need specific help LaGuardia to Stamford
Sep 25th, 2006, 08:17 PM
#1
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need specific help LaGuardia to Stamford
Please help! I'm a country girl and have to make it from LaGaurdia airport to Stamford CT (leaving in 2 days). Shuttle services are approx $55 + tip ONE WAY! What are cheap, safe alternatives? I did a search but the only post I found confused me as I've never ridden a public bus or train & our airport only has 2 gates! Please help - I need VERY SPECIFIC instructions so I don't get lost, confused or mugged! (Arrival time is 6:30 pm Thurs.)
THANKS!
THANKS!
Sep 25th, 2006, 10:05 PM
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- Takes the airport shuttle bus from La Guardia to Grand Central Terminal. $10 or $12 one way I believe. It takes maybe 45 mins to go from la guardia to grand central depending on traffic. The bus leaves every 20 mins. When you step off the plane follow the "Ground Transportation" sign. Once you get there ask anyone they should be able to tell you where the bus stop is. The shuttle also stops at the "Port Authority" and "Penn" train stations, so be sure to get off at Grand Central.
- Then from Grand Central, take the Metro North "New Haven" train line and get off at Stamford. If you are not familiar with Grand Central station, note that it's a station for the subway within NYC and also for trains to travel outside the city, you want to go to the train station part. This costs around $22 to Stamford.
Here's the train schedule
http://as0.mta.info/mnr/schedules/sched_results.cfm
You won't get mugged, promise! Manhattan is really safe and at that hour there will be tons of people around.
- Then from Grand Central, take the Metro North "New Haven" train line and get off at Stamford. If you are not familiar with Grand Central station, note that it's a station for the subway within NYC and also for trains to travel outside the city, you want to go to the train station part. This costs around $22 to Stamford.
Here's the train schedule
http://as0.mta.info/mnr/schedules/sched_results.cfm
You won't get mugged, promise! Manhattan is really safe and at that hour there will be tons of people around.
Sep 26th, 2006, 02:29 AM
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If you do take the train to Stamford, note though, that the destination may read "New Haven," with Stamford listed as a stop. Try to get an express to Stamford, where even if it continues on, Stamford will be the first main stop (it probably will stop first at 125th street, which is still in NYC). There are also local trains, with more frequent stops along the way.
I think your ticket to STamford should be more like $14. Buy the ticket in the station to save money (not on the train). Also, you can get a specific track number at the ticket window. (the trains are also listed on a big board above the window, but this may be hard for you follow).
good luck!
I think your ticket to STamford should be more like $14. Buy the ticket in the station to save money (not on the train). Also, you can get a specific track number at the ticket window. (the trains are also listed on a big board above the window, but this may be hard for you follow).
good luck!
Sep 26th, 2006, 05:33 AM
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Here is a website for schedules for the train:
http://mta.info/mnr/html/planning/schedules/
Flatfeet is right that the ticket will cost around $22. By the time you arrive at Grand Central, you will be taking a "peak" hour train, which is around 22.
If you are that new at public transportation, I'd suggest taking the $55 shuttle. It will be much easier and direct. You are only saving about $15 by going into Grand Central and taking the train to Stamford.
http://mta.info/mnr/html/planning/schedules/
Flatfeet is right that the ticket will cost around $22. By the time you arrive at Grand Central, you will be taking a "peak" hour train, which is around 22.
If you are that new at public transportation, I'd suggest taking the $55 shuttle. It will be much easier and direct. You are only saving about $15 by going into Grand Central and taking the train to Stamford.
Sep 26th, 2006, 06:50 AM
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There is one cheaper alternative to get into Manhattan. If you don't ahve much luggage, take the Q33 bus to 74th Street/Roosevelt Avenue subway, then take the 7 train to Grand Central (this is the elevated train, so just follow the signs to the 7 or ask someone). This is a bit slower than the NY Airport Service bus, but it's certainly cheaper at $2 for each ride (coins only, exact change required).
