Getting to Newark Liberty International Airport can be tricky if you’re coming from New York City. With multiple transit options to choose from, it can be hard to know which one is best. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: The PATH train does NOT go directly to Newark Airport.
However, you can take PATH and transfer to NJ Transit or Amtrak trains that do stop at the airport.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through all of your public transportation options for getting from NYC to Newark Airport. We’ll compare the pros and cons of taking the PATH train versus the train options that do reach the airport terminals.
We’ll also provide detailed directions, schedules, fares, and tips to make your trip seamless.
Background on the PATH Train System
The PATH Train system, also known as the Port Authority Trans-Hudson, is a rapid transit system that connects various parts of New York City and New Jersey. It is operated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
The PATH trains are a popular mode of transportation for commuters and tourists alike, offering a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two areas.
PATH Coverage Area
The PATH Train system serves several destinations in both New York City and New Jersey. In New York City, the PATH trains connect to various subway lines, making it easy for passengers to transfer between different parts of the city.
In New Jersey, the PATH trains primarily serve cities such as Newark, Hoboken, and Jersey City. The system also provides direct access to popular destinations like the World Trade Center and 33rd Street in Manhattan.
Types of PATH Trains and Routes
The PATH Train system operates several different types of trains, including the PATH 33rd Street line, the Journal Square-33rd Street line, and the Hoboken-World Trade Center line.
Each line has its own set of routes and stops, ensuring that passengers can easily reach their desired destinations.
The trains are well-maintained and offer comfortable seating, making the journey a pleasant one for commuters.
For example, the PATH 33rd Street line runs from Journal Square in Jersey City to 33rd Street in Manhattan. This line is particularly popular among commuters who work in New York City but live in New Jersey.
The Journal Square-33rd Street line, on the other hand, connects Journal Square to 33rd Street and also serves the World Trade Center.
Similarly, the Hoboken-World Trade Center line connects Hoboken to the World Trade Center, providing a convenient option for those traveling between these two areas.
PATH Fares and Schedules
When it comes to fares, the PATH Train system offers a variety of options for passengers. The fares are based on the distance traveled, with different rates for intrastate and interstate journeys.
Passengers can pay for their rides using the PATH SmartLink Card, which offers discounted fares, or they can purchase single-ride tickets or multi-ride tickets.
The PATH Train system operates on a frequent schedule, with trains running at regular intervals throughout the day.
The trains are known for their reliability and punctuality, ensuring that passengers can reach their destinations on time.
Taking PATH to Newark Penn Station
PATH Train Routes to Newark
The PATH train provides direct service to Newark Penn Station, making it one of the most convenient ways to get to Newark Airport. There are two PATH lines that go to Newark – the Newark-World Trade Center line and the Hoboken-Newark line.
From the World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan, you can take a Newark-bound PATH train directly to Newark Penn Station. This route runs approximately every 10-15 minutes during peak times. The trip takes around 25 minutes.
You can also take the PATH from Hoboken Terminal in Hoboken, NJ. The Hoboken-Newark PATH line stops at Newport, Grove Street, and Exchange Place before reaching Newark.
Trains on this line run every 5-10 minutes at peak times, and the trip to Newark Penn Station takes around 20 minutes from Hoboken.
Planning Your PATH Trip
When planning your Newark Airport trip via the PATH train, be sure to check the train schedule in advance. Weekday trains generally run from around 5 AM to midnight, with weekend and holiday schedules varying slightly.
You’ll want to allow enough time to purchase your PATH ticket or pass before boarding. The fare from New York to Newark Penn Station is $2.75 using a PATH SmartLink card, or $2.10 using a pay-per-ride MetroCard. One-way and two-way tickets are also available.
Lastly, keep in mind that it takes approximately 10-15 minutes to walk from Newark Penn Station to Newark Liberty Airport’s terminals. Make sure your flight departure time allows enough cushion for this.
PATH Fare and Travel Time to Newark
| Route | Fare | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| World Trade Center to Newark | $2.75 (SmartLink) $2.10 (Pay-Per-Ride) |
25 mins |
| Hoboken to Newark | $2.75 (SmartLink) $2.10 (Pay-Per-Ride) |
20 mins |
Transferring to Newark Airport from Newark Penn Station
If you’re traveling to Newark Airport from Newark Penn Station, there are several transportation options available to you.
Whether you’re looking for a convenient and cost-effective method or prefer a more direct route, there’s a transportation option that will suit your needs.
NJ Transit Train
One of the most popular ways to get to Newark Airport from Newark Penn Station is by taking the NJ Transit train. The NJ Transit train provides a direct route from Newark Penn Station to the airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.
The train runs frequently throughout the day, so you won’t have to wait long for your ride.
Amtrak Train
Another option for getting to Newark Airport from Newark Penn Station is by taking an Amtrak train. While Amtrak trains may be a bit more expensive than other transportation options, they offer a comfortable and efficient way to reach the airport.
Amtrak trains also run regularly, so you can plan your journey accordingly.
Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct and personalized transportation experience, you can opt for a taxi or rideshare service. Taxis and rideshares are readily available at Newark Penn Station and can take you directly to Newark Airport.
While this option may be more expensive than public transportation, it offers convenience and flexibility, especially if you have a lot of luggage.
Note: When taking a taxi or rideshare, it’s always a good idea to check the estimated fare and confirm with the driver before starting your journey.
Other Public Transit Options for Getting to Newark Airport
NJ Transit Bus from Port Authority
Another convenient public transit option for reaching Newark Airport is the NJ Transit Bus service from Port Authority. The bus route number 62 operates daily between the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan and Newark Airport.
This service provides a cost-effective and efficient way to travel to the airport, especially for those staying in or near the Port Authority area.
With frequent departures throughout the day, the NJ Transit Bus offers a reliable transportation option for travelers.
The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, and the bus makes stops at all terminals in Newark Airport.
Coach USA Bus from Port Authority
The Coach USA Bus service is another alternative for travelers to reach Newark Airport from Port Authority. With several routes available, including the Newark Airport Express and the Newark Liberty Airport Express, this bus service offers convenient and direct transportation to the airport.
The Newark Airport Express bus operates 24/7, with departures every 15-30 minutes, providing a reliable and frequent service for travelers.
The journey takes approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic, and the bus stops at all terminals in Newark Airport.
AirTrain Newark from NJ Transit/Amtrak Stations
If you prefer to combine train and air travel, the AirTrain Newark is an excellent option.
You can take the NJ Transit or Amtrak train to the Newark Liberty International Airport Station and then transfer to the AirTrain, which connects directly to the airport terminals.
The AirTrain Newark operates 24/7 and offers a quick and convenient way to reach the airport. The journey from the train station to the airport terminals takes approximately 10 minutes, providing a seamless connection for travelers.
Conclusion
While the PATH train doesn’t directly serve Newark Airport, it can still be a viable option if you plan ahead. With a little coordination, you can take PATH to Newark Penn Station and then transfer to NJ Transit or Amtrak for the quick trip to the airport terminals.
Just be sure to budget extra time for the transfer. For maximum convenience, the NJ Transit bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal is hard to beat – it drops you right at the airport terminals in about 30-45 minutes.
But no matter which option you choose, knowing the ins and outs of getting to Newark Airport from Manhattan can save you time and stress on your travel day.
