UPPER EAST SIDE UPPER WEST SIDE
THE CARLYLE
Talk about amenities! Guests and visitors can hear world-class cabaret at Café Carlyle, rejuvenate themselves at the hotel’s Sisley-paris spa, or head to Bemelmans Bar— with its famous Ludwig Bemelmans murals and 24k-gold-leaf-covered ceiling—for a classic New York moment. 35 E. 76th St., 212-7441600; rosewoodhotels.com
THE MARK HOTEL
This boutique hotel is all about one-of-a-kind perks: 24-hour access to Bergdorf Goodman, personal training with Dan Flores, and room service from none other than Jean-georges Vongerichten. 25 E. 77th St., 212-744-4300; themarkhotel.com
THE PIERRE
This New York landmark offers white-glove VIP service to its guests and rooms that feel like private residences. INSIDER TIP: The Presidential Suite, known as the Tata Suite, has the hotel’s most exquisite Manhattan views. 2 E. 61st St., 212-838-8000; tajhotels.com
HÔTEL PLAZA ATHÉNÉE
This sumptuous hotel delivers exemplary service on every level, with legendary suites that have become a staple for the new wealthy who appreciate an iconic experience. It also houses a Valmont Spa. INSIDER TIP: The hotel’s restaurant, Arabelle, is fast becoming Manhattan’s new power breakfast destination. 37 E. 64th St., 212-6064600; plaza-athenee.com
THE SURREY
Highlights abound at this Beaux Arts-style hotel: an impressive art collection, a restaurant from worldclass chef Daniel Boulud, and the Cornelia Spa (with services that New Yorkers—and not just guests— rave about). It’s the perfect spot to stop for a cocktail while shopping on Madison Avenue. 20 E. 76th St., 212-288-3700; thesurrey.com
THE LUCERNE HOTEL
Central Park, Hayden Planetarium, and the American Museum of Natural History are just two blocks from this classically restored landmark building. Just as important, it’s also near the Shake Shack with the least crazy line in NYC. 201 W. 79th St., 212-8751000; thelucernehotel.com
MANDARIN ORIENTAL
This Forbes five-star hotel at the Time Warner Center includes a 35th-floor lobby overlooking Central Park and a 14,500-square-foot spa with views of the Hudson River. INSIDER TIP: The private event space holds some of New York’s most glamorous fundraisers, such as New Yorkers for Children. 80 Columbus Circle, 212805-8800; mandarinoriental.com