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food court in the basement, helmed by celebrity chef Todd English, offers everything from flatbread pizzas and sushi to tapas, wines, and an excellent raw bar, and is one of the more appealing lunchtime food choices in the neighborhood. An Eloise-theme tea at the Palm Court began in 2010. The expansive Vinothérapie spa includes a hammam (Turkish bath) and a wine lounge. Pros: historic property; great hotel bar; lavish rooms. Cons: rooms aren’t that big for the money; Oak Room restaurant is pricey. TripAdvisor: “staff well-trained in hospitality,” “excellent shopping outside door,” “extremely comfortable beds.” |

768 5th Ave., at Central Park S, Midtown West | 10019 | 212/759–3000 | www.theplaza.com | 282 rooms, 102 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, DVD, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: 2 restaurants, room service, bar, gym, spa, laundry service, Wi-Fi hotspot | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: N, R to 59th St.

Renaissance Hotel.

$ | After a $26 million refresh headed by designer Jordan Mozer, the Renaissance shifted in fall 2009 from all business to wacky and whimsical, and it’s a rather enjoyable move. Rooms are carpeted in earth tones with blue headboards and mosaic tile showers. Little touches, like flat-screen televisions and elegant metal vases, round out the look. The theme continues in the lobby, with copper wall coverings and space-age light fixtures. The R Lounge restaurant serves standard American grub, though the space is more about the view than the cuisine. Pros: contemporary design; latest in-room technology. Cons: in the heart of the Square: pandemonium isn’t for everyone; over-the-top design not for everyone. TripAdvisor: “real boutique vibe,” “spacious and clean rooms,” “conveniently located.” | 714 7th Ave., between W. 47th and W. 48th Sts., Midtown West | 10036 | 212/765–7676 or 800/628–5222 | www.renaissancehotels.com | 300 rooms, 5 suites | Inroom: a/c, safe, Internet, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bars, gym, laundry service, Internet terminal, WiFi hotspot, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: R to 49th St.; 1 to 50th St.

Fodor’s Choice | The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park.

$$$$ | It’s all about the park views here. Service aside, the competition among properties near the park’s south side is fierce, and although the Ritz isn’t the foremost of the bunch, it does offer some nice perks. Chief among them is the above-and-beyond service, accommodating to a fault, that makes it popular with celebs and other demanding guests. Rooms have typical high-end perks (Etro bath products, exclusively made 400-thread-count French sateen linens) and one that’s not so standard: a telescope for viewing park wildlife. The gym is small, however, as is the La Prairie at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. Laurent Tourondel operates the seasonal BLT Market restaurant on the ground floor. Pros: great concierge; personalized service; stellar location; views. Cons: pricey; limited common areas. TripAdvisor: “supremely comfortable bed,” “very large room,” “exceptional service.” | 50 Central Park S, at 6th Ave., Midtown West | 10019 | 212/308–9100 or 866/671–6008 | www.ritzcarlton.com/centralpark | 259 rooms, 47 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, DVD, Internet, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, spa, laundry service, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: F, M to 57th St.

Room Mate Grace.

$ | A favorite of European visitors and business travelers in fashion and entertainment, Grace delivers high-design lodgings on a budget. The decor is modern and playful— Jonathan Adler reflective wallpaper, bright geometric patterns, and a check-in desk that doubles as a newsstand. Guests and locals gravitate to the lobby bar and swimmingpool lounge (a real glassed-in pool, with sauna and steam room) for cocktails and eye candy. Rooms are smallish, around 230 square feet to 300 square feet, but smartly designed (comfortable beds are elevated on platforms, so luggage can be stored underneath) and well insulated from street noise. Room capacity varies from two to four people (in a quad bunk-bed layout—each bed with its own TV and headset), convenient for traveling with teenagers or kids. Pros: free, ample continental breakfast; friendly, helpful staff. Cons: tiny rooms; little in-room privacy (no door separating shower from main room). TripAdvisor: “excellent value for money,” “great location,” “excessive street noise.” | 125 W. 45th St., Midtown West | 10036 | 212/354–2323 | www.room-matehotels.com | 139 rooms | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator, DVD, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: bar, pool, gym, laundry service, parking (paid) | AE, D, DC, MC, V | CP | Subway: B, D, F, M to 42nd St.

The Royalton.

$$$–$$$$ | During the 1990s the Royalton’s dramatic lobby started the craze of local A-listers meeting and greeting in hotel bars; the space, after being completely redesigned by Roman and Williams, now attracts a new generation of movers and shakers to congregate around its sumptuous sofas and the warm glow of its massive castbronze fireplace. The restaurant Forty-four is also an excellent locale for a quick bite, with an updated menu of global small plates and a highfalutin concept-driven cocktail selection. Before you can get to your room, you’ll have to run the gantlet of this bustling lounge, but the efficient

check-in and helpful staff ensure that things go smoothly. Updated guest rooms, designed by Charlotte Macaux, are all comfortably sleek and elegantly outfitted with atmospheric lighting, fresh flowers, and candles changed daily. Some rooms have working fireplaces, and all have plasma-screen TVs and—as of late 2010—Apple iPads in every room. Bathrooms have been sumptuously renovated with huge circular Roman soaking tubs and rainfall showers. Pros: hip lobby scene; luxe beds and bathrooms; helpful service. Cons: dark hallways; lighting verges on eye-strainingly dim. TripAdvisor: “spacious shower,” “stylished decorated room,” “great Midtown location.” | 44 W. 44th St., between 5th and 6th Aves., Midtown West | 10036 | 212/869–4400 or 800/635–9013 | www.royaltonhotel.com | 141 rooms, 27 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, Internet, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid) | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: B, D, F, M to 42nd St.

