15 Iconic New York City Hotels That Take Luxury to the Next Level
Go ahead, treat yourself to a room!
The Big Apple is filled with top-notch attractions, but beyond the must-see sites, notable restaurants, and one-of-a-kind neighborhoods, nothing beats the allure of the most iconic New York City hotels. Scroll on and you'll see that these five-star properties have it all. Many are celebrity-approved with impeccable dining and luxury amenities you won't find anywhere else.
One thing's for sure, if the walls at the different properties could talk, they'd have plenty of stories to share. Whether it's Selena Gomez and Kygo shouting out The Bowery Hotel in their hit single "It Ain't Me" to show-stopping moments courtesy of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis at the Upper East Side's The Carlyle, and all the lavish events thrown at The Plaza Hotel through the years, we guarantee that by the time you finish checking everything out below, you'll want to treat yourself to a room at one of these hot spots.
Here, the most iconic hotels in New York City.
The Plaza Hotel
First up is none other than The Plaza Hotel. It was originally designed by well-known architect Henry J. Hardenbergh and has been a setting for A-list events and even famous films such as Sleepless in Seattle, Bride Wars, The Great Gatsby, and the list goes on. Besides being steps away from Central Park, afternoon tea at the hotel's The Palm Court and The Champagne Bar are favorites among guests.
The Bowery Hotel
If excellent views, exciting nightlife, and even better food are what you're after, look no further than The Bowery Hotel. For the best value, we suggest snagging one of the Deluxe King Rooms which will allow you to see everything from the Empire State Building all the way down to the One World Trade Center, and it boasts a lovely bathtub complete with bubbles and bath salts. Major stars—including Jennifer Lopez, Blake Lively, Jude Law, and many more— have stayed here, too, proving it's worth the splurge.
Once you're checked in, make your way toward the stylish Gemma restaurant. Though it's linked with the Bowery, it stands on its own and goes above and beyond standard hotel dining. You'll have a blast exploring the extensive bar menu and Chef Andrea Taormina's elevated, rustic dishes will make you feel at home. Of course, the handmade pasta and delectable tiramisu are a must; just don't forget to ask about the daily specials!
Hotel Chelsea
Hotel Chelsea has housed the likes of Bob Dylan, Mark, Twain, Jimi Hendrix, and other big names. It was also the backdrop to Andy Warhol's 1996 film Chelsea Girls and where playwright Arthur Miller lived after his breakup with the one and only Marilyn Monroe.
For those hoping to relax and recharge, note that the hotel has a new spa launching soon. In the meantime, set your eyes on the accommodations like the Junior Balcony Suite featuring a deep-soaking tub.
Refinery Hotel
Let's make our way to midtown to the standout Refinery Hotel. Despite the area being known for cramped spaces, a room here will exceed your expectations as it has soaring 12-foot concrete ceilings and expansive windows that could have views of the Empire State Building.
For a greater wow factor, head all the way up to the popular Refinery Rooftop. It's an unforgettable experience that will gift you the opportunity to take in the Manhattan skyline with a cocktail or your beverage of choice in hand. On top of that, there are complimentary glasses of wine at the hotel lobby from 5 to 7 p.m., and for the cherry on top, guests are provided with Le Labo bath products.
Waldorf-Astoria New York
Anyone who’s anyone has come through the doors of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel at least once. Lauded for its Art Deco design and luxurious details, it has quite the history. For starters, Prince Rainier III of Monaco and Grace Kelly held their engagement party there, it's where President John F. Kennedy threw one of his birthday galas, and where Queen Elizabeth II gave a special address in the '50s.
Interestingly enough, it used to be two buildings. In the 1890s, William Waldorf Astor built the original hotel on the corner of 33rd Street and Fifth Avenue, only to have his cousin-slash-rival John Jacob Astor IV outdo him with a taller one next door. Over time, they eventually connected both spaces by adding a 300-foot marble corridor called Peacock Alley. Currently, it's closed for renovations until the end of 2024 with new Waldorf-Astoria Residences set to debut in New York, which will be the only residential building to offer curated furniture and accessory collections from design shop B&B Italia.
The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel
The Carlyle Hotel located in Manhattan's Upper East Side opened nearly 100 years ago and it's still a must-visit. It was designed by the architecture firm Bien & Price and has hosted a long list of esteemed individuals like President Harry S. Truman, Jackie Kennedy Onassis and more.
Furthermore, the hotel's Café Carlyle is one of the city's legendary jazz clubs known for bringing in top jazz artists, world-class actors, and incredible singers to perform. The Gallery is another unique dining retreat inspired by the sultan's dining room at the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, Turkey. You'll be amazed by everything from the afternoon tea to the deep red wallpapers and matching fringed velvet chairs.
