Navigating from the airport to the heart of a city can often be a challenge, especially during the busy holiday season. However, some U.S. airports make it easier with excellent public transportation connections. These hubs stand out for their seamless integration with light rail, subways, and regional transit systems, allowing you to quickly and affordably reach your destination. Public transportation isn’t just an option at these airports—it’s a convenient, sustainable, and often scenic way to start your journey. Whether you’re heading into a bustling downtown or exploring nearby neighborhoods, these airports redefine accessibility. Let’s explore 15 U.S. airports with public transportation options that make travel smoother and more enjoyable.
U.S. Airports with the Best Public Transportation Systems
(credit: MARTA)
Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)
The MARTA train system is directly connected to Hartsfield-Jackson, with a station located inside the airport. Clear signage directs you from the baggage claim area to the MARTA station, where the Red and Gold trains to downtown Atlanta run frequently. The journey takes less than 20 minutes and costs $2.50 one way, while bypassing Atlanta’s often-congested highways. What’s more, public transportation here offers an affordable and stress-free way to reach key destinations like Midtown and Buckhead. With its convenience and efficiency, MARTA sets the tone for navigating Atlanta without needing a car.
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
At BWI, the MARC and Amtrak trains are accessible via a quick shuttle ride to the BWI Rail Station. MARC trains connect travelers to Baltimore’s Penn Station and Washington, D.C.’s Union Station, while Amtrak extends the reach to other major cities along the Northeast Corridor. Public transportation from BWI eliminates the need for navigating I-95’s notorious traffic. The shuttle to the station operates frequently, making it easy to connect to your train. From there, you’re on your way to exploring the region quickly and efficiently.
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Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
Public transportation at Logan Airport begins with the Silver Line bus, which offers free rides to South Station, where you can connect to Boston’s subway system, the T. The Silver Line is easily accessible from the airport terminals and runs frequently, ensuring a short wait time. Once you reach South Station, the entire city and surrounding suburbs are at your fingertips via the Red, Green, Blue, and Orange Lines. Public transit from Logan is ideal for reaching areas like Cambridge, Fenway, or the Seaport District. With the integration of bus and subway systems, navigating Boston feels intuitive and efficient.
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
The Blue Line of Chicago’s CTA “L” trains is directly connected to O’Hare via an airport station located in Terminal 2. This public transportation link operates 24/7, offering a reliable and affordable way to reach downtown Chicago. The ride to the Loop takes about 45 minutes, with stops that provide access to popular destinations like Wicker Park and the West Side. O’Hare’s public transit option makes the city accessible without needing a rental car or taxi. The convenience of the Blue Line is a hallmark of Chicago’s robust transportation network.
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)
The RTA Red Line connects Cleveland Hopkins to downtown Cleveland, with a station located directly inside the airport. This public transportation option offers quick and reliable service, with trains departing approximately every 15 minutes. The ride into the city takes about 30 minutes, making it an efficient alternative to driving. Stops along the route provide access to key areas like Tower City and the Ohio City neighborhood. Public transit from CLE makes it easy to explore Cleveland’s cultural and culinary highlights.
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
DFW connects to the DART system through the Orange Line, accessible via a short shuttle ride from the terminals. This public transportation link provides service to downtown Dallas and surrounding areas, offering an alternative to navigating the region’s expansive highway network. Trains run regularly, and the ride into Dallas takes just under an hour. The DART system’s affordability and reach make it a practical option for exploring neighborhoods like Deep Ellum and Uptown. Public transportation from DFW provides a convenient entry point into North Texas.
Denver International Airport (DEN)
The A Line, part of Denver’s RTD rail system, provides a direct public transportation link between Denver International and Union Station. Trains depart every 15 minutes during peak hours and run until late evening, making it easy to plan your trip. The 37-minute ride offers scenic views of the Rocky Mountain foothills and passes through key suburbs. Public transit from DEN is ideal for accessing downtown Denver’s attractions or connecting to regional bus services. The A Line is a standout feature of Denver’s well-planned transportation network.
