JFK airport began as Idlewild airport, named after a former golf club in the area. Idlewild was actually a nickname, as the formal name of the airport was New York International Airport, Anderson Field. The first flight occurred on July 1, 1948.
Idlewild was renamed after the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Aside from the many air carriers it serves, it is also very convenient for New York's famous mass transit system. The Q3 bus makes regular stops between the 169th street bus terminal in Jamaica and the airport. The free AirTrain JFK, a breezy monorail gives passengers a view of the futuristic looking airport and takes them not only between the eight terminals, but to the car rental companies. It also takes passengers to the subway and the Long Island Railroad Station on Sutphin Boulevard. The one drawback is that the passengers do have to pay to leave the AirTrain. The AirTrain runs in a loop around the airport and one arrives at a terminal every ten minutes.
JFK also has a state-of-the-art control tower, which was designed by the firm of Pei, Cobb, Freed & Partners. The airport also generates its own electricity and has fuel storage facility with a capacity of 32 million gallons of jet fuel.
Attractions
Empire State Building
One of New York City's most visited attractions is the world famous Empire State Building. Rising 1,250 feet into the New York City skyline, the Empire State Building has two observation decks where visitors can enjoy amazing views of the city by day or night. Because of the site's popularity, there are often long lines of people waiting to take the elevator to the observation decks. Visitors can choose to purchase their tickets in advance in order to shorten their waiting time.
Rockefeller Center
Famous for its Christmas tree, Radio City Music Hall and ice skating rink, the Rockefeller Center attracts many visitors to its Top of the Rock Observation Deck where they can see stunning views of the city as well as landmarks like the Empire State Building and Central Park. The Rockefeller Center also offers many dining and shopping options.
The Ellis Island Immigration Museum
A must do in New York City is a tour of the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Here, visitors can learn the history of many of the immigrants who arrived in America through Ellis Island. Visitors will be moved by the personal stories of immigrants who left their homelands and families for a better life in America. The museum features fascinating exhibits, photographs, films, artifacts and interactive displays. Visitors can also purchase a ferry ticket to Ellis Island itself.
Central Park
Central Park offers relaxation and recreation to residents and visitors alike from the hustle and bustle of New York City. Covering more than 843 acres of green spaces, formal gardens, charming bridges and lakes, Central Park presents many outdoor activities such as carousel rides, walking, jogging, cycling, boating, swimming, tennis, skating, rock climbing, bird watching and more.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is an impressive complex of 26 buildings housing more than two million works of art collected from ancient cultures to contemporary times. Visitors can admire arts from Ancient Egypt, Greece, Asia, the Medieval Age and many others. See stunning paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, textiles, artifacts and much more. Additionally, the museum offers several restaurants and a gift shop.
Times Square
Times Square is an attraction that should be experienced by every visitor to New York City. Famous for its annual New Year's Eve ball drop, Times Square is a commercial district that is a hub of activity, packed with bright lights and flashing billboards. As well as taking photos, visitors to Times Square can enjoy eating, shopping and watching Broadway performances.
Detailed Map of JFK Airport
Transportation
AirTrain
If you are looking for a way to get around New York, while also providing transportation to and from the JFK airport, check out the AirTrain in New York. The AirTrain runs 24/7 and has a station at the airport as well as throughout New York. This easy method of transportation can help you to avoid the traffic in the city, getting you to and from the airport quickly.
Taxis
New York is known for its many taxis and finding a cab is not very difficult throughout the city. The city features several independent cab companies, including Yellow Cab, Black Pearl, Metroline Car Service, Crosby Private Taxi, Super Class Radio Dispatch and many more. The taxis also provide service to JFK airport from anywhere in the city. no matter where you are in New York, you will be able to find a taxi to take care of your transportation needs.
Private Shuttles
New York City also includes a number of private shuttles. If you are staying at one of the hotels in the city, the chances are that they have a shuttle, which can provide you with transportation to certain destinations as well as to and from the JFK airport. There are also private companies that provide shuttle services as well as rental agencies where you can rent a shuttle for large groups or parties.
