In Uptown New York City, over the two blocks that run from 55th to 57th, bounded by 6th and 7th Avenues, there's currently a flurry of exciting new hotel openings.
When it comes to great hotels, the Upper West Side has long played second fiddle to downtown New York - being home to far more luxury condominiums than chic hotels. Why hotels have not moved in earlier is a mystery as this area has plenty to keep visitors busy: Carnegie Hall, the Lincoln Center, and Central Park, for starters.
While none of these new hotels are in the affordable bracket, a few of them are offering some good value early opening deals.
Here's a quick run-down on the new hotel openings.
The most recent arrival on 57th Street (it just opened on October 9th) is the first Viceroy branded property in New York City. The striking black glass fluted exterior is designed by architecture and design duo Roman and Williams (who worked on the Ace Hotel New York and the Standard NYC), who also handled all of the interiors.
The Viceroy's 240 guest rooms all feature bespoke Roman and Williams furniture, as well as Dr. Dre Beatboxes and smartphones that guests are welcome to carry with them around town.
Rates usually start at $559 but we are seeing some late November rates going for as low as $387. Additionally, the Viceroy is running a fall special where you stay in a Park Deluxe Room, Junior Suite, or Park Suite and receive the third night free along with complimentary continental breakfast for two daily and a welcome amenity.
Opening in November, The Quin occupies the former Buckingham Hotel and is expected to open early November. The Quin aims to play off its artistic heritage - the hotel was once home to pianist Ignacy Jan Paderewski and artists Georgia O'Keeffe and Marc Chagall - with its interactive arts program. The Quin Arts program will exhibit a curated collection of rotating mixed media and film on a 15-foot digital art wall in the lobby; a featured artist in the lobby-level gallery, and original artwork in guestrooms, and online through artist features, exhibits, and programs.
The Quin's 208 guest rooms will all feature luxury DUXIANA beds and Sferra linens, and they will be the first hotel in New York to offer Fresh toiletries in the bathrooms.
Rates start at $429 and launch packages include a Bed and Breakfast Package, which starts at $499 a night and includes accommodations, full breakfast for two, and a $20 gift card to any of the Nespresso coffee bars in New York City ,and a Mercedes Airport Transfer Package that covers accommodations in a Superior room and transportation from the airport in a luxury Mercedes car - from $599 per night.
Although set back by a wayward crane during last year's Hurricane Sandy, New York's only Park Hyatt is still on track to open mid-2014. The luxury hotel's 210 guest rooms will occupy the top of the One57 building (almost directly opposite the Viceroy), which, when completed, will be the city's tallest residential building.
Although we are still waiting for specific details on the new hotel, the Park Hyatt New York promises some of the biggest guest rooms in the city, "museum-quality artwork," a spa, outdoor terrace, and what it is calling "a spectacular culinary experience."
The Art Deco inspired WestHouse Hotel is scheduled to open at the end of November and aims to offer a residential experience - the hotel's two bars, The Den and the 23rd-floor The Terrace will be reserved for guests only. The WestHouse will offer 172 guest rooms and facilities include a 24-hour fitness center.
Rates will start at $499 a night, not including a mandatory $30 residence fee, which covers a daily breakfast presentation, hors d'oeuvres, evening canapés, and unlimited drinks.
