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TWA Hotel Review: What to Know Before Booking

TWA Hotel review
We had been curious about the TWA Hotel ever since it opened in 2019, so when I booked an early 6 a.m. flight to New Orleans for Dwayne’s birthday trip, it felt like the perfect excuse to finally check it out! Why deal with a tiring early morning drive to JFK when we could stay right at the airport, and step back into time to the stylish early days of air travel while we were at it?  
 
Bonus Perk: Our flight was leaving from Terminal 5, the same terminal the TWA Hotel is connected to. No shuttle, no long walks dragging luggage; just a quick stroll straight to check-in. After a seamless 5-minute walk, we were at our gate, well-rested and ready for a great birthday getaway.
 
But let’s start with some general information before we dive into my TWA Hotel Review.

NEW YORK CITY | JFK

The TWA Hotel is located directly at JFK Airport, connected to Terminal 5 (and easily accessible from all terminals via the free AirTrain). It sits on the historic grounds of the 1962 TWA Flight Center, just 8 miles (13 km) from downtown Queens and 15 miles (24 km) from midtown Manhattan. A taxi to Manhattan takes 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic, while the AirTrain + subway takes about 50 minutes.

YTF OVERALL RATING:

IS THERE PARKING AT THE TWA HOTEL?

Yes, valet parking is available starting at $18 for 30 minutes, and a daily rate of $80. Please note that self-parking is not available.

IS THE TWA HOTEL FAMILY FRIENDLY?

At least one hotel guest must be 21 years of age or older to check in for an overnight or Daytripper℠ stay. Cribs are free and available upon request. The TWA Hotel does not offer rollaway beds. There is a maximum of 4 people permitted per room.

IS THE TWA HOTEL WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?

The TWA Hotel strives to accommodate the needs of all guests, including those with disabilities. The hotel and select guestrooms and restrooms are ADA-accessible. The TWA Hotel does not offer wheelchair assistance.

READ IT LATER - TWA Hotel review

Step Back in Time: The Retro Charm of the TWA Hotel

If you love mid-century style and aviation history, the TWA Hotel at New York’s JFK Airport is a dream come true. Housed inside the beautifully restored TWA Flight Center, this hotel brings back the golden age of air travel with its iconic 1960s design. The original terminal, crafted by legendary architect Eero Saarinen, reopened as a hotel after many years in disuse, keeping its Jet Age charm alive.

What Makes the TWA Hotel Special?

  • Design: The hotel’s swooping red-and-white curves, sunken lounges, and vintage touches make you feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine.
  • Location: Just steps away from JFK’s Terminal 5 (JetBlue’s hub), it’s perfect for travelers with long layovers or those who want a unique stay near the airport.
  • Retro-Chic Rooms: With 512 soundproof rooms with 1960s-inspired decor, you can watch planes take off from your window, or enjoy the view of the iconic TWA Flight Center.
  • Amenities: From a year-round rooftop pool with runway views (at an additional cost) to a 1958 plane turnedcocktail bar, there’s plenty to experience.
  • Dining & Drinks: Several options including the Paris Café by Jean-Georges, and the vintage “Connie” lounge.
  • Events: TWA offers the possibility of hosting private and corporate events.
 
After this brief introduction, it’s now time to find out if our TWA Hotel experience lived up to our Jet Age fantasies. Fasten your seatbelts, you’re about to get my completely honest TWA Hotel review.

TWA HOTEL ROOMS - 5 STARS

deluxe king room with runway views - TWA Hotel review

The TWA Hotel transports you back to 1962 with 512 soundproof guest rooms featuring floor-to-ceiling windows (the second-thickest in the world!) and authentic midcentury modern furnishings by Eero Saarinen and Knoll.

 

All Rooms Include:

  • Plush Sealy mattresses for cloud-like comfort
  • Hollywood-style vanity with perfect lighting which you practically never get in a hotel while getting ready
  • Authentic Eero Saarinen-designed midcentury modern Knoll furnishings.
  • Working rotary phone for unlimited local/international calls (Because 1962 never felt so convenient!)

