I got some good feedback recently about a trip my wife and I are taking in early Dec. We want to be in walking distance to most everything and I think being near Central Park would be nice too--Found somewhat reasonable rates at Central Park Intercontinental but also a higher but not too stratisferic rate at Plaza. Is another $100 or so more at the Plaza worthwile? Also does anyone know about rooms, i.e. sizes etc. ?

Anything on Central Park South is going to be expensive especially during the holiday season. In order to get a room of any size at the Plaza you must book a suite. Rooms tend to be small as most of the hotels, with the exception of the Ritz-Carlton are pretty old.

Check out the Helmsley Parklane, a good choice on Central Park South, right near the Plaza and generally alot less money for the same category room. Also you might get lucky and get a high floor with a view of the park.

I have heard the Helmsly is good and also the Le Meridien. Also just checked the internet and for the last couple of days, the Intercontinental rates have increased by about $100/day---ouch!

We have stayed in the Plaza and the Park Lane.
I think I would stay at the Park Lane. It faces the Park, just get a room on a high floor facing the park-that is what might get you with price,the lesser priced rooms generally have no view to speak of.

Sam- the Le Meridian is on 57th st and 6th (ave of americas)-- and does not have a view of the park--it is 3 blocks from Central Park...

Another option-but not a FANCY hotel,but a great location is SALISBURY HOTEL -W.57th between 6th and 7th--DIRECTLY across from Le Meridian .

Andy,

Le Parker Meridien does have park views, the key isn't being on the park it having a building taller than the ones between you and the park! Check out their website, they have photos of rooms which show the view.