Review: Waldorf Astoria New York (Exclusive)

Hotel Website: Waldorf Astoria New York
Location: Google Maps
Book: Check availability
Room Type:
- Waldorf Astoria New York Deluxe King Room – 575 sq. ft., Sitting Room, King Bed
- Waldorf Astoria New York Park Avenue View Premier One Bedroom Suite – 1000 sq. ft., Living Room, Dining Room, Walk-in Dressing Room
- Waldorf Astoria New York Presidential Suite – 3000sqft, Bedroom, Dining room, Full Kitchen, Living room, multiple bathrooms
Review Score: Results of our review
Hotel Fact: The hotel was shut down for 8 years and just reopened in August 2025 after $2 Billion USD in renovations. The Waldorf Astoria New York has a secret, abandoned train platform beneath it called Track 61. It’s connected to the Grand Central Terminal and was originally used to discreetly transport notable guests. One of its most famous uses was by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who would use it to conceal his wheelchair from public view. The track was also the site of a party thrown by Andy Warhol in 1965, and it was used to bring elephants into the hotel for a circus-themed ball. Also, John Jacob Astor IV, built the St. Regis New York as a sister property to his part-owned Waldorf-Astoria. John Jacob Astor IV co-owned the Waldorf-Astoria and decided to create the St. Regis to offer a more elegant and luxurious experience in a different part of Manhattan.

Other Local Luxury Resorts & Things to Do:

Our Highlights

A Grand Reopening: I witnessed firsthand the breathtaking outcome of a colossal $2 billion, eight-year renovation, marking the glorious return of this iconic New York City landmark to its rightful place at the pinnacle of luxury hospitality.
Immersive Luxury & History: From the very moment of arrival, I was enveloped in a seamless fusion of the hotel’s storied past and a meticulously crafted modern opulence, creating an experience that truly transcends time.
Spacious & Thoughtfully Designed Rooms: My exploration of the hotel’s accommodations, from the sumptuously appointed baseline King Deluxe to the expansive Junior and Presidential Suites, revealed an unparalleled attention to detail and design, ensuring every guest enjoys a truly palatial stay.
Exceptional Culinary Offerings: I savored the vibrant ambiance and exquisite menus at the legendary Peacock Alley, the sophisticated Lex Yard, and the intriguing newly introduced Japanese dining concept, Yoshoku, each offering a distinct and memorable fine dining in Midtown Manhattan experience.

Things to Know

Before immersing yourself in the unparalleled luxury of the Waldorf Astoria New York, here are a few key details to enhance your luxury hotel NYC experience and planning, ensuring a smooth and memorable visit:

The Grand Renovation: This isn’t just a facelift; the hotel underwent a massive $2 billion, eight-year renovation, meticulously restoring its historic grandeur while infusing it with contemporary luxury. It officially reopened in July 2025, offering a truly brand-new experience within its iconic, historically preserved shell. This extensive project means guests can expect state-of-the-art facilities blended seamlessly with cherished Art Deco elements.
Room Transformation: The property has been ingeniously reconfigured, now featuring 375 exquisitely designed hotel rooms and suites, alongside 372 private residences. This significant conversion from its original 1,400 rooms translates directly into more spacious and profoundly luxurious accommodations, each designed to feel like a private urban sanctuary.
Spacious Starting Point: Even the baseline King Deluxe rooms are incredibly generous, starting at a minimum of 570 square feet. This expansive size offers a true sense of Manhattan luxury accommodation, providing ample space for relaxation and comfort, a rare find in the heart of the city.
Booking Your Visit: The Waldorf Astoria New York officially began accepting reservations for stays starting July 15, 2025. For larger groups and event bookings, arrangements commenced September 1, 2025. It’s advisable to book well in advance, especially for peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates in this highly anticipated NYC luxury hotel.
Hilton Honors Redemption: For loyal Hilton Honors members, the opportunity to use points for a stay is available. Award nights are expected to start around 150,000 points per night, a worthy investment for such a prestigious property.
Check-in & Check-out: Standard check-in time is from 4:00 PM, allowing ample time for the meticulous preparation of your opulent room. Check-out is by 12:00 PM, providing a leisurely morning before your departure.
Wellness Facilities: While some highly anticipated wellness amenities, such as the expansive 20,000-square-foot Guerlain Wellness Spa, are set to debut later this year, the hotel’s state-of-the-art Fitness Center is currently open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. This comprehensive facility features top-tier equipment, including Peloton bikes, treadmills, elliptical machines, and free weights, allowing guests to maintain their personal wellness routines with ease while enjoying luxury fitness in New York.
Convenient Access: The hotel boasts truly exceptional accessibility. Guests can arrive via a discreet porte-cochère on 49th Street—notably, the only one of its kind for a hotel in Manhattan, offering an exclusive and convenient drop-off point. Additionally, multiple grand entrances on Park Avenue and Lexington Avenue, between 49th and 50th Streets, ensure seamless and glamorous arrival and departure for all guests exploring historic hotels New York.

