
The Plaza Hotel
An iconic NYC landmark offering timeless luxury, legendary service, and a touch of magic, especially during the holidays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Festive decorations glow

The Plaza Hotel
Best Time
Festive decorations glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic NYC landmark offering timeless luxury, legendary service, and a touch of magic, especially during the holidays.
"The most beautiful hotel I have ever stayed at. It is expensive but I feel it was worth every penny."

Lobby Access for All
Non-guests can freely enter the Plaza Hotel lobby and even enjoy a drink at the bar. :champagne_glass:
Book Holiday Tea Early
The Palm Court's festive afternoon tea is incredibly popular; book months in advance for holiday dates. :calendar:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Lobby
Main Lobby
Step into a world of opulence with marble floors, gilded accents, and stunning floral arrangements. A true NYC icon.

Palm Court Afternoon Tea
Palm Court
Indulge in a classic afternoon tea experience with exquisite pastries, sandwiches, and a vast selection of teas.

Home Alone 2 Ice Cream Sundae
Room Service
Relive Kevin McCallister's iconic treat with a colossal ice cream sundae featuring 16 scoops and all the fixings.

Eloise Suite
Eloise Suite
A whimsical pink-themed suite inspired by the beloved children's book character, perfect for a touch of playful luxury.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Holiday Magic (or Avoid the Crowds)
Home Alone 2 Experience: Worth the Splurge?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Lobby Access for All
Non-guests can freely enter the Plaza Hotel lobby and even enjoy a drink at the bar. :champagne_glass:
Book Holiday Tea Early
The Palm Court's festive afternoon tea is incredibly popular; book months in advance for holiday dates. :calendar:
Home Alone Sundae Share
The 'Home Alone' sundae is massive! Consider sharing it with friends to enjoy the experience without overindulging. :ice_cream:
Pet-Friendly Pampering
The Plaza offers a pampered pet package, complete with bowls, a bed, robe, and treats for your furry friend. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Lobby Access for All
Non-guests can freely enter the Plaza Hotel lobby and even enjoy a drink at the bar. :champagne_glass:
Book Holiday Tea Early
The Palm Court's festive afternoon tea is incredibly popular; book months in advance for holiday dates. :calendar:
Home Alone Sundae Share
The 'Home Alone' sundae is massive! Consider sharing it with friends to enjoy the experience without overindulging. :ice_cream:
Pet-Friendly Pampering
The Plaza offers a pampered pet package, complete with bowls, a bed, robe, and treats for your furry friend. :dog:
Capture the Christmas Magic
Visit early in the morning during the holidays for a chance to see the decorations before the crowds arrive. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise The Plaza Hotel for its superb staff, luxurious ambiance, and convenient location. The 'Home Alone 2' experience and afternoon tea at the Palm Court are highlighted as exceptional, though pricey, treats. Some minor critiques mention a lack of in-room amenities like coffee makers and occasional slow service.
"The staff and the hotel are superb! The staff are so helpful. Jose and Erica were the two that stood out to me. We did the Home Alone 2 experience. Wow. It included a 4 hour limo ride to all the hot spots, and our driver Mike was so kind he let us pick where we wanted to go. It came with a hot cheese pizza and a cooler full of Coke a cola and water. Then you get 19 scoops of ice cream with all of the toppings. Served through room service. Also got a teddy bear with a balloon and two turtle dove ornaments like in the movie. They always have real flowers. They told me they change them out every Thursday. The shower has wonderful water pressure. The bed was very comfortable. Our room has a terrace. I really enjoyed being out there listening to the water fountain. There are 2 chaise loungers to sit on. The most beautiful hotel I have ever stayed at. It is expensive but I feel it was worth every penny ."
Jennifer Winthurst
"We had a lovely afternoon enjoying tea at The Palm Court located in The Plaza Hotel. The service was impeccable. One person in our party had some food allergies and the chef came out to talk with her. He made delicious alternative for her. The finger sandwiches, pastries and teas were delicious.It was an exceptionally experience. You must go at least one. Enjoy your visit."
Diane Capezza
"It's a great experience. Hotels in NYC are very much a mixed bag. The Plaza is fantastic and you can't go wrong"
Benjamin Anderson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Plaza Hotel is located at the corner of Fifth Avenue and 59th Street, right by Central Park. You can easily reach it via subway lines N, Q, R, W to the 57th Street-7th Avenue station, or the F train to 57th Street. Many bus routes also stop nearby. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.
Yes, The Plaza Hotel offers valet parking services for guests. However, it is quite expensive, as is typical for hotels in this prime Manhattan location. Consider public transportation or ride-sharing if you are not staying overnight.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Times Square to The Plaza Hotel, approximately 15-20 minutes. You'll stroll down Broadway or 7th Avenue, passing by various attractions. It's a great way to see more of the city.
From JFK Airport, you can take the AirTrain to connect with the subway system (E train to 7th Ave, then transfer to N/Q/R/W to 57th St). Alternatively, a taxi or ride-sharing service will take you directly to The Plaza, though this will be more costly.
While The Plaza is a luxury icon, hotels near Rockefeller Center or in Midtown can offer more budget-friendly options. However, for proximity and the iconic experience, The Plaza is unparalleled. [^SEO keyword: hotels near the rockefeller center]
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need a ticket to visit The Plaza Hotel lobby. It is open to the public, and you can walk in to admire the decor, especially during the festive holiday season.
