Waldorf Astoria New York reopens after US$2 billion transformation

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Waldorf Astoria New York Park Avenue Lobby Credit Waldorf Astoria

Lobby at the Waldorf Astoria New York

After nearly a decade behind closed doors, one of the world’s most iconic hotels, Waldorf Astoria New York, has finally reopened.

Long-hailed by Conrad Hilton as “the greatest of them all”, the Park Avenue property, closed since 2017, is now accepting bookings following a multi-year restoration and redevelopment costing around US$2 billion.

Now featuring 375 spacious rooms, down from its original 1,400, plus 372 residences, the hotel is also accepting reservations for its three restaurants, while the spa and event spaces are set to open on 1 September.

Located at 301 Park Avenue, the Waldorf Astoria New York first opened in 1931 and quickly became a benchmark for luxury hospitality, credited with introducing industry innovations such as in-room telephones and 24-hour dining.

This latest restoration, led by architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) with interiors by Pierre-Yves Rochon, has carefully preserved the building’s historic character while modernising it.

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Guests now arrive through one of three entrances, including a discreet porte-cochère on 49th Street between Lexington and Park Avenues, the only hotel porte-cochère in Manhattan.

The property now has wider corridors, improved natural light and new pathways, while the building’s Art Deco character has been maintained, showcasing Portoro marble, hand-cut mosaic tiling and mineral-hued palettes.

Waldorf Astoria New York Park Avenue Junior Suite Living Space

Junior Suite Living Space, Waldorf Astoria New York

Several of the property’s key landmarks, including the Grand Ballroom and Peacock Alley, have been restored, while signature features such as the Waldorf Astoria Clock and Cole Porter’s original Steinway piano have been returned to their central positions.

Rooms average more than 52 square metres, making them among the more spacious accommodations in Manhattan, and the interiors have been redesigned using a palette of neutral tones and natural materials. Furnishings include custom-designed hardware, and spa-style marble bathrooms with walk-in showers and dressing areas.

Waldorf Astoria New York Park Avenue Junior Suite Bed

Junior Suite Bed, Waldorf Astoria New York

The three dining venues include Peacock Alley, a favourite of New Yorkers for decades, which returns as a bar and lounge space with a menu overseen by Executive Chef Patrick Schaeffer and a cocktail programme developed by award-winning mixologist Jeff Bell.

Guests can also expect live piano music from legendary pianist and composer Cole Porter.

Lex Yard is a two-level American brasserie offering contemporary dishes focused on seasonal ingredients, and Japanese concept Yoshoku is an intimate dining destination serving a six-course kaiseki-style tasting menu that includes dishes such as king crab, grilled lobster and toro tartare with caviar.

Lex Yard at Waldorf Astoria New York

The hotel’s spa facilities, scheduled to open in September 2025, will be available to hotel guests and local visitors, accompanied by fitness and relaxation amenities.

The 372 residences, designed by Jean-Louis Deniot, offer separate access and dedicated services for long-term residents.

The Waldorf Astoria portfolio has grown to include 36 properties in 18 countries, with 17 new hotels added and 33 more in development.

For more information, visit waldorf-astoria-new-york