Room Options:

  • Standard/Deluxe/Executive King Rooms
  • Standard/Deluxe/Executive Double Queen Rooms
  • Two Presidential Suites

Do all rooms offer views of JFK’s runways?

Not all rooms feature runway views, but all provide the same stylish comfort. For the best airport vistas, be sure to book a dedicated runway view room when making your reservation. Yes, these rooms are more expensive (but let’s face it, all rooms here are pricey).
 
If you’re going to stay at the TWA Hotel, I recommend splurging for the runway view, as it’s one of the things that make the experience different from any other stay. Something is hypnotizing about watching planes take off and land from your bed which turns your stay into a true aviation lover’s experience. And don’t worry about the noise. You won’t hear a thing with their noise-canceling floor-to-ceiling windows (the second thickest in the world).
 
Just keep in mind the rooms are small (this is NYC, after all!), but if you go in with realistic expectations, you won’t be disappointed. We enjoyed our deluxe king room with runway views, and the plane spotting from the bed was entertaining and weirdly relaxing.

SERVICE AND HOSPITALITY - 3.5 STARS

You’ll enjoy the TWA Hotel if you don’t expect a conventional hotel experience. You are not paying for the service here, keep that in mind!
 
• Semi-contactless experience: Beyond the friendly front desk staff (who were wonderfully helpful during our check-in), you won’t find traditional hotel hospitality.
• No room service or concierge: The restaurants have great staff, but there is no room service of any kind. They do have grab-and-go options at the 24/7 Food Hall though.
• Tech meets nostalgia: You’ll use your phone as your room key and for all hotel communications.

HOTEL GROUNDS AND AMENITIES - 4.5 STARS

This is where the TWA Hotel shines. Its style is as as unique as some of its amenities making it a very interestingexperience for first-time visitors.

Notable TWA Hotel Amenities

Rooftop Infinity Pool (for an additional cost)

Rooftop Infinity Pool - TWA Hotel review
Overlooking JFK’s runways, this heated pool transforms into a hot tub during colder months, offering a unique plane-spotting experience. You can also enjoy drinks and bites at The Pool Bar (check out the menu here).
 
A few important things to know:
• Hours: Daily from 11 AM to 11 PM (for non-hotel guests), Daily from 7 AM to 11 PM (for guests).
• Reservations: Required May 1 to November 1. Prices subject to change. Walk-ins are welcome 11 AM to 11 PM, but not guaranteed. Subject to availability. Pool loungers cannot be reserved.
• Time of Each Reservation: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Free Swim: For guests only. 7 AM to 10:45 AM No reservation needed.
• Cover Charge: Starting at $25 for adults and $10 for children age 5 to 12; children under age 5 are free. Free November 1 to May 1. The cover charge includes admission to the pool and observation deck, towels, and seating for dining at The Pool Bar.
• How to Book a Pool Reservation: When you’re an overnight hotel guest, booking a Pool Reservation can be done after selecting your guestroom during the booking process. You will see the option to enhance your stay with a Pool Reservation. If you’re booking a Daytripper℠ stay at the hotel, you will need to email them at [email protected]. If you are visiting the TWA Hotel and would like to make a Pool Reservation, you have to book via ResortPass.
 
We didn’t personally experience the swimming pool but for the price of the room, we personally think the entrance should be included at no additional cost.

Fitness Center

Fitness Center TWA Hotel review
A 10,000-square-foot facility, open 24/7, with a Peloton room featuring 14 bikes, the largest offering outside Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, and a dedicated yoga studio. It holds the distinction of being the biggest hotel gym in the world.
 
TWA Fitness is complimentary for registered TWA Hotel overnight and Daytripper℠ guests. Day passes and monthly memberships are available for non-hotel guests.

Connie Cocktail Lounge

Connie Cocktail Lounge airplane - TWA Hotel review

A restored 1958 Lockheed Constellation aircraft repurposed into a stylish bar, providing a nostalgic ambiance. Walk-ins are welcome, but it’s also possible to make reservations. Open 4 PM to 10:30 PM (sometimes it might be closed for private events). Connie serves cocktails and light snacks (you can check out the menu here).

