The TWA Hotel in New York is an iconic piece of American history reborn as a luxury hotel. Located at JFK Airport, the hotel occupies the famous TWA Flight Center, a landmark designed by legendary architect Eero Saarinen. The TWA Hotel offers an unforgettable experience that blends mid-century modern design with a chic, contemporary twist, making it a perfect place to stay for aviation enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone looking for a memorable getaway in New York.
This article will dive into the features, amenities, and reviews of the TWA Hotel, so you can decide whether it’s the right place for your next stay in the Big Apple.
Table of Contents
History of the TWA Hotel
The TWA Flight Center, which opened in 1962, was a marvel of modern architecture. Its futuristic, sweeping design embodied the golden age of air travel, and it quickly became a symbol of luxury and sophistication. After decades of serving as a terminal for Trans World Airlines, the terminal was eventually closed in 2001.
In 2019, the terminal was transformed into the TWA Hotel, maintaining its retro charm while updating the space with modern amenities. The restoration preserved many of the original elements of the building, making it a time capsule from the 1960s, with a contemporary twist that offers a fantastic blend of nostalgia and luxury.
TWA Hotel Features and Amenities
Rooms and Accommodations
The TWA Hotel offers a range of accommodations, from standard rooms to luxury suites, all with a modern mid-century aesthetic. The rooms are thoughtfully designed to evoke the era of the 1960s while incorporating all the modern comforts you’d expect from a luxury hotel.
- Design: The rooms are decked out in retro-inspired furnishings, with elements like vintage phones, starburst clocks, and bold colors. The Queen and King rooms offer ample space and views of the airport or surrounding areas.
- Amenities: Rooms come with large flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet, premium bedding, and sleek bathrooms. Many rooms offer views of the runway, which can be an exciting sight for aviation enthusiasts.
- Soundproofing: Given its proximity to the airport, guests are surprised by the excellent soundproofing. The rooms are remarkably quiet, despite the busy JFK Airport just outside.
Dining Options
The TWA Hotel offers a variety of dining options that complement its retro atmosphere.
- Paris Café: Designed by famed restaurateur Jean-Georges Vongerichten, the Paris Café offers an elevated dining experience with a French-inspired menu and a chic, mid-century vibe. The restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the runway, making it a great spot for watching planes take off and land.
- The Sunken Lounge: A stylish spot to grab a cocktail, The Sunken Lounge is designed to look like a 1960s cocktail lounge, complete with plush seating and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot for evening drinks or a light snack.
- Coffee Bar: For those in need of a quick caffeine fix, the coffee bar in the hotel lobby serves high-quality coffee and pastries.
TWA Hotel Amenities
- Infinity Pool: The outdoor rooftop infinity pool is a standout feature. It’s a beautiful spot to relax with a cocktail while overlooking the airport and the New York skyline in the distance. The pool area features a 1960s-inspired design, complete with lounge chairs and retro umbrellas.
- Observation Deck: The hotel’s observation deck offers spectacular views of the planes taking off and landing at JFK Airport. It’s a favorite among aviation enthusiasts and offers an iconic vantage point to see the airport in action.
- TWA Museum: A must-see for history buffs, the TWA Museum within the hotel showcases the history of TWA Airlines and the Flight Center. It’s a treasure trove of aviation memorabilia, including old uniforms, flight attendants’ accessories, and airline artifacts.
- Event Spaces: The TWA Hotel offers a variety of unique event spaces, from the Park View Ballroom to the Concorde Room, a luxury space with views of the Concorde jet on display. The hotel’s distinct setting makes it an ideal venue for weddings, corporate events, and private parties.
Location
- Proximity to JFK Airport: The TWA Hotel’s location at JFK Airport is ideal for travelers with layovers or those looking for easy access to the airport. The hotel is just a short walk from the terminal, and there are convenient transportation options to other parts of New York City.
- Transportation: There is a direct airtrain connection from the hotel to the rest of the airport, making it easy to move around JFK or head to nearby subway stations for further exploration of the city.
TWA Hotel Reviews: What Guests Are Saying
Positive Reviews
- Unique and Nostalgic Atmosphere: Many guests rave about the hotel’s unique design and atmosphere. The TWA Hotel offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with its retro design, making it a great spot for those who love mid-century modern aesthetics. The blending of old-school luxury with modern amenities is a big highlight for most visitors.
- Incredible Dining and Cocktails: The dining experience at the TWA Hotel receives positive reviews, especially for Jean-Georges’ Paris Café and The Sunken Lounge. The food is praised for its quality, and the cocktails are a hit, with many guests noting the unique ambiance of these venues.
- Quiet Rooms Despite the Location: One of the most praised aspects of the hotel is its soundproofing. Guests are often surprised at how peaceful the rooms are, despite the hotel’s location near JFK Airport. This makes the hotel a comfortable stay, even for those with early morning flights.
- Top-Notch Service: The staff at TWA Hotel is often highlighted in reviews, with guests complimenting the professionalism and helpfulness of the team. Many note that the service was seamless from check-in to check-out.
Negative Reviews
- Expensive Rates: Some guests find the rates at the TWA Hotel to be on the higher side, especially when considering that the hotel is technically located within an airport complex. While the amenities and atmosphere are considered worth the price by many, some find it to be a bit of a splurge.
- Limited Dining Hours: A few guests have mentioned that the dining options, especially the more formal restaurants, can have limited hours. It might be a challenge for those with late-night cravings or tight schedules.
- Crowded Pool: The rooftop pool area, while beautiful, can sometimes become crowded, especially during peak hours. Guests looking for a quiet, relaxing pool experience may find this a bit off-putting.
FAQs about TWA Hotel
Q1: Is the TWA Hotel suitable for families?
Yes, the TWA Hotel can be a great place for families, especially those with kids who are fascinated by planes. The hotel offers spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and an on-site museum that can be fun for both kids and adults. However, the vibe is more tailored to adults who appreciate mid-century design and aviation history.
Q2: Can I stay at the TWA Hotel if I don’t have a flight from JFK?
Absolutely! The TWA Hotel is open to all guests, whether or not they are flying from JFK Airport. The hotel offers easy access to New York City via public transportation, so it’s a great choice for tourists looking for a unique place to stay while exploring the city.
Q3: How close is the TWA Hotel to public transportation?
The hotel is conveniently located at JFK Airport, with a direct AirTrain connection to other parts of the airport. The hotel also has easy access to subway stations via the AirTrain, making it simple to travel to Manhattan or other parts of New York City.
Q4: Does the TWA Hotel have a gym or fitness center?
Yes, the TWA Hotel offers a fitness center that is well-equipped with modern workout equipment for guests looking to stay active during their stay.
Q5: What is the best time to visit the TWA Hotel?
The TWA Hotel is open year-round, and it can be visited at any time. However, visiting during the warmer months (spring to early fall) will allow you to enjoy the rooftop pool and outdoor spaces. Winter months can be quieter, but still offer a cozy and luxurious experience.
Conclusion
The TWA Hotel is a one-of-a-kind destination in New York, offering a fascinating blend of history, luxury, and retro style. Whether you’re staying for a layover at JFK Airport or simply looking for a unique hotel experience, the TWA Hotel promises an unforgettable stay. From its stunning design and excellent dining options to its top-tier amenities, it’s clear that this hotel is a special spot for both aviation fans and luxury travelers alike.