The atlas · compare
Every way east, side by side
The whole corridor in one table. Cheapest to priciest by default. Time and fare figures are typical, non-peak 2026 estimates — confirm with operators before booking.
| Way east | Door to door | From | Start at JFK? | Runs | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 2 h 45 m – 4 h | $11–$33 per person | ✓ direct | Year-round; seasonal Cannonball express Thu/Fri in summer | Solo and budget travelers, light packers, car-free weekenders. |
| Jitney | 3 h – 4 h | $33–$45 per person | ✓ direct | Year-round | Solo travelers, couples, anyone who wants to relax and not drive. |
| Drive | 2 h – 3 h 30 m | $70–$160 per day + gas/tolls | ✓ direct | Year-round | Longer stays, exploring multiple towns, off-peak arrivals. |
| Black car | 2 h – 2 h 45 m | $280–$520 per car | ✓ direct | Year-round, 24/7 | Families, groups of 3–6, late arrivals, lots of luggage, door-to-door certainty. |
| Helicopter | 1 h – 1 h 30 m | $595–$4,770 per seat / charter | transfer first | Seasonal by-the-seat (Memorial Day–Labor Day); charter year-round | Time-critical trips, beating summer Friday gridlock, special occasions. |
| Seaplane | 1 h 15 m – 1 h 45 m | $795–$1,195 per seat | transfer first | Seasonal (≈late May–early September) | A memorable arrival, travelers overnighting in Manhattan first, small parties. |
Cheapest
LIRR train
From $11 with the AirTrain connection. Slowest off-peak, but unbeatable on price.
Fastest
Helicopter
35–40 minutes in the air. The summer-Friday traffic eraser, at a premium.
Most reliable
Black car
The only true door-to-door option — no transfers, any hour, any group size.