The Shoreham.

$$ | The Shoreham hopes to attract glamorous types, but the result is that all the guests feel like they’re stars. First, there’s a glass of champagne for you at check-in. In the lobby, you’ll see lime-green couches, a small café off to the side, and plenty of people admiring themselves in the mirrored columns. Spring for one of the rooms with massage chairs, which are an inexpensive upgrade. Tech is big here; you can request an Xbox 360 or PS2, and rooms are also equipped with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen televisions. Pros: stylish decor; tech-friendly. Cons: not designed for families. TripAdvisor: “very nice staff,” “simple clean rooms,” “near great restaurants.” | 33 W. 55th St., between 5th and 6th Aves., Midtown West | 10019 | 212/247–6700 or 877/847–4444 | www.shorehamhotel.com | 174 rooms, 37 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, DVD, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | CP | Subway: E, M to 5th Ave.

6 Columbus.

$$ | A boutique-style hotel nestled in the shadow of the towering Time Warner center, 6 Columbus—part of the ever-proliferating Thompson Hotel Group—offers the vibe and amenities of downtown lodging with the convenience of a more centralized Midtown location. The small, well-kept lobby has sleek, ’60s-mod leather furniture and a view into the uptown branch of Blue Ribbon sushi, the hotel’s inhouse eatery and a favorite lunch spot of nearby Time Warner and Hearst publishing employees. Rooms are stylish but comfortable—think cowhide rugs, art books, and flat-screen TVs—and surprisingly quiet, considering the location facing out onto busy 58th Street. All have Dean & Deluca minibars and blue-tile bathrooms (some with tubs) with Kiehl’s amenities. Some of the larger rooms feature pullout couches, making them good options for families. For a splurge, the duplex Penthouse Suite has floor-to- ceiling windows, two terraces, and killer views of Central Park. Pros: convenient location; fun in-hotel restaurant; reasonably priced for neighborhood; family-friendly. Cons: rooms on lower floors facing 58th Street can be noisy. TripAdvisor: “pleasant and helpful staff,” “good hotel in a great location,” “rooms are small.” | Columbus Circle, Midtown West | 10019 | 212/204–3002 | www.thompsonhotels.com | 72 rooms, 16 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, kitchen (some), refrigerator (some), Internet, WiFi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 1, A, B, C, D to 59th St./Columbus Circle.

Sofitel New York.

$$ | This property brings Gallic flair to the neighborhood. In addition to bilingual signage throughout the hotel, there’s plenty of velvet in the lobby, along with leather couches and vases of flowers. Guest rooms go the European modern route, with blond-wood headboards, silver wall sconces, and a big work desk. The bathrooms, with tubs and showers in every room, are a nice bonus. Some rooms overlook the Chrysler Building. The hotel’s French restaurant, Gaby, is named after a Parisian model from the 1920s, and the food dates from about the same era—it’s rich, heavy, and filling. Pros: central location; great beds. Cons: pricey; room views vary. TripAdvisor: “blissfully quiet rooms,” “luxurious linens and towels,” “ideal location.” |

45 W. 44th St., between 5th and 6th Aves., Midtown West | 10036 | 212/354–8844 | www.sofitel.com | 348 rooms, 52 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid) | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: B, D, F, M to 42nd St.

The Time Hotel.

$$–$$$ | One of the neighborhood’s first boutique hotels, this spot half a block from the din of Times Square tempers trendiness with a touch of humor. A ridiculously futuristic glass elevator—eggshells line the bottom of the shaft— transports guests to the second-floor lobby. In the adjoining bar nature videos lighten up the low-slung, serious, grayscale furnishings, and local DJs spin a fresh selection of music in the trendy Time Lounge. The smallish guest rooms, each themed to one of the primary colors—red,

yellow, or blue—have mood lighting and even specific “color” aromas that create a unique, if contrived, hotel experience. Whatever your primary color, they boast iPod docks, large flat-screen TVs, and modern, if not especially comfortable, beds and couches. Pros: acclaimed and popular Serafina restaurant downstairs; surprisingly quiet for Times Square location; good turndown service. Cons: decor makes the rooms a little dated; service is inconsistent; water pressure is lacking. TripAdvisor: “prime location,” “very small bathroom,” “clean and safe.” |

224 W. 49th St., between Broadway and 8th Ave., Midtown West | 10019 | 212/320–2900 or 877/846–3692 | www.thetimeny.com | 164 rooms, 29 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, Internet. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, laundry service, Internet terminal, parking (paid) | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 1, C, E to 50th St.

W Times Square.

$ | First opened at the end of 2001, the W Times Square is looking sleek once again thanks to a recent renovation. One thing they didn’t tinker with: the iconic, 57-story exterior, which still stands out among the Times Square craziness. The biggest benefit is in the rooms, with pink and purple accents, hideaway cabinets, a floating platform with a fantastic featherbed, and sleek bathrooms. The more expensive rooms on the higher floors have impressive views to the west over the Hudson River. Blue Fin, the sushi restaurant, and the Living Room bar remain popular, if pricey offshoots of the eighth-floor lobby, which is always flooded with activity. Pros: bustling nightlife and happyhour scene; sleek rooms. Cons: if you want quiet, head elsewhere; no bathtubs in the smaller rooms. TripAdvisor: “pleasant front desk staff,” “always comfortable rooms,” “street noise.” | 1567 Broadway, at W. 47th St., Midtown West | 10036 | 212/930–7400 or 877/946–8357 | www.whotels.com | 464 rooms, 43 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, DVD, Internet. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, spa, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, S to 42nd St./Times Sq.