The Plaza Hotel is a functioning hotel, so its public areas like the lobby and restaurants are generally accessible throughout the day and evening. Specific restaurant hours may vary.
While there aren't official public tours, you can experience parts of the hotel through its dining options, like afternoon tea at the Palm Court, or by booking a stay. The 'Home Alone 2' package also offers a guided limo tour.
There is no entrance fee to enter the public areas of The Plaza Hotel, such as the lobby. You can freely explore and take photos, especially during the holiday season when it's beautifully decorated.
The holiday decorations typically go up in mid-November and stay through early January. For the best experience with fewer crowds, try visiting on a weekday morning shortly after they are unveiled.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The 'Home Alone 2' experience is a special package that includes a 4-hour limo tour of NYC, a hot cheese pizza, a cooler with drinks, and the iconic 16-scoop ice cream sundae. It's a splurge for fans of the movie.
While there isn't a strict formal dress code, smart casual attire is recommended for afternoon tea at The Palm Court. Avoid athletic wear or beach attire.
Yes, The Plaza Hotel is pet-friendly and even offers a 'Pampered Pet Package' that includes a dog bed, bowls, robe, and treats.
The grand lobby, the Palm Court, and the Eloise Suite (if accessible) are fantastic for photos. The hotel's opulent decor, chandeliers, and marble details provide a stunning backdrop.
Yes, The Plaza Hotel features the Guerlain Spa, offering a range of luxurious treatments and services for guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. [^SEO keyword: guerlain spa at the plaza]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Plaza offers several dining experiences, including the iconic Palm Court for afternoon tea, The Plaza Food Hall for casual bites, and The Champagne Bar for drinks. Room service is also available.
Afternoon tea at The Palm Court is a premium experience and can be quite expensive, typically ranging from $75 to $100+ per person, depending on the package and day. It's advisable to check their official website for current pricing.
The 'Home Alone' sundae is a significant indulgence, costing around $350. While many find it a fun, over-the-top experience, especially for fans, others feel it's overpriced for ice cream. It's a novelty item.
Yes, The Palm Court is known for accommodating dietary restrictions. The chef can create delicious alternative options for guests with food allergies, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. [^Review Summary]
The Plaza Food Hall offers a gourmet marketplace with various vendors selling artisanal foods, pastries, sandwiches, and more. It's a great spot for a quick, high-quality meal or snack.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best light and fewer crowds, aim for weekday mornings, especially during the holiday season before the main rush. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots.
Yes, photos are generally allowed in the public areas of The Plaza Hotel, such as the lobby and restaurants. However, be respectful of guests and avoid intrusive photography, especially in private areas.
The grand staircase, the ornate lobby ceiling, the Palm Court's elegant setting, and the exterior facade with Central Park as a backdrop are all highly photogenic. The holiday decorations are also a major draw.
Access to the Eloise Suite is typically for guests staying in it or for specific events. If you're not staying there, you may not be able to take photos inside unless it's part of a special package or tour.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the lobby and details. A prime lens (like a 50mm f/1.8) can be useful for low-light conditions and portraits. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also sufficient for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
✈️ Luxury Travelers
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Plaza Hotel's Iconic Status and History
Originally conceived as a grand hotel for the wealthy, The Plaza has undergone several renovations to maintain its status as a premier destination. Its history is intertwined with the social and cultural fabric of New York City, making a visit feel like stepping back into a golden era. The hotel's commitment to preserving its grandeur while offering modern amenities ensures its enduring appeal.
For many, The Plaza represents the quintessential New York experience. Whether it's the allure of its famous suites, the elegance of its dining rooms, or simply the prestige of its address, the hotel offers a glimpse into a world of refined luxury. Its iconic status is cemented by its continuous presence in popular culture and its role as a cherished landmark.
Experiencing The Plaza During the Holidays
Popular holiday activities include enjoying afternoon tea at the Palm Court, which is often decorated to match the festive theme, and experiencing the 'Home Alone 2' themed ice cream sundae. The hotel's proximity to Fifth Avenue's famous holiday window displays also makes it a central point for festive exploration.
Be prepared for significant crowds during this period. Visiting early in the morning, especially on weekdays, is highly recommended to get the best experience and photos without the throngs of people. Booking any dining reservations or special experiences well in advance is crucial.
The Eloise Experience at The Plaza
The Eloise Suite is a vibrant and charming space, filled with pink decor, playful furnishings, and Eloise-themed amenities. It's a unique offering for families looking for a memorable and enchanting stay. While the suite itself is a premium experience, the spirit of Eloise can be felt throughout the hotel, particularly in its child-friendly approach.
Beyond the suite, the hotel often incorporates Eloise into its holiday decorations and special events, making it a delightful destination for fans of the character. The connection to Eloise adds a layer of nostalgic charm and childlike wonder to The Plaza's already luxurious offerings.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit