Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in New York gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from JRA to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by MTA Subway/Bus, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave JRA:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to New York takes about 30 minutes by MTA Subway/Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Get Into New York
You have two main options for getting from West 30th St. Heliport into town:
- MTA Subway/Bus: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How to Spend Your Time in New York
If you head into New York, here are two things worth checking out:
Times Square is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in New York.
Empire State Building Observation Deck is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A quick stop here is rewarding — great for photos.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at JRA, check out Edge Observation Deck or Hudson River Park Waterfront Walk to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Katz’s Delicatessen and Joe Allen are both worth a visit if you’re exploring New York.
- At the airport: Shake Shack Hudson Yards and Mercado Little Spain will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into New York might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$13 USD
- A meal: ~$25 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$48 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in New York.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at JRA can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in New York for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at JRA, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in New York itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for United States that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at JRA
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at JRA.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in New York with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. New York may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.