Museum Exhibits

Museum Exhibits - TWA Hotel review
Free displays throughout the hotel showcase authentic artifacts celebrating TWA’s history and the Jet Age. No hotel reservation is needed to visit the museum exhibits and explore the lobby.

Unique Recreational Spaces

room sized Twister TWA Hotel review

Guests can enjoy a room-sized Twister board and a seasonal curling rink, and a free photo booth, adding playful elements to the stay.

Food Options

Paris Café by Jean-Georges - TWA Hotel review
  • Paris Café by Jean-Georges 
The Paris Café by Jean-Georges serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Reservations are recommended but walk-ins are welcomed.
 
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: We had dinner here and if we have to be 100% honest the food was average at best. I even had to send back my Turkey Burger because the bread at the bottom was completely soggy. That was the first time I ever sent back anything in my entire life, but if I am paying $30 for a pretty basic restaurant burger, it should at least be cooked properly.
  • The Sunken Lounge
History has been made in the Sunken Lounge: Crowds gathered there to watch the Beatles arrive in the United States in 1965! Today, windows look out on the 1958 “Connie” plane while overhead a split flap departures board by Solari di Udine displays messages. Reservations are possible but walk-ins are welcomed. Takeout is also available. Check out the menu here.
 
  • Food Hall
Locally-made, quick meals are served in the historic Food Hall, where Trans World Airlines travelers once checked in for flights. Stores include the TWA Corner Store (open 24/7), Fly-By Bagels, Vinny’s Panini (open 24/7), Feltman’s of Coney Island (serving hot dogs), Mister Softee, Crêpes Your Way, and Vinny’s Juice Bar. TWA Hotel does not offer room service of any kind.
Vintage car - TWA Hotel review

We enjoyed the hotel grounds! Exploring the exhibits, snapping retro-chic photos, and immersing ourselves in the 1960s jet-setter atmosphere made for a fantastic and unique stay. That said, we did have two critiques: First, we think that the rooftop pool should be complimentary for hotel guests (even if reservation-based and subject to availability). Second, our meal at Paris Café by Jean-Georges fell short. Though the ambiance and service were excellent, the food didn’t live up tothe premium pricing. Lastly, it would be amazing if the hotel added a spa or at least massage services! A wellness retreat would make the experience even more relaxing.

LOCATION AND PROXIMITY - 5 STARS

TWA Hotel, JFK Airport, NYC
Though not the ideal location for longer stays, the TWA Hotel’s greatest advantage is its unbeatable location, directly connected to JFK Airport’s Terminal 5, just minutes from most other terminals via the AirTrain. This makes it the perfect choice for travelers with early morning flights or long layovers, eliminating the stress of commuting to an off-site hotel.
 
Guests can walk straight from check-in to security in under 10 minutes, a major perk for those catching dawn departures. Even if flying out of another terminal, the free AirTrain provides quick transfers, with trains running every few minutes.
 
For layovers, the hotel offers a day rate option, allowing travelers to rest, freshen up, and explore the retro-chic grounds without leaving the airport. Between the on-site exhibits, runway views, and dining options, it’s a far more relaxing way to kill time than camping out at a terminal gate.
 
Convenient Stay Options:
 
Standard Stay: Check-in at 4 PM ET, checkout by 11 AM ET
Early Check-In (based on availability):
8 AM-12 PM: $75
12 PM−2 PM: $25
Late Checkout (based on availability):
  • 2 PM: $50
  • 3 PM: $75
  • 4 PM: $100
  • 5 PM: $125
  • 6 PM: $150
Daytripper℠ Day Rooms: Hourly bookings (6 AM-8 PM ET, 4-12 hour stays; non-refundable, no overnight stays).

OVERALL EXPERIENCE: 4.5 STARS

TWA Hotel review
Our stay at the TWA Hotel was thoroughly enjoyable, and we absolutely recommend booking a room at least once for the full retro-aviation experience, especially if you have an early morning flight to catch. The convenience simply can’t be beat. For travelers with long layovers, the Daytripper℠ day rooms offer a brilliant solution to rest and refresh between flights.
 
