Hilton New York JFK Airport

Hilton New York JFK is a large airport hotel that stays busy around the clock as travelers arrive from or depart to flights out of nearby JFK at all hours. It’s especially busy in the early morning and at peak arrival times in the afternoon. The lobby has rather low ceilings, but is nicely decorated with tan tile floors and wood columns. A lounging area with comfortable armchairs is on the opposite end from the large registration desk. The staff here is friendly enough but with so many transient guests on short stays, it’s a rather impersonal place. Most guest interaction typically occurs at the restaurant and bar that are just off the lobby. Despite its proximity to the airport and busy roads, the hotel is surprisingly quiet. 

The Hilton is located off of busy Belt Parkway, just a five-minute drive or free shuttle ride from John F. Kennedy International Airport. Several other hotels are nearby, and residential homes are on the side opposite from the airport. It’s not a great area for walking and other than restaurants housed in neighboring hotels, there are no dining options within walking distance. Taking public transportation to Times Square and other New York City landmarks typically takes a little over one hour; drive times are roughly 40 minutes, depending on traffic. For travelers needing to catch flights at LaGuardia Airport, it’s approximately 20 minutes by car or taxi, and 80 minutes via public transit. Travelers with time to kill and money to spend, can reach Resorts World Casino by public transit in 30 minutes, or an 11-minute drive. 

The rooms are tastefully decorated in a simple style that’s commonly seen in Hilton chain hotels. Soft earth tones look nice with light walls, white duvets, and square-patterned carpet in tan, olive, and light blue. The matching wood furniture has a handsome amber finish, but several of the pieces we saw showed obvious signs of wear. Standard rooms offer plenty of space, and the Double Queen Rooms include desks and upholstered armchairs (King Rooms have small sofas). Larger suites with sleeper sofas in separate living rooms also are available. Amenities are a plus, with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, and safes. Wi-Fi is free for Hilton Honors members, and it's free to sign up for the loyalty program. Executive Rooms on the top floors gain access to the Executive Lounge which features free breakfast and free afternoon snacks, beer, and wine.

Bathrooms vary by room type: King Rooms feature walk-in showers, while Double Queen Rooms have shower/tub combos. The bathrooms are only average in size, but they have excellent lighting, magnifying mirrors, and roomy, tan granite vanities. One floor of the hotel allows smoking in the rooms. The rooms are made more cheerful by the natural light coming through the large windows, many of which offer airport views (especially on higher floors). 

This airport hotel provides features that mostly cater to short-term guests. There are free shuttles to nearby John F. Kennedy International Airport around the clock. Parking is reasonably priced, and a car rental counter is on-site. Restaurant 144 serves breakfast (not included in rates), lunch, and dinner, with a focus on American classics like steaks, seafood, and burgers. It also has a large sports bar. The 144 Express serves Starbucks coffee and to-go items like pastries, salads, and sandwiches. The gift shop also sells various snacks, souvenirs, and sundries. 

For working out, the indoor saltwater pool has ample space for a good swim, and the 24/7 fitness center is equipped with several modern Precor cardio machines and free weights. The 6,334 square feet of meeting space includes a ballroom that can host groups of up to 500 people. The 24/7 business center has four computers and two printers, and enables guests to remotely printer documents from their rooms. Valet dry cleaning and laundry are among the concierge services. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby for all guests. Many locals use the hotel's popular Stay, Park, and Fly package to save money on airport parking.