By Bridget Castner
F. Scott Fitzgerald once said, “Nothing unimportant ever happens at The Plaza.”
The Plaza has reigned as New York City's central icon for over a century, attracting global elites, political figures, entertainment stars, and more.
The hotel is renowned for hosting grand social events and serving as the backdrop for classic Hollywood blockbusters such as Sabrina starring Audrey Hepburn. Read on to see why we absolutely adore this legendary 5-star hotel!
The Prime Location
This luxury hotel is within close proximity to some of the best spots in New York City. The hotel sits on 5th Avenue at Central Park South, giving you access to the 5th Avenue shopping experience and the stunning beauty of Central Park. Art and history enthusiasts rejoice, as The Museum of Modern Art and St. Patrick's Cathedral are both within a 10-minute walk from The Plaza, as well as NYC's famous Theater District.
The Food and Drink
For more than 100 years, The Palm Court at The Plaza has been New York City's ideal spot for Afternoon Tea. Sip tea of the global variety from Bernardaud China made special for The Plaza, or try one of the many exquisite breakfast items in the morning. Savor the most exceptional champagne, caviar, and wines from around the globe at the Champagne Bar, and treat yourself to a variety of delicate gourmet dishes, or fresh-out-of-the-oven baked goods.
Awards
The Plaza is affiliated with some of the most esteemed and respected travel groups including Virtuoso, Andrew Harper Alliance, Altour, and more. The legendary hotel has more than a few awards under its belt such as the Oyster Editor's Choice Award (2016), the United States' Leading Hotel (2023) and North America's Leading Hotel Suite (2023) by World Travel Awards, and among the Best Hotel in New York City by the Readers' Choice Awards (2023).
The Decor and Rooms
Gothic and Italian Renaissance architecture make up the outside of the hotel, while inside you'll find marble floors, stained-glass ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and gorgeous fresh flowers. Each of the 282 rooms in the hotel are elegant and spacious, decorated in pink, purple, or bright white. Dine-in with 24-hour room services and enjoy the room's refrigerated private bar. 24-carat gold plated Sherle Wagner faucets and accessories can be found in the bathroom, and the penthouses and suites offer stunning views of Central Park.
The Boutique Shops
While its ideal location right on 5th Avenue gives you easy access to premier shopping, the hotel itself houses a selection of boutique stores that cater to every indulgence from gourmet foods, luxurious amenities, and more. Browse the handcrafted coffee table books, specialty gifts, and leather goods at Assouline Books on the second floor.
Visiting the Krigler boutique is a must to snag a unique fragrance that's special to The Plaza, and if you're devoted to your skincare regimen, Guerlain Spa is the place to go for all your upscale beauty and skincare products. Maurice Fine Jewelry and Plaza Boutique are the best places for exquisite jewelry, and don't forget to check out Qiviuk Knitwear as well!
Family-Friendly
The Plaza Hotel is not only one of the most famous and luxurious hotels in New York, it is also one of the most family-friendly! For an incredibly memorable experience, treat the kids (and yourself!) to The Eloise Suite. You have the option to book an adjoining "nanny" suite that comes with complimentary champagne and truffles.
Pop down to The Palm Court for Eloise themed tea, or visit the Eloise Shop where kids can try on costumes and enjoy story time at the Library room. Additionally, a children's concierge and childcare are both available, and the hotel offers kid's DVDs and complimentary bikes for rental.
The Spa and Wellness Services
During your stay, be sure to make a reservation at Guerlain Spa for some self-care and pampering time. The spa offers a variety of treatments that are guaranteed to help you relax, rejuvenate, and recharge. The spa has multiple packages you can choose from, or just pick your own treatment with everything from facials and massages, to waxing, body sculpting treatments, and gentleman's services.
At The Plaza Fitness Center, you can exercise using the cardio, strength, and Technogym products 24-hours a day, or book a personal training appointment to maximize your fitness experience.
Iconic Movies and Music Legends
Did you know that during The Beatles' first visit to the U.S. while on tour in 1964, they stayed at The Plaza Hotel? The band had an entire wing to themselves, and wrote the famous song "Michelle" there. Miles Davis even recorded Jazz at the Plaza Vol. 1 and 2 in the hotel's "Persian Room". Truman Capote hosted his epic Black and White Ball to celebrate the release of his book In Cold Blood, with an attendee list that included the likes of Lynda Bird Johnson, Harry Belafonte, and Candice Bergen.
From 1945-1965, The Plaza was the headquarters for Gourmet Magazine. The magazine used the hotel for offices and a test kitchen, and bedrooms were turned into offices for the employees. The hotel has appeared in many movies and television shows including Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Sleepless in Seattle, Almost Famous, and has been in several episodes of The Sopranos, Sex and the City, and an episode of Friends.