Rental Cars
If you want to have a little bit more flexibility in where you go and when you are traveling, there are many rental car agencies in town as well as at the JFK airport. With agencies ranging from National to Alamo, Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, Dollar and many more, you will not have any problem getting a rental car. The agencies offer a number of different sizes and models to meet your needs, whether you just need a compact car or a van during your time in New York.
SuperShuttle
New York City also includes the SuperShuttle that will pick you up from anywhere in New York, whether it is at your hotel or your home, and take you to your destination. They will also pick you up or drop you off at the JFK airport. The SuperShuttle is a scaled down bus system, allowing you to share your ride with others going in the same direction. You can even prepay for your ride, helping you to save time.
Where to Shop
Saks Fifth Avenue's incredible journey began in 1924 as the largest retail store in the country; throughout the decades it has dedicated itself to providing fabulous designs by Dior, Ralph Lauren, Vera Wang and many more top designers. Saks Fifth Avenue has been attracting people from around the world for an incredible shopping experience.
Bloomingdale's has come a long way since they first opened their doors in 1892; the one thing that hasn't changed in a hundred and twenty years is their dedication to bringing their customers the trendiest, most up to date fashions. Although Bloomindales is one of the oldest stores in New York City, it also one of the trendiest; stepping through the doors, you will revel in its splendor. Each floor has clothing, shoes, and merchandise from all the top designers.
FOA Swartz is the ultimate toy store; it is a hundred and fifty years old and is the favorite place for children both young and young at heart; walking through this spectacular store is like a dream come true for all. Whether your looking for a unique gift or something special, this is the place to be. FAO Swartz has been mesmerizing children for generations upon generations; the quality and innovation of their merchandise will guarantee they will be here in another hundred and fifty years.
Grand Central Station is a place where people from outside New York City would never think of shopping; however, the shops in Grand Central station have the best clothing, the best chocolate and some of the best entertainment in the city. The station is a landmark itself, restored to its splendor, each architectural detail can be seen everywhere you look.
Barneys New York has something for everyone; every year, millions of people from around the world walk through these doors; whether you are looking for a cool pair of jeans or a Prada suit, Barneys is the place to be. It is a true experience walking through these doors.
Bergdorf Goodman is an icon; this incredible building is as rich in history as it is for its top designer merchandise; it leaves you with an almost euphoric feeling when you walk through this magnificent building. After a long day of shopping, whether for clothes shoes or accessories on the many levels of Bergdorf Goodman, you may be a little fatigued; stop in at the day spa or beauty salon to rejuvenate yourself!
Special Events
For art and musical enthusiasts, a trip to New York's River to River Arts Festival is a real treat! This festival features over sixty events and attractions each year in dance, music, art, film, and poetry. Not only is the River to River Arts Festival appropriate for all ages, but every event is free!
If you are looking for a fun and visually-appealing way to spend the day in New York, look no further than the Mermaid Parade in the month of June! The parade has been a staple in New York for over thirty years, and is always promised to draw a crowd. This mermaid-themed event features wild costumes, unique floats, car shows, and is fun for the whole family!
Singles, couples, and families alike enjoy New York's Midsummer Night Swing festival. For over twenty years, New York streets have been taken over by the sounds of salsa, swing, and hiphop expression. Midsummer Night Swing gives you the opportunity to share your moves, participate in dance workshops, and work out new skills in front of live musical entertainment!
A Taste of New York is an international food event including delicacies all over the Big Apple. Many chefs and world-class restaurants participate in cooking demonstrations and free sampling. Next time you're in New York, plan to attend A Taste of New York, and visit up to twenty booths filled with delicious surprises and gifts!
New York is also home to the annual Rockabilly Music Festival. Visitors will enjoy musical performances, as well as sideshows and activity booths. For adults, the Rockabilly Music Festival also features burlesque acts from all over the world. With unique music and entertainment, the Rockabilly Music Festival is definitely worth the trip!
Being such a large city, New York is home to many different communities including Manhattan's "Chinatown". Each year, thousands of tourists flock to Chinatown to celebrate the Chinese New Year. This ultimate celebration includes ten days of fun, food, dancing, and parades! Chinese New Year is also celebrated with the Chinese New Year Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.
