: Get on the Air Train heading to Sutpin Blvd-Archer Ave-JFK Airport station from JFK. On arrival, board the E train at Jamaica Station to Manhattan and stop at 42nd Street-Port Authority (Times Square), which is a block away from Times Square.
Total Cost: $13 - $17 ($8.50 Air Train + $3.00 subway fare + extras) || Estimated Time: 60 - 75 minutes
AirTrain + LIRR: This is the fastest option. Take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station. Transfer to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Grand Central Madison or Penn Station. Walk or take a trip to Times Square.
Total Cost: $13.75 - $15.75 ($8.50 AirTrain + $5.25 - $7.25 LIRR ticket) || Estimated Time: 30 - 35 minutes
b. Taxi or Rideshare
Taxi or Rideshare offers comfort for riders and convenience for heavy luggage while also providing door-to-door service.
Yellow Taxi: Taxis in New York charge a flat fare of $70 (plus tolls, tip, and possible surcharges) for trips from JFK to Manhattan.
Uber / Lyft: Typically, the prices range from $70–$120+, depending on time of day and demand. You would have to pay for tolls, a likely $5.00 rush hour surcharge (4–8 PM weekdays), a $2.50 New York State Congestion Surcharge, and tips. To get your ride, pay attention to the airport signage to find selected “Ride App” zones for pickup.
Total Cost: $70 - $130+ || Estimated Time: 45 - 75 minutes (might be slower during rush hour).
c. Airport Shuttle Services
GO Airlink NYC: Shared shuttle services like Go Airlink NYC provide door-to-door stops at $35.
Estimated Time: 60 - 90+ minutes
d. Express Bus
These buses reach important locations like Grand Central or Port Authority for about $19-$25. In heavy traffic, it might take about 120 minutes to get to Times Square.
3. Getting to Times Square from Newark Airport:
a. Taxi or Rideshare
Yellow/Green Taxis: They are readily available at every terminal. No flat fare to Manhattan, with the prices ranging from $70–$100 with tolls (about $6 -$10), tip (15% - 20%), and a surcharge of $5 for destinations within New York.
Uber / Lyft: The prices are inconsistent due to the demand, the time of the day (especially during peak hours), or traffic. A trip might cost between $70 - $120.
Estimated Time: 45 - 90+ minutes
b. By Subway/Train
Want to avoid the heavy traffic en route Manhattan? This is your fastest and most reliable option.
AirTrain + NJ Transit: Take the AirTrain from your terminal to Newark Liberty Airport (EWR) Station. Transfer to a Manhattan-bound NorthEast corridor NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station. Walk for about 10 minutes or take the 1, 2, 3, A, C, or E subway lines one stop to Times Square–42nd Street.
Total Cost: $16 - $18 (AirTrain + NJ Transit fare + Subway fare)|| Estimated Time: 45 - 60 minutes
c. Express Bus
Get on the Newark Airport Express bus operated by Coach USA. With this option, you can go directly to Midtown Manhattan without any train transfers. Stop at the Port Authority Bus Terminal on 41st St., which is right next to Times Square.
Total Cost: $18 - $24 one-way/$30 - $40 round trip || Estimated Time: 45 - 90 minutes
d. Shared Shuttle Services
Go Airlink NYC, Super Shuttle, and other shared shuttle services offer pre-booked rides and door-to-door stops while ensuring you get to your destination as quickly as possible.
Total Cost: $30 –$50 per person || Estimated Time: 60 -90+ minutes
4. Getting to Times Square from Penn Station/Moynihan
a. By Subway
The subway is a convenient and quick non-car option you can consider to Times Square.
From Moynihan (8th Avenue): Follow the signs within the hall to the A, C, or E trains (Blue lines). Get on the train going uptown, one stop to 42nd St-Port Authority Bus Terminal. Then, make your way through the connecting underground tunnels to 42nd St-Times Square.
From Penn Station (7th Avenue): Go through the underground concourse leading to 7th Avenue to get on any of the 1, 2, or 3 trains (Red Lines). Jump on the train going uptown one stop to 42nd St–Times Square.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 2 - 5 minutes
b. On Foot
The Direct Route: Leave Monyihan Train Hall on 8th Avenue. Move north along 8th Avenue to 42nd St, then turn right onto 7th Avenue/Broadway to enter Times Square.
The Broadway Route: Exit toward 7th Avenue. Move north along 7th Avenue. Keep walking, you're about 8-10 blocks into the heart of Times Square.
c. Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare comes in handy, particularly when you have heavy luggage, thanks to the sufficient space available. However, the Midtown traffic can be intense and disruptive to your arrival time. Nonetheless, visit the designated taxi stand outside Moynihan Train Hall or 8th Avenue to get your journey started.
