We stay at an NYC classic
We’ve long been fans of The Peninsula, having previously checked in to many of their Asian properties – Hong Kong, Tokyo, Bangkok and Manila. We’ve never been to one Stateside however, so on a recent trip to New York we were keen to check out their Manhattan hotel – especially as it just had a big refurb in 2024.
Located on Fifth Avenue in a grand Beaux-Arts building dating back to 1905, the exterior is all carved stone, towering windows, and that kind of elegant, imposing architecture that feels very New York. It’s had various lives over the years – including a brief moment as the Gotham Hotel when the building was first completed – but it’s been operating as The Peninsula since 1988.
If you’ve arrived on an early flight, you can request their game-changing “Peninsula Time” perk, which lets you choose your own check-in and check-out time. It’s not strictly guaranteed but we had no issue with our 10am check-in and 4pm check-out the next day. Check-in is smooth, and within minutes we were heading up to our room for a power nap and shower – much needed after all that travelling.
Rooms are smart and spacious, particularly by New York standards. The look is classic Peninsula so will be familiar to you if you’ve been to some of their other hotels – cream tones, plush carpets, dark wood, and marble bathrooms – with plenty of techy extras too. Touchscreen panels control the lights, curtains, and temperature; there’s a built-in TV above the bathtub; and a proper desk setup for those who need to squeeze in some laptop time, which unfortunately we very much did on this particular trip.
There are several room categories but even the most “basic” option feels premium. That said, if you’ve got the budget, you can check out the full suites, some of which have full living rooms, fireplaces, and terraces; one even has a baby grand piano if that’s what you need!
For food and drink, the hotel’s main restaurant Clement serves up seasonal American fare in a low-lit, stylish space that’s particularly great for breakfast. Then there’s the rooftop bar up on the 23rd floor, recently relaunched as Pen Top. Half inside, half out, it’s a great spot for cocktails with some lovely views over Midtown.
Elsewhere there’s a full spa, a well-kitted gym (we didn’t make it there sadly) and even an indoor pool, which is nice for a splash before breakfast but can get busy later in the day. We also very much appreciated the artworks around the hotel, including one from New York’s own Keith Haring in the lobby.
We always think location is about the most important thing when it comes to New York hotels, and The Peninsula has a pretty perfect one. You’re moments from Central Park, MoMA, Rockefeller Center, and all the Fifth Avenue shops to unleash your inner Carrie Bradshaw. But it’s not just the tourist stuff – walk a few blocks and you’ll find excellent coffee shops, independent galleries, and some of the best bagels in town (hello Liberty Bagels).
With great rooms, epic location, and some nice extras like the pool and rooftop bar, The Peninsula is a New York classic for good reason.
Rooms from approx. £670 per night
700 Fifth Avenue at 55th Street, New York
peninsula.com