You will not get a free transfer between the bus and the subway because you aren't using a Metro card, but you can buy your subway card with 2 $1 bills from the automated machine in the subway station).
Take the 7 train to Grand Central, then go upstairs and buy your Metro North ticket to Stamford.
You will not get a free transfer between the bus and the subway because you aren't using a Metro card, but you can buy your subway card with 2 $1 bills from the automated machine in the subway station).
Take the 7 train to Grand Central, then go upstairs and buy your Metro North ticket to Stamford.
Sep 26th, 2006, 06:55 AM
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Good Lord, Doug! You're right, that's a cheaper alternative. But did you read how becky says she's *never* ridden a public bus or train and her home airport has TWO gates?!? She could never navigate her way to even FIND the Q33 bus, much less make that change to the train.
She needs easy and direct.
She needs easy and direct.
Sep 26th, 2006, 07:08 AM
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Why not take the M60 bus to 125th Street/Lexington Avenue and get on the Metro North train right there? That's the fastest and cheapest way to get from LGA to Stamford.
It's safe, easy, and direct.
At LGA, find the M60 bus.
Ride it to Manhattan, 125th Street, Lexington Avenue stop. The Metro North station is right there, and it's a lot easier than finding the train at Grand Central.
It's safe, easy, and direct.
At LGA, find the M60 bus.
Ride it to Manhattan, 125th Street, Lexington Avenue stop. The Metro North station is right there, and it's a lot easier than finding the train at Grand Central.
Sep 26th, 2006, 07:17 AM
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Beckyg,
Everyone here has done a really great job of describing how to get to Grand Central. I am only going to make one suggestion. In the middle of the station is an information booth. It is the only structure in the middle of the floor and it is topped off with with a Tiffany clock. It is impossible to miss. I would suggest talking to them once you arrive at Grand Central to find the correct train and the correct procedures for purchasing a ticket.
All of that said, I would suggest taking the airport shuttle. I am surprised it is only $55 + tip. That is a really good deal.
Everyone here has done a really great job of describing how to get to Grand Central. I am only going to make one suggestion. In the middle of the station is an information booth. It is the only structure in the middle of the floor and it is topped off with with a Tiffany clock. It is impossible to miss. I would suggest talking to them once you arrive at Grand Central to find the correct train and the correct procedures for purchasing a ticket.
All of that said, I would suggest taking the airport shuttle. I am surprised it is only $55 + tip. That is a really good deal.
Sep 26th, 2006, 07:35 AM
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Do NOT go to Grand Central. It's totally unnecessary AND out of the way.
Take the M60 bus from LGA to the Metro North station at 125th Street. $2. At the Metro North Station, you can ask a clerk about a train ticket to Stamford.
It's MUCH easier than trying to figure out Grand Central -- and 125th Street is on the way to Stamford anyway.
This is an obvious no-brainer.
Take the M60 bus from LGA to the Metro North station at 125th Street. $2. At the Metro North Station, you can ask a clerk about a train ticket to Stamford.
It's MUCH easier than trying to figure out Grand Central -- and 125th Street is on the way to Stamford anyway.
This is an obvious no-brainer.
Sep 26th, 2006, 07:43 AM
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At LGA, the M60 is very easy to find ... plenty of signs, or just ASK someone.
Once on the M60 (have $2 in change, not bills), feel free to ask the driver to tell you when you've arrived at the Metro North station. That probably won't be necessary, however, as other riders will be getting off there as well.
Once at the Metro North station, go inside and purchase your ticket to Stamford. There are only 2 tracks there, upstairs, so it's very easy to find your train.
Once on the M60 (have $2 in change, not bills), feel free to ask the driver to tell you when you've arrived at the Metro North station. That probably won't be necessary, however, as other riders will be getting off there as well.
Once at the Metro North station, go inside and purchase your ticket to Stamford. There are only 2 tracks there, upstairs, so it's very easy to find your train.
