Review: A Sophisticated Stay at the TWA Hotel for High-Achieving Professionals
As a high-performance wellness coach for executives and professionals, I value luxury hotels and an environment conducive to wellness, energy, and productivity. The TWA Hotel at JFK Airport is a masterful blend of retro sophistication and modern amenities that support a lifestyle of excellence. I originally visited in 2020 to take a look and was impressed by its unique design, nostalgic charm, and focus on convenience. Recently, I experienced a full stay, and the TWA Hotel delivered on every level.
Check-In Experience
The arrival process here is nothing short of impressive. An elevator transports you directly from the JetBlue terminal into a retro tunnel, evoking the glamour of the 1960s. Check-in was handled with professionalism, and the option for self-check-in, a testament to the hotel's commitment to your time, added another level of efficiency.
Atmosphere and Design
The entire space feels like a trip back to the 1960s in the best way possible. The hotel perfectly captures the golden age of air travel, and the attention to detail is impeccable. Everything is stunning. Artfully restored, each space evokes nostalgia for the TWA era, with museum exhibits showcasing gorgeous original uniforms and memorabilia. There is even a Twister room (you know, the game) and a classic Solari split-flap message board.
Room Accommodations
New York City hotels are known for compact rooms, but the TWA Hotel offers a refreshing change. With its generous space, our king room combines the best New York sophistication with thoughtful details, from a plush bed and comfortable linens to a mini fridge. Overlooking the runway was also a treat, but don’t worry, the thickest double-paned windows keep the noise out. The high water pressure in the shower was a welcome surprise, and every detail, down to the retro soap holders, added to the distinctive experience.
Dining and Amenities
Dining at Jean-Georges' Paris Café for dinner was elegant and health-conscious, with delicious menu options. Our server was attentive and highly professional—one of the best I've ever had. We enjoyed crispy salmon, creamy corn soup, shaved broccoli and kale salad, and perfectly cooked beef tenderloin—all of it excellent!
Additionally, downstairs is a thoughtfully curated selection of New York City-inspired food vendors offering classic bites for quick, delicious snacks. You can get bagels, sandwiches, the famous Feltman's hot dogs, and Mister Softee ice cream—yes, we did.
The rooftop pool—heated to 95 degrees for year-round enjoyment—was a highlight, offering an unexpectedly breathtaking view of the runway and a gorgeous full moon on that night. Sipping a cocktail from the pool bar while watching planes ascend under a New York night sky made for a memorable experience, with the warmth of the pool adding to the charm.
I highly recommend you also enjoy a drink or peek in the 1958 Lockheed Constellation "Connie" airplane-turned-retro cocktail lounge. It's a fun, nostalgic space with original details like ashtrays from when in-flight smoking was common- how times have changed!
Daytripper Stay: A Unique Option for Busy Professionals
The Daytripper Stay offers a perfect solution for those on layovers or tight schedules like many of my clients often encounter. The pricing is around $155 for 4 hours up to 12 hours. With access to the hotel's extensive 10,000-square-foot gym, which has absolutely anything you need for your goals, the rooftop pool, and a private room for rest, professionals can easily refresh and reset. This experience elevates a layover, making the TWA Hotel an ideal stop for C-suite travelers.
Would I Stay Again?
Absolutely. The TWA Hotel offers a unique, nostalgic experience that’s also incredibly practical for travelers. It’s affordable and offers so much for its price. Did I mention that you can even visit and stay with your pup?! Whether you're there for a few hours or a few nights, the TWA Hotel makes layovers in New York infinitely more enjoyable.
It is a well-crafted, stylish choice for professionals who value form and function. The TWA hotel has a unique style that's as groovy as it is refined. Five stars.
*Don’t forget to check out my IG post with all the fun pictures from my stay!