Warwick.

$$–$$$ | This grande dame was built by William Randolph Hearst for his mistress, Hollywood actress Marion Davies, and it has hosted many from Tinseltown since then, including Cary Grant in the Presidential Suite for 12 years. Though there are many different room categories, the Premier Suites have benefited from a recent refresh that includes a sea-foam color scheme, flat-screen televisions, and Bulgari bath products. Some of the higher-floor suites have terraces overlooking 6th Avenue. The more standard rooms are a bit tired, however, and some come with “New York-y” views of an airshaft. The Murals on 54 restaurant, which takes up a big portion of the ground floor, serves Italian-influenced American fare under the gaze of 1930sera murals—try to spot the “obscene” additions that the artist inserted after a disagreement with Hearst. Randolph’s Bar remains packed late into the evening. Pros: excellent restaurant and bar; historic property; spacious suites. Cons: not all rooms have been redone; no a/c in the hallways. TripAdvisor: “fabulous personnel,” “always clean room,” “lovely view of Central Park.” | 65 W. 54th St., at 6th Ave., Midtown West | 10019 | 212/247– 2700 or 800/223–4099 | www.warwickhotelny.com | 359 rooms, 66 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator, Wi-Fi. Inhotel: 2 restaurants, room service, bar, gym, laundry service, parking (paid) | AE, DC, MC, V | Subway: E, M to 57th St.; N, Q, R, W to 57th St.

Wellington Hotel.

$ | A few blocks south of Central Park and Columbus Circle, the Wellington is a fine jumping-off point for visitors who want to see the sights in Midtown and the Upper West Side. The vibe in the rooms is more classic New York than edgy or modern, with floral patterns and dark-wood headboards and chests. The bathrooms, which are small and dark, don’t have much to recommend them. Suites, however, are spacious, and include foldout couches and extra beds—great for large families. Molyvos, a boisterous Greek restaurant in the hotel, is an excellent dining option, and the breakfast area doubles as a classic diner the rest of the day. The staff is quite amenable to requests. The hotel runs clever theme packages during holidays, which draw return guests every year. Pros: central location; chipper staff; good for big families. Cons: dark bathrooms; limited breakfast. TripAdvisor: “helpful bell boys,” “good sized room,” “close to Central Park.” | 871 7th Ave., at W. 55th St., Midtown West | 10019 | 212/247–3900 or 800/652–1212 | www.wellingtonhotel.com | 600 rooms, 100 suites | In-room: a/c, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, bar, laundry facilities, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid) | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: N, Q, R to 57th St.

Westin New York at Times Square.

$ | A $24 million renovation is complete at this giant Midtown hotel; all rooms come with the Heavenly Bed, flatscreen televisions, and Wi-Fi. For even more comfort, spafloor rooms come with massage chairs, aromatherapy candles, and other pampering pleasures. Though it costs $10 for entry, the gym is impressive, and it even includes Wii Fit and running tours throughout the city. The huge lobby

gets crowded during busy check-in and checkout times; Shula’s Steakhouse is a pricey dining option. Pros: busy Times Square location; big rooms; great gym. Cons: busy Times Square location; small bathroom sinks; some rooms need to be refreshed. TripAdvisor: “very friendly receptionists,” “lovely bed,” “smooth check-in.” | 270 W. 43rd St., at 8th Ave., Midtown West | 10036 | 212/201– 2700 or 866/837–4183 | www.westinny.com | 863 rooms, 126 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator, Internet, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bars, gym, spa, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: A, C, E to 42nd St./Times Sq.

MIDTOWN EAST

Affinia 50.

$$ | This extremely popular hotel has a businesslike mood, but it’s also supremely comfortable for families or leisure travelers. Most studios and all suites have plenty of space to stretch out in, with full kitchens and a clean, playful design that incorporates oversize chairs and couches. The second-floor club lounge provides business services and board games for guest use. Those aren’t the only quirky amenities, either: there’s an “evening cheer” reception with complimentary wine and cheese Monday through Thursday, fruit and iced tea at reception, and a six-choice pillow menu. All rooms have a mini-refrigerator and microwave, and suites have countertop stoves. Pros: apartment-style living; good value; kidand pet-friendly. Cons: ugly lobby; old televisions; pricey Wi-Fi. TripAdvisor: “rooms were clean and stylish,” “real New York experience at a good value,” “great location to midtown attractions.” | 155 E. 50th St., at 3rd Ave., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/751–5710 or 800/637–8483 | www.affinia.com | 56 rooms, 151 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, kitchen (some), refrigerator, Internet. Inhotel: room service, gym, laundry facilities, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 6 to 51st St./Lexington Ave.; E, M to Lexington–3rd Aves./53rd St.

The Alex.

$$$ | Often overlooked in a part of the city that’s heavy with office buildings, the Alex is a sleek little oasis of style on Manhattan’s East Side. This David Rockwell–designed property is all about the brand names, especially in the suites. You’ll see Sub-Zero fridges, Poggenpohl cabinets, and kitchenettes with Gaggenau stove tops and Miele dishwashers. All guest rooms and suites have flat-screen TVs, including one in the bathroom, and the posh beds come with Frette linens and hypoallergenic pillows. The result is a quiet, calm room, and only the subpar views intrude. The Asian fusion Riingo restaurant also provides room service. Pros: all suites have kitchens; good service; on-site fitness facilities. Cons: cramped lobby; small bathrooms; expensive Wi-Fi. TripAdvisor: “comfortable beds,” “very good gym,” “Frederic Fekkai toiletries.” | 205 E. 45th St., between 2nd and 3rd Aves., Midtown East | 10017 | 212/867–5100 | www.thealexhotel.com | 73 rooms, 130 suites | In-room: a/c, kitchen (some), DVD, Internet. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, MC, V | Subway: 4, 5, 6, 7, S to 42nd St./Grand Central.

The Benjamin.

$$$ | New York bills itself as the City That Never Sleeps, but of course a good night’s rest is essential for visitors who plan to tackle a lot during the day. The Benjamin promotes itself as just the ticket to fight sleeping problems, with a 12-pillow menu to choose from (they include buckwheat, water, and Swedish memory varieties), whitenoise machines, and 400-thread-count sheets. While you’re awake, you can take advantage of the kitchenettes in some of the rooms, a handy location near Grand Central Terminal, and high-quality service from a friendly staff. The views—of a neighboring hotel—are a bit blah, however, and the bathrooms could stand to have more style. In late 2010, restaurateur Geoffrey Zakarian opened The National restaurant inside the hotel, offering approachable modern bistro cuisine in an airy setting. Pros: sleep-friendly; gracious staff; kitchenettes in big rooms. Cons: paid Internet and Wi-Fi; boring views; dull neighborhood after dark. TripAdvisor: “top notch service,” “nicely furnished rooms,” “excellent Midtown location.” | 125 E. 50th St., at Lexington Ave., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/715–2500 | www.thebenjamin.com | 200 rooms | In-room: a/c, safe, kitchen (some), refrigerator, Internet, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, spa, laundry service, Internet terminal, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 6 to 51st St./Lexington Ave.; E, M to Lexington–3rd Aves./53rd St.