Amenities

☕ Coffee shop
📞 Direct dial telephone
🧺 Ironing board
🏃‍♂️ Jogging track
⏰ Late check-out available
🏢 Meeting facilities
🗓️ Meeting rooms
🐾 Pets allowed
🔊 Public address system
🚪 Room only
🧰 Safe deposit box
🅿️ Secured parking
🔌 Telephone jack adaptor available
🛏️ Turndown service

The Luxe Atlas Rating

Design: 10/10
Vibe: 10/10
Romantic: 10/10
Air Conditioning: 10/10
Room: 10/10
Food: 10/10
Location: 10/10
Gym/Fitness: 10/10
Cleanliness: 10/10
Wow Factor: 10/10
Overall Experience: 10/10

An Icon Reborn – My First Glimpse of the Remodeled Waldorf Astoria New York

The Waldorf Astoria New York: a name that doesn’t just represent a hotel, but evokes a century of grandeur, interwoven into the very fabric of New York City’s luxury hospitality. For so many globally, this isn’t merely a place to stay; it’s the destination, a revered custodian of countless cherished memories and historical moments. Its legacy runs incredibly deep, as the original Waldorf Astoria once proudly stood on the very ground where the towering Empire State Building now pierces the sky, before relocating to its current, magnificent home—a monumental structure that impressively commands an entire city block at Park Avenue, nestled between 49th and 50th Streets.

Having been closed for eight transformative years, this venerable institution recently completed an astonishing $2 billion renovation. This colossal undertaking has culminated in a reopening that has generated immense buzz, drawing in discerning travelers and enthusiasts alike who seek renovated hotels NYC and an exclusive peek into Manhattan’s newest luxury experiences. Just weeks after its highly anticipated soft opening, I was incredibly fortunate to gain a firsthand glimpse into this truly unique property and its unparalleled upgrades. The meticulous work that has gone into its revitalization ensures that even after such a significant remodel, the hotel astonishingly retains all of its original, landmark components. These elements have been lovingly and painstakingly preserved, maintaining its status as a cherished historical landmark. Stepping inside, you’re immediately transported back to a bygone era of Art Deco elegance, yet bathed in a brilliance and modernity that makes it feel entirely new, a masterful blend of past and present.

Arrival & Grand First Impressions: Stepping into Timeless Elegance at This Historic New York Hotel

One of the most remarkable and thoughtfully designed aspects of the Waldorf Astoria New York is its unparalleled accessibility. Whether you’re arriving via a convenient Uber, a classic New York taxi, or utilizing the hotel’s valet service, multiple grand entrances on 49th Street, 50th Street, Madison Avenue, and Lexington Avenue seamlessly guide you into the opulent heart of this gorgeous Midtown Manhattan hotel. Each entry point feels intentionally curated, designed to impress, but the valet entrance on 49th Street offers a particularly magical and exclusive arrival experience when by car. As your vehicle pulls up, your gaze is immediately drawn upwards to a truly unique ceiling and intricate architectural details that command attention, all adorned with gleaming gold accents where the Waldorf Astoria New York name is elegantly and deeply engraved. It’s a subtle yet undeniably powerful reminder that you are not just entering a hotel, but a place steeped in profound history and an enduring legacy of Art Deco luxury.

