Our New York, New York, New York luxury hotel tour continues. After the Upper East Side and Central Park, we go to the heart of Manhattan, Midtown. It’s where you will find some the city’s newest and most famous hotels. Whatever your preferences, if you want to stay in the center of the city, you won’t be short of options.
1. Aman New York
2. Baccarat Hotel New York
3. The Peninsula
4. The St. Regis New York
5. Lotte New York Palace
6. Park Hyatt New York
7. The Chatwal
8. Luxury Collection Hotel Midtown
9. The Times Square Edition
10. 1 Hotel Central Park
11. The Knickerbocker Hotel
1. Aman New York
Conde Nast Traveler writes, “Like an exhale in the middle of Midtown Manhattan, this princely landmark building-turned-polished urban oasis places you right in the thick of things—and allows you to quietly retreat from it just as easily, with a sprawling, three-floor spa, serene, Japanese- and Southeast-Asian-influenced suites, and no shortage of space. Set the scene If New York sometimes feels like the center of the world, then Aman New York is the bull’s eye. Set on the corner of Fifth Avenue and 57th Street, right around the corner from Billionaires Row, its location—the iconic Crown Building, circa 1921—is one of the city’s finest examples of Beaux-Arts architecture, a landmark building that, until 1932, housed the first iteration of the Museum of Modern Art, and some of the city’s most coveted (and pricey) retail spaces thereafter. In its transition to an Aman property, it’s likely that little has changed about its clientele—except that now, they’re probably already Aman junkies, self-described devotees of the brand who flock to its properties wherever they vacation, from Greece to Wyoming. This is a well-heeled crowd that expects the highest level of everything, from food to design and service, but prefer it dispensed without pomp, circumstance, or flash.”
The Times of London says, “If the hotel’s pricey location is ambitious, so too is its layout. All 83 rooms are suites, with the smallest a whopping 775 sq. ft. — quite some feat in Manhattan, where 300 sq. ft. is the norm; the smallest rooms at nearby ultra-luxe properties the Carlyle and the Ritz-Carlton are 360 sq. ft. and 425 sq. ft., respectively. The suites are open-plan and uncluttered, with pivoting Japanese-style shoji screens so that guests can create privacy around the bed or the free-standing tub. In another nod to the company’s Asian roots, each room also includes a giant mural printed on rice paper and inspired by Pine Trees, a masterpiece by the 16th-century painter Hasegawa Tohaku.”
Aman Suites
Ranging from 2,000-to-2,770 sq. ft., the Aman Suites are the largest in the hotel. Occupying the corners of floors 11 and 12, the top two floors of accommodation, they feature corner views of one of the most iconic meeting points, Fifth Avenue and 57th Street. Well-suited to longer stays and those looking for an abundance of private space, the Aman Suites comprise of one or two bedrooms, a dedicated office, kitchenette, and wet bar that lends itself to intimate entertaining. The master bedrooms feature king-sized beds, separated from the remainder of the suite by a functioning fireplace, while second bedrooms offer extra-large twins.
More suites at Aman New York.
2. Baccarat Hotel New York
The Telegraph writes, “Pretend you’re a movie star amid the glitz and glam of this swank Midtown flagship attached to the legendary French brand. With interiors by Gilles & Boissier, Baccarat overflows with the unexpected. Fanciness aside, this lavish design hotel makes an excellent base for exploring New York.”
Forbes Travel Guide reports, “Famed crystal company Baccarat dazzled even the most jaded traveler when it opened its first hotel in New York City in 2015. With its unflinchingly glamorous public spaces, subtly luxurious guest rooms, splashy bars and an ultra-luxe spa, Baccarat Hotel and Residences is nothing short of pure opulence. Located across the street from the Museum of Modern Art on East 53rd Street, the French-inspired hotel is flooded with millions of dollars of prismatic Baccarat crystals. Even the typically benign street-level entry lobby was transformed into a darkly glam place, infused with massive Baccarat crystal chandeliers. Inside, there’s much more splendor to behold — within the various sitting salons you’ll see a sparkling mica-covered vaulted ceiling, silver-leafed wood paneling, gleaming parquet oak floors and pleated silk walls all seem stolen straight out of a money-is-no-object playbook.”
Two-Bedroom Suite
The 2,190 sq. ft. Baccarat Two-Bedroom Suite features a subtle palette of champagne, ivory, platinum, stainless steel and chocolate brown. A series of salon-like spaces extend from a large foyer into a living room with custom-designed seating and a separate powder room for visitors. In the dining room, a butler’s pantry and separate staff entrance make for easy entertaining. The en-suite Baccarat Bar offers fine wine chosen by the hotel’s t sommelier, Ruinart champagne, as well as a full range of spirits and Baccarat crystal barware. The Master Bedroom has a four-post king-sized bed, walk-in closet and expansive bathroom with double sinks, deep freestanding soaking tub, and glass-walled shower. The second bedroom has two double beds and a full bathroom. White marble surfaces outfit the powder room and master bath.
