Plaza Hotel

If you’re looking to splurge on an upscale experience at the center of culture in New York City, consider the Plaza Hotel. Located just near Central Park, The 20-story-tall Plaza has been featured in countless movies and television shows. A prime example of Beaux Arts architectural style, a recent renovation included the installation of guest services panels in every room.

The hotel features a breathtaking view of Central Park and nearly 300 hotel rooms. Some hotel guests are accustomed to luxurious living (the hotel even includes living suites) whereas others are individuals and families splurging on an elegant city stay. The Plaza Hotel boasts the most square footage of all New York City hotels. The interior of the hotel—both in the common areas and guest rooms—exudes indulgence, clarity and elegance.

If you’re looking for a small, upscale taste of The Plaza, you can stop in to enjoy any of the restaurants in the building. This includes The Palm Court for tea and the Champagne Bar. The Champagne Bar overlooks the remarkable Pulitzer Fountain on Fifth Avenue. With a “smart casual” dress code, guests can pop in during the day to sample coffees and pastries.

The Palm Court endured restorative renovations. The light in this room is filtered through lightly-stained glass, providing an atmosphere of culture and high-society that helped to originally define New York City. (Dress for the Palm Court is business casual.)

Guest amenities include babysitting services, laundry, housekeeping, butler, bell staff and concierge service. The hotel also features a full-service spa.

The Plaza Hotel originally opened in 1907. Architect Henry Janeway Hardenbergh also designed the nearby Dakota Apartments, former residence of John Lennon (The Beatles also stayed in The Plaza during their first United States visit).

Inspired by a French chateau style, The Plaza officially received the honor of becoming a New York City Landmark in 1969. It’s also a listed as a National Historic Landmark. As a result, you can also take a tour of the hotel without spending money to stay there.

- by Tara M. Clapper, New York Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Tara M. Clapper

Tara M. Clapper is a full-time freelance writer residing just outside of Philadelphia. Tara enjoys exploring traditional and historical locations in the city as well as quirky and innovative restaurants and attractions. Tara utilizes her background in academic, service-based and traditional publishing to create insider-perspective articles. Her topics of interest include travel, weddings, Irish American culture, and geek subculture.