Upon stepping into the main lobby, you are immediately enveloped in a distinct and sophisticated atmosphere. A vibrant, welcoming energy gracefully flows from the grand entrance into the famous Peacock Alley lobby bar area, a space that truly embodies the hotel’s spirit. Every single detail, from the breathtaking, original architecture that soars above to the thoughtfully curated decor meticulously placed on every shelf and surface, speaks volumes about the painstaking planning and visionary execution behind this hotel’s grand revival. The centerpiece floral arrangement, a true work of art that is meticulously changed weekly, is an absolute masterpiece, truly breathtaking in its scale and beauty, adding a fresh, organic touch to the opulent surroundings. As I transitioned from the seamless check-in area into the lively Peacock Alley, I couldn’t help but notice the hotel employees. Each was impeccably dressed in their specially dedicated and fastidiously curated uniforms, perfectly suited for both day and evening attire. Their polished appearance and attentive demeanor truly embody the essence of NYC luxury service, making every guest feel genuinely welcomed and cared for from the moment they arrive.

Culinary Delights

Dining at the Waldorf Astoria was an experience in itself. I had the pleasure of trying Lex Yard, Chef Michael Anthony’s brasserie, which offered an elevated take on American cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere. The quality of ingredients and the inventive dishes were truly impressive. A visit to Peacock Alley was a must, and it lived up to its legendary reputation as a quintessential New York gathering spot. Enjoying a classic cocktail amidst the elegant surroundings, with the historic Waldorf Astoria Clock as a backdrop, was an unforgettable moment of people-watching and refined indulgence. While I didn’t get to experience Yoshoku, the intimate Japanese kaiseki restaurant, the reviews I heard were glowing, promising an exceptional culinary journey.

The Journey: Unveiling the Waldorf Astoria’s Exquisite Dining Scene

The culinary offerings at the revitalized Waldorf Astoria New York are not merely dining options; they are a destination in themselves, embodying the very pinnacle of fine dining in Midtown Manhattan, each with its own distinct character and allure.

Peacock Alley

Nestled directly within the grand, bustling lobby, Peacock Alley is far more than just a bar; it is, quite literally, a New York institution, serving as the vibrant, social heart of the entire hotel. Here, beneath the soaring ceilings, you’ll find the beautiful, iconic clock, a timeless centerpiece of Waldorf Astoria history and a beloved meeting point for generations. Further enhancing the sophisticated ambiance is a stunning piano, once belonging to one of the hotel’s original and most famous residents, the legendary Cole Porter.

Today, its keys are brought to life by a talented resident pianist, filling the grand space with enchanting melodies. The bar and lounge seating areas boast absolutely amazing, bespoke furniture—each piece both incredibly comfortable and gleaming with newness, inviting guests to linger, unwind, and soak in the rich, vibrant ambiance of this truly iconic NYC hotel bar. It’s the perfect spot for an elegant breakfast, a sophisticated afternoon tea, or a perfectly crafted evening cocktail.

Breakfast: Daily, 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM. Start your day with refined American classics.
All-Day Menu: Daily, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM. A curated selection of light bites and sophisticated dishes perfect for any time.
Bar Service: Daily, 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM. Enjoy creative cocktails and an extensive wine list late into the evening.

Lex Yard

Making your way to the Lexington Avenue side of the hotel, you’ll discover Lex Yard, a new and exciting brasserie establishment helmed by the acclaimed James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Anthony. This restaurant masterfully marries the vibrant energy of New York with an elevated take on American cuisine, all set within a beautifully designed dining room that pays homage to the hotel’s rich Art Deco heritage with striking fluted columns and elegant parquet floors. The aesthetic, described as a “cool diner theme” with a sophisticated twist, provides a beautiful and inviting entrance not only to the restaurant itself but also seamlessly connects to the Waldorf Astoria’s famed ballroom side, making it ideal for pre-event gatherings. I wholeheartedly recommend dedicating some time to Lex Yard, perhaps starting your evening with a perfectly mixed cocktail and a delectable dinner, serving as the perfect prelude to an unforgettable night out in New York City.

