Worth Traveling For
Many of Manhattan’s swankiest stays line the Central Park South corridor. And while properties four or five blocks farther away also like to use the “Central Park South” tagline, it’s legit at The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park. The property has a front-row look at the park, and the real-deal street address credentials to match.
Stays here are therefore ideal for days spent at leisure in and around the park, and offer an easy jumping off point to the Upper East, Upper West, or Midtown. Fifth Avenue’s sensational shopping is mere steps away, of course.
It’s all about the small touches and extra services here. Reserve a special Picnic in the Park, with a to-go lunch spread in a picnic basket, Champagne included. Or ask the concierge about their Ritz Kids amenities and experiences, to ensure the whole family has a magical trip to the city.
Hotel Highlights
Contour is the hotel’s main restaurant, bar and lounge, and is found off the lobby. The soaring wood-paneled space is busiest after work when it attracts a buzzy crowd. Cocktails are large and served with a tasty trio of snacks. Or go ahead and opt for the caviar service, because that’s always a winning strategy.
The hotel is home to La Prairie Spa which offers a full range of massages and body treatments. Book a Central Park Signature Massage, or one of the featured facials, such as the Caviar Contouring or the Glass Skin facial.
The fitness center, meanwhile, shines as one of the larger and more well-equipped hotel gyms in the city. In addition to a wide range of gear, you can even grab a complimentary hydration beverage or snack, or get a private workout session within the separate movement studio.
Rooms & Experience
Rooms at The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park are elegant and clean. Expect dark wooden furniture and black and white carpeting, with gray marble bathrooms featuring shower closets and built-in bath tubs. Given the hotel’s positioning and name, you’ll cherish the park views, too. Consider soaking those up while indulging from your in-room bar, highlighted by splurge-worthy selections such as half bottles of Johnnie Walker Blue Label.
This is a property where an upgrade to a Club room makes perfect sense. The second floor Club Lounge makes for a comfortable hangout space and overlooks Central Park. Ongoing food and beverage service throughout the day might range from hot pastrami sandwiches on pretzel buns to sushi and pot stickers, all backed by a solid lineup of wine. A dedicated concierge is also on hand to assist with any reservations or requests.
Be sure to stop into Contour for complimentary coffee in the morning, as well as the daily Manhattan Minute at happy hour. The latter is an opportunity to taste their signature Manhattan and snag a recipe. Be forewarned though, after a sample sip you’ll likely want to sit down and order a round.
What to Know Before You Book
The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park offers a tantalizing range of signature suites to consider for anything from a girl’s trip to a guy’s outing, or a busy weekend of family fun. Consider the Artists’ Gate Suite, tailor-made for entertaining and socializing thanks to amenities including a billiards table and record player. Or, when you want to maximize your space while relishing a residential-style stay, opt for the Royal Suite with a curated art collection lining the living and dining room, and a kitchenette.
Address: 50 Central Park South, NY, NY 10019
Closest Airport: Newark or LaGuardia airports will take between 30 and 45 minutes, while JFK may take up to 90 minutes in traffic.
Featured image courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park. Travel Curator may earn a commission from booking links on this page.
