You Can Kick Back in a 1960s Ski-Themed Winter Lounge at JFK's TWA Airport Hotel

Photo credit: Courtesy of TWA Hotel
Photo credit: Courtesy of TWA Hotel

From House Beautiful

I’ve personally never felt the need to travel to an airport for any reason other than to catch a flight, but the TWA Hotel–the only hotel at New York’s JFK Airport, set inside Eero Saarinen's iconic TWA terminal–makes me want to. Not only does this hotel have a bar inside of a plane and a Paris Café, but it now has a 1960s ski-themed lodge that you can lounge in.

Now open for the winter season, the Runway Chalet at The Pool Bar is on the hotel’s rooftop near its heated infinity edge pool (which is open year-round, FYI). The retro lounge is tented and heated for maximum coziness, and it comes complete with a vintage fireplace. Can you feel the warmth already? It also has furry cushioning and brightly colored pillows that adorn the seating. Plus, the room is covered in winter accessories including skates and sleds.

Photo credit: TWA Hotel
Photo credit: TWA Hotel
Photo credit: TWA Hotel
Photo credit: TWA Hotel
Photo credit: TWA Hotel
Photo credit: TWA Hotel
Photo credit: TWA Hotel
Photo credit: TWA Hotel

At the bar, you can order seasonal cocktails like the Idlewild Hot Toddy or ones with clever names including Weather Delay, The Runway, and Come Fly With Me. Hungry? They have fondue among other toasty fare including a warm pretzel and salt and pepper fries. Sounds like a winter escape I’d never want to leave.

Photo credit: TWA Hotel
Photo credit: TWA Hotel
Photo credit: TWA Hotel
Photo credit: TWA Hotel

All of this can be enjoyed while taking in the views of the Bay Runway, which is the second largest one in North America and once served as a backup landing strip for NASA’s Space Shuttle.

The Runway Chalet is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. during the winter months. In the summer, there are usually fees and food and beverage minimums. Currently, there is no charge for non-hotel guests who want to visit the pool, observation deck, and lounge.

If you were looking for an excuse to fly into New York, this is it. And if you live in New York, here’s a reason to take a day trip to JFK.

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