Breakfast: Daily, 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM. A sophisticated start to your day with classic and contemporary breakfast options.
Lunch: Monday – Friday, 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM. Ideal for a business lunch or a relaxed midday meal.
Dinner: Sunday – Thursday, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Friday – Saturday, 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Experience Chef Anthony’s innovative American brasserie cuisine.
Bar Service: Daily, 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM. A lively spot for cocktails, wines, and spirits throughout the day and into the night.

Yoshoku

Adjacent to the Madison Avenue entrance, I discovered a beautifully appointed new lounge area, positioned externally to the hotel’s newest and highly anticipated Japanese restaurant, Yoshoku. This unique Japanese dining experience in NYC offers a refined Kaiseki-focused menu, allowing guests to embark on a meticulously crafted six-course tasting journey or select from an exquisite à la carte menu that promises purity and precision in every dish.

Whether you choose to be seated within the restaurant’s intimate confines or prefer the inviting ambiance of the adjacent lobby lounge, you’ll be warmly greeted by attentive staff ready to offer a refreshing cocktail, a fine beverage, or a selection of delectable bites. This flexibility makes Yoshoku and its accompanying lounge an ideal spot for both intimate dining experiences and relaxed gatherings, serving as a perfect interlude between events at this premier New York hotel.

Drink Service: Tuesday – Saturday, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM. Pre-dinner drinks in a sophisticated setting.
Dinner: Tuesday – Saturday, 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM. An exclusive Kaiseki-style culinary journey or à la carte selections.

In-Room Dining

As the very place where the concept of room service was famously invented, the Waldorf Astoria proudly continues its enduring legacy of culinary excellence with exceptional 24-hour in-residence dining. This unparalleled service ensures that gourmet culinary delights and refreshing beverages are delivered directly to your door, offering an authentic and convenient luxury hotel dining experience at any hour.

Luxurious Accommodations: A Glimpse into Manhattan’s Finest Suites at the Waldorf Astoria

Currently, just under 200 of the hotel’s reimagined rooms and suites are completed and available for rent, with hundreds more slated to be unveiled in the coming months. However, even with this initial soft opening, the quality and design of the available accommodations are truly magical, setting a new benchmark for luxury hotels in New York City.

Walking down the hallway from the elevators, an immediate sense of artistry envelops you. The doorways to every room are not just functional; they are aesthetically pleasing, adorned with carefully chosen natural colors and deep blues that perfectly match the Waldorf Astoria’s signature theme and iconic logo. This thoughtful color palette creates a serene and inviting atmosphere even before you step inside your room. As you glide through these hushed and elegant hallways, each room door is crowned with a stunning, ancient-style gold door handle, a small yet incredibly impactful detail that speaks volumes about the hotel’s unwavering commitment to timeless luxury design and historical authenticity.

The King Bedroom Deluxe: Baseline Beauty Redefined

Our tour began with the King Bedroom Deluxe, which astonishingly serves as the hotel’s baseline room model, and it was nothing short of absolutely stunning. At a generous 570 square feet, it feels remarkably spacious, evoking the ambiance of a chic luxury apartment in Manhattan rather than a typical hotel room. Upon entry, you are immediately greeted by an inviting foyer, leading seamlessly to a beautifully crafted armoire that thoughtfully houses all your in-room coffee and gourmet snacks. The bedroom itself boasts exquisite furnishings and lovely decor, meticulously chosen to create a serene, sophisticated, and utterly comfortable ambiance. Every room is equipped with a dedicated business desk, allowing you to comfortably complete work or attend to correspondence while enjoying the integrated wall-mounted television. A particularly cool and practical touch is the television’s ability to be elegantly pulled out for easier viewing, then discreetly tucked away when not in use, maintaining the room’s clean and uncluttered aesthetic.

