New York City is one of the most famous destinations in the world attracting over 60 million visitors from around the globe. Its dynamic cityscape and insatiable energy may be ever-evolving, but when it comes to enriching travel experiences, the city always wins out. What can you do in a place dubbed as “The City that never sleeps”? The possibilities are limitless! Here, you can indulge in luxury at its most lavish. After all, the best things in life are in the center of the world’s financial, entertainment and fashion capital. In addition, New York City is home to some of the most remarkable attractions anywhere and are highly valued for their cultural and historical significance.
Undoubtedly, New York City has set the gold standard in luxury with the hottest hotel scene in this side of the world where visitors around the globe converge in this international playground for the jet-setting traveler. Read on: We have curated a list of five-star hotels that are right at the center of New York City’s beating heart. Here are luxury places to stay in the Big Apple.
#1. Baccarat Hotel
The Baccarat Hotel in New York is the flagship hotel of the revered ultra-luxury brand and was created as a befitting tribute to the crystal maker’s rich and noble heritage of craftsmanship. As such, through Baccarat Hotel, they aim to become artisans of service at the helm of the luxury hotel they operate to gratify today’s sophisticated and affluent travelers.
To say that the atmosphere at the Baccarat Hotel is intimate and elegant is an understatement. Here, Baccarat’s ethos shines through and clearly resonates the brand’s celebrated glamour, dazzling beauty and exquisite attention to every detail.
Essentially, the Hotel is nestled across the street from the Museum of Modern Art on East 53rd Street: a sought-after central location in the city. Inside, its French-inspired aesthetics is opulently adorned with Baccarat crystals no less. Likewise, it is home to one hundred fourteen immaculately-curated guestrooms with its soft white walls and beds with crisp white linens blending perfectly with the interior furnishings that are accentuated by Baccarat crystals for a serene sleep experience unlike any other in the luxury of your very own divine accommodations.
Without a doubt, it is crystal clear that Baccarat Hotel is nothing less than pure luxury.
#2. The Plaza Hotel
The Plaza Hotel is your quintessential five-star hotel nestled in one of the most coveted locations in Midtown Manhattan. The Plaza is by far one of the most recognizable hotels in the Big Apple for its many acclaimed appearances in classic American movies; a preferred film location for its high standards of luxury that dates back more than a century and picturesque location.
Suffice to say, its Old-world charm famous for its pomp and pageantry has elevated its stature into legendary proportions making The Plaza a worthy destination by itself. If you wish to experience this yourself, the rooms are elegantly designed to mirror the rich and regal style that permeates the hotel.
Here, the guestrooms are thoughtfully curated with Beaux Arts-inspired décor with spacious closets and bespoke Italian Mascioni linens while the bathrooms have 24-karat gold-plated fixtures, handcrafted solid marble vanities, inlaid mosaic tiles and luxe bath toiletries and amenities for a pleasurable stay.
Most importantly, The Plaza is the best venue to begin your journey to exploring the city as its central location affords you with convenience of being at the foot of Central Park and next to the Paris Theater as well as the Pulitzer Fountain to savor some of the most iconic sceneries in the city.
#3. The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park
The Ritz-Carlton New York is ideally located in the Midtown and Lower Manhattan with panoramic views of Central Park from your hotel room and just a leisurely walk away for the city’s renowned attractions and hotspots.
The Hotel is your ideal gateway to New York City’s museums, art galleries, and shopping. From Ritz-Carlton, you can explore the streets by walking to 50 Rockefeller Plaza or visit the Guggenheim Museum; then discover the American Museum of Natural History or the latest exhibition at Metropolitan Museum of Art. In addition, its location affords you with easy access to fulfill your leisurely pursuits at Central Park which is literally right outside the hotel.
In fact, you can even arrange for a picnic specially prepared by the Ritz-Carton: a four-course menu created by the chef complete with all the trimmings. Here, you can definitely relax in the lap of luxury in its well-appointed guestroom and suites that features custom furnishings, marble bathrooms, and views of the city and the park. Likewise, depending on your preference, you can choose suites that have a separate living, dining, and entertainment areas with sweeping views of the park below.
#4. Andaz 5th Avenue
The Andaz 5th Avenue is nestled in one of the most sought-after addresses in New York City between Times Square and Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan. The chic hotel was once the site of the headquarters of American designer Tommy Hilfiger. As such, it is the ideal jumping point for exploring Midtown and the quieter sections of New York.
When you stay at the Andaz 5th Avenue, you will be billeted just across the street from the New York Public Library and down the block from Bryant Park that are both the city’s treasured destinations. Inside, you will be greeted with a 14-foot mural, massive windows and spacious guestrooms which feature deluxe amenities like travertine marble bathrooms, large work desks, flat-screen television and well-stocked minibars filled with snacks that are complimentary during your stay.
Conversely, the hotel took a design-centric approach in curating its 184 guestrooms and suites with a minimalist zen-inspired style and focus on comfort so you will have a cozy place to stay after a day of gallivanting around the city. To satisfy your appetite, the Hotel has a trendy restaurant downstairs that serve epicurean delights which then transforms into a bar at night for evening cocktails.
