A guide to LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Once considered one of the most frustrating airport experiences in the country, LaGuardia Airport (LGA) has pulled off an extraordinary turnaround, emerging as one of the highest-rated airports in the US.

The closest major airport to Manhattan, LGA serves as a vital domestic gateway for more than 30 million travelers each year. Following a multi-billion-dollar redevelopment, the airport has shed its outdated past for state-of-the-art facilities. The award-winning Terminal B, for example, features striking public art, spacious concourses, and an expansive dining and retail offering.

Travelling through LaGuardia? Navigating New York's transformed travel hub is simple when you know how its terminals operate, what amenities await, and the best ways to get into Manhattan. 

LaGuardia Airport at a glance

• Location: East Elmhurst, Queens, approximately 8 miles (13 kilometers) east of Midtown Manhattan

• Airport code: LGA

• Terminals: Three terminals (Terminal A, Terminal B, and Terminal C), connected by a free 24-hour terminal shuttle bus service

• Top airlines: Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, JetBlue, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Air Canada

• Passenger volume: Third-busiest airport in the New York metropolitan area, serving over 32 million passengers annually

• Free Wi-Fi: Unlimited free high-speed Wi-Fi available throughout all terminals via the official airport network

• Distance to central Manhattan: Around 8 miles east; driving time is typically 25 to 45 minutes off-peak, but can extend to 60 to 90 minutes during heavy traffic

Airlines flying out of LaGuardia Airport

Terminal A

• JetBlue

Terminal B

• Air Canada

• American Airlines

• American Shuttle

• Southwest Airlines

• United Airlines

Terminal C

• Delta Airlines

• Delta Shuttle

• Frontier Airlines

LaGuardia Airport lounges

While LaGuardia's Terminal A doesn't have any airport lounges, you'll find a place to relax in pre-flight comfort in each of the remaining terminals. For a more in-depth view, check out our full guide to LaGuardia's lounges.

Terminal B

American Airlines Admirals Club

American Airlines Admirals Club is the only lounge past security in Terminal B, putting you close to your flight. You can put your feet up on recliners with ottomans in the lounge's quiet area, or enjoy a snack from the cold buffet. Admirals Club members, oneworld Emerald or Sapphire members, and military personnel traveling in uniform have access to this lounge, and other travelers holding same-day American Airlines boarding passes can buy one-day passes.

American Express Centurion Lounge

You'll find the Centurion Lounge before security at Terminal B, so if you're an American Express Platinum cardholder, you can bring in two guests to see you off.

The business center in the lounge features a conference table for you to convene with your colleagues, and there's a dedicated TV area as well. The hot and cold food buffet is excellent, and the bartender at the full-service bar is happy to make whatever cocktail you want. A handy screen lets you see what the TSA lines look like out in the terminal — helpful since when you visit this lounge, you still have to go through security.

United Club

The United Club has recently been renovated to expand its space, which enjoys plenty of natural light and good views of the tarmac. The hot and cold buffet features elevated snacks, including bagels and lox brought in from New York's famous Ess-a-Bagel.

Private phone rooms let you have confidential conversations and wellness rooms are also available. United business-class passengers and Star Alliance first-class and business-class passengers have access to the lounge (though domestic United first-class passengers do not), and Star Alliance Gold members and United Club members also have access. Other United passengers can also buy a one-day pass to the lounge.

Terminal C

Delta Sky Club

In Terminal C’s Sky Club, you'll find a continental breakfast in the morning, plus limited hot food at lunchtime. A full-service bar is available, though you'll have to pay for premium drinks. Delta premium passengers on international flights and Sky Club frequent flyer members have access to this lounge with Delta same-day boarding passes, as do American Express Platinum cardholders.

LaGuardia Airport hotels

Whether you're looking for an airport-adjacent stay before an early departure or a full-service hotel, LaGuardia Airport has several convenient options.

DoubleTree by Hilton New York LaGuardia Airport

Positioned directly across the Grand Central Parkway from the airport, DoubleTree by Hilton New York LaGuardia Airport is a convenient option for those looking for hassle-free airport access. It features stylish guest rooms, indoor pool facilities, and on-site dining options, making it ideal for business trips or short layovers. 

New York LaGuardia Airport Marriott

Located just minutes from Terminals B and C, the New York LaGuardia Airport Marriott offers upscale accommodation for frequent flyers and business executives. Guests can take advantage of high-speed Wi-Fi, modern fitness amenities, and fine dining at the M Lounge and main restaurant. The property operates a dedicated complimentary shuttle service running back and forth to the airport on a frequent daily schedule.

Aloft New York LaGuardia Airport

For travelers who prefer a contemporary vibe, Aloft New York LaGuardia Airport brings modern design and vibrant social spaces right to the airport perimeter. Located near the East Elmhurst neighborhood, it features loft-inspired rooms, the signature W XYZ bar, and fast connectivity options. It's a great pick for travelers who want proximity to LGA alongside quick access to Flushing and Midtown Manhattan.

Hyatt Place Flushing/LaGuardia Airport

Situated in the heart of downtown Flushing, just a short drive east of LaGuardia Airport, Hyatt Place Flushing/LaGuardia Airport offers a mix of airport convenience and local neighborhood energy. In addition to comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast, the hotel features a rooftop lounge with grand views of the Manhattan skyline. 

LaGuardia Airport Shops

Retail at LaGuardia Airport has been transformed with a billion-dollar redevelopment. With Terminal D merged into the expanded Terminal C, Terminals B and C are now your shopping centers.

