The New York City Traveler

Due to its location just 30 miles north of Manhattan, Westchester County Airport (HPN) in White Plains is one of the fastest-growing airports in the Tri-state area.  Lower ticket prices and less congestion make it a great alternative airport to Newark, JFK, and LaGuardia. Airlines are always adding more destinations to the departure schedule.  Currently Jet Blue serves four Florida destinations, Air Canada has flights to Toronto, and numerous airlines have service to such Midwest cities as Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Minneapolis-St. Paul.     

Public Bus to Manhattan:  Least Expensive, Biggest Hassle

It is possible to take the public bus from the airport to various points in Manhattan, including Midtown.  This will be a long trip involving one transfer, but it is the least expensive way to go.  Take the #12 Bee-Line bus from the airport to the Westchester County Center then transfer to the BxM4c Westchester-Manhattan Express bus.  In order to make the transfer, buses on both lines run at least hourly from 7am-6pm.  The buses do not have luggage racks, so your suitcase needs to fit on your lap or under the seat.  #12 Bee-Line Bus $2 + BxM4c Express Bus $5 = $7 total.   

Airlink Bus-to-MTA Metro-North Railroad:  Inexpensive

The Airlink bus runs every half-hour (7am-9pm) from White Plains Airport to the White Plains RR station.  From the White Plains RR Station, Metro-North trains (Harlem Line) to Grand Central Terminal depart at least every half-hour.  Airlink Bus $2 + Metro-North train (one-way peak) $14 = $16.

Limo Service: Most Expensive

Several transportation companies offer limo service from Westchester County Airport to Manhattan.  These services are available 24 hours a day and include a meet-and-greet (the driver waiting for you with your name on a sign).  Prices vary (most are above $100 for airport pick-up and one-way to Manhattan).   

My recommendation:  The Airlink Bus-to-MTA Metro-North is the best bet for the money.  But plan carefully, if your flight lands after 9pm you will need to take a taxi to the Metro-North station or make other transportation plans, thereby increasing the cost. 

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