Terminal 5 JFK Airport New York - Image 1
1 / 3

Terminal 5 JFK Airport New York

4.6
·491k reviews·, United States

JFK's Terminal 5, home to JetBlue and the iconic TWA Hotel, offers a retro escape with vintage planes, a rooftop pool, and mid-century charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Terminal 5 JFK Airport New York - Image 1

Terminal 5 JFK Airport New York

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

JFK's Terminal 5, home to JetBlue and the iconic TWA Hotel, offers a retro escape with vintage planes, a rooftop pool, and mid-century charm.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Step back in time at the TWA Hotel in JFK's Terminal 5 – a retro paradise with runway views!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Extra Early

Lines can be long, especially for JetBlue flights. Give yourself ample time!

🚗 Uber Shuttle Option

Consider the $15 Uber shuttle from Manhattan for a budget-friendly ride.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

TWA Hotel's Retro Charm

TWA Hotel's Retro Charm

Terminal 5

Step back in time with 1960s decor, vintage aircraft, and a rooftop pool offering runway views.

Infinity Pool with Runway Views

Infinity Pool with Runway Views

TWA Hotel Rooftop

Enjoy a heated infinity pool with stunning views of planes taking off and landing.

Vintage Constellation 'Connie' Bar

Vintage Constellation 'Connie' Bar

TWA Hotel

Sip cocktails inside a beautifully preserved Lockheed Constellation aircraft.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigating JFK Terminal 5

Terminal 5 (T5) at JFK is primarily used by JetBlue. Arriving early is key, especially during peak travel times, as lines can be long.TikTok Consider the Uber shuttle for a potentially cheaper ride from Manhattan, though driving directly to the terminal might be affected by construction.TikTokReddit

Beyond the Flight: TWA Hotel

The iconic TWA Hotel, located within the historic Terminal 5, offers a unique experience with its retro design, rooftop pool, and a bar inside a vintage Constellation aircraft.Instagram+1 It's a great option for layovers or a unique stay, though food can be pricey.Instagram

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Off-peak hours
Why
Shorter lines
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hotel out of an old Airport Terminal! #jfk #nyc #twa #airport #bar #drinks #transworldairlines #newyork #newyorkcity #travel #layover #johnfkennedy #bar #hotel #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #fypシ #plane #avgeek #aviation #connie #airline #airplane #trip #fly #jetblue #delta #resort
@vacationsbyjosh
791.6K likes • 6.7M views

🎯 Arrive Extra Early

Lines can be long, especially for JetBlue flights. Give yourself ample time! TikTok

🚗 Uber Shuttle Option

Consider the $15 Uber shuttle from Manhattan for a budget-friendly ride. TikTok

We caught the uber shuttle from JFK they also have uber shuttle at other airports. Make sure you go to the right terminal for the Uber Shuttle at JFK #ubershuttle #uber #nyc #nycvlog
@xoxojay___
103.5K likes • 939.9K views
El secreto mejor guardado del aeropuerto JFK en Nueva York Este increíble rooftop con piscina climatizada y el bar temático dentro de un avión está dentro del hotel TWA 📍idlewild dr, Queens. (terminal 5 del aeropuerto JFK) Precios al infinity pool: $25 adulto, niños $10. Reglas, horarios y más detalles para entrar, en la página web oficial del hotel. Nota importante: no es necesario se huésped...
lovi.blossom_
36.4K likes • 1.7M views

✈️ TWA Hotel Day Pass

Enjoy the hotel's amenities like the pool and bars even without a stay. Instagram

🧳 Construction Awareness

Be aware of potential construction delays; the AirTrain might be faster. Reddit

Welcome to @jetblue Terminal 5 at JFK International Airport 🍎✈️ @tarmacdesignsindiana @layoverlayouts @jetsetmodels400 . #aviation #modelairport #avgeek #pilot #newyork #flying #aviationphotography #aviationdaily #planespotting #fyp
model_airport_nation
268 likes • 3.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Extra Early

Lines can be long, especially for JetBlue flights. Give yourself ample time! TikTok

🚗 Uber Shuttle Option

Consider the $15 Uber shuttle from Manhattan for a budget-friendly ride. TikTok

✈️ TWA Hotel Day Pass

Enjoy the hotel's amenities like the pool and bars even without a stay. Instagram

🧳 Construction Awareness

Be aware of potential construction delays; the AirTrain might be faster. Reddit

🛍️ Unique Souvenirs

Look out for cute Miffy plushies and other unique airport finds. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Terminal 5 at JFK is celebrated for its unique TWA Hotel, offering a nostalgic journey back to the golden age of air travel with its retro design, vintage aircraft bar, and rooftop pool with runway views. While many praise the immersive experience and excellent photo opportunities, some find the dining and amenities to be on the pricier side.