Can't make it to Louisiana for Mardi Gras? Well, that is no problem if you're in New York City. Every year Mardi Gras is celebrated in Manhattan. The event is a day filled with beads, costumes, and amazing drinks! You'll feel like you've transported to New Orleans once you've arrived at New York's official Mardi Gras parade.
New York is an urban jungle full of architectural delights and attractions for all visitors. Bright lights and a bustling culture both day and night; the city truly never sleeps. New York City is the largest city in the United States and is full of history and new opportunities. The busy John F. Kennedy Airport is located just 15 miles from the action downtown, and hosts several means of transportation to get there. Practice flagging down a taxi or use the famous subway system to explore the city. There are a number of hotels near the airport, including the Hilton Garden Inn JFK, which offers a breakfast buffet and airport shuttle.Why travelers visit New York: Times Square, Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Empire State Building, Wall Street, and many sports teams like the Yankees, Knicks, Rangers and Mets.
About JFK Airport
John F. Kennedy International Airport is among the busiest hubs in the country, serving the bulk of the New York Metropolitan Area. It's a truly massive site with eight terminals spread out across an expansive landscape and 125 gates providing flights by more than 70 airlines. After you arrive, walk about to explore the architecture and amenities of this recently redeveloped facility. The large site can be difficult to navigate, but take advantage of the ample green and black signage to get around. If you're trying to get from one terminal to another on the other side of the facility, use the free AirTrain service.The airport is located in Queens just 15 miles from the heart of Manhattan. Guests can stay at one of the many quality hotels near John F. Kennedy International Airport. The Best Western is less than 2 miles away and offers free transportation to and from the hub. An even closer establishment is the Holiday Inn Express - at just a half-mile from the hub, it's within walking distance, but guests can still use the free shuttle service that picks up at the airport.
New York City
The City that Never Sleeps, the Big Apple, the Capital of the World - whatever you call it, there's no denying that New York City is a world-class metropolis. It's the most populous in the country, serving as home to more than 8 million proud residents and welcoming more than 52 million visitors from all around the globe. It's one of those unique tourist destinations that's on everyone's bucket list, and professionals from every corner of the world come to do business at this hub for trade, finance, research, food, media and art.No matter the reason for traveling to New York, every visit should include an exploration of the city's top attractions and vibrant communities. The metropolis is divided into a multitude of neighborhoods contained within five boroughs: Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Staten Island and - the bustling focal point - Manhattan. While it's a massive city, it's quite easy to navigate. From uptown to downtown, the streets are numbered and laid out in a simple grid. Many choose to walk to their destinations, but the Metropolitan Transit Authority offers reliable bus and train services as well.
Things to Do in New York City
Guests staying at John F. Kennedy International Airport hotels who are visiting the city for the first time should be sure to check out some of the world-famous landmarks. Start in Manhattan, the center of activity in the Big Apple. Here, you'll find Times Square, the popular intersection that's made its way onto TV and movie screens around the world. The dazzling display of lights is the site of the New Year's Eve ball drop and home to a plethora of restaurants, galleries and other cultural establishments. Then, head to Central Park, the massive green space that hosts live performances and serves as a gathering place for both locals and visitors. Before leaving the borough, stop by the World Trade Center Site to pay tribute to those who lost their lives during the 9/11 attacks.Afterward, make your way to the renowned Museum of Modern Art. This institution contains an impressive selection of artwork - more than 100,000 pieces - showcasing works by masters such as Picasso, Matisse, Pollock and Van Gogh. A trip to the New York Harbor will lead you to the iconic Statue of Liberty, and sports fans (as well as Boston Red Sox haters) will want to make a visit to the Bronx for a first-hand look at Yankee Stadium.
FAQs about hotels near JFK International Airport (JFK)
How much does a cheap hotel near JFK International Airport (JFK) cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel near JFK International Airport (JFK) can be as cheap as $140.07 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel near JFK International Airport (JFK) cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel near JFK International Airport (JFK) has been $194.52 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a luxury hotel near JFK International Airport (JFK) cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel near JFK International Airport (JFK) has been $187.09 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)