The Dylan.

$$$ | This hotel made a big splash when it opened at the start of the decade, but there haven’t been many changes since then, and it’s starting to show. Business travelers like the location a block from Grand Central, and the Benjamin, the grand steak house within. The 1903 Beaux-Arts building includes ornate plasterwork on the facade and a stunning marble staircase spiraling up its three floors. The 11-foot ceilings (the lower the floor, the higher the ceilings)

give the modern guest rooms a touch of grandeur, and the beakers that serve as glasses in the bathrooms are a clever nod to the building’s past as home of the Chemists’ Club. Note that some rooms remain small and dark, even after reconstruction. Pros: central location; free Internet; new room furnishings. Cons: inattentive service; small fitness center; pricey for limited amenities. TripAdvisor: “nice amenities,” “fantastic location,” “excellent choice.” | 52 E. 41st St., between Park and Madison Aves., Midtown East | 10017 | 212/338–0500 | www.dylanhotel.com | 107 rooms, 5 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, Internet, Wi-Fi. Inhotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, Wi-Fi hotspot | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 4, 5, 6, 7, S to 42nd St./Grand Central.

Four Seasons Hotel.

$$$$ | It’s the Four Seasons, and for better or worse, it remains the blueprint for what a Manhattan luxury hotel should be. Sure, that also means it’s outrageously expensive, but you get a fair amount of bang for your buck: stellar service that goes to the ends of the earth for guests, an imposing lobby done in marble and blond wood, and a connected concierge who can get reservations at most of New York’s hot tables. The rooms are impressively sized and priced, starting at 600 square feet. For that hefty cost you get a mattress custom designed for the hotel, 10-foot ceilings, a flat-screen television, and a marble bathroom with a tub that fills in 60 seconds flat (yes, we timed it). A few small complaints: The electronic system for controlling the lights and drapes can get confusing. The feel is conservative and perhaps too restrained for the price, but this is still the destination of choice for entertainment executives, celebrities, and well-heeled tourists and businessmen. Dinner at the counter of esteemed restaurant L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon is a can’t-miss splurge. Pros: spacious and comfortable rooms; perfect concierge and staff service; afternoon tea in the lobby lounge. Cons: pricey; confusing room controls; furniture could use updating. TripAdvisor: “service is impeccable,” “understated and modern,” “love it each time.” | 57 E. 57th St., between Park and Madison Aves., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/758–5700 or 800/487–3769 | www.fourseasons.com | 300 rooms, 68 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, DVD, Internet, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, spa, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R to 59th St./Lexington Ave.

The Gotham Hotel.

$ | On the site of the Gotham Book Mart, this sleek, skinny hotel has lots of things going for it, but one clincher for anyone seeking fresh air while in Manhattan: every last room boasts outdoor space. Eschewing the conventional check-in and lobby, the Gotham greets you in the spare, clean lobby with a beverage and a personal check-in by a clipboard-wielding attendant. Targeted at creative types, the hotel offers inventive welcome baskets with items like stockings and pedicure accessories for women and socks, shaving kits, and magazines for men. Room layout is unique, with no more than four rooms per floor, allowing families and larger parties to take over entire floors if desired. Upper floors have only two rooms per floor, both with terrific eastand westward views. Rooms themselves are large—all are at least 300 square feet—and feature funky vintage books, king-size beds, and gorgeous tiled bathrooms with dual showerheads and C. O. Bigelow bath products. At press time the restaurant was unfinished, but there are plans for a first-floor eatery designed with library touches, and a rooftop bar and lounge with expansive city views. Pros: welcoming staff; central location; every room has a balcony. Cons: no on-site gym. TripAdvisor: “no common areas,” “lack of amenities,” “good value.” | 16 E. 46th St., between 5th and 6th Aves., Midtown East | 10017 | 212/490–8500 | www.thegothamhotelny.com | 66 rooms | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator (some), Internet, Wi-Fi. Inhotel: restaurant, room service, bar, laundry service, Wi-Fi hotspot, some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | CP| Subway: B, D, F, M to 47th–50th Sts./Rockefeller Center | 4:D3.

Fodor’s Choice | Library Hotel.

$$ | Bookishly handsome, this stately landmark brownstone, built in 1900, is inspired by the New York Public Library, a block away. Each of its 10 floors is dedicated to one of the 10 categories of the Dewey Decimal System; modern rooms are stocked with art and books relevant to a subtopic such as erotica, astronomy, or biography—let your interests guide your choice. Either way, many of the rooms are surprisingly big and offer a good value to “check out.” The staff is very hospitable, and the whole property is old-leather-armchair comfortable, whether you’re unwinding in front of the library fireplace, partaking of the complimentary wine and cheese or continental breakfast, or relaxing in the roof garden. Pros: fun rooftop bar; playful book themes; stylish rooms. Cons: rooftop often reserved for events; more books in rooms themselves would be nice. TripAdvisor: “professional and efficient staff,” “small rooms,” “friendly welcome.” | 299 Madison Ave., at E. 41st St., Midtown East | 10017 | 212/983–4500 or 877/793–7323 | www.libraryhotel.com | 60 rooms | Inroom: a/c, safe, refrigerator, DVD, Internet, Wi-Fi. In-hotel:

restaurant, room service, bar, laundry service, parking (paid) | AE, DC, MC, V | CP | Subway: 4, 5, 6, 7, S to 42nd St./Grand Central.

