What to expect: This historic hotel was completely reborn in 2006 under the direction of Ian Schrager, with creative contributions by Julien Schnabel and other renowned artists. The lobby is a rhapsody of "Haute Bohemian" chic and Renaissance opulence: massive contemporary paintings, a "sawtooth"-sculpture lamp, ruby-velvet curtains, a glorious Venetian chandelier, and Aubusson rugs. The tantalizing aroma from a 10-foot woodburning fireplace mingles with the scent of custom candles.

Amenity highlights: With a soaring ceiling, seductive lighting, museum-caliber art, and woodburning fireplace, the Rose Bar is a gorgeous space to see and be seen. A red pool table with hand-burned edges stands beneath an Andy Warhol artwork. The intimate Jade Bar is equally alluring, with green-velvet seating and art by Basquiat and Schnabel. The lushly landscaped Roof Club and Garden offers dazzling views of Manhattan landmarks.

Guests enjoy access to the private Gramercy Park across the street.

Insider tip: Handsome historic buildings line the perimeter of Gramercy Park, across from the hotel. Nineteenth-century Shakespearean actor Edwin Booth (brother of Lincoln's assassin) bought the brownstone at 16 Gramercy Park South to house The Players, a club for actors, writers, artists, and their wealthy patrons. Booth had an apartment on the third floor, where he died in 1893 during a violent thunderstorm. A statue of the actor as Hamlet stands in Gramercy Park.

What to expect: Located on a residential street between Madison and Park avenues, the Hotel Plaza Athenee provides easy access to the best of all worlds: Central Park's emerald expanse; Upper East Side shops and museums; and Midtown theaters, department stores, landmarks, and offices. The lobby sets a gracious tone with fresh flowers, coffered ceiling, gleaming marble floor accented with Irish area rugs, and a hand-painted mural depicting a pastoral scene. Check-in is European-style, at a sit-down desk separate from the lobby.

Amenity highlights: Arabelle, the hotel's acclaimed restaurant, showcases Continental cuisine, with a focus on local organic produce, naturally raised meats, and pristine seafood. The gold-and-white setting is equally impressive: Murano glass chandeliers, a vaulted ceiling, sparkling tableware, and fresh flowers. The amber-lit Bar Seine, with its collection of Moroccan, European, and Asian art and artifacts, is a romantic spot for a cocktail or glass of wine.

Insider tip: The Central Park Zoo, one block from the hotel, is a delight for visitors of all ages. Be sure to see the penguins, polar bears, and rainforest exhibit with its colorful, trilling birds. Time your visit for the sea lion feeding (11:30 AM, 2 PM, and 4 PM), and get an up-close view of these playful pinnipeds diving, splashing, and showing off.

What to expect: Built in 1931, the hotel's baronial ambiance (marble, mahogany, brass, crystal) remains intact, as does formal service from a crisply uniformed staff.

Amenity highlights: A health spa provides separate men’s and women’s relaxation lounges, saunas and steam rooms, fitness equipment, and personal trainers. Guests can request courtesy car rides within a 10-block radius (first come, first served). A staffed business center features private offices. The hotel's restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner overlooking Central Park.

Insider tip: Time Warner Center at Columbus Circle, 1.5 blocks west of the hotel, includes some of New York's most highly regarded restaurants: Thomas Keller's Per Se; panoramic-view Asiate; Masa Takayama's Masa; and the global-cuisine Café Gray.