16 Historic Hotels in New York (2026)

New York is a city steeped in history, and its hotels are no exception. Staying in a historic hotel here means more than just a place to rest — it’s an opportunity to experience the city’s rich heritage and grandeur. Historic hotels in New York range from stunning Beaux-Arts buildings to vintage gems, and hotels which are legendary simply because of the famous guests who have graced their rooms! Whether you’re drawn to understated elegance, an artistic vibe or glitz and glamour, there’s a property that will capture your imagination.

For historic luxury

• Founded by John Jacob Astor IV over a century ago, you can still expect supreme Fifth Avenue opulence at St Regis New York today, with its elegant suites and unparalleled butler service. There's sophisticated fine dining and the legendary King Cole Bar, plus luxury shopping just steps from the front door. Dating back to 1904, it's a super stylish New York landmark.
• A grand Beaux-Arts building overlooking Central Park, The Plaza is one of America's most celebrated hotels. Welcoming guests since 1907, it offers a palatial stay with lavish details, high ceilings, huge windows, a Guerlain spa and a Champagne bar. One of the most iconic hotels in the world.

• The Fifth Avenue Hotel is a sophisticated choice just steps from the Flatiron Building. Interiors exude historic elegance with modern touches creating a unique charm. There's top-notch dining, a sultry cocktail bar, plus a tea ritual where a tea cart arrives at your room, and selected teas are prepared by a butler. Pure decadence.
• Casa Cipriani sits in an iconic Battery Maritime Building boasting stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. This members' club/hotel has dramatic interiors, cosy fireplaces, the Club Restaurant serving Harry's Bar classics, plus the Jazz Cafe for dinner and music.

For old world charm

• Hotel Chelsea is perfect for travellers seeking a blend of nostalgia and contemporary comfort in a vibrant city setting. The exterior boasts a red brick and wrought iron facade, while inside features ornate ceilings and stained glass. There's a grand lounge complete with sparkling chandelier and piano, plus an atmospheric French-American bistro. It's an iconic stay, not least because of its previous guests who include Mark Twain, Bob Dylan, Edie Sedgwick, Janis Joplin and Arthur C Clarke!
• The Algonquin Hotel is a downtown delight retaining the rich aura of its past with an understated modern feel. Located close to the bustling heart of Times Square and Fifth Avenue, this historic hotel has long been a favourite of the city’s literary and cultural elite. Expect opulent interiors, a wonderful restaurant and the lively Blue Bar which pays homage to Broadway icons.
• Housing four individually styled suites, Akwaaba Mansion is an elegant 1860s landmark turned into a charming B&B. Ornate fireplaces and antiques provide character, while grand bathrooms with whirlpool tubs add modern style. Breakfasts are served in the wood-panelled dining room, and there's a pretty garden too.

For the views

• The Carlyle Hotel, in the heart of Manhattan's Upper East Side, is a landmark luxury property dating back to the 1930s, where you'll find Art-Deco elegance with a modern flair reminiscent of New York's golden era. The Central Park View Suite offers unobstructed views of America’s most famous park and the Manhattan skyline. Breathtaking.
• Enjoying easy access to Chinatown and Little Italy, Nine Orchard is a Neo-Renaissance delight set in the meticulously restored Jarmulowsky Bank Building. One of the highlights of the hotel is its rooms, particularly the three suites on the seventh floor which can be joined by a terrace, providing far-reaching views and an expansive private outdoor space ideal for groups of friends or family gatherings​.
• Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, The Marlton is a warm and romantic pick. Splurge on a Penthouse Suite with a private rooftop terrace for stunning city views and dine at the atmospheric Margaux which serves French, Mediterranean and Californian cuisine. A cocktail bar and an espresso bar, add to the charming character here.

For the location

• Situated on Times Square, The Knickerbocker is a brilliant base from which to explore. The Beaux-Arts facade blends beautifully with the modern facilities, while the sleek rooms with large windows and the cool rooftop terrace mean city views are all around. A luxury urban bolthole which was "the" place to be for the glitterati in the early 20th Century.
• Right in Greenwich Village, Washington Square Hotel, which has been providing hospitality since 1902, is in an ideal spot for exploring Manhattan on foot. Art-Deco style furnishings and dark mahogany adorn the subtly lit rooms, creating an intimate, low-key charm. Spend some time relaxing at the in-house spa before checking out the many great restaurants and bars on the doorstep.
• The Frederick Hotel, which dates back to 1845, is a great choice if you want to be in the heart of downtown New York. Step out the door and explore Tribeca’s cobbled streets, boutique shops and indie galleries, or stroll to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, just a short walk away. Return to stylishly understated interiors, an Italian restaurant and an intimate cocktail bar. 

For a heavenly spa

• This historic 44th Street hotel may have been built in 1905, but today The Chatwal offers excellent modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a spoiling spa with pool and sauna, gourmet dining and a personal butler. Meanwhile, the Art-Deco touches and stylish lobby hark back to a beautiful bygone era.
• At Lotte New York Palace, a Madison Avenue landmark, glitz and glamour abound. This classic luxury city hotel comprises a 19th century mansion and contemporary tower, creating the ultimate blend of old and new. Rooms are slick in the new wing and decorative in the historic, while the pampering spa offers the best of modern beauty treatments.

For great value

• A stay in New York doesn't need to break the bank and Sohotel, nestled on the Bowery in SoHo, is a great example of city chic at reasonable rates. Dating back to 1805 (it's the oldest operating hotel in New York City), the interiors here have a vintage feel with exposed brick, cool artwork and quirky furniture. And with two bars and two restaurants on site, there's nightlife on tap.

Still not sure? 

• Browse through our full list of accommodations in New York.
• Refine your search to include our recommendations for New York’s 20 Most Romantic Hotels or The 14 Best Hotels near Central Park.
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.