Curtis Sittenfeld’s Picks: The Best Hotels in New York

Do you ever wonder where to find the most exceptional stay in the city that never sleeps? New York City, with its vibrant culture, breathtaking views, and endless activities, is a dream destination for many. But with hundreds of hotels to choose from, where do we even begin?

The Plaza Hotel

About The Plaza Hotel

Let’s start with a classic: The Plaza Hotel. This legendary hotel has been an icon of splendor since it opened in 1907. Conveniently located at Fifth Avenue and Central Park South, The Plaza boasts a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.

Amenities and Services

The amenities at The Plaza are fit for royalty. From the opulent rooms and suites to the top-notch dining options, we get treated to nothing but the best. Not to mention, the 24-hour butler service ensures every need is catered to with the highest level of service.

Amenity	Description
Butler Service	Available 24/7 for all guests
Dining	Includes The Palm Court, The Champagne Bar, and The Rose Club
Spa	The Shops at The Plaza and The Guerlain Spa
Fitness Center	State-of-the-art facilities

Nearby Tourist Sights

Staying at The Plaza places us right next to some of the most iconic landmarks. Central Park is just steps away, perfect for a morning jog or a leisurely walk. We can also visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Rockefeller Center, all within a short stroll.

The Greenwich Hotel

About The Greenwich Hotel

Nestled in the artistic neighborhood of Tribeca, The Greenwich Hotel is co-owned by Robert De Niro and brings a rustic charm mixed with luxury. Opening its doors in 2008, this boutique hotel offers an intimate and exclusive experience.

Amenities and Services

The Greenwich Hotel’s amenities are nothing short of spectacular. Each of its 88 rooms and suites is uniquely designed, combining luxury with a homely touch. The on-site restaurant, Locanda Verde, offers an Italian culinary journey we won’t soon forget.

Amenity	Description
Dining	Locanda Verde, a popular Italian taverna
Spa	Shibui Spa, offering a range of holistic treatments
Fitness Center	Fully equipped with modern facilities
Indoor Pool	Beautifully designed and available to all guests
Library	A cozy space stocked with books and a fireplace

Nearby Tourist Sights

Staying at The Greenwich Hotel allows us to explore Tribeca like locals. We can visit the nearby Hudson River Park for stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. Additionally, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is just a short distance away.

The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue

About The Langham

For those of us who appreciate modern luxury, The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue is a perfect choice. This contemporary hotel located between Bryant Park and the Empire State Building provides a serene sanctuary amidst the bustling city.

Amenities and Services

The Langham excels in offering top-notch services and amenities tailored to meet our every need. With spacious rooms that feature floor-to-ceiling windows, we can enjoy panoramic views of the city. The Michelin-starred restaurant, Ai Fiori, promises to delight our taste buds.

Amenity	Description
Michelin-starred Dining	Ai Fiori, serving exquisite Italian and French cuisine
Spa	Chuan Body + Soul, focusing on holistic wellness
Fitness Center	State-of-the-art facilities available 24/7

Nearby Tourist Sights

We won’t need to travel far to see some of New York’s most famous landmarks. The Empire State Building is just a stone’s throw away, and Times Square’s vibrant energy beckons us for a visit. Plus, we can explore Bryant Park, a hidden gem offering green space and more.

The St. Regis New York

About The St. Regis

Known for its unmatched luxury and legacy, The St. Regis New York makes our stay in the city an extraordinary experience. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this hotel has been welcoming guests since 1904.

Amenities and Services

We can revel in an array of luxurious amenities. The St. Regis Butler Service is at our disposal 24/7, and we can enjoy the King Cole Bar & Salon’s legendary cocktails. The beautifully appointed rooms exude elegance and sophistication.

Amenity	Description
Butler Service	Available 24/7
Dining	King Cole Bar & Salon, renowned for the Red Snapper cocktail
Bentley House Car	Complimentary drop-off service
Spa	The Iridium Spa, providing signature treatments
Fitness Center	Fully equipped and open 24/7

Nearby Tourist Sights

Situated in the heart of Manhattan, The St. Regis places us close to numerous attractions. We can walk to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), explore Central Park, or catch a show at Radio City Music Hall.

The NoMad Hotel

About The NoMad Hotel

Blending European style with New York sophistication, The NoMad Hotel makes us feel at home in the heart of Manhattan. Located in the trendy NoMad neighborhood, this hotel offers elegance and comfort in every detail.

Amenities and Services

Each room at The NoMad is thoughtfully designed, blending classic and contemporary elements. Dining is a key highlight, with several options, including an opulent restaurant helmed by a Michelin-starred chef.

Amenity	Description
Dining	NoMad Restaurant, the NoMad Bar, and the Rooftop
Library	An exquisite space filled with books and a cozy ambiance
Fitness Center	Equipped with the latest workout gear
Event Spaces	Beautifully designed venues for private events

Nearby Tourist Sights

Staying at The NoMad gives us access to a vibrant neighborhood. We can explore the architectural marvels of the Flatiron Building and the iconic Madison Square Park. For shopping enthusiasts, the nearby stores of Fifth Avenue are a paradise.

The Ludlow Hotel

About The Ludlow Hotel

For a hip and trendy stay, The Ludlow Hotel on the Lower East Side is an excellent pick. The hotel embodies the vibrant and eclectic character of its neighborhood, offering an immersive New York experience.

