The hype
Guests are awestruck by the lobby and location, but many feel the rooms are tired and the service doesn't justify the $1,000+ nightly rate.
The Plaza Hotel
$750-1,200+/ night
Book this if You want to live out your 'Eloise' or 'Home Alone 2' childhood fantasies in the most famous building on Central Park South.
Why People Love It
- Unbeatable location right across from Central Park
- Historic Beaux-Arts architecture that feels like a castle
- Afternoon tea at The Palm Court is a bucket-list tradition
Quick Take: It's a legendary museum piece that you can sleep in, but don't expect modern tech or snappy service to match the exorbitant price tag.
Reviewed by @Worldwide_winston: I took my dog for a stay at The Plaza and we were completely spoiled. The custom pet robes, the insane room service sundae, and the gorgeous Central Park views made it unforgettable. If you want to treat your furry best friend like royalty, this is the place.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You are paying for the address and the history, not for cutting-edge luxury or attentive butler service in standard rooms.
- You are traveling with a dog (exceptionally pet-friendly)
- You want to be steps away from 5th Avenue shopping
- You appreciate old-world, Gilded Age glamour over modern minimalism
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable twice-daily service, though some guests report missed details like dusting.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean, but older fixtures (cracked sinks, worn grout) are occasionally reported.
- Maintenance: Showing its age. Complaints about peeling paint, scuffed floors, and slow drains are not uncommon.
- Linens & towels: High quality, crisp and fresh. Robes are a highlight.
- Odors & scents: Usually fresh, signature floral scent in lobby; some musty smells in older carpeted hallways.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Sirens and traffic from 5th Avenue
- Hallway noise due to heavy doors slamming
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'Urban Experience Fee' is ~$65/night but includes a $50 food/beverage credit and $50 boutique credit—use them!
- Afternoon Tea at The Palm Court requires reservations weeks in advance.
- The main entrance is often swarming with tourists taking photos; use the side entrance for privacy.
What to pack
- Dressy casual clothes (shorts and flip-flops feel out of place in the lobby)
- Earplugs if you book a park-view room
Room Genie
Best picks
- Grand Luxe King (higher floors) for better light and space
- Terrace Room (rare outdoor space in NYC, though often courtyard-facing)
Rooms to avoid
- Plaza Room (entry level) – often small with zero view (brick wall)
- Low-floor rooms facing 58th Street (noisy loading dock area)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor to minimize street noise. If possible, I'd prefer a view that isn't directly facing a brick wall or the interior courtyard.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there really a pool?
No. Despite the famous scene in Home Alone 2, there is no swimming pool at The Plaza.
Does it cost extra to bring a pet?
Surprisingly, no. The Plaza is one of the few luxury hotels with no pet fee, and they accept dogs of all sizes.
Is breakfast included?
Generally no, unless you book a specific 'Bed & Breakfast' package. Expect to pay $50+ per person at The Palm Court.
What is the 'Urban Experience Fee'?
A mandatory daily fee of ~$65 + tax. It includes credits for food and the shop, plus gym access and WiFi.
Can I just walk in to see the lobby?
Security is tight. You usually need a room key or a restaurant reservation to get past the initial foyer.
Is the food hall still there?
Yes, The Plaza Food Hall (concourse level) offers various high-end counter-service options, great for a quick, cheaper meal.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use your $50 daily food credit for room service breakfast if you don't want to deal with the Palm Court crowds.
- ✨
The 'Champagne Bar' has the best view of the Pulitzer Fountain and is often quieter than the Palm Court.
- ✨
There is a 'house car' (often a Maybach) available for drop-offs within 10 blocks, but it's first-come, first-served—ask the doorman early.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'courtyard view' rooms are incredibly dark, even at midday.
💡You might be charged ~$20 just to have a coffee maker brought to your room.
💡The hallways can feel surprisingly dated with worn carpets compared to the lobby.
💡The elevators are small and can be slow during peak check-out times.
💡The 'Eloise' shop is a major tourist draw, meaning the lobby area near it is often chaotic with families.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Plaza Hotel is located and what's nearby.