The bathroom in the King Deluxe is a masterpiece of design, showcasing exquisite marble throughout and featuring a convenient, separate powder room before entering the main bathing area. A particularly innovative and luxurious design element is the thoughtfully combined shower and bathtub space. This area features a massive, invigorating rain showerhead positioned above a beautiful, deep soaking bathtub, allowing you to enjoy either experience within one expansive, beautifully tiled space, maximizing both comfort and elegance. Of course, a private, enclosed toilet area, as expected in high-end hotel rooms of this caliber, completes this beautifully functional and undeniably luxurious base model room, emphasizing privacy and comfort.

The Grand Junior Suite: An Expansive Retreat Overlooking Madison Avenue

Stepping into a more expansive Grand Junior Suite, overlooking the bustling and iconic energy of Madison Avenue, was truly breathtaking. This impressive 1000-square-foot suite is a testament to spacious luxury in NYC, offering a distinctly separated built-in living room area, a convenient separate guest bathroom, and a lavish master bedroom complete with its own private master bathroom. The master bathroom is a true haven of relaxation and indulgence, featuring a beautiful, deep soaking tub and a magical, illuminated vanity gracefully positioned beside it, all within an incredibly generous walk-in space. The master bedroom itself is equally impressive, featuring elegant double French doors that create a grand entrance into the living room, and a similarly grand entryway that ushers you into the master bathroom, enhancing the flow and sense of space.

A truly clever and subtle design detail are the suite’s front doors, which are ingeniously built flush into the door seal, almost disappearing into the wall unless you explicitly need to use them. This is a brilliant idea that maintains the suite’s sleek, uninterrupted aesthetic. The decor throughout this suite is, as anticipated, of the highest luxury and design, reflecting sophisticated taste and comfort. The couches were invitingly comfortable, perfect for lounging, and the decorative pillows were exquisitely chosen, adding layers of beauty and textural richness. The unique and meticulous attention to every minute detail, extending even to the carefully selected bathroom decor, is simply mind-blowing, showcasing an unparalleled commitment to guest experience. For the exceptional value they are offering at this entry-level price point for such a magnificent and spacious suite, it is unequivocally worth every single penny for a truly luxury stay in New York City!

The Presidential Suite: Unrivaled Opulence and Grandeur

While not yet open for public rental, we were incredibly privileged to receive an exclusive tour of the Presidential Suite – a truly unparalleled 3000-square-foot living space that unequivocally redefines Manhattan’s most exclusive accommodations. This expansive suite features a massive, elegant sitting room seamlessly connected to the main living area, where the large television is artfully concealed within the side of a beautiful armoire. From this commanding perch, the suite offers breathtaking views over a prime corner of Madison Avenue and 49th Street, providing stunning NYC city views that stretch across the iconic skyline.

Waldorf Astoria Presidential Suite, Living room

This magnificent one-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath presidential suite boasts a full-size living room that can be discreetly separated from another expansive area by a hidden door, ensuring ultimate privacy and ample space for various activities. Beyond the grand living room, you’ll discover an impressive 10-person dining room table, perfectly suited for hosting elegant private gatherings or enjoying gourmet meals prepared by the hotel’s culinary team. Connected to this formal dining area is a full, state-of-the-art kitchen, equipped for any culinary endeavor. The hotel even offers the unique and exclusive option of having daily meals meticulously prepped for you, complemented by a dedicated butler ready to cater to all your needs, making it the ultimate private luxury experience in NYC. For the convenience of guests and visitors, a beautifully appointed half-bath is thoughtfully located near the main living spaces.

Walking down the hallway towards the master bedroom, you enter a gorgeous and serene space decorated in more traditional themed furniture, yet still adhering to the Waldorf Astoria’s signature deep blue and crisp white color palette. This creates a sense of profound serenity and classic luxury. Beyond the bedroom, you will find the truly luxurious master bathroom, a sanctuary featuring a beautiful, generously sized soaking tub and a stunning built-in shower. The intricate tile work in the shower is particularly marvelous and stood out as one of our absolute favorite design elements in that opulent room, once again showcasing those beautiful, distinctive Waldorf Astoria colors. This 3000-square-foot room is profoundly unique and overwhelmingly massive, truly one-of-a-kind, and we felt incredibly privileged to be among the very first few people to ever set foot inside and witness its breathtaking grandeur. It undoubtedly solidifies the Waldorf Astoria’s position among the top luxury hotels in the world, offering an experience reserved for the most discerning of travelers.