Terminal A

The historic Marine Air Terminal offers a more streamlined footprint. For travel necessities, light reading, and grab-and-go options, head to Otway Market inside the main concourse. Terminal A also provides essential amenities including device charging stations and currency exchange counters.

Terminal B

The state-of-the-art Terminal B headhouse and concourses house the airport's largest retail collection. Pick up gifts, souvenirs, and iconic toys at FAO Schwarz or local New York concepts like Bowery Bay Shops and District Market.

For electronics and travel tech, browse InMotion Entertainment or automated Best Buy Express kiosks. Essential travel supplies, snacks, and books are widely available across multiple Hudson outlets and McNally Jackson Books. Travelers looking for premium luggage, beauty products, or tax-free luxuries can visit Tumi, MAC Cosmetics, or the Duty Free Shops.

Terminal C

Delta's consolidated Terminal C features an expansive concourse loaded with shops past security. Pick up high-end luggage and travel gear at Briggs & Riley, refresh your skincare routine at Kiehl's, or grab designer eyewear at Sunglass Hut.

Travelers looking for unique New York gifts can explore local artisanal goods at Cibo Express Gourmet Markets and Fiorello Market.

Dining at LaGuardia Airport

Time spent at any airport is more enjoyable when you have great food available, whether you prefer a leisurely table-service meal, high-quality fast food, or a chance to grab a drink and watch the game before your board. Fortunately, LaGuardia Airport has you covered.

Terminal A

The dining options are limited in Terminal A, but you still have a few choices.

• Salotto: Have a seat and order your pizza, antipasti, or Italian sandwiches off an iPad, or pick up your grab-and-go order at the counter. A full bar makes this spot a Terminal A destination.

• Dunkin': Available near the gates for coffee, donuts, and quick breakfast sandwiches.

Terminal B

You'll find a wide range of options in Terminal B, with a few offerings from celebrity chefs.

• La Chula: Maybe you've been to this Julian Medina taqueria in Grand Central Station or Harlem. If not, prepare to be delighted by the mix-and-match tacos.

•  Bar 212: Craft cocktails and a relaxing atmosphere await you at this table-service restaurant that offers American-style cuisine.

• Shake Shack: Located post-security, this iconic NYC burger stand serves classic burgers, crinkle-cut fries, and frozen custard concretes.

• Junior's Restaurant & Cheesecake: In the Terminal B Food Hall, this Brooklyn institution lets you grab traditional diner fare alongside its world-famous New York cheesecake.

Terminal C

If you're in the mood for pizza, you're definitely in the right terminal, but Italian isn't your only option.

• Artichoke Basille's Pizza brings its famous, thick artichoke slices and classic pies to the Terminal C Food Hall. It's a perfect quick stop to try a city favorite.

• Rossi Pizzeria, found near Gate 92, serves up fresh salads, classic panini, and traditional pizza, easily satisfying your Italian cravings all day long.

• Bubby's takes the place of the old bistro concepts. This beloved Tribeca staple near Gate 70 specializes in American comfort food. You'll find everything from fried chicken and pancakes to burgers and homemade pie.

• Calista Taverna: Located post-security near Gate 70, this relaxed Mediterranean spot serves fresh Greek favorites like whole grilled branzino, souvlaki sandwiches, and Greek salads, all beside a wrap-around central cocktail bar. 

Amenities and insider tips at LaGuardia

Here are key insights to help you travel through the different LaGuardia terminals with minimal hassle.

Smoking policies

LaGuardia maintains a 100% smoke-free environment indoors, which includes all electronic cigarettes and vapes. There are no smoking lounges or designated areas past security screening in any of the terminals. If you want to smoke, you'll need to go to the designated outdoor curbside zones, located at least 25 feet away from terminal entrances on the arrivals and departures levels, before going through TSA. If you're on a layover, you’ll have to exit the building to use these outdoor areas and re-clear security to return to your gate.

Connecting to Wi-Fi

High-speed Wi-Fi is free and unlimited throughout Terminals A, B, and C. To connect, select _Free LGA WiFi from your device's network settings and choose the Free Unlimited WiFi option on the landing page. No lengthy registration forms are required, making it easy to download boarding passes or stream media while waiting to board.

Navigating security queues 

While Terminal B features a central security checkpoint serving all gates, Terminal C spreads gates across a long unified concourse. Check the TSA wait times on the official Port Authority app prior to arrival, as TSA PreCheck lanes are strategically located at both main terminal entrances to speed up your screening.

Terminal transfers

If you have a connecting flight between Terminal B and Terminal C, look for the airport shuttle buses rather than walking. While the terminal buildings feel close together, walking between separate terminal complexes requires stepping landside outside security, requiring another trip through TSA screening.

Quiet workspaces

If you need a private space to take a sensitive video call or catch up on work without terminal background noise, look for Jabbrrbox technology pods in Terminal B. These soundproof micro-offices can be rented directly on demand and come equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, power outlets, Bluetooth calling, and adjustable lighting. 

Getting around New York and New Jersey smoothly: With Blacklane

LaGuardia's transformation has made navigating the airport itself far easier, but getting into central New York is still unpredictable. With no direct rail connection from the terminals, most public transport routes require multiple connections across buses and subways.

For a seamless door-to-door journey, pre-booking a Blacklane airport transfer lets you bypass complicated transfers and crowded terminals after your flight. Your chauffeur tracks your arrival, meets you at the airport, assists with your luggage, and takes you directly to your hotel, meeting, or home in a comfortable private vehicle.

Whether you're heading into Manhattan for business or beginning a longer stay in the city, arranging your ground transportation in advance means one less thing to manage when you land.

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