Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel with former Secretary Leon Panetta and ADL Director Abraham Foxman at Anti-Defamation League centennial dinner 2013

Grand Hyatt New York

Grand Hyatt New York: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Nearby Attractions Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan and directly connected to the iconic Grand Central Terminal, the Grand Hyatt New York (formerly Hyatt Grand Central New York) is a landmark that epitomizes the city’s dynamic evolution. More than a luxury hotel, it is a symbol of New York’s cycles of decline and rebirth, architectural innovation, and urban renewal. Originally opening as the Commodore Hotel in 1919, this site has played a pivotal role in Midtown Manhattan’s development, blending early 20th-century grandeur with contemporary luxury. Today, it stands as a gateway for visitors to experience New York’s vibrant culture, history, and world-class attractions.

This guide provides essential information for planning your visit to the Grand Hyatt New York, including historical context, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, photography tips, and insights on nearby landmarks. For the latest updates, consult the Grand Hyatt New York official website, as well as resources on Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler Building. (Luxury Travel; Curbed NY; Wikipedia)

View of Commodore Hotel at the corner of E. 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue in New York City, 1921

U.S. Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen speaking with U.S. Military Academy Glee Club members at 46th Annual USO Armed Forces Gala 2007

U.S. Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen speaking with U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Troy Steward at the 46th Annual USO of Metropolitan New York Armed Forces Gala in 2007

Stacie Erin Wells singing national anthem at USO Armed Forces Gala 2007

Vintage photochrom print postcard of Hotel Commodore in New York City, 1919

Hotel Commodore at Pershing Square, 42nd Street and Lexington Avenue, New York City

Introduction
History and Significance
Visiting the Grand Hyatt New York
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Additional Guides: Grand Central Terminal & Statue of Liberty
Sources

History and Significance

Origins: The Commodore Hotel and Terminal City

The Grand Hyatt New York traces its origins to the Commodore Hotel, which opened in 1919 as part of the Terminal City development. Terminal City was envisioned as a luxurious urban district surrounding Grand Central Terminal, designed to transform Midtown into a hub of commerce and hospitality. The Commodore, named after Cornelius Vanderbilt, boasted 2,000 rooms and set new standards with innovations such as circulating ice water in every room. Its Moorish-inspired ballrooms, grand lobby featuring a waterfall, and murals by John B. Smeraldi made it a magnet for dignitaries, celebrities, and major events. (Luxury Travel; Curbed NY)

Decline and Renewal

By the 1970s, both the hotel and its surrounding neighborhood faced decline, reflecting broader economic challenges in the city. Outdated amenities and deteriorating infrastructure led to diminishing appeal, while Midtown Manhattan grappled with urban decay and falling tourism. (Curbed NY)

The Trump-Hyatt Transformation

In 1977, the Trump Organization and Hyatt Hotels Corporation partnered to redevelop the aging Commodore. Backed by $100 million in investment and significant city tax abatements, the property underwent a dramatic transformation. Its original brick façade was replaced by a bold, reflective glass curtain wall, designed by Gruzen Samton and Der Scutt, a move both celebrated and critiqued for its modernist style. When it reopened in 1980 as the Grand Hyatt New York, the hotel featured 1,400 rooms, multiple restaurants, and extensive event spaces, setting a precedent for Midtown’s urban renewal. (CTBUH; Wikipedia; Facts.net)

Impact and Modernization

The revitalization of the Grand Hyatt spurred further investment in Midtown and demonstrated the potential of public-private partnerships. Hyatt’s entry into the luxury sector and Trump’s collaboration with the Pritzker family reshaped the city’s hotel landscape. Subsequent renovations—most notably a $130 million update in 2011—have kept the hotel current, introducing eco-friendly features and modern amenities. (Luxury Travel; Wikipedia)

Recent Developments and Future Plans

The COVID-19 pandemic led to the hotel’s temporary closure in 2020. Plans for a sweeping redevelopment, announced in 2019, call for demolishing the current structure to build an 83-story mixed-use skyscraper, including a new, smaller Grand Hyatt. As of late 2023, demolition has been postponed to 2026. The current hotel, rebranded as Hyatt Grand Central New York, continues to serve guests, especially international travelers. (Wikipedia; CTBUH)

Visiting the Grand Hyatt New York

Visiting Hours and Access

Hotel Access: Open 24/7 for guests.
Public Spaces: Restaurants, bars, and event spaces have specific hours—always verify via the official website.

Tickets and Reservations

Hotel Entry: No tickets required.
Room Reservations: Book via the hotel’s website or authorized platforms.
Dining & Events: Reservations recommended; check for possible ticketed events.

Accessibility

Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and adapted guest rooms.
Direct connection to Grand Central Terminal provides seamless access to public transit.

Guided Tours and Events

No regular guided tours, but visitors are welcome to explore public areas and appreciate the architecture.
Special events and conferences are frequently hosted; details are available on the events page.

Nearby Attractions

Grand Central Terminal: A historic transportation hub and architectural gem (Grand Central Terminal Official Website).
Chrysler Building: Art Deco skyscraper, a short walk away (NYC Architecture).
Bryant Park & New York Public Library: Cultural and recreational spaces ideal for visitors.

Photography Tips

The reflective glass façade offers striking urban photography, especially at sunset.
Don’t miss interior shots of Grand Central Terminal’s celestial ceiling and iconic clock.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of Grand Hyatt New York?
A: The hotel lobby is open 24/7; public venues have set hours—check the official site for details.

Q: Do I need tickets to visit Grand Hyatt New York?
A: No tickets are needed to enter; reservations are needed for rooms, dining, and events.

Q: Is the hotel accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, it offers full accessibility features.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Regular tours are not offered, but you may explore public spaces independently.

Q: What nearby attractions can I visit?
A: Grand Central Terminal, Chrysler Building, Bryant Park, and the New York Public Library are all within walking distance.

Conclusion

The Grand Hyatt New York stands as a testament to New York City’s resilience and ongoing transformation. From its origins as the Commodore Hotel, through periods of decline and ambitious renewal, it has served as a bellwether for Midtown Manhattan’s fortunes. Today, the hotel offers visitors a unique blend of historic ambiance, modern comfort, and unrivaled access to the city’s transportation and cultural highlights. As redevelopment plans move forward, the Grand Hyatt remains a vital chapter in the story of New York’s evolution.

For the latest information on hours, events, and redevelopment, visit the official Grand Hyatt New York website.

Additional Guides

Grand Central Terminal: Essential Visitor Information

Overview: Grand Central Terminal is a Beaux-Arts masterpiece, open daily with the main concourse accessible 24/7. Shops and restaurants typically operate from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Entry is free, but guided tours may require tickets. Key highlights include the celestial ceiling, information booth clock, and Whispering Gallery. The terminal is fully accessible and located at 89 E 42nd Street. Nearby attractions include the Chrysler Building, New York Public Library, and Bryant Park. For more, see the official Grand Central Terminal website.

Statue of Liberty: Visitor Guide

Overview: The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France in 1886 and a global symbol of freedom, is located on Liberty Island. Open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally). Tickets are required for the ferry and can be reserved online, with special tickets for pedestal and crown access. The island and ferry are wheelchair accessible. Combine your trip with a visit to Ellis Island and Battery Park. Official information is available at nps.gov/stli and Statue Cruises.