Amenities and Services

The Ludlow’s industrial-chic design brings a refreshing vibe. The hotel features a lovely garden area and a rooftop terrace perfect for unwinding with a view of the city skyline. Dirty French, the on-site restaurant, serves delectable French cuisine with a twist.

Amenity	Description
Dining	Dirty French, offering inventive French dishes
Garden and Rooftop	Outdoor spaces to relax and enjoy city views
Fitness Center	Well-equipped with modern exercise machines

Nearby Tourist Sights

The Lower East Side is rich with culture and history. From The Ludlow, we can visit the Tenement Museum to learn about immigrant stories, enjoy a night out at the Bowery Ballroom, or take a stroll in Tompkins Square Park.

The Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown

About The Four Seasons

Known for unparalleled luxury and service, The Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown offers a serene escape within the bustling Financial District. The hotel is a newer addition, having opened in 2016, but it has quickly established itself as a top choice.

Amenities and Services

From its exteriors to interiors, everything about The Four Seasons exudes luxury. We can indulge in world-class dining at CUT by Wolfgang Puck, and pamper ourselves at the on-site spa with endless treatments to choose from.

Amenity	Description
Dining	CUT by Wolfgang Puck, serving contemporary cuisine
Spa	Full-service spa with relaxing treatments
Fitness Center	Open 24/7 with state-of-the-art equipment
Indoor Pool	Large pool perfect for a refreshing dip

Nearby Tourist Sights

The location in the Financial District means that we have easy access to landmarks such as the World Trade Center, One World Observatory, and Wall Street. We can also take a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from Battery Park.

The Ace Hotel New York

About The Ace Hotel

For something unique and artsy, The Ace Hotel New York in Midtown is a must-visit. Known for its cool and eclectic style, this hotel appeals to the creative crowd and those of us who love an unconventional stay.

Amenities and Services

The Ace Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it’s a cultural hub. With rooms that feature custom art and vintage furniture, the hotel has a personality of its own. The hotel’s lobby serves as a community space with live music and creative events.

Amenity	Description
Dining	The Breslin Bar & Dining Room, serving hearty dishes
Coffee Shop	Stumptown Coffee Roasters for a great cup of coffee
Event Space	Regular hosting of live music, art shows, and more
Fitness Center	Equipped with all the essentials

Nearby Tourist Sights

Staying at The Ace puts us right in the heart of Midtown. We can take a short walk to the iconic Empire State Building or Bryant Park. Herald Square’s shopping destination is also within easy reach.

The Peninsula New York

About The Peninsula

Situated on Fifth Avenue and 55th Street, The Peninsula New York combines classic elegance with modern amenities, making it a haven for luxury seekers. The hotel boasts a rich history and prestigious reputation.

Amenities and Services

We can indulge in the finest comforts The Peninsula has to offer. From luxurious suites to a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views, the hotel ensures a memorable stay. Clement Restaurant provides a refined dining experience, and the Peninsula Spa offers a range of treatments.

Amenity	Description
Dining	Clement Restaurant for exquisite meals
Rooftop Terrace	Salon de Ning, offering stunning views
Spa	The Peninsula Spa for rejuvenating treatments
Fitness Center	State-of-the-art and open 24/7

Nearby Tourist Sights

Staying at The Peninsula means we are close to premier attractions. We can explore Central Park, visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), or shop along the luxurious Fifth Avenue.

The Standard, High Line

About The Standard

For a stylish and modern stay, The Standard, High Line is our top pick. Located in the Meatpacking District, this hotel offers contemporary luxury with an urban twist. The views of the Hudson River are simply breathtaking.

Amenities and Services

The Standard, High Line offers amenities designed for the modern traveler. With floor-to-ceiling windows, the guest rooms provide unobstructed views of the city. The hotel features several dining options, including the Standard Grill and Le Bain, a rooftop bar.

Amenity	Description
Dining	Standard Grill, The Living Room, Le Bain rooftop bar
Rooftop Bar	Le Bain, with stunning views and vibrant nightlife
Fitness Center	Equipped with the latest workout machines
Event Space	Hosting a range of social and corporate events

Nearby Tourist Sights

The Meatpacking District is known for its lively atmosphere and attractions. We can visit the Whitney Museum of American Art, stroll along the High Line park, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the area.

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

About The Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park offers the quintessential luxury experience. Located just steps from Central Park, this hotel provides both opulence and a prime location for exploring the city.

Amenities and Services

Luxury is in every detail at The Ritz-Carlton. The hotel boasts elegantly designed rooms and suites, as well as a renowned club level. Dining options include the upscale Contour and the bespoke Ritz-Carlton Spa offers personalized treatments.

Amenity	Description
Dining	Contour, offering fine dining and signature cocktails
Club Level	Exclusive access to the Club Lounge for select rooms
Spa	Ritz-Carlton Spa with personalized treatment options
Fitness Center	State-of-the-art equipment and personal training services

Nearby Tourist Sights

Being near Central Park allows for a myriad of activities. We can enjoy a leisurely walk in the park, visit the nearby Metropolitan Museum of Art, or watch a performance at the nearby Lincoln Center.

Conclusion

Navigating through the vast offerings of New York City’s hotels can be daunting, but we’ve narrowed it down to some of the very best. Each hotel mentioned here offers a unique experience, whether we’re looking for classic luxury, modern elegance, or eclectic charm. From the iconic Plaza Hotel to the stylish Standard, High Line, there’s something for every traveler. So, next time we’re planning a visit to the city that never sleeps, we can rest assured knowing that a perfect stay awaits.