Travelling with Kids: Family-Friendly Amenities and Activities at JFK Airport
If you’re planning a fun-filled family vacation and will be departing from JFK, read on to discover the family-focused offerings at this airport. From play areas and kid-friendly dining options to nursing rooms and stroller-savvy facilities, we’ll guide you through JFK’s family-oriented features—each designed to ensure a smooth and entertaining journey.
#1. Convenient Parking Options
Before entering the airport building, your family vacation can be made less stressful by finding convenient, low-cost, and secure parking for your vehicle. Fortunately, with the help of external parking services, this is a cinch. You can find a diverse selection of parking options, many of which include a free 24-hour airport shuttle. Consequently, you won’t have to worry about how you’ll transport your kids and all of your luggage to and from JFK.
#2. The T5 Kids Play Area
Located in Terminal 5, the T5 Kids Play Area is a haven where children can burn off some energy before or after a flight. The play area features a variety of climbing structures, slides, and interactive games to keep your little ones entertained. Meanwhile, parents can relax in the nearby seating area while keeping an eye on their kids, creating a stress-free environment for everyone.
#3. Kid-Friendly Dining Options
Feeding hungry little ones is essential during travel, and JFK Airport offers a range of kid-focused dining options to cater to different tastes. Many terminals feature popular family-friendly restaurants and quick-service eateries that provide menus with delicacies guaranteed to appeal to young taste buds, such as pizza, sandwiches, and hamburgers. Therefore, parents can relax knowing there are options available to satisfy their little ones’ appetites.
#4. Stroller-Friendly Facilities
Navigating an airport with a stroller can be a challenge. The great news is that JFK Airport provides facilities that make it easier for families. Wide corridors, accessible elevators, and ramps allow for smooth stroller movement throughout the airport. Moreover, you will find designated stroller parking areas near security checkpoints and boarding gates, ensuring strollers are securely stored during the flight.
#5. JetBlue’s T5 “Wooftop” Park
If your family includes a four-legged member and you can’t part with them while you’re away, don’t miss out on a visit to JetBlue’s “Wooftop” Pet Relief Area. This 4000 sqft outdoor rooftop zone, also located in Terminal 5, is specifically designed for traveling pets. Kids can enjoy watching the dogs play and interact while getting some fresh air before boarding their flight.
#6. Nursing Rooms And Baby Care Facilities
JFK Airport recognizes the needs of traveling parents with babies in tow and provides dedicated nursing rooms and baby care facilities. These private spaces are equipped with comfortable seating, changing tables, and sinks for parents to tend to their little ones’ needs in a calm and convenient environment.
#7. Children’s Shops
JFK boasts a variety of children’s shops where families can browse and purchase toys, games, and travel essentials. These shops offer a range of age-appropriate products to keep kids entertained during the flight or to serve as mementos of their travel experience.
#8. Airline Kids Programs
Several airlines operating at JFK Airport have special programs to entertain and engage young travelers. These programs often include activity kits, coloring books, and special in-flight entertainment options for children. Check with your airline before departure to see what kind of programs they offer to ensure a fun-filled journey for your little ones.
#9. Some Helpful Tips For Flying With Kids
Before you pack your bags and prepare to set off, here are a few more tips that could come in handy for your flight from JFK—or, indeed, any airport:
- Bring Some Home Comforts: If you have very young children, bring along some comfort items, like blankets, pillows, or a favorite plushie. This will help children feel more at ease during the flight.
- Be Prepared For Ear Pressure: During take-off and landing, your children may experience discomfort from the sudden change of pressure. Encourage swallowing or chewing to relieve the pressure in their ears.
- Stay Calm And Patient: It’s natural for kids to get restless during a flight. Do your best to stay calm and offer reassurance through soothing activities.
- Pack Extra Clothes: It’s wise to pack extra clothing in your carry-on, in case of spills or unexpected situations.
