Waldorf-Astoria

Description
First built in 1893, the original Waldorf-Astoria was the city’s largest hotel before it was demolished to make way for the Empire State Building. The current Art Deco Waldorf opened in 1931 and now has protected status as a historic hotel—past guests include Princess Grace, Sophia Loren and a long list of U.S. presidents. The rooms, with wingback chairs, love seats, rich colors and layered fabrics, feel as if they were decorated by Upper East Side socialites of yore. Those socialites would feel right at home at the exclusive new Louis Vuitton-owned Guerlain Spa. Double-check your attire before entering the hotel —you won’t be allowed in if you’re wearing a baseball cap and ripped jeans. Rooms: 1,400. Credit AmEx, DC, Disc, MC, V.