Best way from jfk airport to midtown Manhattan hotel? cab, shuttle bus or private car/limo?

I'm big on public transportation, as they have made it very easy, but traveling with two others, I'd start to consider a cab. Split the 3-way $45 fare (plus tip and toll, if you go via Queens-Midtown Tunnel or Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel), and the cost gets pretty close to public transportation. For the little leftover cash, you ensure you get a seat, you get someplace to put your luggage down, and you get dropped off right at the door. This is one of the VERY rare situations in which I'd consider using a NYC Taxi. If I was traveling alone, I'd probably use public transportation, but with two (especially with three or more) others, I'd think about a cab.

The fare from JFK to anywhere in Manhattan is a flat $45. Tip is extra, and any toll is extra. If you travel via the Williamsburg, Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Queensboro Bridges, there is no toll. You may specify a route.

If you're going to Times Square, check out the link below, which will give several ways to get from JFK to Times Square.

If you're going anywhere else other than Times Square, drop me a line by clicking on the avatar and e-mail icon, and I'll be glad to help with travel directions from JFK to Midtown, Manhattan.

Good luck

Native New Yorker

Neither. Rail. Take the airtrain (monorail) to Jamaica Station. Then take the subway or LIRR to Midtown Manhattan. Finally, if the hotel is in another part of midtown and you have too much luggage to walk, then take a cab the rest of the way.