More suites at Baccarat Hotel New York.
3. The Peninsula
Forbes Travel Guide reports, “Traditional New York style and understated elegance surround you at every corner of The Peninsula New York. Expect to find dramatic, oversized crystal chandeliers, marble floors and staircases, Corinthian columns and soaring high ceilings accented in various shades of beige, gold and green in the Beaux-Arts inspired building. Simplicity is key at this graceful hotel – think clean lines and subdued colors. However, splashes of color found in the lovely flower arrangements and contemporary artwork strategically placed throughout the lobby and Gotham Lounge bring life to the space. While the design is certainly breathtaking, the trendy hotel’s level of personalized service is what truly sets it apart from other hotels in the city.”
The Telegraph adds, “Revel in neo-classic elegance the moment you arrive. The traditional Beaux-Arts exterior sets the tenor before you enter. Step inside to a grand two-story foyer. Clusters of slender seasonal flowers greet you, and an ornate all-plaster ceiling houses a handsome crystal chandelier. Meanwhile, magnificent dual staircases lead to the main restaurant and reception area. Anticipate world-class contemporary art in the public spaces; the curated exhibit during my stay celebrated 1980s New York, with original works by Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, and Jean-Michel Basquiat.”
The Peninsula Suite
The 3,000 sq. ft. Peninsula Suite features views of Fifth Avenue and comprises six rooms, including a master bedroom, and bathroom, dining room with adjoining kitchen, living room, study, second bedroom and bathroom, and guest powder room.
More suites at The Peninsula New York.
4. The St. Regis New York
The Telegraph writes, “Around-the-clock butler service is included for all guests regardless of room category. White-gloved butlers fetch beverages, assist with packing and unpacking, press garments (two free per guest per stay), shine shoes, and more. Health-conscious travelers will want to check out the state-of-the-art fitness centre. A Bentley House Car remains on call for drop-offs within a 10-block radius.”
Forbes Travel Guide says, “One of the city’s most iconic hotels, The St. Regis New York is a designated New York landmark with a history that dates back to 1904. The original owner, socialite John Jacob Astor IV, envisioned the hotel as a lavish retreat with residential flair. Today, you’ll find that the newly renovated St. Regis New York is still laced with original brass detailing and marble staircases throughout the Midtown Manhattan hotel, evoking the grand old days of luxury travel. True to the St. Regis brand, every guest is assigned a butler who arrives impeccably dressed in black tails and white gloves to attend to your every need, from unpacking and preparing your temporary home to serving coffee and tea service in the morning to arranging wake-up calls.”
Presidential Suite
The 3,000 sq. ft. Presidential Suite includes two bedrooms, a separate living and dining room, office, and kitchen.
More suites at The St. Regis New York.
5. Lotte New York Palace
Forbes Travel Guide writes, “The moment you step through the Madison Avenue gates of the Villard Mansion and walk down the grand staircase, Lotte New York Palace’s motto, old world elegance, new world opulence, clicks into place. First built as a luxury apartment building in 1882, the structure was transformed into a hotel in 1980. Today, the spacious and sumptuously appointed rooms are comfortable and loaded with thoughtful touches. Marble bathrooms are de rigueur as are comfortable seating, work desks and large cozy beds. If you’re ready to break the bank, Triplex Suites run up to 5,000 square feet and boast Art Deco décor and unforgettable views from their 18-foot windows and private rooftop terraces.”
Penthouse Suite
The 5,000 sq. ft. Penthouse Suite features is a triplex with an in-suite elevator, city views through soaring 18-foot windows, a solarium with a working fireplace, a personal gym, a private rooftop terrace, and the option to connect to an additional guest room with two queen beds.
More suites at Lotte New York Palace.
6. Park Hyatt New York
Forbes Travel Guide says, “Escape the bustling streets of Midtown Manhattan as you enter Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Park Hyatt New York’s oversized custom-made bronze double doors. The property, located on 57th Street between Avenue of the Americas and Seventh Avenue, sits across the street from Carnegie Hall and just two blocks from Central Park. Occupying the first 25 floors of the 90-story One57 skyscraper, the hotel mesmerizes you with its beauty (keep your eyes peeled for architectural screens and hand-woven custom carpeting) thanks to interior design firm Yabu Pushelberg. Created to make you feel as if you are in your own home, the common areas of the hotel are named The Study (an ideal place for reading The New York Times) and The Living Room (a perfect setting to enjoy a glass of bubbly or dry-aged, grass-fed beef sliders). In these comfy spaces outfitted with muted tones, plush couches, and fresh flowers like yellow calla lilies or green hydrangeas.”
Royal Suite
The 2,300 sq. ft. Royal Suite features park views, and a butler’s pantry, making it a good venue for hospitality.