Sep 26th, 2006, 08:16 AM
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You all are awesome. Where do I buy the ticket for the M60? How long is the ride from LGA to Metro North (so I know about when to get off)? Are stops announced on the bus? On the MTA web site (thanks for the link!) is it the Harlem 125th street station? If so the ticket is $12.25 if I'm reading it right, right? Why is there an on-board price & station price with a difference of almost $5 - as in why would anyone buy on board & not at the station? If I have a return flight on Sunday at 7:45 pm, what time should I leave Stamford?
THANKS again.
THANKS again.
Sep 26th, 2006, 08:27 AM
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Becky, the M60 is a New York City bus. Have $2 in change and when you board the bus, you put the change in a slot. No ticket -- you just pay when you board.
The ride to the Harlem 125th Street Metro North station is 30-90 minutes, across the Triborough Bridge depending on traffic. Ask the driver to tell you when you're there, but it should be obvious. (Sit on the left side of the bus for better views on Manhattan on the way in.)
There is an extra charge if you purchase your train ticket from the conductor, so buy it at the Metro North window. Why do people buy on-board? Running late and no time to buy at the window.
Check the train schedule for your return flight, but figure you want to leave Stamford about 4-5 hours before your flight, to be safe. The bus to LGA could hit heavy traffic, of course.
Good luck!
The ride to the Harlem 125th Street Metro North station is 30-90 minutes, across the Triborough Bridge depending on traffic. Ask the driver to tell you when you're there, but it should be obvious. (Sit on the left side of the bus for better views on Manhattan on the way in.)
There is an extra charge if you purchase your train ticket from the conductor, so buy it at the Metro North window. Why do people buy on-board? Running late and no time to buy at the window.
Check the train schedule for your return flight, but figure you want to leave Stamford about 4-5 hours before your flight, to be safe. The bus to LGA could hit heavy traffic, of course.
Good luck!
Sep 26th, 2006, 08:30 AM
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Great gelato on the way? No. Sorry. Not even mediocre gelato.
If you have time at the 125th Street station before your train arrives, you'll find mostly fast food & delis in the area. Maybe you'll find some "fast food" ice cream, but don't count on it.
Just remember ... if you have any questions along the way, ASK. As a general rule, New Yorkers are friendly and willing to help out visitors.
If you have time at the 125th Street station before your train arrives, you'll find mostly fast food & delis in the area. Maybe you'll find some "fast food" ice cream, but don't count on it.
Just remember ... if you have any questions along the way, ASK. As a general rule, New Yorkers are friendly and willing to help out visitors.
)
Sep 26th, 2006, 09:33 AM
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Only you can decide on the value of your time, your money and the potential for stress.
The trip via Grand Central or 125th st is very easy - but if you're not used to traversing cities and uncomfortable with public transit/large bustling train stations, and/or would be uncomfortable in a neighborhood that is slightly transitional - I would simply spring for the $55 and take the shuttle.
(Frankly I live in NYC and have been taking public transit alone since I was about 10 and would still do the $55 shuttle just becasue it saves time and is more convenient.)
And - if you're so stressed out already that you're asking for step by step instructions that can;t be misunderstood - it sounds like the few dollars more would be worth it. (Shuttle to Grand Central and then train from there to Stamford would be $37 vs $55.)
The trip via Grand Central or 125th st is very easy - but if you're not used to traversing cities and uncomfortable with public transit/large bustling train stations, and/or would be uncomfortable in a neighborhood that is slightly transitional - I would simply spring for the $55 and take the shuttle.
(Frankly I live in NYC and have been taking public transit alone since I was about 10 and would still do the $55 shuttle just becasue it saves time and is more convenient.)
And - if you're so stressed out already that you're asking for step by step instructions that can;t be misunderstood - it sounds like the few dollars more would be worth it. (Shuttle to Grand Central and then train from there to Stamford would be $37 vs $55.)
Sep 26th, 2006, 10:49 AM
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Becky, If you do go to 125th St., make sure you board a "red" sided train, as this is the New Haven line. The blue sided trains go to other places. Sometimes the announcements are not so clear at 125th St., the safest thing is to ask someone inside the train, before the doors close, to make sure you are on the right one (or it can be a very long detour). If you leave from GCT, you will not have this worry as the stops are clearly listed at every track before you get on the train.
