Your Layover at JFK Will Resemble No Other

Short or long layover at JFK? New York’s main hub runs 24/7 and offers far more than “sit and wait.” Use this guide to turn spare time into a mini-experience—inside the terminals or on a quick dash into NYC.

Quick Wins Inside the Airport (All Terminals)

  • Shop till you drop: Duty-free and brand boutiques in every terminal—great for gifts or a window-shopping stroll.
  • Eat & drink: From fast food to chef-driven spots. Pro tip: Scan the lit white cubes with QR codes to see nearby dining.
  • Free Wi-Fi: Stream, clear your inbox, or finish a project—power outlets and work counters are widespread.
  • Lounges: Day-pass and membership lounges across terminals for showers, food, and quiet work zones.
  • Spa & wellness: Terminals host nail/massage/beauty bars—ideal for a rapid reset between flights.

Family tip: T5 has kids’ play areas near Gates 12 and 26.

Only-at-JFK Highlights

  • Chapels (T4): Synagogue, Islamic center, Protestant and Catholic chapels for quiet reflection.
  • JetBlue Rooftop Terrace (T5, Gate 28): The only post-security outdoor space with airfield views (not a lounge).
  • Power naps: T4 has sleep pods (short sessions, ~20 minutes). For real rest, see TWA Hotel below.

TWA Hotel (Landside, next to T5)

Day rooms (min. 4h), a retro lobby that doubles as a mini museum, multiple bars/restaurants, the famous “Connie” Cocktail Lounge inside a 1958 Lockheed Constellation, and a huge fitness center. Heads-up: Even if you arrive at T5, you must exit security and re-clear screening afterward.

Moving Between Terminals

The AirTrain is free for transfers between terminals and runs 24/7 (about every 7 minutes at peaks, ~15 minutes off-peak). You’ll need to re-clear security when you return to your departure terminal—budget extra time.

Got Time? Pop Into NYC

Manhattan is ~16 miles (~26 km) away. Use this quick planner to see if a city dash fits your layover:

  • Safe minimum layover to leave airport: 7–8 hours (includes immigration/security buffers).
  • Typical travel times (one-way): Taxi/ride-hail ~45–60+ min (traffic can double); LIRR ~35–45 min (via AirTrain Jamaica); Subway ~60+ min (via AirTrain Jamaica/Howard Beach).

Easy Mini-Itineraries

  • Brooklyn or Queens sampler: Closer to JFK, authentic neighborhoods, cafés, waterfront walks.
  • Hop-on, hop-off bus (Manhattan): See highlights without planning; open-top views of Times Sq., Midtown, more.
  • Harbor cruise: Skyline + Statue of Liberty + bridges from the water—zero navigation stress.
  • 9/11 Memorial & Museum: Powerful, time-efficient stop in Lower Manhattan.
  • Museum fix: Met or American Museum of Natural History (allow generous buffer for lines & transit).
  • Observation deck: The Edge at Hudson Yards for 360° views (book timed tickets).
  • Food tours: Hell’s Kitchen, Chinatown, or Little Italy tastings fit well into a few hours.
  • Central Park carriage ride: A romantic classic with landmark commentary.
  • Helicopter flightseeing: Spectacular if budget allows; book ahead and confirm timing.

Critical buffers: Check visa/entry eligibility, monitor traffic/rail status, and be back at JFK 2–3 hours before departure (international). Add time for checked bags and TSA peaks.

Cheat Sheet by Layover Length

  • < 3 hours: Stay airside. Eat, shop, lounge, spa, Wi-Fi sprint.
  • 3–5 hours: T5 Terrace, T4 chapels, lounge/shower, short nap pod, terminal exploration via AirTrain.
  • 6–8 hours: TWA Hotel day room + meal; or quick Queens/Brooklyn outing. Return early for security.
  • 8+ hours: Manhattan highlights (LIRR via Jamaica is the fastest public option). Book timed tickets.

Pet Relief & Accessibility

Each terminal includes pet relief areas. All terminals and AirTrain stations provide elevators/ramps and accessible facilities—ask any airport ambassador for the nearest route.

Pro Tips

  • Peak TSA times vary by terminal; if you left the secure area, re-enter early.
  • Keep boarding passes and ID handy for quick re-screening.
  • Pre-book lounges, TWA day rooms, observation decks, or tours to avoid sold-out slots.
  • Use AirTrain inside the airport (free) and to Jamaica/Howard Beach (fare applies) for the LIRR/subway.