#5. Lotte New York Palace
The Lotte New York Palace is where New York’s gilded heritage meets modern sophistication in a luxury oasis in the heart of the city.
This iconic New York City landmark is truly an impressive palace with its gilded stairways, marble floors, and a distinct courtyard entrance. Interestingly, it was first build as a luxury apartment building in 1882 comprising of six neoclassical-style townhouses with a courtyard that looked out to Madison Avenue and then transformed into a luxury hotel in the mid-seventies.
As such, these historic buildings were annexed to a 55-storey hotel tower in 1974 and has been pampering guests ever since by offering five-star services, opulent venues for milestone events, and elegant amenities for Manhattan’s social elite.
If the façade seems familiar to you, the site served as a frequent hangout for the privileged characters of the cult classic television show- Gossip Girl. Essentially, travelers are drawn to its incredible location right behind St. Patrick’s Cathedral and a leisurely walk to Rockefeller Center and Fifth Avenue shopping. In addition, the Hotel features gorgeously appointed guestrooms that are split between two sections: The Palace with 773 rooms along with an adjoining hotel-within-a-hotel called The Towers with 176 rooms. The latter offers more residential-style spaces, stunning tower views, and personal butler service.
#6. The Peninsula New York
The Peninsula New York is your five-star address in New York City ideally nestled on Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan.
Here, classic New York style and understated elegance coupled with the Peninsula’s thoughtful approach to personalized service reign supreme to provide you with a premium Manhattan lifestyle experience to remember in one of the most exciting places in the world.
As expected from the Peninsula brand’s legendary touch points, this hotel features a host of modern amenities and technology in its guestrooms as well as facilities that will leave you impressed if not delighted by their keen attention details.
For instance, its state-of-the-art fitness gym offers a birds-eye view of the city complete with bamboo clad floors and a separate studio for classes ranging from yoga to Zumba and spinning workout among other regimens.
Likewise, it is home to the Big Apple’s most prestigious Spa thanks to its cozy relaxation lounges with fluffy duvet-covered beds, eucalyptus steam room and sauna, and an indulgent range of face and body treatments that will revitalize your senses. In addition, the hotel’s swimming pool at the 22nd floor provides you with panoramic views of Fifth Avenue while you lounge or swim your way to happiness.
#7. Park Hyatt, New York
The Park Hyatt, New York, is your welcome escape to the city’s bustling neighborhood while putting you in the center of New York City’s action.
The Hotel occupies the first 25 floors of the 90-storey One57 skyscraper that is located on 57th Street between Avenue of the Americas and Seventh Avenue and is nestled across the street from Carnegie Hall and just two blocks from Central Park.
As you enter it glorious halls, you will appreciate the artworks that line its walls with some 350 pieces commissioned from the Museum of Modern Art so guests can be inspired by the well-curated art on display year-round. Essentially, the Hotel is home to 210 guestrooms including 92 suites that come with floor-to-ceiling windows and features lush Italian linens for the beds, flat-screen television and all adorned with artworks specially curated for your own personal space.
Moreover, the bathrooms are provided with deep soaking tubs and premium bath and beauty toiletry products.
#8. The Langham, New York
The Langham, New York towers proudly among the most iconic buildings in the city. The Hotel is just a couple of blocks from the Empire State Building where many beloved movies have shot iconic scenes from its viewing deck.
Located Midtown, its prime Fifth Avenue address makes it popular among business and leisure travelers alike. Conversely, it also has a lobby with a dramatic winding staircase and avant-garde floral adornments to complement the chic milieu highlighted by two-oversized paintings by contemporary American artist Alex Katz as its centerpiece.
Most importantly, what sets The Langham apart from other five-star hotels in the area is its generously-sized guestrooms with apartment-style amenities that provides a homey atmosphere for a truly comfortable stay.
As such, the Hotel maximizes it prime location through its well-appointed guestrooms that affords you with sweeping views of the city’s skyline though its large picture windows for the ultimate stay in the city that is full of possibilities.
#9. Four Seasons Hotel New York
The Four Seasons Hotel New York is nestled between Park and Madison Avenues in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. The Hotel is heralded as one of the “Best Luxury Hotels in the City” and it is not that hard to imagine.
The moment you step in the lobby, you will be absolutely certain that you have entered into one of the most luxurious hotels in all of Manhattan. Designed by the legendary I.M. Pei, the Midtown tower has an awe-inspiring Art Deco lobby with an impressive 33-foot vaulted onyx ceilings and honey-colored French Magny limestone.
In fact, it comes from the same material used by Pei in his expansion of the Louvre in Paris. Not to mention, the legendary service of the Four Seasons that has been the hallmark of the beloved brand and its flagship New York hotel since its inception.