What People Like

Unique TWA Hotel experience
Retro design and decor
Rooftop pool with runway views

What People Dislike

Expensive food and drinks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You have several options: driving directly (be mindful of construction Reddit), taking the Uber shuttle for around $15,TikTok+1 or using public transport like the AirTrain to connect to the subway system.TikTok+1 The AirTrain is recommended to potentially save time during construction.Reddit

Yes, the Uber shuttle is a popular and affordable option, costing about $15 each way from Manhattan. It's often recommended for its convenience and cost-effectiveness compared to a standard Uber or taxi.TikTok+1

Travel times can vary significantly based on traffic and time of day. During peak hours, driving can take over an hour. The AirTrain combined with the subway is a more predictable option, though it involves transfers.TikTok+1

Yes, construction can impact travel times to the terminals. Travelers have reported receiving emails recommending the AirTrain to bypass potential driving delays.Reddit

Terminal 5 is primarily JetBlue's hub. If you are flying with another airline, you will likely need to go to a different terminal. Always confirm your airline and terminal before heading to JFK.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, you do not need a flight ticket to enter the TWA Hotel. You can visit the hotel, its bars, and restaurants as a guest or day visitor. Access to the rooftop pool typically requires a day pass or hotel reservation.Instagram+1

Day passes for the infinity pool at the TWA Hotel are generally around $25 for adults and $10 for children. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current pricing and availability.Instagram

Terminal 5 operates 24/7 to accommodate flight schedules. However, specific amenities within the terminal, like shops and restaurants, will have their own operating hours. The TWA Hotel also has specific hours for its facilities.Instagram

While Terminal 5 is a major hub, TSA PreCheck availability can vary. Some lounges, like the VIP One Lounge accessible with Priority Pass for Terminal 1 (though sometimes accessible for T5 flyers), offer fast-track TSA access.TikTok It's best to check the TSA website for current PreCheck locations and hours.

Some lounges, like the VIP One Lounge (accessible via Priority Pass for certain flights), offer fast-track TSA access, allowing you to bypass some of the queues.TikTok This is particularly useful during busy travel periods.

🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience

Terminal 5 is home to JetBlue's operations and the unique TWA Hotel. You can explore the hotel's retro design, enjoy the rooftop pool, dine at its restaurants, or visit the 'Connie' bar inside a vintage plane.Instagram+2 There are also shops and dining options within the terminal itself.

Absolutely! The TWA Hotel's rooftop offers excellent vantage points for plane spotting, especially during sunrise.Instagram The terminal's design also provides interesting perspectives of aircraft.

Terminal 5 is primarily the hub for JetBlue Airways. It's always a good idea to double-check your airline's terminal assignment before your flight.Instagram

While JetBlue has its own Mosaic lounge, other lounges might be accessible depending on your airline or credit card benefits. The VIP One Lounge is mentioned for fast-track TSA access.TikTok

Terminal 5, especially with the TWA Hotel, has a distinct mid-century modern vibe, celebrating the golden age of air travel. It's a visually striking and nostalgic environment.Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Terminal 5 offers a variety of dining options, including those within the TWA Hotel. While the food at the TWA Hotel is noted as being good, it can also be on the pricier side, which is common for airport locations.Instagram

The TWA Hotel features several dining establishments, including the Sunken Lounge, the Paris Café by Jean-Georges, and the Chili's Too! The 'Connie' bar offers drinks inside a vintage airplane.Instagram

Airport dining, in general, tends to be more expensive than off-site options. The TWA Hotel's offerings are noted as being good but pricey.Instagram It's wise to budget accordingly.

Besides sit-down restaurants, Terminal 5 typically has grab-and-go options, cafes, and snack bars for travelers looking for quicker meal solutions.

Most major airport terminals and hotels strive to offer diverse dietary options. It's recommended to check the menus of specific restaurants within Terminal 5 or the TWA Hotel for current vegan and vegetarian choices.

