The Pierre, A Taj Hotel
The iconic grande dame across from Central Park has welcomed aristocrats and Hollywood actors, but it prides itself on treating all its guests like royalty, offering five-star service touches, from human elevator operators to 24-hour laundry/dry cleaning service. Guests looking to stay in are invited to download anywhere from six to eight digital books. There are reminders everywhere of celebrities who've visited the hotel, including a new and permanent paparazzi photo exhibit on the ground floor. If you're lucky enough to have a west-facing room, you'll be greeted with sweeping views of Central Park, the iconic twin spires of the San Remo, breathtaking foliage in fall, or the Wollman ice rink in winter. These are some of the best views Manhattan has to offer. After settling in, have a well-prepared meal in The Rotunda, a luxurious circular dining space wrapped entirely in frescoes showing the sky, celebrities and more.