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New York

The Empire Hotel is praised for its prime location near Lincoln Center and Central Park, as well as its chic lobby and rooftop bar. However, guests have reported issues with outdated rooms, noise levels, cleanliness, and inconsistent service.

The Empire Hotel New York Experience Overview 

Nestled in the vibrant Upper West Side of Manhattan, The Empire Hotel offers visitors a quintessential New York City stay with a blend of classic charm and modern amenities. Located just steps from Lincoln Center and Central Park, this hotel is ideal for travelers seeking cultural attractions and urban exploration alike. Its iconic neon sign marks a welcoming beacon amid the city's buzzing energy.

The Empire Hotel prides itself on its approachable yet upscale vibe. Guests can enjoy a seasonal rooftop pool with stunning skyline views during warmer months and a stylish rooftop bar serving creative cocktails year-round. The hotel's seafood restaurant provides a refined dining experience that complements the cosmopolitan setting. Additionally, a well-equipped basement fitness center invites wellness enthusiasts to maintain their routines while away from home.

The Empire Hotel has garnered mixed reviews from visitors, reflecting a spectrum of experiences across its offerings. 

Many guests praise the friendly and helpful staff, highlighting their attentiveness from check-in to checkout. The location near cultural landmarks like Lincoln Center and The Met is frequently cited as a major plus. Comfortable rooms with cozy views add to the appeal for travelers seeking a classic New York stay.

On the flip side, some visitors have noted that certain rooms feel outdated and could benefit from renovations, with occasional maintenance issues reported such as inconsistent heating or air conditioning. Noise levels inside the hotel and from the surrounding city area have been mentioned as potential drawbacks for light sleepers. Despite these challenges, the rooftop bar remains a standout feature with great views and a convivial atmosphere.

Frequently asked questions about The Empire Hotel

 Yes, The Empire Hotel allows pets on the premises.

 Yes, valet parking is available for $75 per day.

 Yes, the hotel has a basement-level fitness center equipped with cardio machines and free weights.

 No, the rooftop pool is seasonal and may be closed during certain times of the year.

 Yes, free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms and public areas.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, The Empire Hotel stands as a beacon of elegance and comfort. Located at 44 W 63rd St., this upscale hotel offers a unique blend of modern luxury and classic New York charm. With its proximity to iconic landmarks like Lincoln Center and Central Park, it serves as the perfect base for both leisure and business travelers. The hotel features a stunning rooftop bar that provides breathtaking views of the city skyline, making it a must-visit spot for those looking to unwind after a day of exploration.

At The Empire Hotel, dining is an experience that tantalizes the senses. The on-site seafood restaurant is renowned for its fresh catches and innovative dishes. One standout dish is the "Pan-Seared Scallops," perfectly cooked to a golden brown, served atop a bed of creamy risotto and drizzled with a citrus beurre blanc that enhances the natural sweetness of the scallops. Another must-try is the "Lobster Roll," featuring succulent lobster meat tossed in a light mayo dressing, served in a buttery toasted bun that melts in your mouth. Pair your meal with a signature cocktail from the rooftop bar, where the "Empire Sunset"—a refreshing mix of vodka, grapefruit juice, and a splash of elderflower liqueur—perfectly complements the stunning views.

The Empire Hotel's prime location makes it a gateway to some of New York City’s most cherished attractions. Just a short walk away, guests can immerse themselves in the cultural offerings at Lincoln Center, or take a leisurely stroll through the lush expanses of Central Park. The iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art is also nearby, showcasing an impressive collection of art from around the world. For those looking to shop, the upscale boutiques of the Upper West Side are just around the corner, providing a perfect blend of retail therapy and local charm.

The Empire Hotel is known for its upscale accommodations, exceptional dining options, and a stunning rooftop bar that offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.

Visiting The Empire Hotel offers a unique blend of luxury and convenience, with easy access to cultural landmarks and a vibrant dining scene, making it an ideal choice for both relaxation and exploration.

Nearby attractions include Lincoln Center, Central Park, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art, all within walking distance.

Whether you're visiting for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a business trip, The Empire Hotel promises an unforgettable experience. Don't miss the chance to enjoy exquisite dining, stunning views, and the vibrant energy of New York City. Book your stay today and immerse yourself in the luxury and charm that only The Empire Hotel can offer.

