Flowers and hotel emblem on front cover fastened by twisted cord

The Plaza

The Plaza Hotel New York City Visiting Guide: Tickets and Hours

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South, The Plaza Hotel is a legendary symbol of New York City’s luxury, history, and culture. Since its grand opening in 1907, The Plaza has attracted high society, celebrities, and travelers from around the world. Its French Renaissance château-style architecture, storied interiors, and central location near many of Manhattan’s top attractions have established its reputation as both a world-class hotel and a cultural landmark. This detailed visitor’s guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, accommodations, dining, nearby sights, and practical tips to help you make the most of your experience at The Plaza Hotel (Historic Hotels; The Plaza NY; Town & Country).

Basement floor plan of Plaza Hotel 768 Fifth Avenue New York City

First floor plan of Plaza Hotel in New York City as originally built in 1907

Ground floor plan of Plaza Hotel, New York City, 1907 original layout

Typical floor plan of Plaza Hotel originally built at 768 Fifth Avenue, New York City, opened in 1907

Introduction
Historical Overview
Visiting The Plaza Hotel: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Travel and Stay Tips
Nearby Attractions
Preservation and Modern Era
Dining and Amenities
Practical Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development

The Plaza Hotel’s history stretches back to 1883, when the original building was constructed but quickly outgrown by the city’s luxury demands. The current hotel, opened on October 1, 1907, was envisioned by financier Bernhard Beinecke, hotelier Fred Sterry, and Harry S. Black, and designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh. Built at a then-staggering cost of $12.5 million, it quickly became the premier hotel in the city (Forbes; Historic Hotels).

Architectural Significance

The Plaza is an 18-story marvel of French Renaissance-inspired château architecture, featuring a limestone and brick façade, ornate mansard roofs, and opulent interiors. Spaces such as the Palm Court, Oak Room, and Grand Ballroom set new standards for luxury and style, while subsequent renovations and expansions have preserved its historical grandeur. The exteriors and interiors have both been granted landmark status by New York City, underscoring their architectural and cultural value (Wikipedia; NY Landmarks).

Notable Events and Cultural Milestones

The Plaza has hosted countless historic events and been a residence for notable figures, including Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Christian Dior. It was the site of the 1985 Plaza Accord, landmark social protests, and legendary parties such as Truman Capote’s Black and White Ball. The Beatles, Marilyn Monroe, and other celebrities have all been guests (The Plaza NY; Elle Decor).

The Plaza in Literature, Film, and Popular Culture

The Plaza is deeply woven into American popular culture, serving as the setting for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” Kay Thompson’s “Eloise” books, and films like “Home Alone 2,” “Funny Girl,” and “Sleepless in Seattle.” Its grand spaces regularly appear in movies, television, and literature, cementing The Plaza as a symbol of New York glamour and history (Wikipedia; Town & Country).

Visiting The Plaza Hotel: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Lobby and Public Areas: Open to visitors daily, typically from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Hours may vary for special events or private functions.
Palm Court: Serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea from 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
The Plaza Food Hall: Open daily, 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Champagne Bar and Rose Club: Evening hours vary; reservations recommended.

Check the official Plaza Hotel website for current schedules.

Tickets and Tours

General Access: No tickets required for public spaces or dining venues, but reservations are necessary for experiences such as Afternoon Tea.
Guided Tours: Offered occasionally through third-party providers or special events; book in advance.

Accessibility

The Plaza Hotel is fully accessible, with wheelchair access at entrances, elevators serving all public floors, adapted rooms, and welcoming policies for service animals. For specific needs, contact the hotel directly (Booking.com).

Travel and Stay Tips

Book in advance, especially for rooms, suites, and Afternoon Tea.
Public transit: Subway access via 5th Ave/59th St (N, Q, R, W lines) and nearby stations.
Dress code: Smart attire recommended, especially in dining venues.
Valet parking: Approximately $95 per day; public parking nearby.
Pet-friendly: Dogs and cats are welcome at no extra charge.