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Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
The METRO Blue Line light rail connects MSP to both Minneapolis and Saint Paul, with stations located at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Public transportation from the airport offers quick service to downtown Minneapolis in about 25 minutes and Saint Paul in under 40 minutes. Trains run frequently, providing easy access to attractions like the Mall of America, U.S. Bank Stadium, and the Minnesota State Capitol. The light rail system’s affordability and convenience make it an excellent choice for travelers. Public transportation here emphasizes the Twin Cities’ commitment to accessibility.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
The AirTrain at Newark connects the terminals to the NJ Transit and Amtrak rail systems, offering public transportation to New York City and beyond. Travelers can transfer to NJ Transit trains for a direct ride to Penn Station in Manhattan, which takes about 30 minutes. Public transit options also include Amtrak for connections to cities along the Northeast Corridor. The AirTrain operates 24/7, ensuring that you can plan your trip regardless of your arrival time. This seamless transit system makes Newark a convenient gateway to the region.
Oakland International Airport (OAK)
Oakland International features a direct connection to the BART system via the Oakland Airport Connector. This automated people mover links the airport to the Coliseum station, where travelers can access the greater Bay Area. Public transportation from OAK provides a fast and efficient way to reach downtown Oakland or San Francisco, avoiding the hassle of bridge traffic. The BART system operates frequently, with connections to areas like Berkeley and Walnut Creek. This integration makes exploring the East Bay and beyond straightforward and affordable.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
Public transportation from Phoenix Sky Harbor begins with the PHX Sky Train, which connects the terminals to the Valley Metro Rail at the 44th Street/Washington station. From there, light rail service runs to downtown Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa, providing access to key cultural and business districts. Trains operate frequently, and the system is designed to handle Phoenix’s heat with air-conditioned cars and shaded stops. Public transit from PHX is an affordable and eco-friendly way to navigate the sprawling Valley of the Sun.
Portland International Airport (PDX)
The MAX Red Line connects Portland International directly to the city, with a station conveniently located outside the terminal. Public transportation from PDX offers a 40-minute ride to downtown Portland, with stops along the way in neighborhoods like Lloyd District and Hollywood. The MAX system’s reliability and affordability make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Public transit here reflects Portland’s commitment to sustainable travel, with smooth connections to bus and streetcar systems. From PDX, the entire city feels accessible.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Public transportation at SFO revolves around the BART system, which connects the airport directly to downtown San Francisco. The station is located inside the airport, making it simple to access BART trains heading into the city or to the East Bay. Public transit options include seamless connections to areas like Berkeley, Oakland, and Millbrae. Trains operate frequently, and the ride to downtown takes about 30 minutes. SFO’s public transportation access makes it one of the easiest airports to navigate in the Bay Area.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
The Link Light Rail system connects Seattle-Tacoma International to downtown Seattle, with a station located just steps from the airport terminal. Public transportation from SEA provides a 40-minute ride into the city, with stops in neighborhoods like SoDo and Capitol Hill. The Link Light Rail operates frequently, offering an affordable and stress-free alternative to navigating Seattle’s traffic. Connections to regional buses extend the reach of this public transit system. SEA’s integration with light rail emphasizes accessibility and sustainability.
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Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Public transportation at Dulles includes the recently added Metro Silver Line, which links the airport to the Washington, D.C., Metro system. The station is connected to the main terminal via the AeroTrain, making the transfer smooth and efficient. The ride into downtown D.C. takes about an hour, with stops at Tysons Corner, Arlington, and other key areas. Public transit from Dulles offers a stress-free alternative to the Beltway’s notorious traffic. The Silver Line is a game-changer for accessing the nation’s capital with ease.
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About The Author
Randy Yagi is an award-winning writer who served as the National Travel Writer for CBS for eight years. More than 900 of his stories still appear in syndication across 23 CBS websites, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. During his peak years with CBS, Randy had a reported digital audience reach of 489 million and 5.5 million monthly visitors. Additionally, his stories have appeared in the Daily Meal, CBS News, CBS Radio, Engadget, NBC.com, NJ.com, and Radio.com. He earned a media fellowship from Stanford University and is a Bay Area Travel Writers (BATW) member. Lastly, Randy has nearly 25 years of professional experience in the transportation industry.