More suites at Park Hyatt New York.
7. The Chatwal
Conde Nast Traveler writes, “A top-to-bottom refit of the Lambs Club, the historic thespian hangout in the heart of Midtown’s Theater District, by designer Thierry Despont has turned this actors’ den into a sleek 76-room hotel with Art Deco lines and ocean liner–inspired fittings that hark back to travel’s bygone eras. A small but richly furnished lobby gives way to the Lambs Club restaurant, an 80-seater from chef Michael White where the focal point would be the original stone fireplace if it weren’t for the storylines unfolding at the other tables. Rooms are fitted with gorgeous steamer trunk–like wardrobes and desk-vanity combos in chocolate leather, while bathrooms come with wall-to-wall mirrors and rain showers stocked with custom Asprey amenities. Guests can find a break at the cozy Lambs Club Bar, hidden away above the lobby, and at the underground spa, with a clever endless lap pool and small gym—probably the only place on the property where you can let them see you sweat.”
Director Penthouse Suite
The Director Penthouse Suite, one of the 10 Chatwal Crowns specially designed by Thierry Despont, spans just 873-sq. ft. that includes a separate living room with a cozy fireplace and dining area, featuring a table to seat eight guests. The granite bathroom offers a double rain drop shower, complete Asprey bath amenities. This penthouse can be connected to a second bedroom featuring two double beds and a bathroom with a deep tub and separate rain shower.
More suites at The Chatwal.
8. Luxury Collection Hotel Midtown
The hotel has changed management companies yet again, this time to Marriott with new branding TBD. Forbes Travel Guide says of it during its Hilton management era, “Occupying a coveted corner at West 54th Street and Seventh Avenue, Conrad New York Midtown is a prime base for your Big Apple adventures. Easily walk to top attractions like the Museum of Modern Art, Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall, or just take in the views from your suite. In fact, the high-end hotel almost exclusively offers suites, starting at a spacious 500 square feet. An additional collection of six premium suites provides a home-away-from-home feel, if home had picture-perfect views of the New York skyline, of course. As tempting as it is to hole up in the luxurious accommodations, don’t miss a chance to explore the property’s vibrant art. Inspired by the city’s own creative history, the hotel proudly displays a curated collection of works from 37 artists, ranging from Warhol pop art pieces to limited-edition photographs by London-based Amy Judd.”
The Penthouse on 54
The Penthouse on 54 is a duplex spanning 2,700 sq. ft. and includes two bedrooms, a separate dining and living area, with two-and-a-half bathrooms.
More suites at Luxury Collection Hotel Midtown.
9. The Times Square Edition
Conde Nast Traveler reports, “If the common spaces are dramatically imagined (velvet curtains, electric blue countertops, what feels like acreage of flowers and greenery) the rooms are stark and white to help you digest it all. Not to mention that the bright buzz of Times Square out the large windows slams you with so much color and activity it may feel like overkill to work with patterns and tones in the room, too. It’s all white, save for a marble tabletop here and a plant there. The framed images of Andy Warhol and Edie Sedgwick are appropriate.”
Penthouse Suite
The two-bedroom Penthouse Suite is 1,600 sq. ft. with Hudson River views.
More suites at The Times Square Edition.
10. 1 Hotel Central Park
The Telegraph says, “This LEED-certified property is an oasis in the frenzy of Midtown, beginning with the three-storey living green ivy exterior on Sixth Avenue and 58th Street. AvroKo Hospitality, the brains behind the hotel’s innovative design, brings nature inside with planted pots, terrariums by Sprout Home and Brooklyn Glass, and organic materials. In the lobby, nature-inspired art hangs from a reclaimed wood ceiling above a Belgian bluestone floor. Hip and inviting seating vignettes, tucked off to the side, are ideal for relaxing or meeting colleagues. The modern yet earthy interior design and creative use of textures is an obvious draw for design aficionados.”
Elm House Suite
The 894 sq. ft. Elm House Suite features one-bedroom, one-and-a-half baths and your own private terrace.
More suites at 1 Hotel Central Park.
11. The Knickerbocker Hotel
Forbes Travel Guide writes, “For those inclined to brave the wild refuge that is Times Square, check into The Knickerbocker Hotel. Here, you can revel in every delight the NYC attraction has to offer before slinking into the arms of this Manhattan marvel. Built by business titan John Jacob Astor IV, the 330-room hotel reigned as a testament to early-20th-century opulence. It’s also rumored to be the birthplace of the martini.”
Caruso Suite
In homage to famed tenor Enrico Caruso who made his home at The Knickerbocker during his tenure with the Metropolitan Opera in the early 1900’s, the Caruso Suite provides 1,200 sq. ft. on the 16th floor with a separate bedroom and living room/dining area.
More suites at The Knickerbocker.
