A quintessential travel guide to The City That Never Sleeps.
Gotham, Big Apple, The Big City...There's a vast array of nicknames to call New York, but the one that truly sticks is "The City That Never Sleeps". With so much to see, eat and experience in the capital of the Empire State (and unofficially, America), having 24 hours a day is not nearly enough — you'll want to spend them at insider spots and forgo the tourist traps.
From quirky museums to the latest dining hotspots, we're showing you the quintessential points-of-interest to make the most of your holiday — from uptown to downtown, in Manhattan and beyond.
Where to Stay
Paris has the Ritz, London has The Savoy, and in New York City, there's only one grand dame worth mentioning: The Plaza Hotel. This iconic institution will be celebrating its 110th birthday this year, and has remained relevant as ever: it was the setting for Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, a pivotal romantic scene in Gossip Girl, and the most climactic moment in The Great Gatsby took place at one of its suites. That's barely scratching the surface of the hotel's influence on pop culture — ever heard of Eloise?
It will be hard to refrain yourself from gawking at the grandeur of this historic hotel. After a US $400 million renovation completed in 2008, the hotel has retained its old world charm, now incorporated with a modern take on luxury. Guests are greeted by large Baccarat chandeliers in the hotel lobby, each sporting a red ruby — a signature of the brand. Stepping into the elevators — restored from their 1910s glory — an interesting time capsule from a bygone era. The gold surfaces, grand velvet curtains and perfumed hallways reflect a grand opulence from decades past — a much welcome departure from the minimalist and contemporary aesthetic that has become the norm for hotels these days.
The Plaza Hotel, Fifth Avenue at Central Park South, New York, NY 10019; (212) 759-3000; theplazany.com