Attending a major exhibition in New York means navigating one of the busiest cities in the world. The good news? New York is exceptionally well connected, making it straightforward to travel from the airport to exhibition venues and move around efficiently during your stay.

Here’s how to get from the airport to New York’s main exhibition centres and how to travel smoothly throughout exhibition week.

Getting from the Airport to New York

From JFK International Airport
JFK is a primary arrival point for international visitors. The AirTrain connects to both the subway and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) via Jamaica Station, offering an affordable and reliable route into Manhattan. Taxis and ride-hailing services operate with a fixed fare into Manhattan, making them a convenient option after long flights or when travelling with exhibition materials.

Typical travel time: 45-75 minutes depending on traffic and destination.

From Newark Liberty International Airport
Often the most convenient airport for Manhattan’s west side venues. The AirTrain Newark connects directly to NJ Transit trains, which arrive at Penn Station - a central hub close to many exhibition hotels and venues.

Typical travel time: 30-50 minutes.

From LaGuardia Airport
LaGuardia is the closest airport to Manhattan. While there’s no direct train link, taxis, ride-share services, and airport buses connecting to subway lines provide fast access to the city.

Typical travel time: 25-45 minutes depending on traffic.

Exhibition Centres & How to Reach Them

Javits Center (Hudson Yards / West Side Manhattan)
The Jacob K. Javits Convention Center hosts many of New York’s largest trade shows, conventions, and industry exhibitions. Located on Manhattan’s west side, it’s easily accessible from Penn Station and Midtown hotels.

Best transport options:
• Subway: 7 line to Hudson Yards–34th Street
• Walking: 15-20 minutes from Penn Station or Midtown West
• Taxi/Ride share: Convenient for early morning setup or late departures

From airports:
• JFK: AirTrain + subway (E train or LIRR connection)
• Newark: NJ Transit to Penn Station, then short walk or taxi
• LaGuardia: Taxi or bus to subway connections

Metropolitan Pavilion & Chelsea Exhibition Spaces
Chelsea hosts many art fairs, design shows, and smaller industry exhibitions across venues like Metropolitan Pavilion and surrounding gallery spaces. The neighbourhood is highly walkable and well connected.

Best transport options:
• Subway: A, C, E, or 1 trains (23rd Street or 14th Street stations)
• Walking: Easy access from Flatiron, Midtown South, and the High Line area
• Taxi/Ride share: Useful during evening events

From airports:
• JFK: AirTrain + A/E subway lines
• Newark: NJ Transit to Penn Station, then short subway ride or taxi
• LaGuardia: Taxi or bus + subway connection

Pier 36 / Lower Manhattan Event Spaces
Large cultural events, fashion shows, and exhibitions are sometimes held at Pier 36 and other downtown waterfront venues.

Best transport options:
• Subway: F train to East Broadway or J/M/Z to Delancey Street
• Taxi/Ride share: Often the most direct option, especially in the evening
• Walking: Accessible from Lower East Side and Chinatown hotels

From airports:
• JFK: AirTrain + subway (J or Z lines via Jamaica)
• Newark: NJ Transit to Penn Station, then subway downtown
• LaGuardia: Taxi or bus connection to subway lines

Brooklyn Exhibition & Event Venues (Industry City, Brooklyn Expo Center)
Creative and design-focused exhibitions increasingly take place in Brooklyn venues such as Industry City or the Brooklyn Expo Center.

Best transport options:
• Subway: D, N, or R trains (Industry City area) or G train (Brooklyn Expo Center)
• Taxi/Ride share: Practical when travelling from Manhattan with materials

From airports:
• JFK: Often fastest by taxi or ride share
• Newark: Train to Manhattan, then subway to Brooklyn
• LaGuardia: Taxi or bus + subway transfer

Getting Around During Exhibition Week

Subway
The NYC subway runs 24/7 and is usually the fastest way to travel between meetings, restaurants, and evening events. Contactless payment makes entry quick and easy.

Taxis & Ride Shares
Ideal for client travel, tight schedules, or transporting materials between venues and hotels.

Walking
Manhattan is highly walkable, and many exhibition visitors find walking between meetings faster than sitting in traffic - especially during rush hour.

Quick Transport Tips for Exhibition Visitors

Book accommodation near a direct subway line to your venue.
Allow extra travel time during morning and evening rush hours.
Save offline maps and venue addresses before arrival.
Plan evening return routes in advance after long exhibition days.

With efficient transport options and well-connected exhibition districts, getting around New York is straightforward, allowing you to focus on networking, meetings, and making the most of your exhibition experience.