That said, remember you can enjoy much of what makes the TWA Hotel special without an overnight stay. The hotel’s public spaces, fascinating aviation exhibitions, and restaurants are open to all visitors free of charge (though the iconic rooftop pool does require a paid day pass if you’re not a hotel guest). Whether you’re staying the night or just passing through, this Jet Age landmark is well worth a visit.
 
Best suited for:
✔️ Aviation enthusiasts and design lovers (mid-century modern charm everywhere)
✔️ Travelers with early morning flights (direct terminal access = zero stress)
✔️ Long layovers (Daytripper℠ day rooms beat airport benches)
✔️ Content Creators / Social Media Lovers (endless photo/video opportunities)
✔️ JetBlue flyers (connected to Terminal 5)
Not ideal for:
❌ Budget travelers (premium prices for rooms/dining)
❌ Those wanting luxury amenities (it’s more about nostalgia than 5-star pampering)
❌ Off-airport explorers (you’re deep in JFK with no quick city access)
❌ Long stays.  The amount of time it would take to get out of the airport makes exploration difficult
FAQs TWA Hotel JFK Airport

FAQs

Where is the TWA Hotel located? / Is the TWA Hotel connected to JFK?

The TWA Hotel is situated at JFK Airport, directly connected to Terminal 5 via Eero Saarinen’s iconic flight tubes. It’s the only on-airport, AirTrain-accessible hotel at JFK.​

Does the TWA Hotel offer day-use rooms?

Yes, the TWA Hotel offers Daytripper℠ reservations for daytime stays. These can be booked hourly from 6 AM to 8 PM ET, with a minimum of four hours and a maximum of 12 hours. Please note that Daytripper℠ reservations are non-refundable and cannot be modified or canceled.

What are the TWA Hotel check-in and check-out times?

Standard check-in time is 4 PM, and check-out is at 11 AM Early check-in and late check-out may be available upon request, subject to availability and additional fees.

Is parking available at the TWA Hotel?

Yes, valet parking is available starting at $18 for 30 minutes, and a daily rate of $80. Please note that self-parking is not available.
 
YTF Recommendation: Park at Extended Stay lots that are a 1/3rd of the cost and only 10-15 mins away by AirTran.

Are pets allowed at the TWA Hotel?

Yes, pets are welcome at the TWA Hotel and are allowed in all public spaces, including The Sunken Lounge. However, they are not permitted in areas such as TWA Fitness, the Food Hall, Connie Cocktail Lounge, the Paris Café, or the rooftop pool and observation deck, except for service animals.
 
There is a $75 non-refundable fee per pet per stay, and pets should not be left alone in guestrooms for more than two hours. Guests traveling with pets must add them to the reservation when booking (under “Enhance Your Stay” → “Bring a Pet!”), and a liability form must be signed at check-in.
 
A designated pet relief area is available outside the hotel, and guests are responsible for cleaning up after their animals. If you’re arriving via AirTrain, keep in mind that only small, caged domestic pets are allowed onboard.

Does the TWA Hotel have a fitness center?

Yes, the TWA Hotel boasts a 10,000-square-foot fitness center, featuring a Peloton room, a yoga studio, and a variety of exercise equipment. Hotel guests can access the gym for free during their stay. Day passes are also available for non-guests.

Are there dining options at the TWA Hotel?

Absolutely. The hotel offers several dining venues, including::
  • Paris Café by Jean-Georges: A full-service restaurant.
  • The Sunken Lounge: A cocktail bar in the historic terminal.
  • Connie Cocktail Lounge: A bar inside a restored 1958 Lockheed Constellation airplane.
  • Food Hall: Various quick-service options. 

Is the rooftop pool open year-round?

Yes, the rooftop infinity pool is open year-round. It is heated and transforms into a “pool-cuzzi” during colder months, offering views of JFK’s runways. 

Can I visit the TWA Hotel's museum exhibits without a room reservation?

Yes, the museum exhibits are open to the public and can be visited without a hotel reservation. These exhibits showcase TWA’s history and mid-century modern design. 

What is the minimum age required to check in at TWA Hotel?

The minimum age to check in at the TWA Hotel is 21 years old. Guests under 21 must be accompanied by an adult (21+) for check-in.

TWA HOTEL, JFK Airport

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