New York City is known for its vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and bustling energy, making it one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. When visiting New York, choosing the right hotel can significantly enhance your experience, whether you’re there for business, leisure, or a bit of both. The city offers a diverse array of accommodations that cater to all types of travelers, from luxury seekers to budget-conscious visitors. Below is a detailed guide to some of the best hotels in New York, each offering unique experiences and amenities that make them stand out.
1. The Plaza
Location: Central Park South
Why It’s Great: The Plaza is one of New York City’s most iconic hotels. With a history dating back to 1907, it has been a symbol of luxury and grandeur for over a century. Located at the edge of Central Park, The Plaza offers guests stunning views, opulent accommodations, and top-notch service. The hotel is known for its Beaux-Arts architecture and elegant interiors, which include luxurious suites, marble bathrooms, and gold-plated fixtures.
Amenities: The Plaza is home to the legendary Palm Court, where you can enjoy afternoon tea in a setting that feels straight out of a classic movie. Other dining options include The Todd English Food Hall, which offers a variety of gourmet foods. The Plaza also features a world-class spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and luxury boutiques within the building.
Who Should Stay: This hotel is ideal for travelers who appreciate classic luxury and wish to experience a piece of New York history. It’s perfect for romantic getaways, special occasions, or simply indulging in the best the city has to offer.
2. The St. Regis New York
Location: 2 East 55th Street, at 5th Avenue
Why It’s Great: The St. Regis New York is synonymous with luxury and refinement. Since its opening in 1904, it has been a preferred choice for dignitaries, celebrities, and discerning travelers. The hotel’s design combines the charm of a bygone era with modern amenities, creating a timeless experience. Each room and suite is meticulously designed with elegant furnishings and high-end technology.
Amenities: One of the highlights of The St. Regis is the King Cole Bar, home to the original Bloody Mary, known as the “Red Snapper.” The hotel also offers personal butler service for every guest, ensuring an unparalleled level of service. The on-site Remède Spa provides a variety of treatments, and the fitness center is equipped with the latest equipment.
Who Should Stay: The St. Regis is perfect for travelers who appreciate sophisticated luxury and personalized service. It’s particularly suited for those looking to stay in a prime Midtown location close to high-end shopping, Broadway theaters, and cultural institutions.
3. The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue
Location: 400 Fifth Avenue
Why It’s Great: The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue offers a blend of contemporary style and timeless elegance. Situated in the heart of Manhattan, the hotel provides easy access to some of the city’s most popular attractions, including the Empire State Building, Bryant Park, and the New York Public Library. The Langham’s spacious rooms and suites are designed with a modern aesthetic, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that offer spectacular city views.
Amenities: The Langham is known for its Michelin-starred restaurant, Ai Fiori, which serves French and Italian-inspired cuisine. The hotel also boasts a Chuan Body + Soul spa, which offers treatments based on traditional Chinese medicine, as well as a fully-equipped fitness center. Additionally, The Langham offers a range of business amenities, making it a great choice for business travelers.
Who Should Stay: This hotel is ideal for travelers who prefer modern luxury in a central location. It’s a great option for both leisure and business travelers who want to be close to Midtown attractions while enjoying top-notch dining and wellness facilities.
4. The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel
Location: 35 East 76th Street, at Madison Avenue
Why It’s Great: The Carlyle is an Upper East Side institution, known for its classic elegance and intimate atmosphere. The hotel has a rich history, having hosted a variety of famous guests, including presidents, royalty, and celebrities. The Carlyle’s décor is a nod to its storied past, with Art Deco-inspired interiors, luxurious fabrics, and original artwork adorning the walls.
Amenities: One of The Carlyle’s most famous features is Café Carlyle, where guests can enjoy live jazz performances in an intimate setting. The Bemelmans Bar is another highlight, named after Ludwig Bemelmans, the creator of the Madeline children’s books, whose murals decorate the walls. The Carlyle also offers a luxury spa, a fitness center, and personal shopping services.
