Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) serves the Islip area on Long Island, New York, offering a gateway to one of the Northeast’s most accessible beach and suburban destinations. Whether you have a short connection or an extended layover, this guide will help you make the most of your time at ISP and in the surrounding region.
Before You Leave the Airport
Essential Information
- Language: English is the primary language throughout Long Island and the airport.
- Currency: US Dollars (USD). Use ATMs for the best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters. Consider a Wise or Revolut card for zero-markup transactions.
- Time Zone: Eastern Time (ET)
- Airport Website: MacArthur Airport Official Site
Can You Leave ISP During Your Layover?
Yes, you can leave ISP during a layover, but timing is critical. Here’s what you need to know:
- Domestic Connections: Plan to return 60 minutes before departure.
- Minimum Layover Time: For a comfortable airport exit and return, aim for at least 3-4 hours for domestic flights and 4-5 hours for international connections.
Pro Tip: Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing so you can navigate without relying on airport WiFi or cellular data.
Getting to the City from ISP
Long Island MacArthur Airport is located in Islip, approximately 50 miles east of Manhattan. For the most current and detailed transit options, visit the airport’s ground transportation page.
Common options include:
- Rental Car: Best for flexibility and exploring Long Island’s beaches and attractions.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate at ISP; expect higher rates during peak hours.
- Public Transit: Check the airport website for current bus and train connections to surrounding areas.
- Hotel Shuttles: If staying nearby, confirm shuttle availability when booking.
What to Do During Your ISP Layover
At the Airport
While specific amenity data for ISP is limited, most airports offer:
- Food and beverage options (note: airport food is 2-3x city prices)
- Retail shops and newsstands
- Restrooms and family facilities
- WiFi access (download entertainment offline beforehand for reliability)
Families: Most major airports have baby care rooms with changing tables, bottle warmers, and nursing areas. Ask at the information desk if you need assistance.
In the Islip Area & Long Island
If your layover is 4+ hours, consider exploring nearby attractions:
- Beaches: Long Island is famous for its beaches. Fire Island, Jones Beach, and Gilgo Beach are accessible by car or public transit.
- Local Dining: Eat in the city instead of the airport – you’ll find better quality and prices. Long Island has excellent seafood restaurants and casual dining.
- Shopping: The Smith Haven Mall and other retail centers are nearby for quick shopping.
- Parks & Recreation: Heckscher State Park and other green spaces offer short walks and outdoor activities.
Luggage Storage at ISP
No luggage storage data is currently available for ISP. However, you have reliable alternatives:
- Bounce, Stasher, or LuggageHero: Partner with local businesses near airports for secure luggage storage at $5-10 per bag per day – much cheaper than airport lockers.
- Multi-Bag Discounts: If traveling with a group, book all luggage together for better rates.
Airport Lounges & Rest Options
Lounge Access
Lounge availability at ISP varies by airline. Options include:
- Airline Lounges: Check with your airline for lounge access based on your ticket class or frequent flyer status.
- Day Passes: One-time lounge passes cost $39-$59 depending on the airline.
- Priority Pass: Gives access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide; some credit cards include it free.
Sleeping at the Airport
For overnight layovers, check SleepingInAirports.net for reviews on sleeping at ISP. Nearby hotels also offer hourly or short-stay rates for rest between flights.
Layover Tips by Traveler Type
For Families
- Pack a ‘layover bag’ inside your carry-on with snacks, entertainment, change of clothes, and basic toiletries for easy access.
- Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security – staying hydrated helps kids manage jet lag.
- Download offline maps and entertainment before landing; airport WiFi can be unreliable.
For Solo Travelers
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before landing for navigation without data.
- Get an eSIM before traveling (Airalo, Holafly) for instant data without hunting for WiFi.
- Share your location with a trusted contact when exploring a new area solo.
For Groups
- Designate a ‘group leader’ to manage timing, headcount, and communication.
- Use WhatsApp or a group chat for real-time coordination; pin departure gate and boarding time.
- Budget 2.5-3 hours before international departure and 60 minutes before domestic when returning to the airport.
- Use Splitwise to track shared expenses (transport, food, activities) automatically.
Quick Tips for Your ISP Layover
- Eat in the city, not the airport: Airport food costs 2-3x more. If leaving ISP, grab a meal in Islip or nearby areas.
- Use ATMs for currency: Never exchange money at airport counters – rates are terrible. Use ATMs or a Wise card instead.
- Download offline content: Airport WiFi may be slow or time-limited. Download maps, entertainment, and translation apps before landing.
- Consider luggage storage: Services like Bounce and Stasher make it easy to explore without dragging bags around.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave ISP airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave ISP during a layover. For domestic connections, plan to return 60 minutes before departure. For international connections, budget 2.5-3 hours before departure to account for and security re-screening. Always factor in travel time to and from the airport when deciding whether to leave.
What is there to do at ISP during a layover?
At the airport, you can dine, shop, and rest. If your layover is 4+ hours, consider exploring Long Island’s beaches (Fire Island, Jones Beach), local restaurants, shopping centers like Smith Haven Mall, or parks like Heckscher State Park. Eat in the city rather than the airport for better prices and quality.
How long of a layover do I need at ISP?
For a comfortable layover with time to explore outside the airport, aim for at least 3-4 hours for domestic flights and 4-5 hours for international connections. Solo travelers should plan for 6+ hours total layover time to account for security, and return travel.
Are there lounges at ISP?
Lounge availability at ISP depends on your airline and ticket class. You can purchase one-time day passes (typically $39-$59), use Priority Pass (which gives access to 1,400+ lounges worldwide), or check if your frequent flyer status or credit card includes lounge access.
Is there luggage storage at ISP?
Luggage storage data for ISP is not currently available. However, services like Bounce, Stasher, and LuggageHero partner with local businesses near the airport for secure storage at $5-10 per bag per day – much cheaper than airport lockers.
Make the Most of Your Layover
Whether you have a short connection or an extended layover at ISP, planning ahead is key.