Summer in New York often comes with a familiar dilemma: finding a place to cool off that feels like a true escape without spending hours in traffic or boarding a plane. Luckily, one of the city’s most unique warm-weather destinations is hiding in plane sight at JFK Airport.
At the TWA Hotel, a retro–chic rooftop infinity pool transports visitors straight back to the glamour of 1960s air travel, complete with sweeping runway views, vintage design details, and the thrill of watching massive jetliners soar directly overhead while you float in the water.
The iconic rooftop pool has become a summertime favorite for New Yorkers seeking a staycation with a side of nostalgia, blending Palm Springs energy with classic New York aviation history. Its summer pool bar menu features 1960s-inspired surf culture bites, aviation-themed cocktails, and classic summer drinks.
🏊♀️ What to Expect at the TWA Rooftop Pool
Perched right above JFK’s bustling Runway 4 Left/22 Right, the 63-foot infinity-edge pool offers a front-row seat to the aviation world. Despite the constant movement of massive commercial jets, the observation deck is surprisingly serene, offering an immersive, panoramic viewpoint that you can’t find anywhere else in the city.
The design is a direct nod to Eero Saarinen’s historic 1962 TWA Flight Center. You’ll be surrounded by classic red-and-white accents, sleek mid-century modern lounge chairs, and a distinct “Jet Age” atmosphere that makes you feel like an extra in a classic film. The pool itself is kept at a comfortable 78 degrees in the summer, serving as a refreshing oasis against the city heat.
What’s New on the Summer Menu
The Pool Bar has just rolled out its highly anticipated summer lineup, fully leaning into aviation puns and retro surf culture. It’s a curated selection of light, poolside bites and signature craft cocktails that make perfect use of seasonal ingredients.
- Jet Fuel: A refreshing blend of cucumber mint vodka, Aperol, fresh lemon juice, and muddled watermelon.
- Paper Plane: A bittersweet classic featuring bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Montenegro, and a lemon twist.
- Red Eye: The ultimate pick-me-up made with vodka, Joe Coffee espresso, Kahlúa, and simple syrup.
- Airplane Mode: A tropical, tiki-style mix of light and dark rums, orange curaçao, orgeat, and pineapple juice.
Know Before You Go
- 👙 What’s Included: Your cover charge secures you a 1-hour-and-45-minute swim slot, observation deck entry, towel service, and seating at The Pool Bar. Note that poolside lounge chairs cannot be reserved and are first-come, first-served.
- 📍 Location: The rooftop of the TWA Hotel, located at JFK International Airport in Queens, New York (directly connected to Terminal 5 via the flight center’s iconic tubes).
- 🚇 How to Get There: Take the NYC Subway (E, J, or Z lines) or the LIRR to Jamaica Station, then hop on the JFK AirTrain directly to Terminal 5. Follow the indoor signs straight into the hotel lobby. If you’re driving, on-site valet parking is available.
- 🕒 Hours: The Rooftop Pool and The Pool Bar are open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM for all visitors. (Overnight hotel guests get early pool access starting at 7:00 AM).
- 💵 Cost:
- Hotel Guests: Summer reservations start at $25 for adults and $10 for kids (ages 5–12).
- Non-Hotel Guests: You can easily book a day pass online via ResortPass, with prices starting at $50 for adults and $20 for kids. Children under 5 swim for free.