Sep 26th, 2006, 11:29 AM
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Actually, 125th Street is MUCH easier to figure out than Grand Central. Only 2 tracks at 125th Street. If you know you're on the 7:30 train, for example, it'll be the ONLY 7:30 train and there are only 2 options.
Again, going to Grand Central is a waste of time and more confusing that simply taking the M60 to the Metro North station at 125th Street. "An obvious no-brainer."
Again, going to Grand Central is a waste of time and more confusing that simply taking the M60 to the Metro North station at 125th Street. "An obvious no-brainer."
Sep 26th, 2006, 12:20 PM
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Gekko,
Taking the train to 125th Street is not all that easy and I think you are putting too much credit into your familiarity with the situation.
First, the bus driver is not going to make a loud clear announcement of when it is time to get off the bus and go onto the Metro North. The driver will say something, but if the passenger is not in the first rows, then the announcement will unlikely be heard. (Beckyy, here's a tip, sit on the right hand side of the bus if you want a chance to see the station where you will be getting off. It is on the corner of Lexington Avenue and 125th Street. The 125th station is on an elevated platform).
Furthermore, traveling with bags on the bus is a royal pain in the neck. There is no where to put them.
Second, taking a train out of 125th street in the early evening on a weekday means the chances for a seat are greatly diminished. At least by getting on at Grand Central someone can board the train ahead of departure time, get a seat, put their bags in the overhead rack, settle in, check with the conductors about destination in a timely manner, etc.
Third, if it is so easy to figure out which train to get on at 125th, why is it every single morning when I take the train to CT there is at least one person that gets on the wrong train? Sure, there are only two tracks heading north, but there are three different train lines running on those tracks to say nothing of the fact that some trains are local and some trains are express. Grand Central has tracks that are individually numbered, desinations clearly listed next to each departure track and a very visible information booth.
Fourth, 125th is in a transitional neighborhood. Someone who has never been to NYC might not be comfortable getting off the bus and finding their way to the train stration (again, the station is on the platform above Lexington Ave, Gekko never bothered to tell you that).
My point is that figuring out mass transit can be very intimidating for someone not familiar with the system. Don't just assume what is easiest for you is easiest for someone else and then insult all of us that are trying to be helpful.
Taking the train to 125th Street is not all that easy and I think you are putting too much credit into your familiarity with the situation.
First, the bus driver is not going to make a loud clear announcement of when it is time to get off the bus and go onto the Metro North. The driver will say something, but if the passenger is not in the first rows, then the announcement will unlikely be heard. (Beckyy, here's a tip, sit on the right hand side of the bus if you want a chance to see the station where you will be getting off. It is on the corner of Lexington Avenue and 125th Street. The 125th station is on an elevated platform).
Furthermore, traveling with bags on the bus is a royal pain in the neck. There is no where to put them.
Second, taking a train out of 125th street in the early evening on a weekday means the chances for a seat are greatly diminished. At least by getting on at Grand Central someone can board the train ahead of departure time, get a seat, put their bags in the overhead rack, settle in, check with the conductors about destination in a timely manner, etc.
Third, if it is so easy to figure out which train to get on at 125th, why is it every single morning when I take the train to CT there is at least one person that gets on the wrong train? Sure, there are only two tracks heading north, but there are three different train lines running on those tracks to say nothing of the fact that some trains are local and some trains are express. Grand Central has tracks that are individually numbered, desinations clearly listed next to each departure track and a very visible information booth.
Fourth, 125th is in a transitional neighborhood. Someone who has never been to NYC might not be comfortable getting off the bus and finding their way to the train stration (again, the station is on the platform above Lexington Ave, Gekko never bothered to tell you that).
My point is that figuring out mass transit can be very intimidating for someone not familiar with the system. Don't just assume what is easiest for you is easiest for someone else and then insult all of us that are trying to be helpful.
