If we leave the New York Fed at 2:30pm on a Tuesday in October, take the subway to the Salisbury Hotel on W 57th to pick up our luggage, and then take a taxi to LaGuardia, could we make a 5:10 flight?

We would have to check our bags, and I'm too old to run to the gate.

Thanks,

Jim

You should.

Especially if you get a cabbie who knows the back way from 59 Street Bridge.

Assuming you mean the Federal Reserve Bank downtown, figure 20-30 minutes to get uptown and to the hotel. Should take much less than that actual travel time, but subways have a tendency to have delays when you don't want them.
The drive to LGA from the hotel should take about 30-40 minutes, but don't assume 3:00 pm is a traffic-free time.
If you are checking bags, don't want to "run to the gate", and figure that you need to be at the airport to check in and clear security at least 90 minutes prior to the flight, I think this is a little tight.

You might be happier with an extra hour leeway

I defiitely wouldn;t leave any less than this - esp i fyou want to check luggage. Assuming you're flying coach - you may get through security in 10/15 minutes - but I've seen it take 45 (American is especially bad).

Rather than taking a cab you might want to reserve a car service in the morning for 3 pm - and ask when you reserve if that will be enough time for your flight. They will know about constructions, diversions, politicians in town - or other events that may delay the trip and can tell you if you need to leave earlier. Also - that way you don;t have to search for a cab. Just make sure you get back to the hotel on time.

(I'm a nervous nellie as far as flights and would probably leave at least 30 minutes earlier.)

Thank you all. I thought my teenage son might enjoy touring the Fed's gold vault but the only time we could get a reservation during our visit was Tuesday at 1:30 (they say the tour lasts 1 hour).

Since it's free, it may be better to cancel, as I'm a big worrier about missing flights.

Also, could you experts comment on Columbus Day crowds, etc.? We were thinking of visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island on Oct. 13. Or should we watch the parade?

Thanks,

Jim