Here, expect to be pampered when you stay in one of its well-appointed guestrooms that all features walk-in closets, elegant bathrooms, and heavenly beds with lush cotton linens. With fewer that 16 rooms per floor, the Four Seasons hotel offers a quiet respite and residential-style environment where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
#10. InterContinental New York Times Square
The InterContinental New York is your quintessential luxury hotel in the pulsating heart of Times Square. The Hotel, rising 36-storeys, is a hub of serenity within Midtown Manhattan’s Theater District. In fact, once you are settled inside, you will not contemplate that Times Square is just outside the hotel’s doors. As such, InterContinental New York’s was purposely-designed to provide a sense of calm in the midst of a tourist hub abuzz with urban activities.
Inside, a reflecting pool with a sculptured garden and adornments that channel Mother Nature welcomes you before check-in in one of its six hundred seven guestrooms. Moreover, this LEED certified hotel offers an eco-friendly serene home with design elements inspired by the ethos of green design to contrast with the urban jungle outdoors.
Conversely, in keeping with its calm and clean design theme, the guestrooms are adorned with soothing monochromatic palette of beige, cream, and brown and light tones in harmony with dark wood fixtures for a sleek and polished design. Along with modern comforts and in-room amenities, these are in place to ensure that you have a restful stay.
#11. Mandarin Oriental, New York
The Mandarin Oriental, New York is your sky-high urban retreat in the heart of Manhattan just across Columbus Circle. It is by far one of the most thoughtfully designed luxury hotels in New York City.
It is nestled above on the 35th to 54th floors of the Time Warner tower complex with commanding views of the world’s most recognizable skyline and park. It comes to no surprise that the Mandarin Oriental is preferred by it many fans including celebrities and Manhattan’s social set.
Here, they are guaranteed rock-star service and afforded with world-class amenities and facilities such as the 75-foot indoor lap pool, Asian inspired healing spa with a tea lounge, and modern fitness center. Not to mention, the popular Asiate restaurants that highlights its sophisticated cuisine with unmatched floor-to-ceiling windows with Central Park views.
Expect nothing less but the best in accommodations, gastronomy, and pleasures when you stay at the Mandarin Oriental in New York’s most coveted address.
#12. The Mark
The Mark Hotel is housed in a gorgeous 1927 building at the corner of Madison Avenue and 77th Street. In 2009, The Mark underwent a thorough refurbishment and reimagined to give it new life and identity in the 21st century.
Today, it is celebrated for its avant-garde design, old-world charm combined with modern comforts, latest in-room technology and amenities, and an elevated level of personalized service befitting its Upper East Side neighborhood.
Here, there are many possibilities to unfold as you explore this posh district: chief among them is a visit to the nearby Central Park where the park’s lake is located; go shopping at designer stores on Madison Avenue; and stroll through the museum mile to visit he Metropolitan Museum and art galleries. Right after, you can rest in the lap of luxury in one of The Mark’s 150 well-appointed guestrooms including 50 suites.
#13. Park Lane New York
The Park Lane New York is located in the one of the most sought-after addresses this side of New York City’s 36 Central Park South.
Here, the best place to be on this tourist-filled stretch in not at street level but high up where the sounds of the bustling streets are defused and where the iconic parks takes full form as a rectangle of lush greenery lined with shimmering new skyscrapers and classic old-New York architecture as far as your eyes can see. And where is the best place to marvel as its beauty?
Where else but at the swanky new rooftop lounge at the 47-storey Park Lan New York no less. It is the five-star hotel’s new signature hotspot that serves as its guests and patrons’ garden oasis in the sky serving seafood towers, artisan cocktails and fine wine. Its presence as the only rooftop lounge on Manhattan’s billionaires’ row is definitely worth the visit when in New York. Of course, you can always stay at the Park Lane for the complete upscale experience.
#14. The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, New York
The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, New York has been revered for is stately charm and old-world grandeur but most importantly for its renowned hospitality. Truly, the Hotel has lived up to its prime location directly across from Central Park on the tony Upper East Side.
Inside, you will get inspired by immaculately-polished black-and-white marble floors, gilded moldings, and massive adornments of fresh flowers. Suffice to say, its elegant atmosphere alone will make you feel as the most important person in the room.
If you choose to say in one of its 189 timelessly decorated guestrooms and suites, expect to be impressed with your large room that comes with Turkish marble bathrooms with Bose sound system. If you go higher, some rooms offer stunning park and city views.
#15. The St. Regis New York
The St. Regis New York is nestled in a historic luxury property on the tony Fifth Avenue neighborhood in Midtown Manhattan and located only a few blocks from Central Park and Rockefeller Center.
The Hotel’s original owner, old New York’s social arbiter John Jacob Astor IV, envisioned it as a lavish retreat with residential flair. As such, it is heralded for its rich and posh interiors aligned with exceptional service as expected from the St. Regis brand.
It is home to 229 well-appointed guestrooms that are elegantly curated with high-end décor, upscale amenities, and sleek Italian marble bathrooms. Suffice to say, the St. Regis New York has left an indelible mark as one the city’s most iconic hotels to stay in and visit.