TWA Hotel Reliving the Golden Age of Travel at JFK

TWA Hotel at JFK Airport is not just a stopover spot—it’s the only way to travel back in time. Meticulously restored by MCR and MORSE Development, this landmark re-imagines Eero Saarinen’s 1962 TWA Flight Center as a first-class destination that blends nostalgia with modern luxury. Whether you’re an architecture aficionado, a traveler in transit, or a midcentury modern enthusiast, the TWA Hotel is a must-visit. And to make this stay even more interesting, we happened to be at the TWA hotel just before the holidays, where the Frank Sinatra Christmas tunes fell just in place with the red adorned interior of the hotel and and the mid century design.

Continue reading for the post stay travel review by DSCENE editors:

A Masterpiece Reimagined

At the core of the TWA Hotel experience lies Saarinen’s iconic TWA Flight Center in New York. This historic building now hosts revived restaurants, stylish bars, and a striking TWA Hotel memorabilia shop, all carefully designed to honor its midcentury roots. Flanking the terminal, two sleek hotel wings house 512 ultra-quiet guestrooms that offer stunning views of JFK’s runways and the historic Flight Center itself. Each wing has been designed to complement Saarinen’s architectural vision, ensuring a seamless connection between past and present. To reach the hotel wings you are stepping through the striking TWA tube corridors which originally lead to the airports gates.

Design That Defines an Era

Every detail in the TWA Hotel’s interiors reflects Saarinen’s genius and the glamour of the Jet Age. The guestrooms are furnished with iconic pieces like the red Womb Chair, Tulip chairs, and Saarinen dining and side tables—all emblematic of midcentury modern design and still part of the Knoll furniture collection. The Tulip chair and the Womb Chair are part of the permanent mid century exhibitions at the Brooklyn Museum as well as MoMA in New York. Beyond the rooms, the hotel pays homage to its architectural heritage with exhibits featuring Saarinen’s blueprints, artifacts from his office, and a recreation of his workspace. This immersive experience is honors both Eero’s design and innovation.

Dining and Entertainment at TWA Hotel

Personally, after staying their for a day we must note food and drink are central to the TWA Hotel’s charm. The Paris Café serves a thoughtfully curated menu ranging from indulgent pastas to classic burgers, while The Sunken Lounge offers cocktails in a setting straight out of the 1960s. For a quick bite, the Food Hall provides convenient grab-and-go options. The standout, however, is the Lockheed Constellation “Connie” L-1649A—a vintage aircraft transformed into a chic cocktail lounge. It’s a unique venue that captures the glamour of air travel’s golden age, an experience in its own right.

Amenities That Elevate the Experience

The TWA Hotel goes above and beyond with its offerings, and we must note with something you truly do not expect at an airport hotel. The rooftop infinity pool and observation deck provide unparalleled views of JFK’s bustling runways, making it a perfect spot to unwind. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the world’s largest hotel gym, a sprawling 10,000-square-foot facility. Perfect for getting over a jet lag, and waking up at the same time.

Furthermore, the TWA Hotel also features historic display of the airlines striking uniforms, designed by none other than Valentino Garavani and Pierre Balmain.

Shopping and Memorabilia

The hotel shop is an unexpected treasure trove. Packed with aviation-themed memorabilia and retro-inspired items, it’s a delight for collectors and casual shoppers alike. Even for those who aren’t aviation fans, the curated selection is irresistible. It’s the kind of shop that makes you want to take a piece of the TWA Hotel home with you.

A Memorable Stay

During our visit, we discovered that the TWA Hotel isn’t just a place to rest—it’s a landmark in itself. The attentive yet unobtrusive staff ensures a relaxing stay, while the thoughtful design and amenities make every moment enjoyable. It’s ideal for travelers looking to recover from jet lag or simply experience something extraordinary. The hotel’s commitment to honoring Saarinen’s legacy and the spirit of the Jet Age sets it apart as a unique landmark.

Whether you’re arriving in New York or preparing to depart, the TWA Hotel offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience. I’m already planning my next visit, and I can’t wait to relive the magic of this architectural gem.

Take a tour of the TWA Hotel at JFK in New York in our gallery:

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