TWA Hotel at JFK Review
Exploring the Timeless TWA Hotel at JFK Airport in New York: A Review
We stayed at the TWA Hotel for three nights and it was an enjoyable experience. The hotel is well-staffed, with helpful and friendly staff. The lobby is a throwback to the days of air travel in the 1950s and 1960s, with twinkling lights, vintage furniture and TWA Hotel memorabilia throughout. It’s a beautiful place to take pictures or just admire the decor. We especially appreciated that there are TWA Hotel motifs everywhere—from wall art to vintage TWA Hotel uniforms hung up on walls as decorations.
Location of the TWA Hotel
It was reasonably easy to find the TWA Hotel at Terminal 5 from our flight in JFK Terminal 8. The signage and wayfinding to get to the train was sufficient. Once we exited the train at Terminal 5, there was ample signage all around. You'll find TWA logos on the buttons, doors, walls, and ground. It made it very easy to make our way over to the hotel. If you did have any questions, we passed by multiple information desks on the way. It took us around 15 minutes to get from the British Airways baggage claim to the hotel. (Note: we used our Global Entry to quickly go through immigration. There was no line at the Global Entry kiosks)
Check-in at the TWA Hotel
The check-in process was pleasant, but aloof. There were plenty of staff to help us and no line at the check-in desks. After a few minutes, we were finally noticed, checked in, and given our key (we weren't asked if we wanted more than one). There was zero introduction to any of the hotel's amenities (pools, gym, coffee, etc.) or services (restaurants, bars). The directions provided by the agent to get to our room weren't super clear, so we had to use the hotel maps on the walls for guidance. It took us around 30 minutes from baggage claim to our room in total.
Room at the TWA Hotel
We stayed in the least expensive room at the hotel, which was a Standard King. The room was a great size with a very comfortable king bed and spacious bathroom. There was a nice, well anointed vintage dry bar and a closet. There was a nice, spacious desk with pencils, notepads, and a map of the premises. The room did not have a coffee maker or kettle.
We found the bed to be very comfortable, and both of us got an excellent night's rest. Also, the pillows were very comfortable. Each bedside had a table and a lamp and available power outlets.
The well-appointed bathroom was about what you would expect from a hotel like a Hampton Inn. It was the perfect size for a short stay. The water in the shower heated up very quickly, and the showerhead had excellent pressure. The bathroom had bath gel, shampoo, and conditioner, all in pumps rather than travel size bottles.
While the room was very nice inside, the view was extraordinarily dismal. Maybe the worst view we've ever had from a hotel room. Just outside of our window was the road for Terminal 5 arrivals. There were wonderful, electric blinds (which we put in place and left in place during the entirety of our stay to ensure privacy and ambiance) because, between us and the road was a paltry hedge festooned with an ample amount of trash. Likewise there were a line of cars waiting on the road with a direct view into our room.
General vibe of the TWA Hotel
As a hotel, it is a very hands-off experience with minimal staff limited to essential functions. That being said, as an experience, it’s extraordinary. It was a fully immersive experience offering a dynamic and vast environment where no detail was left undone. Because of the consistency and draw of the stylish decor, it was easy to tell where guests were allowed versus staff making it easy to feel free to enjoy the fullness of the space.
The other guests were travelers, like ourselves, as well as folks who came for the experience on Valentine’s Day. Everyone we passed seemed generally excited to be there. The morning of our checkout, we had extra time to sit, work, and enjoy the space. There seemed to be a few folks who came to simply visit without being hotel guests. If you have a long layover in JFK, I highly recommend making the trip to TWA to explore. It would be like a lounge without all the free stuff but with more space, exquisite views, and a one-of-a-kind experience.
The main area has massive vaulted ceilings in excess of 20 feet. There are massive, curved windows with a view of a staged tarmac free for visitors to explore. The tarmac had a shuffleboard, a luggage cart which guests are welcome to climb on, and a model plane you can go into, sit, and enjoy a drink.
There are long, curved hallways and time period appropriate music playing throughout the establishment. There are colorful rooms where you can engage with the set including a twister room with twister dots on the floor and walls. There’s a display on the second level showing off the uniforms and attire of TWA through the ages.
Everywhere you look, there’s a view that pulls you through time to another era. I really enjoyed how hands-off the hotel staff is. It made my experience more flexible and free to frolic at will and without reservation. Although JFK is quite possibly my least favorite airport, the TWA Hotel makes it worth the trip.
Bars and Restaurants at the TWA Hotel
The hotel is replete with several dining options, though scant with vegan options. The options include: Paris Cafe, Sunken Lounge, Pool Bar, Connie Cocktail Lounge, and the Food Hall
The lobby had an Intelligentsia coffee stand (which Joe was excited about), with several vegan options for breakfast including but not limited to pumpkin bread. I haven’t had pumpkin bread in at least 10 years. It was delicious.
The Paris Cafe is a modern French bistro, perfect for an evening spent enjoying the flavors of classic French cuisine. The menu features a range of traditional items such as croque monsieurs, steak tartare, and crepes. The Cafe was packed this evening as it was Valentine's Day. The menu did not have any obvious vegan options, and no allergens were pointed out on the menu.
The Sunken Lounge is perfect for those looking to enjoy craft cocktails in a fun atmosphere. This chic bar features a menu of creative cocktails that can be enjoyed while taking in the stunning views of JFK airport.
For those looking to take advantage of the warm weather during their stay at the TWA Hotel, the Pool Bar offers an outdoor oasis. This bar features drinks, light bites, and a variety of games to keep you entertained while soaking up the sun.
