How to Get From Newark Airport to Times Square Hotel by Train? Honest 2026 NYC Hotel Guide

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NYC Hotel & Travel Guide Β· 2026 Edition

How to Get From Newark Airport (EWR) to a Times Square Hotel by Train

How to Get From Newark Airport (EWR) to a Times Square Hotel by Train: addresses, subway lines, walking distance and 2026 NYC nightly rates with tax math.

By Matthew S Crawford Β· Updated October 2026 Β· Verified NYC Rates & Tax Math

Quick answer

Travelers planning a Newark airport to times square hotel by train trip follow one simple chain: AirTrain Newark to the rail station, a train to New York Penn Station, then a short walk or subway ride into Midtown Manhattan. It avoids highway traffic and usually runs on a predictable schedule.

Newark Airport to Times Square Hotel by Train: The Route in New York City

Travelers planning a Newark airport to times square hotel by train trip follow one simple chain: AirTrain Newark to the rail station, a train to New York Penn Station, then a short walk or subway ride into Midtown Manhattan. It avoids highway traffic and usually runs on a predictable schedule.

The exact fares and timetables belong to NJ Transit, Amtrak and the Port Authority, and they change, so confirm them before you travel. This guide uses estimates for ride times and focuses on the decisions that matter once you step off the plane.

AirTrain Newark to Newark Liberty International Airport Station

The AirTrain links the terminals to the Newark Liberty International Airport rail station on the Northeast Corridor. Signs inside each terminal point to the AirTrain platforms. Expect a short ride, and keep your ticket or payment method ready because a separate AirTrain charge applies.

At the station, check the departure board for the next train toward New York Penn Station. Platforms have stairs and elevators, so use the elevator with heavy bags. Late at night, check the schedule first, because service gaps between trains can be longer than you expect.

Aerial view of downtown Newark, New Jersey, with rail lines along the right side
Photo: Carol M. Highsmith, Library of Congress, public domain

NJ Transit and Amtrak From Newark Airport Station to New York Penn Station

NJ Transit trains from Newark Airport reach New York Penn Station in roughly half an hour, which is an estimate. Amtrak also stops on some schedules, with different fares and seating. Confirm tickets in the official apps, since buying at the wrong machine is a common mistake.

Keep your ticket until you exit, as staff may check it. Trains can be crowded around rush hour, and luggage space is limited. If you travel with a stroller or large suitcases, board near a door and avoid blocking the aisle, so the ride stays comfortable.

Penn Station to Times Square: Subway Lines 1, 2, 3 and Walking Distance

From Penn Station, the 1, 2 and 3 trains at 34 St–Penn Station reach Times Sq–42 St in a few minutes. The ride costs the $3 OMNY fare, per the MTA. The A, C and E to 42 St–Port Authority also reach Eighth Avenue and 42nd Street.

Walking from Seventh Avenue and 33rd Street to Times Square is about 15 to 20 minutes, which is an estimate. Choose the walk in daylight with light bags, and use the subway or a taxi if it is raining, late, or you carry heavy luggage.

Newark Airport to Times Square Hotel by Train: Step-by-Step With Heavy Bags

With heavy bags, plan around stairs. Penn Station has elevators and escalators, but crowds and signage can be confusing. Follow signs for the 1, 2 and 3 or the A, C and E, and ask staff in vests if you are unsure which exit you need.

Moynihan Train Hall at 421 Eighth Avenue offers a calmer waiting area and an exit toward Eighth Avenue. From there, a short taxi to a Times Square hotel avoids the final subway stairs. Confirm elevator service on the MTA website, because outages happen.

John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens
Photo: Quintin Soloviev, CC BY 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons

Where to Stay Near Times Square After Taking the Train From Newark

Hotels in the Theater District keep the last stretch short. The Paramount at 235 West 46th Street, often described as a boutique hotel, and the Knickerbocker at 6 Times Square are both close to the subway. The Marriott Marquis at 1535 Broadway is a large option nearby.

A luxury hotel near Times Square tends to price at $650 and up, while mid-range properties fall between $320 and $480. Confirm room types and early check-in policies before you travel, since arriving by train at midday often means waiting for a hotel room.

Late-Night and Early-Morning Trains From Newark Airport Station

Late arrivals need a plan B. Train frequency drops after midnight, and some stations are quiet. Check the NJ Transit schedule in advance, and consider a taxi or car service if the next train is far away or you feel tired after a long flight.

In the morning, early departures may be limited, so confirm the first train times when you plan a.

Frequently Asked Questions About Newark Airport to Times Square Hotel by Train

Visitors usually ask about time, cost and ease with luggage. The answers below describe general patterns, not guarantees, so confirm schedules, fares and elevator service with NJ Transit, Amtrak and the MTA before you travel.

If your plans change, the official apps provide live updates for delays and platform changes. Keep a backup plan, such as a taxi or a nearby hotel, ready for late arrivals or service disruptions.

How long does the train take from Newark Airport to Penn Station?

Roughly half an hour is a common estimate, but schedules and delays vary, so confirm the current timetable with NJ Transit or Amtrak.

Can I walk from Penn Station to Times Square?

Yes, it is about 15 to 20 minutes, which is an estimate, but taking the 1, 2 or 3 or a taxi is easier with heavy luggage.

Is the train better than a taxi from Newark?

It depends on luggage, time and traffic. The train is predictable, while a car is easier door to door, so compare both on your travel day.

Keep reading

NYC Airports Guide Β· Newark Airport to Manhattan Β· Hotels Near Newark Airport for an NYC Trip Β· JFK, LaGuardia or Newark Β· JFK Airport Hotels NYC Β· Where to stay in NYC Β· NYCHotelss 20 Best Picks Β· Cheap hotels in NYC Β· All NYC guides

About the author. Matthew S Crawford grew up on Long Island, in Massapequa and then Deer Park. He runs NYCHotelss, an independent NYC hotel guide. Details change. Check rates, hours and policies before you book.