Who Should Stay: The Carlyle is perfect for travelers who appreciate classic New York charm and wish to stay in a more residential, upscale neighborhood. It’s ideal for those seeking a quieter, more refined experience away from the hustle and bustle of Midtown.
5. The Peninsula New York
Location: 700 Fifth Avenue at 55th Street
Why It’s Great: The Peninsula New York is a luxurious hotel that combines classic elegance with modern sophistication. Located on Fifth Avenue, it offers guests easy access to some of the city’s top attractions, including Central Park, Rockefeller Center, and high-end shopping on Fifth Avenue. The hotel’s rooms and suites are spacious and beautifully appointed, with contemporary furnishings and luxurious amenities.
Amenities: The Peninsula’s rooftop bar, Salon de Ning, offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, making it a popular spot for evening cocktails. The hotel also features a world-class spa, which includes a range of holistic treatments, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. Dining options include the elegant Clement restaurant and the more casual Gotham Lounge.
Who Should Stay: The Peninsula is ideal for travelers who want to stay in a prime Midtown location while enjoying luxurious accommodations and top-tier amenities. It’s perfect for those looking for a sophisticated and comfortable base from which to explore the city.
6. The NoMad Hotel
Location: 1170 Broadway at 28th Street
Why It’s Great: The NoMad Hotel offers a unique blend of Parisian elegance and New York style. Housed in a restored Beaux-Arts building, the hotel’s interiors are inspired by the classic European grand hotels, with dark wood, rich fabrics, and eclectic furnishings. The NoMad is located in the trendy NoMad neighborhood, close to Madison Square Park, the Flatiron Building, and a variety of restaurants and boutiques.
Amenities: The NoMad’s restaurant, The NoMad, is one of the city’s most acclaimed dining establishments, offering a menu inspired by European and American culinary traditions. The hotel also features a stylish bar, an inviting library, and a rooftop space with panoramic views of the city. The NoMad’s rooms and suites are luxurious yet comfortable, with a residential feel.
Who Should Stay: This hotel is perfect for travelers who appreciate unique, boutique accommodations with a European flair. It’s ideal for those who want to stay in a trendy neighborhood while enjoying top-notch dining and stylish surroundings.
7. The Greenwich Hotel
Location: 377 Greenwich Street, Tribeca
Why It’s Great: The Greenwich Hotel, owned by actor Robert De Niro, offers an intimate and luxurious experience in the heart of Tribeca. The hotel’s design is a mix of rustic charm and modern sophistication, with rooms featuring reclaimed wood, handwoven rugs, and unique artwork. The Greenwich Hotel is known for its warm, personalized service and its commitment to creating a home-away-from-home atmosphere.
Amenities: The hotel’s restaurant, Locanda Verde, is a popular Italian eatery that serves rustic, flavorful dishes in a relaxed setting. The Greenwich Hotel also features a Japanese-inspired spa, Shibui Spa, which offers a range of treatments in a serene environment. The hotel has an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a cozy drawing room where guests can relax by the fireplace.
Who Should Stay: The Greenwich Hotel is ideal for travelers who want to experience a more relaxed, neighborhood vibe while still enjoying luxury accommodations. It’s perfect for those who appreciate unique design and personalized service.
8. The Standard, High Line
Location: 848 Washington Street, Meatpacking District
Why It’s Great: The Standard, High Line is a trendy hotel located in the vibrant Meatpacking District, known for its nightlife, art galleries, and fashion boutiques. The hotel’s design is sleek and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline. The Standard is a popular choice for younger travelers and those looking for a lively atmosphere.
Amenities: The hotel is home to several popular bars and restaurants, including The Standard Grill, which offers American cuisine with a modern twist, and the rooftop bar, Le Bain, which is known for its spectacular views and lively nightlife. The hotel also features an outdoor seasonal beer garden, a 24-hour fitness center, and complimentary bicycle rentals for exploring the city.
Who Should Stay: The Standard, High Line is perfect for travelers who want to stay in a trendy neighborhood with easy access to nightlife and cultural attractions. It’s ideal for those who appreciate modern design and a vibrant social scene.
