Getting to Jamaica is easy. The Long Island Railroad, MTA trains, and Air-Tran service all run through the area, and there are numerous city buses and taxis available. Driving in this middle-class neighborhood isn't nearly as daunting as the streets of New York City, though like other boroughs outside Manhattan, Jamaica is busy and well-populated. This Queens neighborhood is just close enough to Manhattan to be convenient, but it's quiet enough to be a relaxing refuge after a day of working or exploring in “the city,” as the locals refer to Manhattan.
When is the best time of year to visit Jamaica, New York?
Jamaica, like the rest of New York, experiences four distinct seasons. Jamaica's weather can vary wildly throughout the year, from freezing temperatures and snow in the winter to heavy rains in the early spring. The summer can be hot, but New York's beaches aren't too far from Jamaica, and the city also boasts a network of free pools that can be visited by all. All you need to access a day of fun at the neighborhood pool is a combination lock.
Autumn in New York and New York in the late spring are both wonderful times to visit. The rains abate, and the sun typically shines, leaving plenty of sunny afternoons for getting outdoors. Take the opportunity to eat at a sidewalk café or head into Manhattan.
If you're traveling to the area for the holidays, be aware that tourists flock to the New York region during school breaks and major holidays. The holiday season in New York is perhaps the busiest time of all, so do make your arrangements early if you plan to travel to Jamaica from Thanksgiving through Christmas or New Year's Day. Even the hotels in the outer boroughs can see low vacancies and higher rates during the holidays, so don't wait to book your hotel.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Jamaica Queens, NY:
Jamaica Queens, NY: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. price patterns by star rating class in Jamaica Queens, NY. Browse these line graphs to calculate the least expensive months to book in Jamaica Queens for your upcoming travels.
Where are the luxury hotels near Jamaica, New York?
4 Star Average Prices: $200.55
If business takes you to Jamaica, but you desire to stay in the height of luxury during your trip, head into the city to the Loews Regency New York. This is the quintessential New York high-rise hotel, situated in the posh area of Midtown East, just south of the Upper East Side. The building's classic Art Deco lines ooze style, and each guest room or suite is decorated with artwork by local artists.
Even if you can't stay in the city for the day and must head out to Jamaica in the morning, be sure to eat breakfast at the Café. The Loews Hotel invented the famous “power breakfast.” You'll enjoy delicious breakfast fare and great people-watching at The Regency Bar and Grill. Don't be surprised if you see prominent politicians, celebrities, and other New York movers and shakers doing business over breakfast.
Before you head out to JFK Airport, squeeze in some time for shopping. Madison Avenue will be right outside your door, steps away from Barney's, Bloomingdale's, Tiffany's, and Tourneau. Be sure to take coffee and a madeleine at Sant Ambroeus on your way out the door.
What affordable hotel options are around Jamaica, NY?
3 Star Average Prices: $166.69
When you're on the road, comfort and familiarity are welcome luxuries. A stay at the Hilton Garden Inn is consistently good, and the Queens/JFK Airport location is no different. This location features pops of energizing color throughout its public lobby spaces, including vivid blues, greens, and yellows. Modern furnishings signal that you've entered the New York metropolitan area, and this location reflects that chic city style in a way that almost feels like a boutique hotel.
The Hilton Garden Inn Queens/JFK Airport features cozy guest rooms and desks, should you need to do some business during your stay. After a long day, guests love to order room service or head down to the hotel bar and lounge. A business center is helpful for printing out agendas or tickets, and the shuttle bus runs 24 hours a day to help guests get to their terminal on time. Express check-out service is another a welcome feature for frequent flyers who don't have time to stand in line.
If you are seeking truly budget rates but aren't willing to sacrifice comfort, The Sleep Inn JFK Airport Rockaway Boulevard is an exceptional hotel choice. It's convenient to St. John's University, as well as Forest Park. If you have the time to visit this treasured local park in Queens, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll through beautiful green spaces. Look out for an original early-1900s wooden carousel that kids will love.
Once you're back and checked into the Sleep Inn JFK Airport Rockaway Boulevard, settle into a guest room stocked with a safe, desks, and of course, a cozy bed. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi connectivity and satellite programming, plus LCD televisions. Work out in the fitness center, then shower back in the room with the aid of free toiletries and an in-room hair dryer, supplied by The Sleep Inn. In the morning, the free breakfast bar is a welcome way to start the day. When it's time for departure, the 24-hour shuttle service is standing by.