Total Cost: $7 - $13 || Estimated Time: 5 - 10 minutes (depending on traffic)
d. By Bus
Take the M20 bus moving north on 8th Avenue at W 34th St. and stop at W 42nd St.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 7 - 10 minutes
.png?format=auto&width=1400 "How to Get to Times Square in NYC")
5. Getting to Times Square from Grand Central Terminal:
a. By Subway
The subway is the ideal public transit to use to get to your destination once it's time to depart Grand Central Terminal for Times Square.
The 42nd St. Shuttle (S): This train is designated to run between Grand Central and Times Square. It's readily available for boarding except during late hours (12 AM - 6 AM).
The 7 Train: Board the 7 train heading to the west (to 34th St-Hudson Yards) for one stop to 42nd St-Times Square.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 1 - 3 minutes
b. On Foot
Walking takes about 11 - 15 minutes. First off, leave the Grand Central Terminal and walk west along 42nd st. Keep moving until you pass Bryant Park and the New York Public Library. In no time, the 7th Avenue/Broadway in Times Square will be in sight.
c. By Bus
Get on the bus E at 42nd Street and Madison Avenue. Once you reach W 42nd St and Seventh Avenue, get off the bus.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 6 - 10 minutes (depending on traffic)
6. Getting to Times Square from Port Authority:
a. On Foot
The Port Authority terminal stretches from 40th to 42nd streets along 8th Avenue, and Times Square begins at 42nd Street and 7th Avenue. This implies that you're adjacent to the Theatre District immediately you exit the terminal.
Direct Route: Leave the terminal onto 8th Avenue and walk east along 42nd Street for one block to get to Broadway/7th Avenue.
Underground Passage: Alternatively, if you don't want to walk on the surface, you can go through the subway mezzanine. Allow the signs for the 1, 2, 3, 7, or S (Shuttle) trains lead you.
You'll ultimately find the long underground tunnel that runs from the Port Authority (8th Avenue)to the Times Square-42nd Street Station (7th Avenue).
b. By Subway
Jump on the A, C, or E train one stop north of 50th St, on the northern side of Times Square.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 2 - 3 minutes
c. By Bus
M42: This bus runs easily along 42nd Street. Get on the M42 at West 42nd and 8th Avenue. Once in motion, you'll get to 7th Avenue in a breeze.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 1 - 4 minutes
d. Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshares are always available at their designated stands outside the terminal on 8th Avenue.
Total Cost: $7 - $12 || Estimated Time: 2 - 4 minutes (depending on traffic)
7. Getting to Times Square from Bryant Park
a. On Foot
Times Square is pretty close to Bryant Park, as it is just one long block west of Bryant Park. As a result, walking or using the underground pedestrian tunnel fits the bill. Within 4 - 6 minutes, you should be in Times Square, taking in its immersive scenery.
Surface Route: If you are coming from the west of Bryant Park (6th Avenue), walk west along 42nd Street. In no time, you'll get Broadway and Seventh Avenue in Times Square.
Underground Tunnel: When it's cold or raining, you can opt for the 42nd St. Connection. All you have to do is step into the 42nd St - Bryant Park Station and allow the pedestrian tunnel signs lead you to Times Square - 42nd St.
And what's more, the tunnel has immersive mosaic artwork that makes for good viewing while providing you a direct and weather-protected option to Times Square.
b. By Subway
This is an interesting alternative. Nonetheless, it's often considered slow due to the wait times involved.
7 Train: Catch the 7 train at the 5th Avenue station and ride one stop west to Times Square-42nd St.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 1 - 2 minutes.
c. By Bus
M42: Get on the M42 heading west along 42nd Street from the stop at 6th Avenue/W 42nd St. Drop off at 7th Avenue.
d. Taxi/Rideshare
In 2-3 minutes, you should get to your destination with a taxi or rideshare, depending on traffic. Drivers head west on W 42nd St. and W 43rd St.
Total Cost: $7 - $12
8. Getting to Times Square from Fifth Avenue
a. By Subway
From Upper Fifth Avenue (72nd St.): Board any of the N, Q, R, or W trains from the 72nd St. heading directly to the 42nd St-Times Square. This takes around 7 - 9 minutes.
From Mid-Fifth Avenue (59th St.): Take the R or W train from 5th Av/59th St to 42nd St-Times Square. You'll be at your destination in about 6 minutes.
