Christmas Eve at the TWA Hotel
A Christmas Eve Adventure at the TWA Hotel: A Perfect Pre-Flight Stay
There’s a certain magic about Christmas Eve that makes any experience feel special—and our stay at the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport was no exception. Traveling from the Hamptons to spend the night before an early morning flight to Nashville, we found ourselves immersed in the charm of this mid-century modern marvel, perfectly blending nostalgia with contemporary comforts. Here’s a look at our unforgettable stay. Since we fly jetBlue 90% of the time, the TWA hotel is especially convenient with direct elevator access to the jetBlue terminal.
The Journey to JFK
Our adventure began with a train ride from the Hamptons, a journey that felt almost cinematic as we watched the wintery landscape whiz past while sipping Americanos and munching on ginger cookies. Arriving at the TWA Hotel—situated in the iconic Eero Saarinen-designed TWA Flight Center—we were immediately struck by the familiar retro ambiance that hits us every time we stay. The building’s swooping lines and vintage charm set the stage for what would be a uniquely memorable experience.
A Step Back in Time: The Rooms and Decor
Checking into the TWA Hotel is like stepping back into the 1960s, but with all the modern conveniences you could want. Our room was a beautiful tribute to mid-century design, featuring sleek furnishings, rotary phones, and original TWA memorabilia. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a front-row seat to the bustling runways, turning airplane watching into a surprisingly soothing pastime. The thoughtful decor and attention to detail made it clear that the hotel’s designers had poured their hearts into creating a space that honors the golden age of aviation.
Cocktails at the Runway Chalet
After settling in, we headed to the Runway Chalet for evening cocktails. Nestled next to the hotel’s famed runway views, the chalet exudes a cozy, ski-lodge atmosphere—complete with wood-paneled walls and warm lighting. We savored expertly crafted cocktails alongside a delicious hummus plate, enjoying the festive buzz of fellow travelers and the unique thrill of watching planes take off and land in the distance. It was the perfect way to unwind and soak in the holiday spirit.
A Heated Pool with a View
One of the highlights of our stay was taking a dip in the TWA Hotel’s heated outdoor pool. Open year-round, the pool offers unparalleled views of JFK’s runways, allowing swimmers to watch planes ascend into the night sky. The water was warm and inviting, providing a stark yet delightful contrast to the chilly December air. It was a surreal experience, floating in the glow of runway lights and imagining the destinations of the aircraft soaring overhead.
Dinner at the Paris Café
For dinner, we dined at the Paris Café, helmed by renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. The restaurant’s sleek design pays homage to the TWA era, with its elegant lines and retro aesthetic. While the menu offered a range of appealing dishes, we found the food to be decent but slightly overpriced for what was offered. Still, the ambiance and convenience of dining on-site made it a worthwhile experience—a small indulgence before an early morning departure.
A Traveler’s Dream
Beyond its style and amenities, the TWA Hotel is incredibly practical for travelers. With our 5:55 a.m. boarding call for Nashville, the convenience of staying just steps away from the terminal was unbeatable. We were able to maximize our rest and wake up knowing we had a seamless transition to our flight.
Reflections on Our Stay
Our Christmas Eve at the TWA Hotel was more than just a layover—it was an experience in itself. The hotel’s unique blend of history, style, and convenience made it a standout choice, especially for travelers coming from the Hamptons or other outlying areas. From the nostalgic decor to the rooftop pool with its runway views, every aspect of our stay felt thoughtfully curated.
While the Paris Café’s pricing and menu left room for improvement, the overall experience was one we’d happily repeat. The TWA Hotel isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a destination that turns the mundane aspects of travel into something extraordinary. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a fan of mid-century design, or simply someone looking for a unique travel experience, the TWA Hotel delivers in spades.
A Perfect Start to the Holidays
As we boarded our early morning flight to Nashville, we couldn’t help but reflect on how perfectly the TWA Hotel had set the tone for our holiday travels. The combination of nostalgia, luxury, and practicality made it an ideal choice for Christmas Eve, and it’s a place we’d recommend to anyone seeking a memorable stay near JFK. For us, it wasn’t just a stopover—it was the beginning of a holiday adventure, infused with the magic of the season and the timeless allure of the golden age of travel.