Loews Regency Hotel.

$$$ | The snazzy lobby sums up the focus of this Park Avenue hotel: service and space. The modern guest rooms have lush details like silk wallpaper and mahogany accents, but more important, they’re large for the price point and come with flat-screen TVs and high-speed Internet. (That space comes at the expense of the bathrooms, which are on the small side.) Goose-down duvets and ergonomic leather desk chairs reinforce the pleasingly modern feel. Feinstein’s at the Regency hosts some of the best (and priciest) cabaret acts in town, and 540 Park and The Library have become destinations in their own right among restaurant-savvy locals. Pros: friendly and helpful staff; relatively quiet; good for pets; updated fitness center. Cons: rooms are pretty but not a great value; overpriced room service. TripAdvisor: “excellent room service,” “delightfully quiet rooms,” “great location.” | 540 Park Ave., at E. 61st St., Midtown East | 10065 | 212/759–4100 or 800/233–2356 | www.loewshotels.com | 266 rooms, 87 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, kitchen (some), refrigerator, Internet. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, laundry service, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R to 59th St./Lexington Ave.

Millennium UN Plaza.

$$ | This sky-high tower near the United Nations begins on the 28th floor; the rooms, which make generous use of warm woods and neutral tones, have breathtaking views— get one facing west, toward Manhattan. The multilingual staff caters to a discerning clientele that includes heads of state. The views also dazzle from the elegant 27th-floor pool and health club, and the indoor rooftop tennis court attracts name players. Service throughout the hotel is firstrate, though the common areas have seen better days. Pros: unbeatable East River and city views; good value; great front-door and bell staff. Cons: a walk to the subway; pricey Internet access. TripAdvisor: “large rooms,” “eclectic decoration,” “quiet location.” | 1 United Nations Plaza, at E. 44th St. and 1st Ave., Midtown East | 10017 | 212/758–1234 or 866/866–8086 | www.millenniumhotels.com | 382 rooms, 45 suites | Inroom: a/c, safe, Internet. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, tennis court, pool, gym, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid) | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 4, 5, 6, 7, S to 42nd St./Grand Central.

New York Palace Hotel.

$$$ | Want the privileged Gossip Girl experience? Stay at these connected mansions, built in the 1880s by railroad baron Henry Villard and supposedly populated by Serena van der Woodsen, circa 2009. In the lobby, with its sweeping staircases, golden chandeliers, and arched colonnades, you’ll find the two-Michelin-star restaurant Gilt. Standard rooms in the main section of the hotel are done up in warming beige and marble, but they are hardly exceptional. The better option is rooms in the tower: either modern or classic, depending on the floor, they have more luxe decor and bathrooms, separate check-in, and more attentive service, with a dedicated concierge and a butler. Many hotel rooms, as well as the 7,000-square-foot health club, have terrific views of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Pros: gorgeous courtyard with 15th-century Italian-style motifs; great service; unmatched views of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Cons: overpriced; harried service from staff. TripAdvisor: “top class staff,” “spacious and bright rooms,” “superbly located.” | 455 Madison Ave., at E. 50th St., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/888–7000 or 800/697–2522 | www.newyorkpalace.com | 804 rooms, 88 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator (some), Internet. In-hotel: 2 restaurants, room service, bars, gym, spa, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 6 to 51st St./Lexington Ave.; E, M to Lexington–3rd Aves./53rd St.

Omni Berkshire Place.

$$$ | A recent renovation has reenergized this property, giving it a luxe, modern vibe. Towering, modern floral arrangements anchor the reception area, which leads to a dramatic, two-story atrium lounge that’s home to the casual, eclectic Fireside restaurant and bar. The updated, earthtoned guest rooms have a contemporary simplicity as well as plush bedding and tasteful furnishings. The “Omni Sensational Kids” programs features goodies like games, books, and a list of family attractions. Pros: location in the heart of a see-it-all New York; 17th-floor fitness center overlooks St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Cons: no free morning coffee; paid Internet. TripAdvisor: “roomy for New York standards,” “top notch,” “lovely rooms, great service.” | 21 E. 52nd St., between 5th and Madison Aves., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/753–5800 or 800/843–6664 | www.omnihotels.com | 396 rooms | In-room: a/c, safe, Internet, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, laundry facilities, laundry service, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: E, M to 5th Ave. .

Fodor’s Choice | The Peninsula.

$$$$ | Stepping through the Peninsula’s Beaux-Arts facade onto the grand staircase overhung with a monumental chandelier, you know you’re in for a glitzy treat. Service here is world-class and personalized: expect to be referred to by name as you make your way through the hotel. Recently renovated rooms have the latest touches in luxury comfort. The views are stunning: see the northward sweep up 5th Avenue to Central Park past church steeples, or look east toward the beautiful St. Regis across the street. The excellent high-tech amenities include a bedside console that controls the lighting, sound, and thermostat for the room as well as a TV mounted over the tub for bath-time viewing (in all but standard rooms). The rooftop Peninsula Spa, with indoor pool, is monumental. The Salon de Ning, a rooftop bar bedecked with Chinese-style daybeds, has dazzling views of Midtown. Pros: brilliant service; fabulous rooms, with the best lighting of all city hotels (good angles, easy to use); unforgettable rooftop bar. Cons: expensive. TripAdvisor: “impeccable service,” “spacious rooms,” “excellent location.”| 700 5th Ave., at 55th St., Midtown East | 10019 | 212/956–2888 or 800/262–9467 | www.peninsula.com | 185 rooms, 54 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator, Internet, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bars, pool, gym, spa, laundry service, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: E, M to 5th Ave.

Pod Hotel.

