JFK Airport Guide: Getting There, Parking, and Terminal Information
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is located in Queens, New York City. This guide covers the fastest ways to reach JFK, how AirTrain connections work, where to park, and what to know about terminals.
Getting to JFK
By car or ride-share
The Belt Parkway and Van Wyck Expressway are common driving routes into JFK. Expect congestion during peak travel hours and during ongoing airport construction periods.
From NYC by subway + AirTrain
Many travelers connect to AirTrain JFK from either:
- Jamaica Station (subway + LIRR connections) → AirTrain Jamaica Route
- Howard Beach (subway A line) → AirTrain Howard Beach Route
AirTrain also stops at Federal Circle, where rental cars and many hotel shuttles operate. [oai_citation:3‡jfkairport.com](https://www.jfkairport.com/to-from-airport/air-train?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Official AirTrain info and maps: JFK AirTrain.
From NYC by LIRR
Take the LIRR to Jamaica Station, then transfer to AirTrain JFK to reach terminals.
JFK Parking
Terminal garages (short-term / daily)
JFK terminal-area parking is organized by color-coded garages near terminals (commonly referenced as Blue, Yellow, Orange, Red). This is the most convenient option, but also the most expensive.
| Garage group | Typical max per 24 hours | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow & Blue | $80/day | Closest terminal access |
| Orange & Red | $70/day | Daily parking when available |
Note: The above garage maximums reflect ParkON’s JFK parking info; always confirm current rates and availability on the official JFK parking page before arrival. [oai_citation:4‡parkon.com](https://www.parkon.com/jfk?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Long-term parking (airport-operated lots)
JFK’s long-term parking lots connect to terminals via AirTrain (e.g., via Lefferts Boulevard / Howard Beach area stations). This is usually cheaper than terminal garages.
| Lot type | Published reference | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| JFK long-term / prebook options | Official page shows an effective rate structure with a 24-hour maximum listed at $49 and notes “as low as $39/day” for some options | Rates vary by lot and reservation; verify before you go |
Official JFK parking rates and lot details: JFK Parking. [oai_citation:5‡jfkairport.com](https://www.jfkairport.com/to-from-airport/parking?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Off-site parking near JFK
Off-site facilities around JFK typically offer free shuttle service and can be cheaper than airport garages, but they add transfer time. Many operate 24/7 and some are valet-only.
Compare pricing, amenities, and availability on ParkON JFK Parking.
JFK Terminals
JFK’s active passenger terminals are 1, 4, 5, 7, and 8. Terminal 2 closed in 2023, and terminals 3 and 6 were previously demolished as part of redevelopment.