The Plaza Hotel, a storied New York City institution known for its appearances in films like "Home Alone 2," "The Great Gatsby," and "Sleepless in Seattle," is scheduled to close for a major renovation. The hotel, located on Fifth Avenue, will shut from January 2027 and is expected to remain closed for approximately four years.
For 119 years, The Plaza has been a prominent fixture in the city's hospitality landscape, hosting numerous celebrities and notable figures including Marilyn Monroe, The Beatles, and Frank Sinatra. Its impending closure means visitors to New York will need to seek alternative accommodations.
Several other New York hotels are being highlighted as potential alternatives for travelers. For those seeking opulence and old-school charm comparable to The Plaza, the Waldorf Astoria is recommended. It recently reopened after its own refurbishment and was recognized by Conde Nast as one of the best new hotels in the U.S. and Canada.
Budget-conscious travelers might consider Pod 51, known for its minimalist and affordable capsule rooms, or HI New York City Hostel on the Upper West Side, which offers a social atmosphere and proximity to Central Park. The Lucerne Hotel, an Beaux-Arts building on the Upper West Side, is also presented as a quality option for those looking for stays under £150 per night, offering amenities like a fitness center and an on-site brasserie.
For a more artistic experience, the Carlton Arms Hotel in the Gramercy neighborhood features rooms re-imagined by artists. The Nine Orchard, a restored historic bank building on the Lower East Side, offers a luxurious stay with attention to its original design details. Aviation enthusiasts might prefer the TWA Flight Center at JFK Airport, a hotel conversion of a former airline terminal offering runway views and an infinity pool.
Other recommended high-end options include The St. Regis New York, founded by John Jacob Astor, known for its grandeur and lavish suites, and The Maritime Hotel, housed in the former National Maritime Union headquarters, with rooms designed to evoke the ambiance of a vintage cruise ship. Finally, The William Vale in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, provides rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, and skyline views, featuring one of the city's largest rooftop outdoor pools.