By Jennifer Olvera
Staying in some of
New York's top hotels rewards travelers with an elegant experience, unforgettable amenities and, in many cases, a piece of history. From its low-key boutique hotels to its Grand Dame accommodations, all a stone's throw from major airports, it's easy to fall in love with the Big Apple (again and again).
The Waldorf-Astoria
This renowned Art Deco hotel in Midtown is located within walking distance from Broadway and Rockefeller Center, and is 5 ½ miles from LaGuardia Airport and 12 ½ miles from JFK International Airport. Home to Peacock Alley steakhouse --- as well as a Japanese restaurant and brasserie --- it's a regal retreat amidst nonstop action. Its rooms and suites have high ceilings, plush, pillow-top mattresses, marble bathrooms and an English manor vibe. Kids feel as welcome as grownups: There are magic shows most Friday nights as well as a spa and convention center.
The Waldorf-Astoria
301 Park Ave.
New York, NY 10022
212-355-3000
http://www.waldorfastoria.com/
The Benjamin
Located three blocks from Rockefeller Center, this urbane, environmentally friendly hotel in a circa 1927 Emery Roth-designed building makes a great first impression as its two-floor lobby is adorned with brocade walls and columns. Smaller than many of its neighbors, the hotel's 209 rooms include access to a 12-choice pillow menu and sleep concierge; beds have plush mattresses and 400-thread-count Anichini sheets. There's a wellness spa, 24-hour fitness center and wireless Internet access in the mezzanine-level lounge, too. Adding to the appeal, the hotel is just 5 ½ miles from LaGuardia Airport --- even though it feels worlds away.
The Benjamin
125 East 50th St.
New York, NY 10022
212-715-2500
http://www.thebenjamin.com/
Four Seasons New York
Discerning travelers head to this I.M. Pei-designed hotel for its gracious, over-sized guestrooms with impressive skyline views. Outfitted with English sycamore paneling with oval desks, Internet access and Florentine marble bathrooms with separate shower and deep-soak tubs, accommodations include morning coffee service and fitness center access. There's also a luxurious spa, meeting facilities and 24-hour business services. It's just 30 minutes from LaGuardia Airport.
Four Seasons New York
57 East 57th Street
New York, NY 10022
212-758-5700
http://www.fourseasons.com/newyorkfs/
The New York Palace
This iconic hotel in Midtown Manhattan is in close proximity to Madison Square Garden as well as the Museum of Modern Art and Guggenheim Museum. It's also nearby Grand Central Station and is six miles from LaGuardia Airport and 13 miles from JFK International Airport. From its grand staircase to its breathtaking city views, this historic hotel is replete with luxurious touches. Rooms have large marble bathrooms, high-speed Internet access and work areas. Upping the ante, Triplex suites have outdoor terraces that preside over the city. There's a spa and fitness center, sophisticated meeting spaces and a brasserie, lounge and modern American restaurant.
55 Madison Ave.
New York, NY 10022
212-888-7000
http://www.newyorkpalace.com/
About the Author:
Jennifer Olvera, a DePaul grad, has been writing professionally--and covering topics from health to weddings, shopping and the green scene--for over a decade. In addition to penning international travel features for Chicago Tribune, LA Times and Frommers.com, she has become one of the preeminent dining, food, and entertainment writers in Chicago. Jennifer's work has regularly appeared in Zagat and Chicago Sun-Times as well as on Citysearch.com and Gayot.com.
