JFK to Manhattan - safest and easiest way with kids?

[Hallowishes]

Hi, any advice would be welcome as to what is the best way to get into Manhattan from JFK? And back! I really want to try and minimise the stress levels as hubby won't be with me so I need to plan the easiest and most stress free route with kids! Many thanks!

[duchy]

Cab, it's a fixed fare so you know exactly what it will cost in advance. $52 plus tip. In your situation with kids and bags you need door to door !

[redspottyowl]

We took the subway, with 2 kids it was dead easy and saved lots of money

[Hallowishes]

Thankyou! Yes I agree! What am I looking at for a tip roughly and is it easy enough to get a taxi or is it manic there? Thanks

[duchy]

Very easy, at JFK you go to the cab area (well marked and near the bag carousel) and join the (fast moving) line. They have controllers on duty who will direct you to your cab. Coming back if your hotel has a doorman (many do ) they'll hail it for you.
Tip is 15 to 20% ...the higher end if there's bags to heft in and out.

You could prebook a town car which would cost more and be a little more spacious and comfortable but personally I don't think it's worth the extra.

I actually agree train into the city is easy with just one change but I wouldn't even attempt it solo with a couple of kids and luggage. My sanity is worth paying a cab fare for.

[duchy]

Originally Posted by redspottyowl

We took the subway, with 2 kids it was dead easy and saved lots of money

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We as in two adults ? Would you have still done it with one adult, kids and bags ? Big difference
I'd do it with two adults if I was on a tight budget too though.

[novocastrian]

as above yellow taxi fixed fare to anywhere in manhattan, dead easy there is ataxi marshall who sorts you out, its also imo a great start to your trip a yellow NYC cab into manhattan

navigating subway(s) with bags/kids then walking to your actual accomodation after a long day/flight...

not for me !

[Disney4Three]

We just jumped in taxi, stree free

[RM2016]

Stick to a Cab when you land. Much easier after the flight and for your stress levels! You can always get the AirTran back to the Airport once you have ridden the Subway a few times.

[Hallowishes]

Thankyou everyone, think I’m going to get the cab for sure, is it a fixed fare back to JFK and how long should I allow to get back before check in? Thanks.