Additional Amenities: Enhancing Your Waldorf Astoria Experience

Beyond the exquisite rooms and dining, the Waldorf Astoria New York offers a comprehensive suite of amenities meticulously designed to elevate your stay and provide a truly holistic luxury hotel experience.

Guerlain Wellness Spa: Set to debut later this year, the expansive 20,000-square-foot Guerlain Wellness Spa will emerge as a serene sanctuary in the heart of Manhattan. This dedicated oasis will offer a curated selection of therapeutic treatments, restorative bodywork, and world-class skincare services, providing the ultimate escape for those seeking luxury spa treatments in NYC. Expect an environment of tranquility and rejuvenation designed to pamper every sense.
State-of-the-Art Fitness Center: For those committed to their wellness journey, the hotel’s state-of-the-art Fitness Center is currently open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM. It is fully equipped with top-tier exercise machines, including Peloton bikes, treadmills, elliptical machines, and a comprehensive selection of free weights. This allows guests to maintain their rigorous wellness routines with ease and comfort while traveling, ensuring no compromise on their health and fitness goals.
Event Spaces: The hotel boasts an impressive 43,000 square feet of meticulously reimagined event spaces, perfect for any grand occasion. This includes the magnificently restored Grand Ballroom and the elegant Jade Room, both offering unparalleled backdrops for luxury events and weddings in NYC, from corporate galas to dream celebrations.
Modern Conveniences: Guests can enjoy the seamless convenience of modern technology integrated throughout their stay. This includes digital keys, easily accessible via the Hilton Honors app, and advanced smart TVs with comprehensive streaming capabilities in every room, ensuring personalized entertainment options at your fingertips.
Personalized Service: At the heart of the Waldorf Astoria experience is its commitment to personalized service. A dedicated concierge team is always on hand, ready to assist with virtually any request, from securing coveted reservations to arranging bespoke experiences. Their attentiveness ensures a seamless and profoundly personalized stay, anticipating your needs before you even voice them.
Architectural Artistry: As you approach the hotel, take a moment to admire the beautifully restored “Spirit of Achievement” statue by Icelandic artist Nina Saemundsson. This iconic bronze statue has graced the Park Avenue entrance since 1931, serving as a powerful and enduring symbol of the hotel’s historical legacy, ambition, and innovation—a true piece of NYC architectural heritage.
Sensory Journey: Adding another layer to the immersive experience, the hotel’s signature scent, “301 Park Avenue,” is subtly and tastefully integrated throughout the public spaces and residences. This unique fragrance provides a consistent and memorable sensory experience, instantly transporting guests into the Waldorf Astoria’s world of luxury from the very moment they walk through its grand doors.

A Legacy Reimagined – My Unforgettable Experience at the Waldorf Astoria New York

My recent visit to the newly remodeled Waldorf Astoria New York was nothing short of an unforgettable journey into unrivaled luxury and timeless elegance. From its rich, storied past as a global icon to its magnificent $2 billion transformation, this legendary hotel has not only gloriously reclaimed its crown but has also unequivocally redefined the standard for luxury accommodation in New York City. Every single detail, from the breathtaking grand architectural statements that evoke its Art Deco heritage to the subtle, personalized touches that cater to every guest’s desire, reflects an unwavering commitment to excellence that is truly rare in the modern age. Whether you’re drawn by its profound history, its impeccable and intuitive service, its world-class and diverse dining experiences, or its breathtakingly luxurious rooms and suites, a stay at the Waldorf Astoria New York is an immersive experience that transcends the ordinary. It leaves you with memories as golden and enduring as the hotel itself, a true testament to its enduring legacy. It is, without a doubt, a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the pinnacle of Manhattan hotel experiences and a taste of historical grandeur meticulously brought into the 21st century.