I am planning a trip to New York in September with my mom and two daughters. We will be flying into Newark on a Thursday afternoon and departing on a Sunday evening. We are planning on staying somewhere in Midtown (probably the Grand Hyatt next to Grand Central Station). What is the best way to get from the airport in Newark into Midtown?

Although the Airtrain is a good bet because it takes you from Newark to Penn Station, I would take a cab from the airport. Less hassle for a little more money and you don't have to schlep your luggage around. I think the train is around $11 each and you have to switch to NJTransit at the Newark Station, then get a cab at Penn Station. The taxi should be a flat fare of $35 plus tax, tip, and tolls.

There is no best way, only a way that might be best for you. Your question is asked and responded to EVERY WEEK and if you do a search you will find some suggestions. Many suggestions.

To: rb_travelerxATyahoo - Thanks so much for taking the time to respond. I did do a search, the only related topics I found were from last summer. I thought I'd ask for some more updated advice.

I did a search, using simply EWR and got many recent posts. Your choices are basically cab/car service, train, or shuttle bus. If you click on my name, you will find some previous posts I have made. I believe the Olypia Bus has discounts for younger children and older seniors, and stops practically at your hotel - close enough to walk. The full price would NOT be a good deal, but if any of the discounts apply to your group then you might be able to do well especially if you purchase in advance.

Really, there is no "best" way ... each one has advantages & disadvantages, so you should weigh them all out unless cost is not an issue. If either (or both) your mom or daughters qaulify for the bus discount, then I imagine that the train option would NOT be appropriate (think each person carrying luggage including stairs, escalators). Hope you have a great trip ... there's a decent food court in Grand Central.

sunflower,

This website has helpful information on how to get into the city from Newark.

http://www.panynj.gov/aviation/egtsmain.HTM

I like the Airtrain/New Jersey Transit to Penn station/cab option. If you have a lot of luggage, it will be more convenient to take a cab. Another option is the Olympia Airport Express which goes to individual hotels for an additional $5 over the base fare of $12. Otherwise for $12 it will take you to Grand Central.

In my opinion, the best way for 4 people to get from EWR to midtown is by car service. Call Carmel (800) 666-6666 and make a reservation. Your cell phone number will be your confirmation number, and when you have your luggage, you call Carmel and a car arrives at the pick-up area in 2-10 minutes. I'm sure you could also make a reservation on the website.
Enjoy NYC!

If given a choice, I always use Newark and almost always take the Airtrain, but I never have luggage, just a carryon.

The fare is $11.00 for the NJ Transit connection into Manhattan. Amtrack, which also stops at Newark costs more.

Airtrain with luggage can be a pain, as you have two transfers; Monorail to NJ Transit, then NJ Transit to NYC subway, bus or cab.

As per the Newark website, a cab from Newark into NYC is $34-$51, not including toll and tip. There is an additional $4 charge to the east side of Manhattan. Grand Central is on the east side.

www.carmellimo.com

Works well for me every time, and no waiting in line for a taxi. 212-666-6666 (not 800).

If you stay at the GRand Hyatt an airport bus to 41st and Park is probably the way to go. The hotel is one block away.