If you’re looking to escape the winter chill without actually leaving the city, the most transportive staycation in NYC is currently sitting right on the tarmac at JFK.
The TWA Hotel–which was recently named the Best Airport Hotel in North America for 2025 by Skytrax–is proving that pool season doesn’t have to end just because the temperature drops. Their iconic rooftop infinity pool remains open 365 days a year, transforming into a giant 95º pool-cuzzi during the winter months.
A Steamy Winter Oasis
The pool is inspired by the famous infinity edge at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in France, but with a much more New York-esque view.
At 63 feet long, it offers panoramic views of Runway 4 Left/22 Right, one of the largest runways at JFK. You can soak in the steaming water while watching massive jets from Lufthansa, Delta, and American Airlines take off just feet away.
Even more: the water is purified every 30 minutes, making it significantly cleaner than your average public pool which typically recirculates every six hours.
The Runway Chalet: Après-Ski with a Jet Age Twist
For the 2025-2026 winter season, the hotel has brought back its Runway Chalet at The Pool Bar. This alpine-inspired pop-up turns the rooftop into a 1960s ski lodge, complete with:
- Cozy Decor: flannel accents, warm woods, and a vintage fireplace
- Seasonal Sips: warm up with an Altitude Adjustment (spiced rum and hot apple cider) or a classic Hot Toddy
- The Classics: you can also grab their signature Jet Fuel cocktail (cucumber mint vodka and Aperol) or a Control Tower Sour
Beyond the Pool: Retro Adventures
If you decide to make a day of it, the TWA Hotel is essentially a playground for New Yorkers.
- Connie the Cocktail Lounge: a fully restored 1958 Lockheed Constellation airplane parked on the tarmac that serves drinks
- The Twister Room: a wall-to-wall, ceiling-to-floor version of the classic game
- Sweet’N Glow Salon: a 60s-themed salon in the lobby perfect for a retro photo-op
- Paris Café by Jean-Georges: high-end dining featuring everything from black truffle pizza to sushi
How To Visit (Even if You Aren’t Staying the Night)
The best news: you don’t need a boarding pass or a room key to enjoy the pool.
- Hotel Guests: use of the pool is free in the winter months, though reservations are recommended via the hotel’s website
- Non-Guests: you can book a pool pass (starting at $25 for adults) or a “Daytripper” stay, which gives you access to a room and all amenities for 4-8 hours
- Reservations: during the winter, the pool is generally first-come, first-served for diners at the Pool Bar, but booking via ResortPass is the safest way to guarantee a spot
Winter Hours
- Pool: 7 am – 11 pm
- Pool Bar/Runway Chalet: 11 am – 11 pm