If you’ve got a layover in New York, don’t let it go to waste sitting at JRB. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 20 minutes by New York City Subway. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside JRB
A few things to sort out before you leave JRB:
- 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 20 minutes by New York City Subway. 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.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City Subway | ~20 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~40 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the New York City Subway is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Exploring New York on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in New York:
Start with Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Ferry. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in New York. Then, if time allows, make your way to Wall Street & Charging Bull. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside JRB — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- JRB Heliport Observation
- Battery Park City Esplanade Walk
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into New York: Fraunces Tavern and Stone Street Tavern. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Starbucks (125 Broad St) or Pret A Manger (100 Pearl St). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in New York, budget roughly $48 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $25 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $13 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Bag Storage Near JRB
Luggage storage options at JRB 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 JRB, 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 JRB
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 JRB.
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
Whether you spend your layover in New York exploring the streets or relaxing at JRB, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.