
Terminal 5 JFK Airport New York
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
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds

Terminal 5 JFK Airport New York
Best Time
Beat the crowds

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

🎯 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Vintage Constellation 'Connie' Bar
TWA Hotel
Sip cocktails inside a beautifully preserved Lockheed Constellation aircraft.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating JFK Terminal 5
Beyond the Flight: TWA Hotel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
✈️ TWA Hotel Day Pass
Enjoy the hotel's amenities like the pool and bars even without a stay.
🧳 Construction Awareness
Be aware of potential construction delays; the AirTrain might be faster.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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.
✈️ TWA Hotel Day Pass
Enjoy the hotel's amenities like the pool and bars even without a stay.
🧳 Construction Awareness
Be aware of potential construction delays; the AirTrain might be faster.
🛍️ Unique Souvenirs
Look out for cute Miffy plushies and other unique airport finds.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You have several options: driving directly (be mindful of construction ), taking the Uber shuttle for around $15, or using public transport like the AirTrain to connect to the subway system. The AirTrain is recommended to potentially save time during construction.
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.
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.
Yes, construction can impact travel times to the terminals. Travelers have reported receiving emails recommending the AirTrain to bypass potential driving delays.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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. 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. 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. 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. 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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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. 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. 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.
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.
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.
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
✈️ Layover Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic TWA Hotel Experience
Visitors can enjoy amenities like a rooftop infinity pool with direct runway views, perfect for plane spotting. 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. 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.
Navigating Transportation to and from Terminal 5
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. Travelers should be prepared for transfers and the duration of the journey, which can vary depending on their final destination within the city. Driving directly to the terminal is an option, but it's essential to stay informed about any ongoing construction that might cause delays.
Plane Spotting and Aviation Enthusiast Hub
Beyond the rooftop, the terminal's architecture itself, a restored mid-century marvel, provides a nostalgic backdrop for aviation photography. The presence of the vintage Constellation aircraft, 'Connie,' at the TWA Hotel adds another layer of appeal for those interested in aviation history. Whether you're a seasoned avgeek or a casual observer, Terminal 5 offers a dynamic and visually engaging environment to appreciate air travel.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit