I'm looking at flights to the NY area. We'll be staying in Midtown Manhattan. It seems as though it will cost a bit more for a cab or a shuttle bus from Newark, but I was wondering how long it would take to get from each airport to Midtown (on a Wed. at 1 pm or 3:30 pm)? We have theater tickets that night, and I don't want to have to rush too much. Thanks!

Speaking as one who travels a lot for business, there is never a time that I would choose Newark over La Guardia. Cab or car into town should be around 20 - 25. They will negotiate a price with you at the airport before you get in the cab.

Stacy, I live in Midtown and usually fly in and out of LaGuardia, except when the flights are cheaper in and out of Newark. (And that happens alot)
So when you are checking flights don't rule out Newark.

There is a bus that goes from LaGuardia and from Newark to Midtown (around 42nd St and Park Ave, and 40th and between Park and 3rd respectively)

Arriving at either time should not be a problem getting into the city. From Newark, it should take about an hour, and if you are staying in Midtown you can probably walk to the theatre district and back or take a cab or bus.

If you need any specific info, please let me know.

Oh and by the way if you are around the Empire State Building and have a map out, and look a bit confused (easy to be here) and a read head says, "Do you need directions?", that's me. It's a way I like to give back to the city and help newcomers feel welcome.

Also if you need ideas on what to see/do/or shop, let me know.

Have a great time and enjoy.

In answer to your question, Laguardia is much closer than JFK to NYC....and obviously, much cheaper to reach the city.
As for how long will take to get into the city, it takes a cab 30-45 minutes (barring a traffic jam) from Laguardia, 15-25 minutes longer from JFK. The traffic will be lighter at 1 p.m. than at 3:30 p.m. The buses (and I'm guessing) probably take about 45 minutes and an hour +, respectively.