From Fifth Avenue (53rd St.): Use the F or M train from 5th Av/53 At to 42 St-Bryant Park, then take a short walk one block west to the heart of Times Square. You'll be there in 4 - 5 minutes.
From Lower Fifth Avenue (23rd St.): Get on the N, Q, R, or W trains from 23rd St to 42nd St-Times Square. It takes no more than 4 - 5 minutes.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card)
b. By Bus
M1, M2, M3, and M4: These buses travel south on 5th Avenue. Drop at W 42nd St. and take a short walk two blocks west to Times Square.
M42: You'll likely find this bus at 42nd St. and Fifth Avenue (close to the NY Public Library). It takes you directly to Seventh Avenue.
Westchester Bee-Line (Route 0028): This bus operates between the 5th Avenue at 69th St. and the 5th Avenue at 43rd St.
Total Cost: $2 - $7 || Estimated Time: 10 - 12 minutes
c. On Foot
Walking is often a delightful experience, especially when you set foot in the Midtown's shopping district.
Times Square is two blocks west of the intersection of 42nd St. and Fifth Avenue, making it a good walking distance. Within 20 - 25 minutes, you should be right there.
If you are anywhere between 42nd St. and 59th St., walk north/south to 42nd St. or 47th St., then head west to Seventh Avenue or Broadway, in the heart of Times Square.
d. Taxi or Rideshare
You can also decide to use a taxi or rideshare from Midtown Fifth Avenue, which takes you to your destination within 2 - 5 minutes, based on the traffic situation. The fares range from $8 to $15. Drivers are obliged to drop passengers only at designated zones close to 7th Avenue and 42nd, 46th, and 48th streets.
9. Getting to Times Square from Central Park
a. On Foot
Walk straight down (without turning left or right) to 7th Avenue or Broadway. It's about 17 blocks from Times Square, meaning it takes about 15 - 20 minutes to get to your destination.
b. By Subway
Board a specific train heading directly to 42nd St-Times Square from 59 St-Columbus Circle. This takes about 5 minutes and is the fastest option.
Get on the C train from the station along Central Park West to 42nd St-Port Authority Bus Terminal, right at the edge of Times Square. This takes about 10 - 17 minutes.
Ride on the N, R, or W trains from 5th Avenue to 42nd St-Times Square or 49th St.
c. By Bus
M7 Bus: This Times Square bus travels south along 7th Avenue and drops passengers directly at Times Square.
M104 Bus: The M104 bus runs down Broadway, making a number of stops close to Times Square.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 15 - 20 minutes (depending on traffic)
d. By Taxi/Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare that takes you from popular southern visitor centers (like The Dairy) within 3 - 5 minutes and costs around $8 - $14. Although traffic might delay the arrival time.
10. Getting to Times Square from the Upper East Side
a. By Subway
In most cases, this is the most direct and fastest method from the Upper East Side.
The Q Train: Board the Q train from 72nd, 86th, and 96th Street stations. It goes directly to the 42nd St-Times Square station.
The 6 Train Transfer: Get on the 6 train downtown to Grand Central-42nd St. After which, you can transfer to the 42nd St. Shuttle or the one-stop 7 train west to Times Square.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 10 - 15 minutes
b. By Bus
If you want to take in the ambience the city offers, a bus ride fits the bill. The only downside is that there may likely be traffic.
J any of these downtown routes (M101, M102, or M103) along Lexington Avenue to 42nd St and move to the west. Alternatively, you can take the downtown routes (M1, M2, M3, or M4) along 5th Avenue and drop off close to 42nd St., and walk two blocks west.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 20 - 30 minutes (depending on traffic).
c. By Taxi or Rideshare
If the traffic is light, you can get to your destination in about 7 - 15 minutes. However, it can be much slower during rush hour.
Total Cost: $15 - $25 (before tip)
d. On Foot
Times Square can be about 2.5 - 3 miles away, based on where you start walking from. Furthermore, if you walk briskly, it could take approximately 45 - 60 minutes to get there. Take a walk down 5th Avenue and enjoy the beautiful view, as you go past Central Park and the Museum Nile.
11. Getting to Times Square from Van Cortlandt Park
a. By Subway
The MTA Subway 1 offers a direct, one-seat ride from Van Cortlandt Park to Times Square. The trains leave the station every 10 minutes. Make your way to the Van Cortlandt Park-242nd Street Station (situated at West 242nd Street and Broadway). Jump on the Southbound 1 Train en route Broadway-7th Avenue Local. Alight at 42nd St-Times Square.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card) || Estimated Time: 37 - 40 minutes
b. Express Bus
BxM3 Bus: Using the BxM3 Express bus line provides you with a direct alternative to your destination. Get on the bus at Broadway at West 246th Street or West 251st Street. Drop off at 5th Avenue and West 48th St., which is a brief walk away from Times Square.