The Connie Cocktail Lounge takes its inspiration from the iconic TWA Flight Center designed by Eero Saarinen in 1962. The lounge is stocked with vintage wines, craft beers and cocktails named after airlines, pilots and other aviation-related topics – creating an atmosphere perfect for aviation enthusiasts. This was quite the experience. We joked that we had just gotten off a transatlantic flight only to go get drinks inside another airplane!!
Finally, the Food Hall offers a great selection of quick eats for those looking for something on-the-go. These include options such as tacos, pizza, sandwiches and salads. No matter what kind of food you’re craving during your stay at the TWA Hotel, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.
Gym at the TWA Hotel
The gym was incredible, and I regret not using it. At first glance, it’s a normal to large gym for a hotel, but continue inward and turn right, and it’s a cavern of high-tech, leading exercise equipment and amenities.
As with most hotel gyms, the best water is in the fitness room and the TWA was no exception. The water was cold and fresh. Perfect for refilling a water bottle.
The locker rooms are massive, clean, and surprisingly filled with amenities. From showers to restrooms to lockers, the locker room also has hair dryers, mouthwash, razors and shaving cream, toothpaste and toothbrushes. It was completely vacant when I was there.
Gym at the TWA Hotel
Rooftop Pool at the TWA Hotel
The pool was “warm” but not warm enough for me. It was warm enough for other patrons though who were swimming under the stars with thick waves of mist rising from the pool, overlooking the airplanes at Terminal 5 and Terminal 4. Joe was excited to see and Emirates A380. This definitely gave it a nice ambiance and seemed to boast of its warmth in the cool weather.
It had a nice, circular layout with lawn chairs around the pool. The pool was an infinity pool with a sloping entry rather than having only stairs to enter. It had a great view of the terminal and surrounding airport. The towels were red and white striped, continuing with the look, feel, and color story of TWA. There was plenty of seating with chairs lining the entire perimeter. The ski lodge style bar offers a nice warm reprieve and beverages for when you’re feeling thirsty. There was an array of bar food and snacks available as well.
Exploring the TWA Hotel
Exploration is the main activity and it’s quite enjoyable. Take pictures, use the dry bar to make some beverages or enjoy a drink from one of the many TWA bars, and have fun. It is a very fun, visually enticing destination.
One of the most incredible things about the TWA Hotel is how most of it is open to the public. It's kind of exciting to be able to find the different nooks and crannies throughout the complex. We found some great quiet places to relax, enjoy a couple of drinks, while enjoying the view of this magnificent building.
Gift Shop at the TWA Hotel
The Gift Shop at the TWA Hotel is a must-visit for anyone who wants to take a piece of this iconic airport experience home with them. With vintage-style mugs, t-shirts, and stationary, this shop is a one stop shop for all your aviation-related memorabilia. Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir or just want to show your support of the TWA Hotel, the Gift Shop is sure to have something for everyone. There’s also a variety of books about aviation, as well as toys and other trinkets that will help bring the TWA experience home. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not pick up a pair of twizzlers to snack on while exploring this unforgettable venue? Whatever you pick, the Gift Shop of the TWA Hotel is sure to have something special for everyone.
Gift Shop at the TWA Hotel
Conclusion
Overall, our stay at the TWA Hotel was an incredible experience. From the moment we arrived to check in, we were immediately taken away by its charm and vintage style. The hotel staff were friendly and helpful, always willing to answer any questions we had about the hotel or surrounding area. The food options onsite were great for a quick bite to eat, and the rooftop pool offered a unique view of the airport below. Plus, with its own gift shop and fitness center, you won’t have to go far from your room to find what you need during your stay at the TWA Hotel.
Whether you’re looking for a place to rest after a long flight or just want to explore something new while visiting the area, the TWA Hotel is sure to offer an unforgettable experience. Its unique combination of history and modern style makes it a one-of-a-kind destination that we highly recommend for anyone considering a visit to JFK Airport. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or just want to explore something new while in town, this stunning hotel is sure to make your stay special.
We had an amazing time at the TWA Hotel and look forward to our next visit! If you're ever looking for a place to stay near JFK Airport, don't forget about this hidden gem! We definitely recommend it for its vintage style, friendly staff, delicious food options, and rooftop pool with picturesque views of the airport. From the moment you arrive to the time you leave, your stay at the TWA Hotel will be an unforgettable experience that we highly recommend!
More Information...
Do you need a reservation to visit the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport?
No reservation is necessary if you’d like to explore the TWA Hotel. The building is open to the public and anyone can explore its various lounges, bars, restaurants, gift shop, and other attractions without a reservation. If you would like to stay at the hotel overnight however, then a reservation will be required. Reservations can be made via the hotel website or directly through the hotel itself. The TWA hotel staff are available to answer any questions regarding reservations and will be more than happy to assist you in making your stay as enjoyable as possible.
What kind of plane is the Connie Cocktail Lounge at the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport?
L-1649A. The Connie Cocktail Lounge at the TWA Hotel is modeled after a 1958 Lockheed Constellation L-1649A, a four-engine airliner that was used in commercial aviation during the 1950s and 1960s. The L-1649A was the last variant of the Constellation series, designed to provide a more efficient flight experience for passengers. The aircraft was eventually retired in the mid-1970s and replaced with newer models of airliners, but it still remains an iconic piece of aviation history, which is why the TWA Hotel has chosen to feature it as part of its lounge area.
