Is there a direct train?

No, you must transfer in Manhattan between Metro-North and NJ Transit.

How much is the toll?

Expect to pay roughly $15 in tolls depending on your specific route and bridge usage.

Downtown and the Ironbound district are generally safe for tourists during daylight hours.

Bus travel is possible but significantly slower than the train due to traffic.

Where to park in Newark?

Use the Gateway Center parking garage for secure access to the train station.

Hawthorne

Newark

Train Driving

Hawthorne to Newark

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Hawthorne to Newark covers approximately 45 miles through the heart of the New York metropolitan area. You can utilize the Metro-North Harlem Line from Hawthorne Station to Grand Central Terminal, followed by a transfer to NJ Transit at New York Penn Station. Driving via the Sprain Brook Parkway and I-95 South is the most direct road route. Traffic congestion is common near the George Washington Bridge during peak hours. This route connects the quiet suburbs of Westchester County to the bustling transit hub of Newark.

Total Distance: 72 km driving distance, 60 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is fastest outside of rush hour, taking roughly 75 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Train is the most cost-effective if you avoid peak-hour surcharges.

Compare Hawthorne to Newark Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 45 minutes	1 hour 15 minutes
Avg Price	$25 - $35	$15 - $20 in tolls
Operator	Metro-North and NJ Transit	Personal Vehicle
Route	Harlem Line to Grand Central, then NJ Transit to Newark Penn Station.	Sprain Brook Parkway to I-287 W to I-95 S.
Tip	Purchase a combined ticket or use the MTA eTix app for seamless transfers.	Avoid the George Washington Bridge between 7 AM and 9 AM to save time.

Travel Tips

Off-Peak Savings
Travel on trains outside of 6 AM-9 AM and 4 PM-7 PM to save on fare.
E-ZPass Usage
Ensure your E-ZPass is mounted correctly to avoid toll violations on the NJ Turnpike.
Station Parking
Hawthorne station parking requires a permit; check local municipal rules before leaving your car.
Mobile Apps
Download the NJ Transit app for real-time train tracking and delay notifications.
Transfer Buffer
Allow at least 30 minutes for your transfer between Grand Central and Penn Station.

Safety Tips

Station Awareness
Stay alert in crowded transit hubs like Penn Station during late-night hours.
Vehicle Security
Do not leave valuables in plain sight if parking your car at the train station.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local transit police number in your phone before departing.
Platform Safety
Stand behind the yellow line while waiting for trains on the platform.