John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

WHAT TO DO AT JFK AIRPORT

Insider Tips & Hidden Gems

The TWA Hotel is JFK's crown jewel - even if you're not staying overnight, you can access the rooftop observation deck for incredible plane-spotting views. The retro 1960s terminal designed by Eero Saarinen is worth exploring for its architectural significance alone.

For a quieter experience, head to Terminal 4's mezzanine level near gates A2-A4, where fewer travelers venture. Terminal 5's JetBlue gates in the 20s also tend to be less crowded than the main concourse.

Best Places to Rest & Sleep

Minute Suites are available in Terminal 4 (near gate B37) offering private rooms with daybeds for hourly rental. The TWA Hotel provides the ultimate rest option with rooms bookable by the hour during daytime.

For free options, look for the padded bench seating in Terminal 4 near gates A5-A7, or the quiet corners in Terminal 5's upper level near gates 25-30. Terminal 8's American Airlines Flagship Lounge area (upper level) has comfortable seating even outside the lounge itself.

Lounge Access & Premium Spaces

The Centurion Lounge (Terminal 4) offers exceptional food and amenities. Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse (Terminal 4) features a spa and cocktail bar. American Airlines Flagship First Dining (Terminal 8) provides restaurant-quality meals for eligible passengers.

Food Recommendations

Terminal 4: Try Caviar House & Prunier for upscale seafood, or Shake Shack for classic NYC burgers. Deep Blue Sushi offers surprisingly fresh options.

Terminal 5: 5ive Steak serves quality steaks, while Loft American Brasserie provides farm-to-table options. Croque Madame offers French-inspired fare.

Terminal 8: Vino Volo has excellent wine selections with small plates.

For budget options, Dunkin' and Au Bon Pain are scattered throughout terminals. Pro tip: The TWA Hotel's Paris Café offers reasonably priced sandwiches and coffee in a stunning setting.

Shopping Highlights

Terminal 4's Duty Free is the largest, offering significant savings on spirits and cosmetics. Terminal 1 has luxury boutiques including Hermès and Gucci. For NYC souvenirs, check FDNY/NYPD stores in Terminals 4 and 5.

Work-Friendly Spots

Terminal 4's Delta Sky Club (even outside) has charging stations throughout. Terminal 5's gate areas 10-15 offer abundant outlets and desk-height counters. The TWA Hotel lobby provides free WiFi and workspace even for non-guests.

Additional Amenities

XpresSpa locations in Terminals 4 and 8 offer massages, facials, and showers. Terminal 4 has a kids' play area near gate A4. Be Relax Spa (Terminal 7) provides quick treatments between flights.

WHAT TO DO AT THE DESTINATION

Getting to Manhattan

AirTrain to Jamaica Station connects to the LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) - fastest option to Manhattan (35-45 minutes, ~$13). The AirTrain to Howard Beach connects to the A subway line (60-75 minutes, ~$11). Express buses like the NYC Airporter run to Grand Central and Port Authority ($19-25, 60-90 minutes). Taxis to Manhattan cost a flat $52 plus tolls and tip; rideshares vary $50-80 depending on demand.

Visa & Practical Information

International travelers must clear customs to leave the airport - ensure you have proper ESTA or visa authorization. Luggage storage is available at the TWA Hotel ($15-40 per bag) and through Schwartz Travel Services in Terminal 4.

Quick Layover (2-4 Hours)

Realistically, you won't make it to Manhattan and back comfortably. Instead, visit the TWA Hotel for its museum-quality mid-century modern architecture, rooftop pool (guests only), and Connie cocktail bar inside a vintage Lockheed Constellation airplane. The hotel's Jean-Georges restaurant offers upscale dining without leaving airport property.

Alternatively, explore nearby Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge (15 minutes by taxi) for a surprising nature escape with bird-watching trails.

Half-Day Activities (4-8 Hours)

Head to Rockaway Beach (20 minutes via A train from Howard Beach AirTrain station) for boardwalk strolls, surfing culture, and casual seafood at Rippers or tacos at Rockaway Taco.

For classic NYC experiences, take the LIRR to Brooklyn's DUMBO neighborhood - walk the Brooklyn Bridge, enjoy views from Brooklyn Bridge Park, and grab pizza at Grimaldi's or Juliana's.

Full Day Experiences

With 8+ hours, explore Manhattan properly. Must-sees include:

Central Park - rent bikes or simply stroll through America's most famous urban park

The Metropolitan Museum of Art - world-class art collection (suggested donation for NY residents, $30 for visitors)

9/11 Memorial & Museum - powerful tribute in Lower Manhattan

Times Square & Broadway - catch a matinee show or simply experience the energy

High Line - elevated park built on historic freight rail line, perfect for sunset walks

Local Food Experiences

Grab authentic NYC pizza at Joe's Pizza or Prince Street Pizza. Try a pastrami sandwich at Katz's Delicatessen (Lower East Side). Experience diverse food halls like Chelsea Market or Essex Market. Don't miss bagels from Russ & Daughters or Ess-a-Bagel.

Cultural Tips

New Yorkers walk fast - keep right on sidewalks. The subway runs 24/7 but can be confusing; download the MTA app or use Google Maps. Tipping is expected: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars.