JFK has 6 terminals across 5,200 acres. Knowing where you are determines what you can realistically do during a layover.
2-hour layover
Stay airside. Just clear security + walk to your gate. Terminal 4 (Delta) and Terminal 7 (BA) have the best food + shops.
3-hour layover
Eat at a sit-down restaurant. Best food: Le Pain Quotidien (T4), Cibo Bistro (T8), Junior’s (T4). Lounge access via Priority Pass.
4-6 hour layover
Use the lounge (Centurion Lounge T4 for Amex Platinum holders is the best US lounge experience). Otherwise: rest + food + maybe outside terminal.
6-8 hour layover (with Global Entry/short customs)
Train into Manhattan: AirTrain ($8.50) + Subway ($2.90) = ~45 min to Times Square. Get back 2 hours before departure.
8-12 hour layover
Definitely go into Manhattan. Lunch at a NYC bagel place + walk Central Park + back. Budget 4 hours minimum for transit + experience.
Overnight layover (12+ hours)
Book a hotel at JFK (TWA Hotel, Hampton Inn, Hilton Garden Inn JFK). TWA Hotel is the move – converted from 1962 TWA terminal, $250-400/night.
Sleeping at JFK (if budget)
Terminal 4 is open 24/7 and has quiet zones. Bring earplugs + eye mask + light blanket.
Best lounges
Centurion Lounge T4 (Amex Plat), Delta Sky Club T4, BA Galleries Lounge T7, Wingtips Lounge T4 (Priority Pass).
Inter-terminal transport
AirTrain (free, 24/7, every 5 min). Counts as airside in some terminals, others require re-screening.
Showers + freshening up
TWA Hotel offers day rooms ($150 for 6 hours, includes shower + lounge access).
Related travel guides
- Airport Lounge Access Guide
- Global Entry vs TSA PreCheck vs CLEAR
- Credit cards with lounge access
- Pre-travel checklist
FAQs
How long is a “long” layover at JFK Airport (New York)?
4+ hours is when going outside the airport makes sense. 6+ hours is when you can do something memorable. 8+ hours opens up half-day city visits.
Can I leave the airport during a layover at JFK Airport (New York)?
Yes if you have time + your bags transfer automatically (verify with your airline). International transit varies by country.
What’s the best way to spend 6 hours at JFK Airport (New York)?
Eat, use a lounge if possible, and consider transit into the city if it’s 8+ hours total.
Are there showers at JFK Airport (New York)?
Yes, in premium lounges. Showers are typically in Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, and airline first-class lounges.
Should I book a hotel for an overnight layover at JFK Airport (New York)?
Yes if budget allows. Sleep matters. On-site hotels usually $180-400/night.