📸 📸 Photography

The TWA Hotel is a photographer's dream, with its mid-century modern architecture, vintage airplane interiors, and the rooftop pool offering runway views.Instagram+2 The exterior of the historic TWA Flight Center is also iconic.

Yes, photography is generally permitted in public areas of the TWA Hotel. However, for professional shoots or commercial use, you may need to seek permission. The hotel's unique aesthetic makes it a popular spot for Instagrammers.Instagram+1

Terminal 5, particularly from the TWA Hotel's rooftop, provides excellent opportunities for plane spotting. You can capture shots of aircraft on the tarmac and during takeoff/landing.Instagram+1

Terminal 5 is known for its architectural photography, capturing the retro design of the TWA Hotel and the historic flight center. It's also popular for travel photography, aviation shots, and lifestyle content.Instagram+1

While general photography is usually allowed, be mindful of security protocols and avoid photographing sensitive areas or individuals without consent. Always respect airport and hotel policies.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Terminal 5 can be an engaging experience for families, especially with the TWA Hotel's unique theme. Kids might enjoy spotting planes from the rooftop pool area (day passes available Instagram) or exploring the retro-themed hotel. The vintage airplane bar ('Connie') is also a quirky attraction.TikTok While food can be pricey, the novelty of the location might make it a worthwhile splurge for a memorable airport stopover.

✈️ Layover Travelers

For those with a layover at JFK, Terminal 5 offers a fantastic escape from the typical airport grind. The TWA Hotel provides day-use rooms or access to its amenities like the pool and bars.Instagram+1 This allows travelers to relax, dine, and even get some unique photos before their next flight, turning a potentially tedious layover into a memorable experience.Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Terminal 5 is a photographer's paradise. The TWA Hotel's mid-century modern architecture and the preserved vintage Constellation aircraft offer incredible visual opportunities.Instagram+2 The rooftop pool provides a unique angle for plane spotting.Instagram+1 Be prepared for the unique lighting and aesthetic that makes this terminal a standout location for capturing striking images.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic TWA Hotel Experience

The TWA Hotel, housed within Eero Saarinen's meticulously restored 1962 TWA Flight Center at Terminal 5, is more than just a place to stay; it's a destination in itself.Instagram+1 Its design immerses visitors in the glamour of the mid-20th century aviation era, featuring vintage furnishings, retro decor, and even a cocktail lounge inside a Lockheed Constellation aircraft nicknamed 'Connie'.TikTokInstagram+1

Visitors can enjoy amenities like a rooftop infinity pool with direct runway views, perfect for plane spotting.Instagram+1 While the hotel offers a unique experience, travelers note that dining and drinks can be on the pricier side, a common characteristic of airport establishments.Instagram Day passes are available for those who wish to experience the hotel's ambiance without an overnight stay, making it a popular choice for layovers or a unique New York City excursion.Instagram+1

Navigating Transportation to and from Terminal 5

Getting to and from JFK Terminal 5 involves several options, each with its own pros and cons. For those traveling from Manhattan, the Uber shuttle is a frequently recommended budget-friendly choice, costing around $15.TikTok+1 This can be a more convenient and cost-effective alternative to standard ride-sharing services or taxis.

Public transportation is also readily available. The AirTrain JFK is a crucial link, connecting to the New York City subway system. This option is often advised, especially when there's construction impacting road access, as it can potentially save time.TikTokReddit Travelers should be prepared for transfers and the duration of the journey, which can vary depending on their final destination within the city.TikTok Driving directly to the terminal is an option, but it's essential to stay informed about any ongoing construction that might cause delays.Reddit

Plane Spotting and Aviation Enthusiast Hub

Terminal 5 at JFK Airport, particularly in conjunction with the TWA Hotel, has become a haven for aviation enthusiasts and plane spotters. The rooftop of the TWA Hotel offers unparalleled views of the active runways, making it an ideal location to witness aircraft movements throughout the day.Instagram+1 The unique vantage points allow for capturing stunning photographs of planes during takeoff and landing, especially during sunrise.Instagram

Beyond the rooftop, the terminal's architecture itself, a restored mid-century marvel, provides a nostalgic backdrop for aviation photography.Instagram+1 The presence of the vintage Constellation aircraft, 'Connie,' at the TWA Hotel adds another layer of appeal for those interested in aviation history.TikTokInstagram Whether you're a seasoned avgeek or a casual observer, Terminal 5 offers a dynamic and visually engaging environment to appreciate air travel.