Wythe Hotel
Don't forget about Brooklyn, and make sure to add the Wythe Hotel to your travel bucket list. Dubbed the original boutique hotel in Williamsburg, you'll immediately be mesmerized by its charm and backdrop of the Manhattan skyline.
Interested in grabbing a bite? Don't miss out on Le Crocodile with upscale twists on classics like Burgundy Duck with Pear and Pancetta, Steak Frites au Poivre, or a delicious Maple Crème Brûlée. We also recommend the Bar Blondeau rooftop which has unobstructed views of the city's iconic skyscrapers and a bar with up-and-coming wines that'll keep you coming back for more.
Aman Hotel
Quiet luxury is synonymous with the Aman Hotel. The property's understated grandeur certainly earned it a spot on this list. It has a three-story, 25,000-square-foot spa complete with a 65-foot swimming pool, cryotherapy chambers, a hammam, and so much more. Moreover, there's a garden terrace with reflecting pools showcasing an ode to nature, 83 suites, and a floating glass fireplace. If you're able to get a reservation, make time for The Jazz Club which is a speakeasy-style spot with nightly performances and inventive cocktails for a night you won't forget.
You can even book a three-hour wellness journey created in partnership with tennis superstar Maria Sharapova. What was originally the Crown Building right on Fifth Avenue, the hotel may be in the center of the hustle and bustle of the city, but as soon you step in, an aura of calmness and relaxation will instantly come over you.
The St. Regis New York
Founded by John Jacob Astor IV (yes, from the Waldorf-Astoria), The St. Regis New York is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city. In fact, when it opened to the public in 1904, The New York Times published that it was “the finest hotel in America." The opulent hotel is known for its signature butler service, luxury amenities, and sophisticated guest rooms.
Four Seasons New York Downtown
The art and architecture that surrounds the Four Seasons in Tribeca is what sets it apart. You'll feel at peace with the well-balanced design of the accommodations and the rejuvenation only continues with the hotel's globally inspired spa which has a heated indoor pool.
Other noteworthy amenities include a chance to eat at CUT by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, Biria bike rentals so you can better explore the neighborhood, and an all-electric Cadillac LYRIQ house car available for guests. Oh, and yes, the hotel is also pet-friendly.
Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York
In the same Tribeca neighborhood awaits your Parisian abode at Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York. The space is grand with tons of personality—including its pastel-colored furniture and sophisticated terrace suites that draw in the dramatic city skyline.
On the flip side, find tranquility at Spa Diane Barrière. The hotel has a coveted partnership with Biologique Recherche, a cult skincare brand from France, which results in treatments like no other. There's also a sauna, steam room, an indoor pool, and of course, a cutting-edge fitness center.
1 Hotel Central Park
You can't miss the 1 Hotel Central Park's building with chic greenery covering it. This biophilic theme continues into the hotel's rooms and suites as there are plant elements woven throughout the spaces.
If that's not enough, you can continue taking in nature at Central Park as it's just steps from the hotel. The hotel is known for its farm-to-table dishes, and an electric Audi is offered as the house car. For those who value sustainability and an eco-friendly environment, it's definitely worth a visit.
The New Yorker Hotel
The New Yorker Hotel has made its mark on the Manhattan skyline. It opened in 1930 and since then, the hotel has had a fascinating history. For instance, did you know that it was built with a private underground tunnel into Penn Station and that inventor Nikola Tesla lived there for years until he died in 1943?
The Algonquin
A New York roundup wouldn't be complete without a hotel in Times Square—and that's where The Algonquin comes in. It was founded nearly 120 years ago and when it was first opened to the public, single rooms cost just—wait for it—$2. Then, around a decade ago, the hotel received a $5 million renovation, and today, nightly rates are well into the triple digits. Despite its transformation, it still has a distinct charm that makes it special.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel
Last, but not least is The Ritz-Carlton Hotel. This Central Park location was once the Hotel St. Moritz, the Emery Roth-designed luxury hotel that was in business from 1930 until it was rebranded as The Ritz-Carlton in 1999. The bottom section of the building acts as a hotel, whereas the top 12 floors are condominiums. Living in The Ritz? Now that's the dream.
Brittany is a freelance writer based in her hometown of New York City. She writes about everything from fashion and beauty to food and wellness. When she's not writing, she can often be found at her local library, playing with her cats, or exploring the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Isis Briones is House Beautiful’s Senior Shopping Editor, she’ll find the best items for your home at every price point. She also loves to travel, so don’t be surprised if she hooks you up with some travel deals. Find more of her work published in Complex, Architectural Digest, Teen Vogue, and more.
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