¢ | This is the hotel that made bunk beds cool again—and now they’re everywhere; by offering spotless stainless-steel bunks with pullout flat-screen TVs, the Pod makes tiny, tiny rooms tolerable. If you can handle cramped quarters, this is one of the best deals in Midtown (and it seems spacious compared with the Jane). About half the rooms come with standard queen beds and private bath. The rooms, starting at a meager 100 square feet, borrow space-saving ideas from mass transit, with sink consoles like those in an airplane restroom and built-in shelves tucked under the beds. In return for the lack of space you get a convenient location and modern amenities like in-room iPod docking stations and free Wi-Fi. The common areas are cheerful and modern, with an outdoor bar-café and a stylish roof deck. Don’t expect luxe linens or fab toiletries. Do expect to book well in advance, as budget-minded hipsters and stylish thrifty folk of all ages keep this hotel hopping. Pros: an inexpensive and fun way to save money. Cons: many will hate the small rooms; some shared bathrooms. TripAdvisor: “friendly and helpful staff,” “small rooms,” “roof terrace.” | 230 E. 51st St., between 2nd and 3rd Aves., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/355–0300 or 800/874– 0074 | www.thepodhotel.com | 347 rooms, 195 with bath | In-room: a/c, Wi-Fi | AE, DC, MC, V | Subway: 6 to 51st St./Lexington Ave.; E, M to Lexington–3rd Aves./53rd St.

Roger Smith.

$ | This quirky choice is one of the better budget buys in the city. The art-filled rooms, matched by the murals in the lobby, are homey and comfortable, with down pillows and quilts on the beds. Some have stocked bookshelves and fireplaces. Suites have kitchenettes. Bathrooms are small, but do have tubs. An eclectic mix of room service is provided by five local restaurants, and guests have access to the nearby New York Sports Club ($15 fee). Rates can drop by as much as $75 per night in winter and summer, so ask when booking. Pros: good location near Grand Central; intimate atmosphere; free Wi-Fi. Cons: street noise; small bathrooms. TripAdvisor: “pleasant and helpful staff,” “warmly recommended,” “not far from Grand Central.” | 501 Lexington Ave., between E. 47th and E. 48th Sts., Midtown East | 10017 | 212/755–1400 or 800/445–0277 | www.rogersmith.com | 102 rooms, 28 suites | In-room: a/c, kitchen (some), refrigerator, Internet, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, laundry service, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 6 to 51st St./Lexington Ave.; E, M to Lexington–3rd Aves./53rd St.

Roosevelt Hotel.

$ | Named after Teddy, not Franklin, this Midtown icon steps from Grand Central has plenty of elbow room for stretching out. An ornate lobby with cushy couches and an old-school bar with heavy wood detailing makes the Roosevelt feel like it’s from another time, and it should—the property dates from 1924. Happily, the amenities don’t hark back to that era, though rooms are a little tired: the carpeting shows some wear, the art on the walls is chaingeneric, and the bedding is blah. However, the beds do have pillow-top mattresses, and the bathrooms are nice and big. The rooftop lounge, mad46, serves themed cocktails that include a “Teddy-tini.” Pros: great public areas; big bathrooms. Cons: dated decor; limited in-room amenities. TripAdvisor: “amazing location,” “wellmaintained and clean rooms,” “good value.” | 45 E. 45th St., at Madison Ave., Midtown East | 10017 | 888/833– 3969 | www.theroosevelthotel.com | 1,015 rooms, 24 suites | In-room: a/c, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, gym, parking (paid) | AE, MC, V | Subway: 4, 5, 6 to Grand Central/42nd St.

The Setai Fifth Avenue.

$$$ | Setting new standards of luxury on lower 5th, the

towering, limestone-clad Setai has been conceived as an opulent crash pad for wealthy overseas tourists, captains of industry on long-term stays, and anyone in need of some serious pampering. Every detail has been attended to, beginning with an intimate lobby appointed in muted beige tones, onyx, leather, and glass, where you’ll be greeted by your personal assistant (no old-school concierges here), who will attend to your every whim and desire. Rooms, which measure an average of 700 square feet, feature touches like walnut panel trim, giant hardwood closets, cushy Duxiana beds clad in Pratesi linens, and huge bathrooms with expansive rain showers and soaking tubs. The 54 “apartment suites” have living rooms, Miele appliances, and distinctive art on the walls. For sheer indulgence there’s the expansive, winding, 12,000-square- foot Auriga spa, which feels like its own neighborhood. There’s an ice room, a Turkish-style hammam, individual waiting areas for treatment rooms, and treatments tailored to the lunar cycle. White-hot Italian chef Michael White is behind the stove at Ai Fiori, the Setai’s Mediterraneantheme restaurant, and the Bar on 5th has quickly become a favorite after-work and late-night destination for sophisticated cocktails and live jazz. Pros: attentive service; gorgeous spa; great location. Cons: street noise reported by guests on lower floors. TripAdvisor: “top notch,” “treated us like royalty,” “very satisfied.” | 4005th Ave. between 36th and 37th Sts., Midtown East | 10018 | 212/695–4005 | www.setaififthavenue.com | 157 rooms, 57 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, kitchen, refrigerator (some), Internet, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, spa, laundry service, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: B, D, F, V to 34th St./Penn Station.

Fodor’s Choice | The St. Regis.

$$$$ | World-class from head to toe, the St. Regis comes as close to flawless as any hotel in New York. Even without the hive of activity in its unparalleled public spaces, this 5th Avenue Beaux-Arts landmark would rank near the top of any best-of list. You can dine in two dining rooms— including an Alain Ducasse restaurant, Adour—as well as the legendary King Cole Bar, a dimly lighted institution with famously playful Maxfield Parrish murals. In the rooms, easy-to-use bedside consoles (developed by an in-house R&D team) control lighting, audio, and climate; the huge flat-screen TVs rise via remote control from the foot of your bed. Each floor is serviced by its own butler, a touch no other hotel here can match. Rooms have high ceilings, crystal chandeliers, silk wall coverings, and Louis XVI antiques—though even at these prices, you’re not guaranteed a stellar view or a separate tub in the more basic rooms. Still, if you require the best, the St. Regis delivers. Three “designer suites” outfitted in style by Bottega Veneta, Dior, and Tiffany have recently been renovated. Pros: rooms combine true luxury with helpful technology; easy-access butler service; superb in-house dining; prestigious location. Cons: expensive; too serious for families seeking fun. TripAdvisor: “delicious room service,” “lovely afternoon tea,” “turndown service.” | 2 E. 55th St., at 5th Ave., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/753– 4500 or 877/787–3447 | www.stregis.com | 164 rooms, 65 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator, DVD, Internet. Inhotel: restaurant, room service, gym, laundry service, parking (paid) | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: E, M to 5th Ave.