Total Cost: $7 (Express Bus fare) || Estimated Time: 50 - 55 minutes
c. Car/Taxi/Rideshare
Whether you're driving yourself, using a taxi, or rideshare, the quickest driving route is through the NY-9A South (Henry Hudson Parkway).
Total Cost: $50 - $75 (for taxis/rideshares) || Estimated Time: 20 - 25 minutes
12. Getting to Times Square from the Empire State On Foot
Walking is sometimes considered the fastest method, factoring in the wait times before transit or potential traffic for taxis. It takes around 12 - 15 minutes to walk to Times Square, which is about 0.6 - 0.8 miles from the Empire State. You can walk the distance via any of these routes:
Direct Route: Step out of the Empire State Building on 34th St. and walk north on 6th Avenue or Broadway until you get to 42nd St.
Scenic Route: Walk north on 5th Avenue, pass Bryant Park and the New York Public Library, then turn left on 42nd Street toward 7th Avenue.
b. By Subway
If you don't want to go on foot, the subway is a great option to consider, as it takes only 4 minutes to get to your destination. Walk to the 34 St-Herald Square station, one block west of the Empire State. Take the B, D, F, or M train lines (Orange line) or the N, Q, R, or W train lines (Yellow line). Stop at the 42nd St-Times Square.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card).
c. By Bus
A direct bus service is readily available and gets you to your destination within 5 - 7 minutes, depending on traffic. Jump on the M5 or M7 bus available at the station located at 6 Av/W 34th St. Drop off at 6 Av/W 42nd St., a short walking distance away from the heart of Times Square.
Total Cost: $2 - $7
d. Taxi or Rideshare
Uber/Lyft: This is undoubtedly the quickest option without traffic, taking approximately 1 – 2 minutes. However, in cases of Midtown congestion, the timing can be stretched a bit, delaying your arrival time. significantly increase this time.
Total Cost: $7 - $13 (before tip)
13. Getting to Times Square from Coney Island
a. By Subway
The subway is highly recommended for anyone looking to get to Times Square from Coney Island. Different subway lines leave the Coney Island-Stillwell Ave Station for Times Square-42nd St.
Q Train (Yellow Line): It runs as a local in Brooklyn and as an express in Manhattan, taking you directly to Times Square in about 53 minutes.
D Train (Orange Line): This direct express train stops at 42nd St-Bryant Park station, which is one block from Times Square, in approximately 55 minutes.
N Train (Yellow Line): This is another direct option that gets to Times Square in approximately 55 – 60 minutes.
F Train (Orange Line): The F train also offers direct service. However, it makes local stops in Brooklyn. This makes it a slower option, taking close to about 1 hour and 30 minutes or more to complete the trip.
Total Cost: $3.00 (using OMNY Card)
b. By Car/Taxi/Rideshare
Driving is the fastest way to Times Square without traffic, but parking in Times Square is difficult and expensive.
Driving with your Car: With a distance of about 15 miles, this trip lasts about 26 –45 minutes, depending on traffic. Here, the ideal route to take is through the Belt Parkway to I-278 E and the FDR Drive.
Taxi/Rideshare: A taxi or Uber/Lyft typically costs between $65 and $85 and takes around 27 minutes in light traffic. They also follow the same route as those driving cars.
c. By Express Bus
The X28 Express bus is a more convenient, albeit less frequent, alternative. It takes off from West 20 St/Mermaid Ave and arrives at Madison Ave 42nd St.
Total Cost: $2 - $7 || Estimated Time: 1 - 1 hour 30 minutes
FAQ
1. What is the best way to get to Times Square from any location in New York?
It all depends on where you're coming from. Using the NYC ferry, yellow taxis, subway, trains, bus, rideshare, or your foot may be best suited to your location, at that time.
2. What's the fastest way to Times Square station from the New York Public Library?
Walking to the Times Square station from the New York Public Library (Stephen A. Schwarzman Building) is your fastest option. It is a 5 - 7 minute walk west on 42nd St. to the Times Square area.
3. Where is Times Square located?
Times Square sits pretty at the intersection of West 42nd Street, 7th Avenue, and Broadway.
Final Words
Take your pick of these transportation options based on your location and preference, and get to Times Square on your terms. Wishing you safety all the way and a pleasant stay in the Theatre District.
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