When you think of air travel in and out of New York City, LaGuardia Airport (LGA) is one of the first names that comes to mind. Serving as a crucial gateway for domestic travel, LaGuardia has gone through a dramatic transformation in recent years. Gone are the days of crowded hallways, aging infrastructure, and confusing terminal layouts. Today, LaGuardia boasts a new era of modern travel convenience, especially in its state-of-the-art Terminal B, where Southwest Airlines operates.

Whether you’re a seasoned flyer or preparing for your first flight with Southwest from LaGuardia, understanding the terminal layout, facilities, services, and travel hacks can greatly enhance your experience. This blog is your one-stop resource for everything related to the Southwest Airlines terminal at LGA—written for real travelers, by someone who knows what travelers actually need.

Where Is Southwest Airlines Located at LaGuardia?

Southwest Airlines operates from Terminal B at LaGuardia Airport. This terminal has undergone a massive renovation, emerging as one of the most efficient, stylish, and traveler-friendly airport terminals in the country.

As you enter Terminal B, you’re greeted by natural lighting, digital wayfinding signs, comfortable seating, wide corridors, and a sense of space that makes you forget you're in one of the busiest airports in America. The check-in area for Southwest is located on the Departures Level, clearly marked for ease of access. From there, passengers proceed to a centralized security checkpoint before heading to the concourses.

For more specific information about services, gates, and facilities, you can refer to this helpful resource on the southwest airlines laguardia terminal which provides a well-organized overview of the terminal experience and airline operations.

Terminal B: A Traveler’s Paradise at LGA

Terminal B is more than just a place to catch your flight—it's a well-designed ecosystem that makes your travel day smoother from start to finish. Here’s what makes it special:

• Centralized TSA screening with multiple PreCheck and CLEAR lanes

• Automated security bins for faster screening

• High ceilings and expansive glass walls for a more relaxed ambiance

• Modern seating with built-in power outlets at nearly every seat

• Free, fast Wi-Fi throughout the terminal

• Dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones for rideshare and personal vehicles

The Eastern Concourse of Terminal B houses the majority of Southwest’s gates, offering travelers direct access to their boarding area without a long walk or shuttle ride.

Smooth Check-In & Baggage Process with Southwest

Southwest Airlines is known for being a customer-friendly airline, and that spirit continues at LaGuardia. You can check in via:

1. Mobile & Online Check-In

You can check in 24 hours before your flight using the Southwest app or website. Boarding position is based on when you check in, so doing this early increases your chances of being in the A or B boarding group.

2. Airport Check-In Kiosks

If you need to check luggage or prefer to get a printed boarding pass, use the self-serve kiosks or speak with an agent at the Southwest desk. It's efficient and well-staffed, even during peak hours.

3. Generous Baggage Policy

One of Southwest’s biggest advantages is its free baggage allowance:

• 2 checked bags at no extra cost

• 1 carry-on

• 1 personal item

That alone can save you $60–$120 per round trip compared to other carriers.

Dining, Shopping & Lounging in Terminal B

While waiting for your flight, Terminal B provides one of the best airport experiences in the country. It has turned the typical "waiting at the gate" scenario into a comfortable, even enjoyable, experience.

✅ Dining Options:

• Shake Shack – Crave-worthy burgers and fries.

• La Chula Taqueria – Bold, authentic Mexican flavors.

• Irving Farm Coffee Roasters – Quality coffee for early flights.

• Bar Veloce – A quiet wine bar with great small plates.

• Beecher’s Handmade Cheese – Comfort food with a gourmet twist.

🛍️ Shopping Options:

• Hudson News – Books, snacks, and essentials.

• MAC Cosmetics – Beauty products and last-minute buys.

• Tech On The Go – Phone chargers, headphones, and travel tech.

Terminal B even includes children’s play areas, art installations, and beautiful views of the runway through floor-to-ceiling glass panels. While Southwest does not have its own lounge, the public spaces in Terminal B feel more premium than many airline lounges elsewhere.

Getting To and From LaGuardia Terminal B

Whether you're arriving by car, train, or bus, Terminal B is accessible and easy to navigate.

🚗 By Car:

• Dedicated pickup/drop-off zones

• Covered parking garage adjacent to the terminal

• EV charging stations available

• Online parking reservation options

🚕 Taxis & Rideshare:

• Taxis offer flat rates to Manhattan

• Uber/Lyft pick-up zones are clearly marked and easy to access

🚍 Public Transit:

• Q70 SBS LaGuardia Link connects to subway lines E, F, M, R, and 7

• Other local buses serve Queens, Manhattan, and the Bronx

♿ Accessibility:

• Wheelchair access throughout the terminal

• ADA-compliant restrooms and elevators

• Assistance services available upon request

Pro Tips for Flying Southwest at LaGuardia

1. Check In Early: Set a reminder 24 hours before your flight to grab the best boarding group possible.

2. Use EarlyBird Check-In: For a small fee, Southwest will automatically check you in 36 hours before departure.

3. Stay Plugged In: Bring a long phone charger—there are outlets, but sometimes they're in high demand.

4. Plan for Traffic: NYC traffic is unpredictable. Give yourself an extra 30–60 minutes during rush hour.

5. Download the Southwest App: Get real-time flight updates, gate changes, and mobile boarding passes.

Why Travelers Prefer Southwest at LaGuardia

There’s a reason Southwest has a loyal following—it’s simple, fair, and efficient. At LaGuardia, those values are amplified by the modern convenience of Terminal B. Here’s what you get when flying Southwest from LGA:

• ✅ No change fees

• ✅ Free checked bags

• ✅ Friendly customer service

• ✅ Fast boarding process

• ✅ Seamless terminal navigation

• ✅ Excellent dining and shopping before takeoff

Pairing the comfort of Terminal B with Southwest’s traveler-first policies gives you a stress-free start to your journey.

Final Thoughts

LaGuardia Airport has reinvented itself as a modern, efficient, and beautiful place to fly from—and Southwest Airlines takes full advantage of that through its smooth operations in Terminal B. Whether you're heading to the sunny beaches of Florida or the buzzing cities of the Midwest, starting your trip with Southwest at LGA ensures that your travel experience begins on a positive note.