Is it better to fly or drive to NYC?

Flying is significantly faster, taking under 2 hours compared to an 11-hour drive.

Does Amtrak go directly from Detroit to NYC?

No, you must transfer in Chicago or take a bus to a connecting rail hub.

What is the best airport for Manhattan?

LaGuardia (LGA) is the closest airport to Midtown Manhattan.

Are there tolls driving to NYC?

Yes, expect multiple tolls on the I-80 and I-76 turnpikes.

How do I get from DTW to Ferndale?

You can use ride-sharing services or the SMART bus system for transit.

Ferndale

New York

Train Flight

Ferndale to New York

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Ferndale to New York spans approximately 650 miles. You can fly from Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) to JFK or LaGuardia in under two hours. Alternatively, take the Amtrak Wolverine from nearby Royal Oak to Chicago, then transfer to the Lake Shore Limited. Driving via I-80 East takes roughly 11 hours depending on traffic through Pennsylvania. This route connects the industrial Midwest to the financial hub of the East Coast. Expect varied terrain from the Great Lakes plains to the Appalachian mountains.

Total Distance: Driving distance 1,050 km; straight-line air distance 800 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from DTW to LGA takes 1 hour 45 minutes, excluding airport transit time.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel via Greyhound from Detroit to NYC is often the cheapest, starting at $110.

Compare Ferndale to New York Routes

	Train Connecting	Flight Direct
Duration	16 hours	1 hour 45 mins
Avg Price	$180 - $400	$150 - $350
Operator	Amtrak	Delta Air Lines
Route	Royal Oak to Chicago Union Station to New York Penn Station	DTW to JFK or LGA
Tip	The Lake Shore Limited offers scenic views of the Finger Lakes region.	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.

Travel Tips

Airport Transit
Use the AirTrain from JFK to connect to the NYC subway system efficiently.
Subway Navigation
Download a transit app to track real-time subway arrivals and service changes.
Walking Shoes
Pack comfortable footwear as you will likely walk several miles per day in Manhattan.
Dining Reservations
Book dinner reservations online for popular restaurants to avoid long wait times.
City Pass
Consider purchasing a New York CityPASS to save on admission fees for major attractions.

Safety Tips

Crowd Awareness
Stay alert in high-traffic tourist areas like Times Square to avoid pickpockets.
Subway Safety
Stand away from the platform edge while waiting for trains to arrive.
Emergency Numbers
Dial 911 for any emergency services while within city limits.
Valuables
Keep your wallet and phone in front pockets or secure bags while in crowded public spaces.