With long TSA lines, frequent flight delays, and some airlines even shutting down (goodbye, Spirit), it’s no secret that these are tumultuous times for air travelers. No matter how many meditation apps I download, the tension at the airport is often so thick that I feel like I can cut it with a knife every time I fly.
As a frequent flyer, I’m certainly not immune to the frustrations that air travel can bring. My Golden Rule for dealing with travel stress is to stay at an airport hotel the night before my flight. When possible, I book early morning flights because they have—at least statistically—a better chance of being on time than flights leaving in the afternoon. Thanks to its proximity to the airport, getting to my gate for the morning flight was a breeze.
Airport hotels can also save money, as their prices are often competitive. Plus, I always return my rental car the night before the flight to get additional savings. However, not all airport hotels are created equal. I’ve spent many nights in airport hotels that fit the stereotype of being bland and boring. Luckily, I found some with resort-style amenities and design-forward visuals. Here are five airport hotels with lots of pizzazz.
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An oceanfront resort at the Sheraton San Diego Resort, San Diego International Airport, San Diego, California
Overlooking San Diego Bay, the Sheraton San Diego Resort has more than 1,000 guest rooms with decor inspired by the palette of the Pacific Ocean. Three outdoor pools and free daily yoga classes give the property a resort feel. Even better, it’s just a three-minute ride from San Diego International Airport via a frequently used hotel shuttle.
When I lived there, I loved looking at the yachts in the on-site marina from my guest room window. If you’re craving action, try stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing or kayaking in the bay steps from your room. Tennis, Pickerball, two fitness centers, and a car-free riverfront trail for cycling on hotel loaner bicycles provide recreational options.
With five on-site eateries, including Rumorosa’s lively Baja California-inspired menu, you won’t go hungry. If you’re traveling with kids, lawn games, seasonal dive movies, and s’mores by the fire will delight the youngest members of your family.
Mid-century style at the TWA Hotel, JFK International Airport, Queens, New York
As a New Yorker who grew up with JFK as my hometown airport, staying at the TWA Hotel was a trip down memory lane. Take the 24-hour AirTrain to Terminal 5 (free to ride inside the airport), follow the signs to the hotel, and you’ll be there in minutes. Built in 1962, architect Eero Saarinen’s former Trans World Airlines terminal is the only on-airport hotel at JFK. This famous property celebrates the style of the sixties, when air travel still had a glamorous feel.
The hotel’s 512 mid-century modern rooms have views of the active runway. Public spaces feature exhibits that immerse you in nostalgia for the Golden Age of air travel. Sweet N’ Glow Salon’s retro color scheme in the lobby is as pink as Sweet N’ Low’s sugar substitute packs, complete with beehive hair dryers, vintage magazines and a collection of kitschy wigs. Stop by the observation deck and rooftop infinity pool. The Connie Cocktail Lounge, a 1958 Lockheed Constellation aircraft reimagined as a bar, is another nice touch.
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Culinary getaway at Grand Hyatt DFW, Dallas Fort Worth International, Dallas, Texas
The Grand Hyatt DFW is located right outside Terminal D in Dallas Fort Worth. Enter one of the 315 guest rooms and suites and the curtains automatically open to reveal stunning views of the runway. Comfortable beds with stylish stitched leather headboards, automatic blackout curtains and blinds, and integrated lighting create a serene atmosphere.
I live to eat, and luckily the Grand Met restaurant at the Grand Hyatt DFW caters to discerning tastes with an eclectic, seasonal menu. That cheese and black pepper the pasta transported me to my favorite trattoria in Rome and the grilled Chilean sea bass tasted like it had just been fished from the sea. The portions are Texas-sized, so bring your appetite.
If you have a sweet tooth, you’ve won the lottery. Chef Laura LeSire leads the hotel’s pastry and dessert programs. Known for his careful balance of flavors, textures and artistry, he has elevated the hotel’s sweet treats with the philosophy that dessert should not just complement a meal, it should be unforgettable. Inspired by its roots in San Diego, where fresh produce abounds, you can expect some fruity options. I enjoyed the rich and creamy caramel flan. And it’s worth waking up early to enjoy its modern interpretation of classic European pastries at breakfast.
Fitness for flyers at Fairmont Vancouver Airport, Vancouver International Airport, Vancouver, Canada
Fairmont Vancouver Airport’s luxurious on-site location means you can roll out of bed and be at the gate in minutes, no shuttle required. The 386 guest rooms are completely soundproof, so when the plane takes off right outside the floor-to-ceiling windows, it’s quiet enough inside to feel like a yoga retreat. Select rooms are equipped with binoculars for plane viewing.
I try my best to exercise when I travel, but I don’t always succeed. Fairmont Vancouver Airport makes it easy for me to stick to my fitness routine. Spacious modern health club open 24 hours. Indoor swimming pools, whirlpools and saunas are welcome amenities. If you need an extra incentive to work out, book the Fit on the Fly suite which features in-room gym equipment and a Nordic-style hydrotherapy experience.
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Art and architecture at the Westin Denver International Airport, Denver, Colorado
With 484 guest rooms and 35 suites, the Westin Denver International Airport is the only full-service hotel directly connected to Denver’s Jeppesen Terminal. I had walked straight from the hotel to my departure gate in a matter of minutes.
The hotel design is also interesting. Inspired by aviation, with soaring winged architecture that reflects the spirit of travel. I am an art lover and enjoyed seeing the original artwork by Colorado artists scattered throughout the hotel. You can explore it all via the property’s self-guided Westin Art Tour.
The hotel takes sustainability seriously. It is LEED Platinum certified and a Four Green Key property, with a commitment to energy efficiency, water conservation and responsible sourcing. It’s also pet friendly!
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