Few properties are quite as quintessentially New York as The Plaza, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, and a stay here is a true bucket-list mark. With its prime location right by Central Park and all the shops on Fifth Avenue, a stay at The Plaza is the ultimate luxury in New York City. Follow along for the ideal 24-hour staycation at The Plaza, A Fairmont Managed Hotel.
New York City Staycation: 24 Hours at The Plaza, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Check-In
Make sure to arrive right around check-in time so you can make the most of your time at the hotel. Even the most essential rooms are luxuriously appointed with Guerlain amenities, along with touches of 24-karat gold, marble counters and stone mosaics in the bathrooms.
Afternoon Tea
The Palm Court has been wowing diners for decades. The hotel’s main restaurant serves up breakfast, afternoon tea (not to be confused with the less opulent high tea) and evening libations, so it’s easy to make a stop at any time of the day. If you’re in the mood for a real taste of NYC, the Manhattan Tea brings some of the classic New York City flavors to one of the most elegant settings imaginable with flavors like rye bread, deviled egg salad, roasted prime rib and pastrami-cured salmon.
Suppose you’re bringing young ones in tow? The Eloise Tea is a charming way to spend an afternoon for fans of the books (adults and children alike). If you’re looking for a meal that really gives back, stop in on a Tuesday, when Palm Court donates 10% of the sales from afternoon tea to the Metropolitan Opera Guild.
Stroll Through Central Park
It would be a crime not to take advantage of the hotel’s prime location with a stroll through Central Park. After all, it’s literally right across the street. If you’re not in the mood for a walk, enjoy a carriage ride through the park with NYC-Rides.
If you’re hoping for just a few Instagrammable moments in the park, you’re closest to The Pond at Central Park, the Gapstow Bridge and the Central Park Zoo. Venture further and you’ll find Belvedere Castle and other facilities run by the Central Park Conservancy.
Cocktail Hour
Currently open to hotel guests only, The Champagne Bar is a fantastic place to start a night on the town. Guests can enjoy champagne by the glass as well as champagne cocktails and light bites. The Champagne Bar overlooks the Pulitzer Fountain on Fifth Avenue so you can enjoy the views along with your glass of champagne.
Dinner
If you’re looking for an excellent dining experience, you’re in luck. There are numerous upscale dining options along W. 58th and W. 59th Street, like Tuscany Steakhouse. With a fantastic central location in Midtown, Tuscany Steakhouse prides itself on being a wonderful destination for both steak and wine lovers.
With several expert cuts and an extensive selection of wines, it’s easy to see why. The restaurant also serves a wide selection of seafood items perfect for shellfish lovers and a collection of nearly a dozen desserts (something for every palate), so you can satisfy your sweet tooth before drifting off to sleep in your opulent hotel room.
Breakfast in Bed
While it’s not difficult to find breakfast and brunch options nearby, there’s something so refreshing and fun about room service. The in-room dining menu at The Plaza has numerous selections for breakfast, including shakshuka, dill-cured salmon and several customizable options. Breakfast is served as early as 6 a.m., so it’s the perfect way to start your day.
Guerlain Spa
The House of Guerlain is known worldwide, and a trip to the Guerlain Spa guarantees a day of luxury. Guerlain has been a leader in spa services since opening its first location in Paris in 1939. Enjoy a facial treatment that’s customized to your skin needs, like the “Orchidée Impériale Prestige Treatment” or the “Abeille Royale Honey Repair.” The spa’s massages come in a variety of time lengths (60 minutes, 90 minutes and 120 minutes), so you can choose the most relaxing spa treatment for your day and budget.
Lunchtime
Before you head home from your staycation, grab one last lunch by the park. Sarabeth’s is a beautiful option for brunch and lunch selections like the “Classic Lobster Roll” and the “Miso Glazed Faroe Island Salmon.” Make sure to save room for a light dessert like “Sarabeth’s Cookie Plate” or something more decadent like the “Chocolate Truffle Cake.