Accommodations: Rooms and Suites

The Plaza offers 282 guest rooms, including 102 suites, all renovated to combine classic elegance with modern amenities. Features include luxurious bathrooms with 24-karat gold-plated fixtures, plush bedding, iPads for room controls, and high-speed WiFi. Specialty suites such as the Eloise Suite provide unique themed experiences (Booking.com; Boss Hunting).

Dining and Culinary Experiences

Palm Court: Famed for its Afternoon Tea beneath a stained-glass dome; reservations are essential (Oyster).
Champagne Bar and Rose Club: Elegant settings for light bites, drinks, and live jazz.
The Plaza Food Hall: Diverse gourmet options for casual dining.
In-room dining: Available 24/7.

Guests often receive a daily food and beverage credit with their stay (Booking.com).

Amenities and Services

Guerlain Spa: Full-service spa and wellness center; guests receive a daily credit.
Fitness Center: Open 24 hours with personal trainers available.
Concierge and Butler Service: Comprehensive assistance with bookings and personal requests.
Boutiques: On-site luxury shopping and specialty stores.
Family Experiences: Eloise-themed tea and children’s activities.
Event Spaces: Grand ballrooms and meeting rooms for weddings and private functions.

Nearby Attractions

Central Park: Directly across the street; ideal for walks, picnics, and carriage rides (Town & Country).
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Within walking distance.
Fifth Avenue Shopping: Flagship stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co.
Grand Army Plaza: Features the Pulitzer Fountain and Sherman statue.
Broadway Theaters: Short ride away.

Preservation and Modern Era

Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, The Plaza has undergone major renovations—most recently a $450 million restoration in 2008—to maintain its architectural integrity while updating guest amenities. Today, it is managed by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and remains one of the city’s most sought-after destinations (Historic Hotels Then and Now; Wikipedia).

Practical Information

Location: 768 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10019.
Check-in/Check-out: 3:00 PM / 12:00 PM.
Currency: US dollars; all major cards accepted.
Language: English (multilingual staff available).
WiFi: Free throughout the hotel.
Security: 24-hour security and keycard access to guest floors.
Luggage Storage: Available for guests before check-in or after check-out.
Sustainability: Linen reuse programs and responsible resource initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need tickets to visit The Plaza Hotel? A: No general admission tickets are required, but reservations are necessary for Afternoon Tea and special events.

Q: What are The Plaza Hotel’s visiting hours? A: Public areas are generally open from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM; Palm Court for tea is open 11:30 AM–4:30 PM.

Q: Is The Plaza Hotel pet-friendly? A: Yes, dogs and cats are welcome at no extra charge.

Q: Is the hotel accessible for guests with disabilities? A: Yes, with adapted rooms and full accessibility features.

Q: How do I book Afternoon Tea or a suite? A: Reserve directly on the official website or via reputable travel platforms.

Q: Are there guided tours available? A: Occasionally, through third-party providers or special hotel events.

Q: What nearby attractions can I visit? A: Central Park, MoMA, Fifth Avenue shopping, Grand Army Plaza, and Broadway theaters are all close by.

Conclusion

The Plaza Hotel endures as an icon of New York City’s grandeur, offering an unparalleled blend of history, luxury, and culture. Whether you’re enjoying Afternoon Tea at the Palm Court, staying in an opulent suite, or simply soaking in the ambiance of its storied halls, a visit to The Plaza is a quintessential Manhattan experience. Its accessible public spaces, proximity to world-class attractions, and commitment to exceptional service ensure memorable moments for every guest. For the latest visiting hours, ticket information, and special events, consult the official Plaza Hotel website and stay connected via social media.

Ready to plan your visit? Download the Audiala app for exclusive deals, insider tips, and seamless booking. Explore our related guides to New York’s top historical sites and luxury hotels for more inspiration.