Best Historical Hotels in New York State

High ceilings, rich historical architectural elements, and sleek, mid-century design merge in the revitalised Jarmulowsky Bank, now a vibrant hotel in the Lower East Side neighbourhood. Guided by architectural plans from 1912, the lobby boasts a majestic arched window, marble floors and a domed tempietto on the rooftop is a feature. The hotel’s 113 rooms, inspired by vintage aesthetics, are adorned with pine floors, handcrafted ceramic lamps, and unique artworks by local artists. These rooms are bathed in natural light through expansive windows, offering panoramic views of the New York City skyline. Dining at the hotel is a culinary treat with the Swan Room, Dining Room and Corner Bar, under the direction of Michelin-starred chef Ignacio Mattos. Surrounded by cultural institutions, picturesque streets, and unique restaurants, Nine Orchard is a great base in downtown New York’s Lower East Side.

Located on 44th Street, this landmark hotel was built in 1905 by Stanford White, before being restored by architect Thierry Despont in 2010. Of the 44 suites, some are themed (The Chatwal Crowns); such as the three-bedroom Zen, with its landscaped terrace and butler service. Unwind after a night on the tiles in the city that never sleeps, with some pamper time at the 3,500 sq. foot spa with its infinity saltwater lap pool, plunge jacuzzi and 24-hour access fitness room. And dine at The Chatwal’s 90-seat Art Deco restaurant, The Lamb’s Club, with cuisine by Chef Michael White.

Like many of the city’s most notable buildings, this one dates back to the 1930s Art Deco era, and is a member of Historic Hotels of America. Found at the southern end of Central Park, the Forbes recommended establishment rises 44 storeys, housing 426 bedrooms, 101 suites and 147 condos. All have plush bedding, marble bathrooms and minibars. Interiors are grand with huge glittering chandelier-lit ballrooms, sassy firelit lounges and chic monochrome bedrooms. Enjoy fine dining with a late-night menu, room service and treatments at the PRIMP spa. There’s a shop onsite, free daily newspapers and pets are welcome.

The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel is somewhat of a New York Landmark, conveniently located on Madison Avenue and just one block from Central Park it is the perfect base for exploring the great city. Guests can choose from 189 lavish rooms including 90 suites – all of which are exquisitely decorated and seamlessly combine elegance and comfort. From fine dining or a weekend brunch to creative cocktails and classic Cabaret, the chic restaurant options at the hotel offer guests an unparalleled Uptown dining experience merging culinary artistry with flawless service. With a salon, fitness centre and the Valmont Spa at The Carlyle – one of the best in New York – guests can enjoy relaxation, pampering and a workout with world-class facilities. And with a dedicated and passionate team on hand- a stay at The Carlyle is sure to be a fine one.

The Ned NoMad New York, is located in The Johnston Building on Broadway and comprises 167 rooms – all of which have been inspired by the glamour of the roaring ‘20’s. The Ned NoMad is more than just a place to rest your head. It is home to Ned’s Club, a members’ club that gives members access to the rooftop terrace and other private member spaces such as The Dining Room, The Atrium Stage for live entertainment, The Library for a cool workspace by day and cosy bar by night and advance reservation privileges to the classic Italian restaurant Cecconi’s and Little Ned where cocktails and views of the Empire State building are the order of the day.

Located at the fashionable address of Fifth Avenue and 55th Street, The Peninsula is well placed for some of the best shopping on the planet. Evoking an atmosphere of both glamour and class, the stunning neo-Italian Renaissance architecture by Hiss and Weeks incorporates limestone carvings, copper cornices and Doric columns. It’s especially loved by couples, in part due to its wonderful rooftop cocktail bar, Salon de Ning, serving sophisticated Asian food. Gourmet dining can be found at Clement and Gotham Lounge (named after the hotel’s original incarnation The Gotham Hotel).

One of 30 hotels in the Lotte group, this one has a privileged position on Madison Avenue. It’s often the venue of choice for US society weddings and high-end conferences, beloved by locals and visitors. The Palace presents immaculate timeless luxury, with 909 soft inviting bedrooms and opulent en-suite marble bathrooms. If you plan to stay for longer than a fortnight, the suites accommodate extended breaks, providing your home from home. Guests can escape the bustle of the city at the hotel’s Spa Splendor, and choose from three delightful dining options, along with two regal bars.

Constructed in 1909 as Metropolitan Life Insurance Company’s headquarters, this Edition hotel was once a clock tower. It’s since taken on a new lease of life as a boutique hotel, spa and Michelin-starred restaurant with epic 365-degree views. From the dark oak wood-panelled foyers, 273 guest rooms can be found, offering a contemporary style with neutral palettes. Located in Madison Square Park, this hotel takes a thoroughly modern approach – it’s a doggie-friendly establishment, and has everything from cooking classes to social pours and Haiku nights. The Bar, attached to The Clocktower Restaurant, is a jewel in the hotel’s crown with a fibreglass globe chandelier, 24k gold leaf bar and carved plaster ceilings.

Founded by John Jacob Astor, the graceful St Regis is part of the Marriot group and steeped in recent history. The country’s first Bloody Mary was made here, at the King Cole Bar and the building was declared a New York City Landmark in 1988. Stay in a Tiffany, Dior, or Bentley designer suite, where your butler is on hand for any requests – as is a chauffeur-driven Bentley House Car for some fancy sightseeing. There’s a regal, almost regency air about the place, making it popular as a wedding destination hotel.

For stunning harbour views and close access to the region’s wine lands, book into The Menhaden Hotel. This too is a boutique establishment, with 16 bedrooms, designed to evoke a smart maritime theme displaying various related artefacts. There are lots of drinking and dining options here: a sophisticated ground floor restaurant, a rooftop bar, cafe and a galley snack stop, plus excellent places to eat in the Greenpoint neighbourhood. There’s much to see and do on the doorstep and the hotel offers a free water taxi, bike hire and transfers via its electric vehicle.

Found in the district of Amagansett, surrounded by acres of land (this was once a working farm), yet close to the shore, The Roundtree offers just 15 forms of accommodation. It has a homely, yet undoubtedly upscale feel. The main house is over a century old, although the internal decor reflects the kind of effortless, contemporary design appealing to New Yorkers heading out of town. As bedrooms take the form of suites and cottages, and there’s no restaurant on the premises, The Roundtree is better suited to families, groups and those preferring to do their own thing when it comes to dining.

If you’d like access to a spa during your stay, Topping Rose House is the place to be. The property also boasts an outdoor heated pool, a fitness suite, a destination farm-to-table restaurant (with produce coming from its very own on-site one-acre farm), a trendy bar, a curated contemporary art collection, access to a Lexus and a free shuttle, with private beach passes. 22 bedrooms offer Frette linens, iPads and minibars, some have their own gardens and roof terraces. The building itself is a Greek Revival-style mansion, dating back to the 19th century. Topping Rose House is located in Bridgehampton.