Hotels Near JFK International Airport (JFK) - Queens

JFK airport began as Idlewild airport, named after a former golf club in the area. Idlewild was actually a nickname, as the formal name of the airport was New York International Airport, Anderson Field. The first flight occurred on July 1, 1948.

Idlewild was renamed after the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Aside from the many air carriers it serves, it is also very convenient for New York's famous mass transit system. The Q3 bus makes regular stops between the 169th street bus terminal in Jamaica and the airport. The free AirTrain JFK, a breezy monorail gives passengers a view of the futuristic looking airport and takes them not only between the eight terminals, but to the car rental companies. It also takes passengers to the subway and the Long Island Railroad Station on Sutphin Boulevard. The one drawback is that the passengers do have to pay to leave the AirTrain. The AirTrain runs in a loop around the airport and one arrives at a terminal every ten minutes.

JFK also has a state-of-the-art control tower, which was designed by the firm of Pei, Cobb, Freed & Partners. The airport also generates its own electricity and has fuel storage facility with a capacity of 32 million gallons of jet fuel.

Where to Shop

Saks Fifth Avenue's incredible journey began in 1924 as the largest retail store in the country; throughout the decades it has dedicated itself to providing fabulous designs by Dior, Ralph Lauren, Vera Wang and many more top designers. Saks Fifth Avenue has been attracting people from around the world for an incredible shopping experience.

Bloomingdale's has come a long way since they first opened their doors in 1892; the one thing that hasn't changed in a hundred and twenty years is their dedication to bringing their customers the trendiest, most up to date fashions. Although Bloomindales is one of the oldest stores in New York City, it also one of the trendiest; stepping through the doors, you will revel in its splendor. Each floor has clothing, shoes, and merchandise from all the top designers.

FOA Swartz is the ultimate toy store; it is a hundred and fifty years old and is the favorite place for children both young and young at heart; walking through this spectacular store is like a dream come true for all. Whether your looking for a unique gift or something special, this is the place to be. FAO Swartz has been mesmerizing children for generations upon generations; the quality and innovation of their merchandise will guarantee they will be here in another hundred and fifty years.

Grand Central Station is a place where people from outside New York City would never think of shopping; however, the shops in Grand Central station have the best clothing, the best chocolate and some of the best entertainment in the city. The station is a landmark itself, restored to its splendor, each architectural detail can be seen everywhere you look.

Barneys New York has something for everyone; every year, millions of people from around the world walk through these doors; whether you are looking for a cool pair of jeans or a Prada suit, Barneys is the place to be. It is a true experience walking through these doors.

Bergdorf Goodman is an icon; this incredible building is as rich in history as it is for its top designer merchandise; it leaves you with an almost euphoric feeling when you walk through this magnificent building. After a long day of shopping, whether for clothes shoes or accessories on the many levels of Bergdorf Goodman, you may be a little fatigued; stop in at the day spa or beauty salon to rejuvenate yourself!

Special Events

For art and musical enthusiasts, a trip to New York's River to River Arts Festival is a real treat! This festival features over sixty events and attractions each year in dance, music, art, film, and poetry. Not only is the River to River Arts Festival appropriate for all ages, but every event is free!

If you are looking for a fun and visually-appealing way to spend the day in New York, look no further than the Mermaid Parade in the month of June! The parade has been a staple in New York for over thirty years, and is always promised to draw a crowd. This mermaid-themed event features wild costumes, unique floats, car shows, and is fun for the whole family!

Singles, couples, and families alike enjoy New York's Midsummer Night Swing festival. For over twenty years, New York streets have been taken over by the sounds of salsa, swing, and hiphop expression. Midsummer Night Swing gives you the opportunity to share your moves, participate in dance workshops, and work out new skills in front of live musical entertainment!

A Taste of New York is an international food event including delicacies all over the Big Apple. Many chefs and world-class restaurants participate in cooking demonstrations and free sampling. Next time you're in New York, plan to attend A Taste of New York, and visit up to twenty booths filled with delicious surprises and gifts!

New York is also home to the annual Rockabilly Music Festival. Visitors will enjoy musical performances, as well as sideshows and activity booths. For adults, the Rockabilly Music Festival also features burlesque acts from all over the world. With unique music and entertainment, the Rockabilly Music Festival is definitely worth the trip!

Being such a large city, New York is home to many different communities including Manhattan's "Chinatown". Each year, thousands of tourists flock to Chinatown to celebrate the Chinese New Year. This ultimate celebration includes ten days of fun, food, dancing, and parades! Chinese New Year is also celebrated with the Chinese New Year Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.

Can't make it to Louisiana for Mardi Gras? Well, that is no problem if you're in New York City. Every year Mardi Gras is celebrated in Manhattan. The event is a day filled with beads, costumes, and amazing drinks! You'll feel like you've transported to New Orleans once you've arrived at New York's official Mardi Gras parade.