The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

The Ritz-Carlton sits in the former St. Moritz Hotel, a 33-story limestone building on Central Park South (the southern border of the park) that was bought by Ritz-Carlton in 2000 and reopened in 2002 as one of the best luxury hotels in Manhattan. One unpleasant detail about the Central Park location is that the horse drawn carriages line up near the hotel's entrance, and their odor can be pretty strong in the summer months. Once through the hotel doors (opened by doormen in top hats and tails) guests access a lovely, classic lobby decorated with luxe floral arrangements. The Star Lounge is just off the lobby and the glamorous space features wood-paneled walls and elegant antique-style furnishings and low lit lamps for ambience. Overall, the hotel is quiet and refined, though the bars and restaurant do fill up with guests and locals. Most people who stay here are couples on vacation, though it also draws business travelers and occasional families. 

This Ritz is on 59th Street, also known as Central Park South because it forms the southern border of Central Park. It's a busy area during the day, as the corporate skyscrapers, prominent hotels, upscale restaurants, Fifth Avenue shopping, and Central Park draw ample foot traffic (to say nothing of equine traffic -- 59th is a major horse-carriage-ride launching point). But, the area quiets down substantially at night. The immediate area features plenty of attractions: Carnegie Hall is two blocks south, Columbus Circle's shops and subway lines are two blocks east, and Lincoln Center is 10 minutes away by foot. Fifth Avenue, home to Bergdorf Goodman, Saks, Tiffany & Co., and dozens of other high end designer shops, is one block east of the hotel. Farther afield, Times Square and most of the Broadway theaters are about a 15-minute walk. Depending on traffic, LaGuardia Airport is a 40-minute drive and J.F.K. International Airport is about an hour. 

With the exception of a few enormous, and enormously priced, suites, the Ritz's standard rooms range from 425 to 450 square feet, which is large for New York City standards. Layouts and size of three different types of rooms -- Superior, Deluxe, and Parkview -- are basically identical. The difference is mostly the view and location within the building. Superior Rooms are on the ninth floor and below while Deluxe Rooms are on the 10th story and up. Parkview Rooms can be either Deluxe or Superior Rooms, but have views of Central Park. Decor in all units is elegant and classic with a mostly neutral color scheme and refined wood furnishings. Features include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, BOSE speakers, refrigerated minibars, and safes large enough to fit a laptop. Suites upgrade to Bang & Olufsen stereo systems and some rooms and suites have telescopes and bird guides. Note that Wi-Fi is free for members of the hotel's loyalty program, which is free to sign up for. Marble bathrooms feature soaking tubs and separate showers. Asprey toiletries, magnifying mirrors, robes, slippers, and hairdryers are provided. Large vanities provide ample space for unpacking personal items. Nightly turndown service is an elegant touch and often includes chocolates. Butler service can be arranged for an additional fee. 

Features at this Ritz-Carlton are luxurious, but many guests who stay here skip them entirely in favor of exploring New York City's options. Auden Bistro serves three meals a day, with an emphasis on sustainable seafood and gourmet American favorites. Pre- and post-dinner menus are available, and room service is 24 hours. However, some visitors report that there are better options in the neighborhood for the same high prices. Star Lounge is the real standout feature, with an excellent selection of cocktails and wines in a glamorous setting. Afternoon tea is also served here. La Prairie Spa offers excellent treatments like caviar facials and diamond body scrubs, plus massages and beauty services. The large fitness center is open 24 hours, and offers a range of Precor cardio equipment, strength-training machines, and a steam room. Private trainers are available on request for a fee. Wi-Fi is free for members of the loyalty program (free to sign up for) and there's a dedicated business center. Pets are allowed for a daily fee and with restrictions. Valet parking is available, but pricy. Guests who book specific rooms or have elite loyalty status get free access to the Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge on the second floor. The chic space features views of Central Park, space to work, and free light meals and drinks.