Newark Liberty International Airport is technically in New Jersey, but it serves as one of New York City's three primary airports — and for many Manhattan travelers, it is actually the most convenient option. Here is everything you need to know about getting to and from EWR.
Why NYC Travelers Use Newark
Despite its New Jersey location, Newark offers several advantages:
- Less congestion than JFK — the approach via I-78 or NJ Turnpike is often faster than the LIE to JFK
- United Airlines hub — if you fly United frequently, Newark is your home airport
- International gateway — EWR handles extensive international traffic with Terminal B serving most overseas flights
- AirTrain connection — unlike LGA, Newark has an AirTrain connecting to NJ Transit rail into Penn Station
Drive Times from Manhattan to EWR
| Origin | Off-Peak | Rush Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown Manhattan | 30–40 min | 50–80 min |
| Financial District | 25–35 min | 45–70 min |
| Upper East Side | 35–50 min | 60–90 min |
| Brooklyn | 30–45 min | 55–85 min |
The Holland Tunnel and Lincoln Tunnel are the primary Manhattan exits for EWR. Lincoln Tunnel connects to the NJ Turnpike (I-95) and then I-78 to the airport. The Holland Tunnel routes through downtown Jersey City.
Pro tip: For early morning EWR departures before 6 AM, the drive from Midtown can be under 25 minutes with no traffic. This makes EWR an excellent choice for very early flights.
EWR Terminal Overview
Newark has three terminals: A, B, and C, connected by the AirTrain within the airport.
- Terminal A: United Express, some regional and international carriers
- Terminal B: International arrivals, Air Canada, Lufthansa, and others
- Terminal C: United Airlines mainline hub — the busiest terminal at EWR
Where Your BLVK Driver Meets You
For arrivals at Newark, your BLVK chauffeur meets you at baggage claim in your arrival terminal. For international arrivals at Terminal B, your driver meets you in the international arrivals hall after customs clearance.
Complimentary wait time at EWR:
- International arrivals: 60 minutes from landing
- Domestic arrivals: 30 minutes from landing
AirTrain + NJ Transit vs. Car Service from EWR
The AirTrain connects all EWR terminals to the Newark Liberty Airport station, where NJ Transit trains run to Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan. The total journey takes approximately 45–60 minutes and costs around $18–$22 depending on the time of day.
This is a reasonable option for solo travelers with minimal luggage going to Midtown. For anyone with checked bags, traveling in a group, heading to a neighborhood outside Midtown, or traveling at an unusual hour — car service is significantly more practical.
For a group of 3 or more: The per-person cost of NJ Transit exceeds the per-person cost of a shared car service ride.
Book Your EWR Transfer
BLVK provides flat-rate car service between Newark Airport and all five NYC boroughs, Westchester, Long Island, and Connecticut. Email info@blvklimo.com for pricing.
