How to Navigate LaGuardia Airport Inside & Out
Flushing Airport Guide
Flying through LaGuardia? This Avis guide walks you through what to expect before you arrive—from terminals to transportation—so you’re not figuring it out on the fly. Our guide makes it easier to learn how to navigate the LaGuardia Airport, reducing stress upon arrival and setting you up for smoother travel plans.
LaGuardia Airport Quick Facts
Official name: LaGuardia Airport, named after former New York City mayor Fiorello La Guardia.
Official website: https://www.laguardiaairport.com/
Airport code: LGA, a simple abbreviation of LaGuardia.
Airport history: LaGuardia opened in 1939 and quickly became one of the country’s busiest airports. In recent years, it’s undergone a major, multibillion-dollar redevelopment, with new terminal layouts, updated roadways, and modernized facilities that have completely changed how the airport looks and functions.
Number of terminals: LaGuardia currently operates with three main terminals: A, B, and C. Terminal A (the Marine Air Terminal) is the smallest. Terminal B serves a wide range of airlines, and Terminal C now includes what used to be both Terminals C and D, following a major redevelopment led by Delta.
Tricks to Navigating LGA
Here are some helpful tips as you learn how to navigate the LaGuardia Airport.
- Terminals aren’t connected airside: The LaGuardia Airport layout keeps Terminals A, B, and C in separate buildings, so you can’t walk between them after security—make sure you’re at the right one before heading through.
- Terminal C is all Delta: Delta operates out of Terminal C, which now includes the space that used to be Terminal D. No other airlines fly into or out of Terminal C.
- Each terminal has its own security checkpoint: You’ll go through screening in the terminal you’re departing from. If you need to switch terminals for a connecting flight, you will need to pass through security again.
Outside the Terminals
LaGuardia sits right off the Grand Central Parkway, and that’s where most drivers enter the airport. From there, you’ll follow clearly marked signs to Terminal A, B, or C, each with its own dedicated entrance—so knowing your terminal ahead of time saves you from looping back around.
Curbside pickup and drop-off occur directly outside each terminal, with designated lanes for departures and arrivals. Traffic can build quickly, especially during peak hours, so give yourself a little extra buffer.
Rental cars are available at LaGuardia’s rental car facilities near Terminal A. You can reach the rental car area via free shuttle buses that run back and forth from each terminal. If you’re dropping a vehicle off before a flight, you can follow the signs for rental cars when approaching the airport. There are also cell phone waiting lots nearby if you’re picking someone up.
Inside the Terminals
Inside LaGuardia, everything is built around your terminal—there’s no central hub tying it all together. Terminal A is much smaller than the other two terminals, with only one concourse and gates that primarily serve budget and regional airlines. Terminal B features two concourses (with gates 11-59). While serving only Delta, Terminal C consists of four concourses, with gates 61-98.
Each terminal has its own security checkpoint, and once you’re through, you stay within that space—there’s no post-security connection between terminals. The LaGuardia Airport layout keeps baggage claim on the arrivals level in each terminal, close to exits for ground transportation and pickups.
How to Change Terminals at LGA
Technically, yes—but only before security and not entirely indoors. Terminals B and C are closer and can be reached by walking outside along airport roadways, but Terminal A is farther away and not realistically walkable. For most travelers, the free shuttle buses are the better option.
There’s no train between terminals at LaGuardia, but there is a free airport shuttle bus system that connects Terminals A, B, and C. Buses run frequently throughout the day and stop outside each terminal, making them the easiest and most reliable way to move between terminals.
Hidden Gems at LaGuardia Airport
Looking for things to do at LaGuardia Airport before your flight? Here are our top picks:
- Public art throughout the airport: LaGuardia has made art part of the experience, with installations in every terminal. Highlights of the collection include Flight by James Brooks in Terminal A, Shorter Than the Day by Sarah Sze in Terminal B, and Skylight Gems by Virginia Overton in Terminal C.
- Lounges across multiple terminals: Terminals B and C offer a mix of airline lounges and shared-access spaces. If you have the right ticket, status, or credit card, you’ll find quieter places to sit with more space to relax.
- Taste NYC in the terminal: LaGuardia’s redevelopment brought in a strong lineup of New York-based restaurants. You can purchase authentic New York bagels, hot dogs, cheesecake, and pizza.
Beyond the LaGuardia Airport
If you’re dealing with a longer layover, LaGuardia’s location makes it surprisingly easy to step out and experience a bit of New York. You’re close to popular destinations like Citi Field and the Louis Armstrong House Museum, among others.
If you want a game plan, our Leisure Travel in New York Guide and our Business Travel in New York Guide can help you make the most of a few free hours. And if you’re looking at a longer layover or heading away from the airport, nearby Avis New York City locations give you the flexibility to turn a layover into something more.
Rent a Car at LGA from Avis
Now that you know how to navigate the LaGuardia Airport, it’s worth considering how you’ll get around after you arrive. Avis makes it easy with a wide selection of rental cars, ways to save, and easy airport access. Start your reservation today.