On December 10 reservations for one of New York City’s most fabled hotels, the Waldorf Astoria, will reopen, following the property’s multi-year total renovation. Set to be one of the biggest openings of 2025, while initially delayed, the announcement of reservations opening ensures the hotel’s full reopening is now a little more concrete.
Having closed in March 2017, the Waldorf Astoria has now been under renovation for almost eight years and is rumored to have blown past its $2bn budget. But when giving one of New York’s most beloved institutions a much-needed facelift, this was always going to happen.
Restoration efforts were led by renowned architects Skidmore Owings & Merrill, with interiors handled by Pierre-Yves Rochon. Featuring 375 rooms, the Waldorf Astoria New York will look to kickstart a new era of luxury for the city, like it once did when it opened back in both 1893 and 1931.
“Waldorf Astoria New York has always been the place to be in New York City and whether you are a visitor or a New Yorker, we know so many around the globe have their own fond stories with our hotel,” said Luigi Romaniello, managing director, Waldorf Astoria New York. “Visitors returning to the property will notice many of the historical elements, from the Grand Ballroom to the lobby with the famous Waldorf Astoria clock, have been restored to bring back the original grandeur, while thoughtful enhancements were incorporated for today’s traveler. We look forward to lifting the curtain on Waldorf Astoria New York as it makes its grand reveal back to our beloved city and welcoming the world to create new memories at this iconic hotel.”
Throughout the renovation, guest rooms and suites have been entirely refreshed, with the majority now exceeding 570 sq ft, sizable by New York standards. While the hotel looks certainly to have been brought into the 21st century, a variety of Art Deco accents ensure its heritage is continually referenced.
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There has also been the addition of a 30,000-sq-ft spa, a cutting-edge fitness center, and an outdoor terrace that brings the bustling magnetism of Manhattan into the confines of the Waldorf Astoria.
The hotel’s restaurants have been given the same all-encompassing treatment, with chef Michael Anthony taking the lead at signature restaurant Lex Yard, an all-new two-story American Brasserie aiming to be a hit with both locals and visitors alike. It’s not all new though, the classic lounge and bar Peacock Alley – now a synonymous aspect of the Waldorf Astoria brand – returns following its own freshen-up.
“The reopening of Waldorf Astoria New York is more than a milestone – it marks the beginning of a bold new era for our brand,” said Dino Michael, senior vice president and global head at Hilton Luxury Brands. “For over a century, this legendary hotel has defined glamour and sophistication, and now it will serve as the flagship of a reimagined Waldorf Astoria. We’re thrilled to welcome guests back to this famed address, where timeless elegance meets modern luxury. This moment also sets the stage for other highly anticipated openings, including Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique, Waldorf Astoria Osaka, Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch and more as we continue to redefine luxury across the globe.”
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Starting on Tuesday, December 10, guests will be able to make reservations at the Waldorf Astoria, which is expected to officially reopen next year in Spring 2025. While the grand opening has been delayed several times throughout the course of the renovation, the reopening of the reservations system is a strong sign that the big day is only moments away.