Jamaica station is the center of the LIRR system, where most branches of the Long Island Rail Road converge. In Queens, it connects riders to Penn Station, Grand Central, Brooklyn’s Atlantic Terminal and JFK Airport by way of the AirTrain. Jamaica Station offers seamless transfers between LIRR lines, thanks to multiple platforms and frequent train service.
Recent upgrades have enhanced accessibility, with help from upgraded waiting areas, elevators and digital displays for train information. Long Island Rail Road Jamaica Station is one of the busiest transit centers in New York and critical for regional travel and daily commuter movement.
LIRR Jamaica Station
- Transportation Hub – A significant and heavily-trafficked LIRR station.
- Location – Jamaica, Queens, New York — Acts as a hub for LIRR commuters.
- Connecting Lines:
— Serves all LIRR branches except the Port Washington Branch.
— Connections to Penn Station, Grand Central Madison and Atlantic Terminal.
- AirTrain JFK Connection: Can take you to John F. Kennedy International Airport via AirTrain JFK.
— MTA Subway Connections: E, J, Z (at the Northern Boulevard station)
— For more local transit options, several MTA bus routes have stops at or near the station.
- Modernized Facilities:
— Platforms are wide with escalators and elevators for accessibility.
— Smart track switching at highspeed for efficient train transfer
— Food and retail options at the station.
- Commuter Hub:
— LIRR passengers heading from Long Island to Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens transfer here.
— Regular express trains to Penn Station and Grand Central Madison.
Weekday Departures from Jamaica Station:
Please note that train schedules are subject to change. Always consult the official resources for the most current information.
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To Penn Station:
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First Departure: Approximately 4:00 AM
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Peak Hour Frequency: Every 5-10 minutes
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Off-Peak Frequency: Every 10-15 minutes
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Last Departure: Around 2:00 AM
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To Grand Central Madison:
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First Departure: Approximately 5:30 AM
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Peak Hour Frequency: Every 15-20 minutes
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Off-Peak Frequency: Every 30 minutes
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Last Departure: Around 11:30 PM
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To Atlantic Terminal (Brooklyn):
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First Departure: Approximately 5:00 AM
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Peak Hour Frequency: Every 10-15 minutes
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Off-Peak Frequency: Every 20 minutes
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Last Departure: Around 1:00 AM
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To Long Island Destinations (e.g., Babylon, Hempstead, Huntington):
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Departures typically begin around 4:30 AM
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Peak Hour Frequency: Varies by branch, generally every 20-30 minutes
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Off-Peak Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes
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Last Departures: Between 1:00 AM and 2:00 AM, depending on the branch
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Tips for Travelers:
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Know Before You Go: Check real-time schedules in advance of your trip using either the MTA TrainTime app or by visiting the MTA website.
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Service Changes: Check for any planned service changes — especially on weekends or holidays — posted on the MTA website.
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Ticketing: Buy tickets in advance through ticket machines, ticket offices or the MTA eTix app to avoid waiting in line and expedite boarding.