Sherry-Netherland.

$$$ | With an iconic sidewalk clock on the southeast corner of Central Park and a captivating finial spire atop its slender form, the Sherry is a stately part of the New York landscape. So it may come as a surprise to learn that it’s essentially a tall, luxurious apartment building. The 50 guest rooms on offer come decorated in the fashion of their individual owners, but the standards are kept very high throughout. With a marble-lined lobby, crystal chandeliers, and wall friezes from the Vanderbilt mansion, its historic glamour is undeniable. The luxurious suites—reached via elevator operated by a white-gloved attendant—have separate living and dining areas. Many have decorative fireplaces, antiques, and glorious marble baths. You can use the private hotel entrance to have a complimentary breakfast at Harry Cipriani’s. (You might even stay for lunch for some of the best people-watching in town.) Pros: gorgeous lobby; commanding, impeccable location; Cipriani access. Cons: small check-in area; rooms vary in taste and decor; nonsuites are on the small side; interior rooms lack views. TripAdvisor: “elegant and personal,” “amazing views,” “gorgeous rooms.” | 781 5th Ave., at E. 59th St., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/355–2800 or 800/247–4377 | www.sherrynetherland.com | 30 rooms, 20 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator, Internet. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, laundry service, parking (paid) | AE, D, DC, MC, V | CP | Subway: N, R, Q to 5th Ave.

Waldorf=Astoria.

$$$ | The lobby of this landmark 1931 Art Deco masterpiece, full of murals, mosaics, and elaborate plaster ornamentation, features a grand piano once owned by Cole Porter and still played daily. Standard rooms top out at a cozy 250 square feet, with marble bathrooms and wood headboards to balance the extensive floral patterns. Downstairs, the Bull and Bear Bar is a 1940s throwback

complete with miniature soda bottles and no-nonsense barkeeps. The pricier and more luxurious Waldorf Towers (the 28th floor and above) has a separate entrance and management. The Waldorf is famous for its former residents; besides Porter, these have included Herbert Hoover and Nikola Tesla. Presidents usually stay here thanks to the security of the drive-in entrance. The new Guerlain spa is an impressive and much-needed addition. Pros: historic Art Deco building filled with N.Y.C.’s aristocratic, gangster, and jazz histories; best Waldorf salad in town; knowledgeable doormen. Cons: rooms not up to date; more about the name than the experience. TripAdvisor: “high price for Internet access,” “gorgeous lobby,” “centrally located.” | 301 Park Ave., between E. 49th and E. 50th Sts., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/355–3000 or 800/925–3673 | www.waldorfastoria.com | 1,176 rooms, 276 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, Internet. In-hotel: 3 restaurants, room service, bars, gym, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 6 to 51st St./Lexington Ave.; E, M to Lexington–3rd Aves./53rd St.

W Hotel New York.

$ | This was the first of the W hotels to open in New York, and after a decade rooms got a much-needed overhaul in 2008. Window boxes filled with grass, bowls heaped with green apples, flowing curtains, and vast floor-to-ceiling windows that pour sunlight into the airy lobby all conjure up a calming outdoor feeling here—quite a trick, considering a hopping bar and a sunken lounge flank the reception area. The rooms hew to the classic W formula: they’re small and they look good—especially thanks to the overhaul, which added LED lights around the windows and beds, wooden desks topped with swiveling panes of glass, and amethyst wall coverings in the bathroom. Of course a party-hearty clientele also means you’re likely to hear your neighbors partying heartily through the night. Downstairs, Heartbeat Restaurant serves heart-healthy foods; the attached Whiskey Blue draws a young, hip, and moneyed crowd; and the Bliss Spa flagship draws legions of beauty devotees. Pros: central location; great-looking rooms. Cons: thin walls; inconsistent service. TripAdvisor: “lovely and stylish,” “small bathroom,” “superb bar.” | 541 Lexington Ave., between E. 49th and E. 50th Sts., Midtown East | 10022 | 212/755–1200 or 877/946–8357 | www.whotels.com | 629 rooms, 62 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, DVD, Internet. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, spa, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 6 to 51st St./Lexington Ave.; E, M to Lexington–3rd Aves./53rd St.

UPPER EAST SIDE

The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel.

$$$$ | On the well-heeled corner of Madison Avenue and 75th Street, this hotel’s fusion of venerable elegance and Manhattan swank is like entering a Chanel boutique: walk in chin high, wallet out, and ready to be impressed. As you might expect, everything about this Upper East Side landmark suggests cultivated refinement: rooms decorated with fine antique furniture, vast Central Park views, whitegloved operators working the elevators 24 hours a day. It’s all overwhelmingly grand—almost to the point of diminishing comfort. The range of the hotel’s dining and entertainment options impresses: cabaret luminaries take turns holding court at the Café Carlyle (Woody Allen still performs every Monday). And Bemelmans Bar, with its fanciful murals and fancy drinks, is one of the greatest oldschool cocktail spots in New York. The polished black slots behind the reception desk, once used to hold room keys, serve as a fashionable reminder of the hotel’s storied history as host to presidents and celebrities. For pampering, the in-hotel Sense Spa and Yves Durif salon can buff, polish, and frost your every extremity. Pros: perhaps N.Y.C.’s best Central Park views; refined service; delightful array of dining and bar options. Cons: removed from tourist Manhattan; stuffy vibe may not work for families. TripAdvisor: “classic style,” “rooms are spacious,” “expensive but worth it.” | 35 E. 76th St., between Madison and Park Aves., Upper East Side | 10021 | 212/744–1600 | www.thecarlyle.com | 122 rooms, 57 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, refrigerator, DVD, Internet. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, spa, laundry service, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, DC, MC, V | Subway: 6 to 77th St.

