How to Navigate John F. Kennedy International Airport Inside & Out
JFK Airport Guide
John F. Kennedy International Airport isn’t just the busiest airport in New York—it’s one of the busiest in the entire country. Unsurprisingly, this can make the airport a little tricky to navigate during your first (or even second) visit.
Our in-depth guide will help you learn how to navigate JFK Airport well before you arrive.
John F. Kennedy International Airport Quick Facts
Official name: John F. Kennedy International Airport
Official website: https://www.jfkairport.com
Airport code: JFK
Airport history: This airport opened in 1948 as New York International Airport but was often called Idlewild Airport, after the golf course it replaced during its construction. Its name changed to John F. Kennedy International Airport in 1963 after the assassination of President Kennedy.
Number of terminals: JFK has five terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 4, Terminal 5, Terminal 7, and Terminal 8.
Tricks to Navigating JFK
- Expect lots of foot traffic. Always arrive earlier than you think you need to. If you suspect you’ll need 20 minutes to reach your destination, add another 20 minutes.
- Add the JFK Airport Flight Information App to your phone. This useful app provides ongoing updates on flight arrivals, departures, and general airport status.
- Consider off-site parking. On-site parking is often in high demand and more pricey than nearby off-site options.
- Use the AirTrain to get between terminals. This system is free and is a major relief if you have heavy luggage or sore feet.
Outside the Terminals
The JFK Expressway connects directly to the airport. You can also use the Van Wyck Expressway. Make sure you know which terminal you need before getting close.
Each terminal is split into departure, arrival, and concourse levels. If you’re approaching a terminal in a car, follow signage to reach the level you need.
If you’re renting a car at JFK, look for the rental car counter or courtesy telephones in the Arrival section of every terminal to check in. To get to the rental car parking lot from the terminals, take the AirTrain to Station C/Federal Circle.
To fill up your gas tank or grab a quick snack, you can head to the JFK Airport Travel Plaza. This rest stop also has a car wash station and dining options.
Inside the Terminals
The JFK airport layout is spread across a large campus, with roadways and parking areas between the terminals.
Use your terminal’s Departures level for ticketing, flight check-in, and dropping off checked baggage. Each terminal has its own security checkpoint just past the ticketing counter.
The airport’s baggage claim areas are on the Arrival floors. For all terminals, this is Level 1 (the ground floor).
How to Change Terminals at JFK
It’s possible to head outside and walk between certain terminals but not recommended. In pretty much all situations, you’ll be better off using the free AirTrain.
Yes, there is a train system you can use at JFK Airport. The AirTrain is free if you’re traveling between terminals or official airport parking lots. (There is a fee to enter or exit the AirTrain from a train station that is not part of the airport campus). It runs 24 hours a day.
Hidden Gems at John F. Kennedy International Airport
- There’s nothing quite like a nice massage after sitting in a cramped plane for several hours. In some terminals you can pay for massages and spa services, which is perfect for a layover.
- Consider exploring—or booking a room in—the airport’s TWA Hotel, featuring museum exhibits, retail outlets, a rooftop pool, and rooms with views of the runways.
- Looking for more things to do at JFK Airport? There’s a nice selection of restaurants, cafes, and bakeries to choose from if you’re hungry. And be sure to check out the bookstores and gift shops for treasures to take home.
Beyond the John F. Kennedy International Airport
Once you learn how to navigate JFK Airport, you’ll be able to handle just about anything your itinerary throws at you. And if you have a long layover, there’s plenty to explore in the area. Visit the Queens Botanical Garden or Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. Take a quick trip to Manhattan to stroll the streets or Central Park—or check out one of the many museums.
With convenient Avis locations in New York City, it’s easy to get wherever you want to go. And if you want to find more places to visit, check out our guides to business travel and leisure travel in NYC.
Rent a Car at JFK from Avis
Don’t want to hail a cab or risk sore feet? A rental car from Avis can help you snip the minor inconveniences out of your journey. We offer several car types to match your personal preferences and group size.
Book a JFK Car Rental