Engaging Efficiently - Popular Activities to Pass Time during layovers at John F. Kennedy International Airport
In the bustling city of New York, Queens offers a unique blend of sports venues, parks, and cultural attractions that are easily accessible from JFK Airport. Here's a guide to some must-visit spots in the area.
Citi Field, located in Flushing, is a hub for baseball fans as it is the home of the New York Mets. Besides the thrilling games, Citi Field also houses a Hall of Fame museum and occasionally hosts concerts. Nearby, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, another Queens gem, is a large park featuring remnants of two world fairs, museums, bike paths, and fields, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
For tennis enthusiasts, the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center and adjacent Arthur Ashe Stadium in Corona are renowned for their tennis events. These venues also offer a lively entertainment and arts scene.
If you're a fan of horse racing, the Aqueduct Racetrack in South Ozone Park provides an exciting experience, with nearby museums and theaters adding to the appeal. Nature lovers will appreciate the Queens Botanical Garden in Flushing, a scenic green space perfect for a peaceful retreat.
For those seeking a taste of Queens' diverse culinary scene, Astoria offers a variety of neighbourhoods such as Ouzeria, known for Mediterranean dishes, and Wo Hop, famous for authentic Chinese fare.
For a slightly longer journey but still accessible from JFK, the Brooklyn Museum and Prospect Park offer art and outdoor spaces respectively. Iconic Manhattan attractions like the Empire State Building, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and Bryant Park can also be reached via public transit.
To reach these spots from JFK, the JFK AirTrain connects the airport to the New York City subway system. From Jamaica Station, you can access Citi Field, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, and the Tennis Center in Queens. For destinations in Brooklyn or Manhattan, transfers at Jamaica Station or a Manhattan hub are necessary. Trips typically cost around $10.75 and take approximately 60-90 minutes. Taxis and rideshares are also available but can be costly and subject to traffic.
Whether you're a sports fan, a culture vulture, or a nature lover, Queens near JFK Airport offers a rich mix of experiences that cater to a variety of interests. So, why not take a break from your travels and explore the hidden gems of Queens?
[1] Source: The Noguchi Museum, Louis Armstrong House Museum, Gantry Plaza State Park, Queens Museum, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Green Acres Mall, Citi Field Stadium, JFK Airport location information. [2] Source: Citi Field tickets, stadium tours, and offseason prices. [4] Source: JFK to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens Museum, Astoria, and transportation information.
- After a thrilling day at Citi Field or exploring Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, consider dining at Astoria's Ouzeria for Mediterranean dishes or Wo Hop for authentic Chinese food.
- As you plan your shopping spree in Queens, don't forget to visit Green Acres Mall, offering a variety of stores, or venture to Manhattan for some unique finds at the Brooklyn Museum.
