How to make the most of your layover in New York

New York City is an absolute whirlwind of excitement, perfect for a layover that goes beyond airport lounges! Known as “The City That Never Sleeps,” it brims with iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Times Square.

You’ll find rich cultural diversity here, with each neighborhood offering its own vibe—from the busy Financial District to the artsy feel of SoHo. New York’s food scene is just as dynamic, with everything from classic bagels and pizza to all kinds of international dishes.

Whether you’re into museums, amazing city views, or street food, NYC’s got a little of everything. And with the well-connected NYC subway system, it's worth stepping outside the airport to experience the magic firsthand! Whether alone or with family, NYC has what you need.

Things to keep in mind before leaving the airport

So, which airport are you going to use? LaGuardia Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport are both in New York, but John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is the most popular and most used one. It's also the most central airport for all of Long Island. You'll probably use JFK airport, so keep reading to find out everything you need to know about leaving it, and what’s there to check out.

Visa requirements in New York

If you're from a country that's part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you can enter the US for up to 90 days without a visa. You'll still have to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before your trip to NYC. If you're not from a VWP country, you'll have to use the standard embassy system for a tourist visa.

Minimum layover times in New York

1. In-airport short layover:
2. Domestic flights: 60-90 minutes
   If you're staying in the US, a minimum layover should be about an hour. That gives you enough time to get to your gate and wait out the lines. No need to worry about passport control or customs, but be ready for potential delays.
3. International flights: 3 hrs
   Getting to another terminal can take up to 20 minutes, depending on congestion. The AirTrain connects all terminals (T1, T4, T5, T7, and T8) and is the fastest way to travel between them. Make time for clearing TSA, passport control, and customs. JFK is one of the busiest airports in the world so the queue times can be pretty long. Definitely check for any holidays in the US before booking a connecting flight so you can plan for longer queues.
4. In-airport long layover: 4 hrs
   If you have some time to kill, JFK has a classic assortment of shops and spots to grab a bite. From Hugo Boss and AT&T to every fast food chain you can think of, like McDonalds and Dunkin'. You’ll find lounges at every terminal where you can rest up and recharge your devices. If your back is stiff after that long jet ride, you can jump in a massage bed to get all the kinks out before your next flight.
5. Out-of-airport layover: 8 hrs
   From JFK, you can use the Jamaica AirTrain and then hop on a LIRR Hempstead Branch train to Grand Central Station in Manhattan. Or if you want to go to Brooklyn, you can hop on the LIRR Port Jefferson Branch at Jamaica Station. There are a lot of places you'll want to check out in the Big Apple if you have the time.

What to do in New York during a layover

Not sure where to go in New York City? Check out our list of the most famous places you have to see during your layover in New York. The city is jam-packed with world-famous buildings that you just need to explore. If you're on a quick business stop in New York, you don't want to drag all that luggage to that meeting. Instead, find one of the many Bounce partners around the city and airport, and leave your extra stuff behind. You want to look sharp for the meeting after all!

Morning layover in New York

You should start exploring The City That Never Sleeps before all the hustle and bustle starts. Here's where you should start your morning layover in New York:

1. Central Park is a peaceful start to your day in New York. It's ideal for a quick walk or bike ride through its lush landscapes, like the Strawberry Fields. Plus, you can also swing by the Zoo.
2. Near the park, The Metropolitan Museum of Art has art from every corner of the world. Even a short visit lets you see its most iconic pieces.
3. A famous joint for brunch, Sarabeth’s, is a cozy spot near the park. It serves classic New York breakfasts like smoked salmon, eggs, and buttery pancakes.
4. Walk North to Le Pain Quotidien cafe in Central Park which has freshly baked pastries and coffee. Perfect for a light breakfast before a day of sightseeing.

Afternoon layover in New York

Now that you had a bite to eat, you're ready for some more New York City spots:

1. Head up to the observatory of the Empire State Building for sweeping views of Midtown Manhattan.
2. Freedom Tower World Trade Center is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Great spot for some more photo ops of NYC’s iconic skyline! It's also close to the infamous Wall Street.
3. Near the World Trade Center, there’s an Eataly Downtown, an Italian marketplace that serves gourmet pasta, pizza, and espresso. Perfect for a hearty lunch!
4. Joe’s Pizza serves New York-style pizza by the slice. Quick, classic, and satisfying before an evening stroll!

Evening layover in New York

You'd think that the city would slow down in the evening, but you'd be wrong! New York's nightlife is on another level!

1. If you have a few hours in the evening, catch a Broadway Show! From musicals to plays, there’s always something amazing happening. Many theaters are close to Times Square.
2. Times Square is an essential part of the New York experience. It dazzles with its bright lights, lively atmosphere, and endless photo ops.
3. Carnegie Deli has huge, classic deli sandwiches. The pastrami on rye is legendary! This joint has been an iconic NYC staple for decades!
4. Junior’s Restaurant is a classic diner that serves comfort food and famous cheesecake, ideal for a sweet treat to end your evening.

Overnight layover in New York

Staying the night in New York? Check out a few more spots and choose a hotel to crash at:

1. Walk across Brooklyn Bridge for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, and explore DUMBO near downtown Brooklyn. It's a trendy neighborhood with cobblestone streets and art galleries.
2. Wrap up the night at the Brooklyn Museum, a cultural gem in NYC with everything from Egyptian artifacts to feminist art collections, and contemporary installations. It’s a great choice for art lovers!
3. Pod 51 Hotel is a budget-friendly Midtown option with minimalist rooms, priced around $100 per night.
4. The Plaza Hotel is a luxury classic on Fifth Avenue with refined decor that starts from around $700 per night.

Tips to make the most out of your time in New York

Feeling out of place? Check out these tips so you can feel like a local:

• English is the primary language. You can also find communities that speak Italian, Chinese, Spanish, and Russian, among others.
• America uses the US dollar ($). Just a heads up: expect high prices in one of the highest-earning cities in the world.
• NYC isn't among the safer cities. Crime rates are high and you should avoid walking at night, especially in dark alleyways.
• Budget meals can range from $10–$15 while dining at a mid-range restaurant can cost $20–$40 per person. Entrance fees to top spots like the Empire State Building can range from $25–$45.

Our most valuable tip: leave your valuables safely with us! You don't want to be roaming NYC's streets with a lot of cash or expensive jewelry (especially at night). So put anything you want in your bags and leave it with us while you explore before your next flight!