Introduction
New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is one of the most iconic—and confusing—airports in the United States. With six terminals, countless airlines, and a buzz that never quits, it can be both exhilarating and exhausting.
Whether you’re flying in for a Broadway weekend or catching an international connection, this ultimate JFK airport guide will help you cruise through check-in, discover the best food and lounges, and avoid common headaches. Let’s turn chaos into confidence.
Quick Facts About JFK
- Location: Queens, New York City (15 miles from Manhattan)
- Code: JFK
- Terminals: 6 active passenger terminals (1, 4, 5, 7, 8, with Terminal 2 recently closed)
- Hub for: American Airlines, JetBlue, Delta, and many international carriers
- Annual Passengers: Over 55 million
Understanding JFK’s Terminal Layout
JFK’s terminals are arranged in a semi-circle with no direct internal walkway between them. Each terminal operates independently with its own security checkpoint.
Terminal Overview:
- Terminal 1: Mostly international flights (Lufthansa, Air France, Korean Air)
- Terminal 4: Major international hub (Delta, Emirates, Virgin Atlantic)
- Terminal 5: JetBlue’s stylish headquarters
- Terminal 7: British Airways, Alaska Airlines, some seasonal carriers
- Terminal 8: American Airlines (and Oneworld partners)
Pro Tip: Use the free AirTrain JFK to move between terminals, parking lots, and the NYC subway system.
Best Places to Eat at JFK
Terminal 1
- Le Grand Comptoir: French wine bar and café
- Uptown Brasserie: Comfort food with upscale flair
Terminal 4
- Shake Shack: Burgers, fries, and shakes
- Mi Casa by José Andrés: Spanish and Latin-inspired tapas
Terminal 5
- Deep Blue Sushi: High-end sushi, sake, and modern décor
- Baked by Melissa: Mini cupcakes with NYC cult status
Terminal 7
- Dunkin’: Quick coffee and breakfast
- Vino Volo: Wine flights and small bites
Terminal 8
- Brooklyn Rebel: Elevated gastropub fare
- La Tapenade Mediterranean Café: Fresh, fast, and flavorful
JFK Airport Lounges
Terminal 1
- Air France Lounge: Elegant, with a self-serve bar and showers
- Lufthansa Business Lounge: Sleek seating, German bites
Terminal 4
- Delta Sky Club: Spacious with shower suites, views, and drinks
- Centurion Lounge (coming soon)
Terminal 5
- JetBlue’s Mosaic Lounge (planned)
- Currently, no traditional lounges but lots of seating and outlets
Terminal 7
- British Airways Galleries Lounge: Classic British service, private bar
Terminal 8
- American Airlines Flagship Lounge: Premium food, showers, champagne bar
- Greenwich Lounge (Oneworld): Comfortable with snacks and drinks
Pro Tip: Priority Pass members can use some lounges or get dining credits at select restaurants in Terminal 4 and 8.
Transportation To & From JFK
AirTrain JFK
- Free within airport, connects to:
- Subway A line (Howard Beach)
- Subway E, J, Z lines (Jamaica Station)
- $8.25 exit/entry fee at these subway hubs
Taxis
- Flat fare: ~$70 (including tolls + tip) to Manhattan
Rideshare
- Uber/Lyft available at each terminal’s arrivals area
Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)
- Fastest route to Penn Station via Jamaica
Wi-Fi & Charging
- Wi-Fi: Free and fast (Network: “_Free JFK WiFi”)
- Charging Stations: Plentiful in seating and gate areas, especially in Terminals 5 and 8
Things to Do During a Layover
1. Visit the TWA Hotel (outside Terminal 5)
- Retro-chic 1960s terminal-turned-hotel
- Rooftop pool, cocktail lounge in a vintage Lockheed Constellation plane
2. Lounge Hop
- Especially in Terminals 4 and 8
3. Work & Recharge
- JetBlue Terminal 5 has spacious seating, outlets, and open food court
4. Plane Spotting
- Observation decks and big windows at T5 and T4
Local Tips for JFK Travelers
- Give yourself extra time—security lines can be unpredictable
- Use CLEAR + TSA PreCheck if available
- Download the JFK Airport App for real-time terminal and gate info
- Grab water/snacks before security if your terminal lacks options past TSA
Where to Stay Near JFK
TWA Hotel (Terminal 5 access)
- Retro architecture, rooftop pool, cool factor
Crowne Plaza JFK Airport
- 24/7 shuttle, business-friendly
Hilton Garden Inn Queens JFK
- Reliable, budget-conscious option with shuttle
Conclusion
Whether you’re passing through JFK on a tight connection or beginning an unforgettable journey, the key is preparation. With a little local insight and some clever planning, you’ll be skipping lines, enjoying gourmet bites, and relaxing like a jet-setter.
Bookmark this JFK guide for your next trip and travel like a New Yorker in the know.
In another related article, Ultimate Guide to LAX Airport: Breeze Through Los Angeles Like a Pro