The Franklin.

$ | The Franklin is the best luxury boutique hotel north of 57th Street. And it’s way north of 57th Street in spirit, in the residential area of the Upper East Side, where there’s hardly another hotel to be seen. Though quite small, rooms are well appointed with name-brand knickknacks, including Bulgari toiletries, iHome stations, free wireless, and Frette linens. The lobby of this nine-story town house feels comfortable and lived-in, with newspapers laid out on comfortable couches and a free 24-hour cappuccino machine behind it. The generous complimentary breakfast uses a local bakery for all goods, and the hotel hosts a wine-and-cheese reception on weekday evenings. You can meet (sweaty) locals using a comp pass to New York Sports Club. Pros: neighborhood-y location; free Wi-Fi. Cons: far from many N.Y.C. tourist sights except Museum

Mile; small rooms. TripAdvisor: “great beds,” “lovely boutique hotel,” “wonderful breakfast.” | 164 E. 87th St., between Lexington and 3rd Aves., Upper East Side | 10128 | 212/369–1000 or 877/847–4444 | www.franklinhotel.com | 50 rooms | In-room: a/c, safe, WiFi. In-hotel: room service, bar, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | CP | Subway: 4, 5, 6 to 86th St.

Hôtel Plaza Athénée.

$$$$ | It’s easy to be seduced by this luxurious hotel, positioned unobtrusively by Central Park on the Upper East Side, and it’s even more of a draw now that the rooms have undergone a renovation that includes refined decor in muted tones and enlarged bathrooms—some tricked out in marble with soaking tubs. There are also two massive 2,000-square-foot presidential suites and a glam spa with four treatment rooms that opened in May 2010. Service is stellar, with a personal sit-down check-in to the side of the lobby, and extravagant room service. The hotel may seem stuffy to younger visitors. To others, touches like the lobby tapestries depicting forest scenes will be a welcome oldschool luxury. The Bar Seine is a dark and secretive hideaway, one of the best bars in the city, and surely the only one with a floor made of leather. Arabelle is a muchtouted, if not particularly well-loved restaurant in need of a menu face-lift or celeb-chef infusion. Pros: discerning service; exotic bar. Cons: nonstandarized rooms hit-or- miss. TripAdvisor: “cozy, intimate,” “terrific peoplewatching,” “fantastic choice.” | 37 E. 64th St., at Madison Ave., Upper East Side | 10021 | 212/734–9100 or 800/447–8800 | www.plaza-athenee.com | 115 rooms, 35 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, kitchen (some), refrigerator, Internet. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, laundry service, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 6 to 68th St./Hunter College.

Hotel Wales.

$$ | The hotel underwent a spiffy renovation of its public spas and standard rooms at the end of 2009. A complimentary European-style breakfast is served in the parlor, and on a nice day you can head up to the rooftop terrace to have it there. Standard guest rooms are small, but they do have fine oak woodwork, and all come with CD players. Most of the suites face Madison Avenue. The lovely Sarabeth’s Restaurant, a local favorite for brunch, is in the hotel, as is Paola’s, known for one of the best pesto pastas in town. Pros: on-site fitness facilities; great neighborhood feel, roof garden. Cons: the best rooms, with views of Central Park, haven’t been renovated. TripAdvisor: “wonderful rooftop terrace,” “tastefully decorated rooms,” “noisy air conditioning unit.” | 1295 Madison Ave., between E. 92nd and E. 93rd Sts., Upper East Side | 10128 | 212/876–6000 or 877/847–4444 | www.waleshotel.com | 46 rooms, 42 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, kitchen (some), refrigerator (some), DVD (some), Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, laundry service, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | CP | Subway: 4, 5, 6 to 86th St.

The Lowell.

$$$ | This old-money refuge was built as an upscale apartment hotel in the 1920s, and still delivers genteel sophistication and pampering service in an unbeatable location. Steps away from Madison Avenue shopping and the Museum Mile, the Lowell is on a leafy residential block. The lobby is small and cramped, but guest rooms have all the civilized comforts of home, including stocked bookshelves, luxe bathrooms, and even umbrellas. Thirtythree of the suites, all decorated in different themes such as the Hollywood Suite and the Garden Suite, have working fireplaces, and 11 have private terraces, the better for spying on posh neighboring abodes. Most of the nonsuite rooms have been redecorated in a more modern, streamlined style, with less chintz and no patterns. The Pembroke Room serves a fine afternoon tea, and the Post House serves some of the best steaks in town. The in-room iPods (on request) and NewYork Times delivered to the room are particularly nice touches. Pros: great location; service with a personal touch; charming decor. Cons: unimpressive, cramped lobby; some rooms need updating. TripAdvisor: “service is wonderful,” “understated luxury,” “class and service.” | 28 E. 63rd St., between Madison and Park Aves., Upper East Side | 10065 | 212/838–1400 or 800/221–4444 | www.lowellhotel.com | 23 rooms, 47 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, kitchen, refrigerator, DVD, Internet. Inhotel: 2 restaurants, room service, bar, gym, laundry service, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: 4, 5, 6, N, R to 59th St./Lexington Ave.; F to 63rd St./Lexington Ave.

Fodor’s Choice | The Mark.

$$$$ | If you took every Upper East Side fantasy and condensed it into a modern hotel, you’d come up with The Mark, the perfect representation of uptown panache infused with a healthy dose of downtown chic. Almost immediately after undergoing an extensive renovation and reopening in 2009, the hotel began giving the neighborhood’s top properties a run for their money (and money you will need— The Mark is very, very pricey). The hotel sparkles from top to bottom, from the striped marble floors and modernist furnishings in the lobby to the cow-print upholstery in the