Upscale hotel with modern rooms & suites, plus a seafood restaurant & a seasonal rooftop pool.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfcHVELWJ3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuXQtkvVYwokReuWRquUId9M/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfcHVELWJ3EAE

Great hotel, located on upper west side, near Lincoln Center. The staff here, from doormen, valet, front desk and managers, are very helpful and friendly. The rooms are small, but comfortable and the only issue we had was we couldn't turn the heat up. The view was nice, the housekeeping staff was excellent and we really enjoyed our stay. Pasquale was very helpful when we checked out, and was able to facilitate baggage storage while we walked around for 2 hours before leaving for the airport. The rooftop bar is nice, and is also enclosed in winter. Highly recommended.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2a3FISnV3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuXQtkvVYwokReuWRquUId9M/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2a3FISnV3RRAB

Great location for attending The Met. Beyond that, I cannot recommend this hotel. The front desk receptionist gave off a ‘I hate working here vibe.’ No friendly greeting, no chit chat, no smile. The room, number 808, not good. The a/c system was uncontrollable. Could either be on cold (and then after about 20 minutes, the fan started making a loud racket) or hot and steamy (literally eyeglass lens steamy) could not turn it off. (The second pic is the rusty a/c grill.) There were no seating chairs, no dresser, NO coffee pot (huge turn off.) the shower stall had a crack from one end to the other. This was a two night overstay for two and for $1200 I think better room accommodations would be in order. I rate this hotel below The W on Times Square (which was pretty bad itself.) I’ve been to literally 100s of hotels and can honestly say, this stacks up one of the worst.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmdDdUcTVBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuXQtkvVYwokReuWRquUId9M/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmdDdUcTVBRRAB

The staff were friendly and helpful. We had a corner suite so plenty of space and a separate bedroom which was great as 4 of us sharing.
The sofa bed was big, but pretty awful to sleep on as had a bit dip in the middle. Fortunately we were so exhausted after waking around the city all day, we didn’t notice too much.
Our bathroom was very dated and the velour soft furniture quite stained.
The iconic neon sign was never lit for our entire 4 nights. Also the rooftop bar is a separate establishment.
There are no bathrooms or bar in the lobby. The gym was clean and well equipped. The pool was closed so didn’t get to see, can’t comment.
Overall enjoyed our stay and suited our needs.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQaGNQanVRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuXQtkvVYwokReuWRquUId9M/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQaGNQanVRRRAB

We had a pleasant stay. Staff were incredibly welcoming and service minded, we arrived early and was offered an early check in which was highly appreciated.
The hotel is conveniently located and we walked almost everywhere. Make sure to check out the rooftop bar as well. Great views, cocktails and food. The staff there is also incredibly attentive and friendly.
The only downside of things would be the rooms. They’re pretty outdated and could really use some  work. However for the price you pay, this hotel was great.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmMHZPeDVnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJuXQtkvVYwokReuWRquUId9M/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmMHZPeDVnRRAB

I typically don’t leave reviews, but really felt it was necessary to share my feelings on our experience.

The staff were wonderful, professional and friendly, however we were really disappointed with the rooms. We found cockroaches in our room two nights in a row which is just dreadful. Secondly, for $400 a night we thought we would have more amenities like water in our fridge, coffee makers and coffee in the rooms, softer bath towels and a newer room. For the price we paid surely coffee and water should be included. The door in the bathroom was eaten up and peeling at the bottom, and the shower curtain was so short that water got all over the floor of the bathroom. Just all around we feel for that  price we needed a little more. Also, the heat in the bedroom didn’t work very well, it would work sometimes and other times not.

Food at the Empire Rooftop is also very expensively priced.

The noise at night is also not great, very noisy both outside and inside the hotel, you can hear your neighbors sneeze! I enjoyed the staff but the rooms weren’t great at all.

Experience Luxury at The Empire Hotel in Manhattan, NYC

The Empire Hotel, established in 1923, is an iconic New York City landmark known for its distinctive red neon sign and proximity to cultural venues like Lincoln Center and Central Park.

The Empire Hotel: A historic landmark in Manhattan's vibrant landscape.

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 44 West 63rd Street, The Empire Hotel stands as an iconic boutique establishment with a rich history dating back to its opening on December 5, 1923. For nearly a century, this hotel has woven itself into the fabric of New York City's Upper West Side, captivating guests with its blend of historic charm and contemporary touches.

A timeline of The Empire Hotel's evolution

The Empire Hotel's story is marked by several pivotal moments that have helped shape its identity and reputation:

 The Empire Hotel opened its doors, offering a luxurious refuge in the bustling city.

 The hotel underwent an elegant refurbishment by interior designers Goodman Charlton, blending modern aesthetics with its historic roots.

 The hotel gained widespread popularity after being featured in the hit TV series Gossip Girl, cementing its status as a cultural and trendy destination.

Experiencing a blend of tradition and modern comfort

Today, The Empire Hotel offers guests a unique combination of vintage allure and contemporary amenities. With its prime location near Lincoln Center and The Met, visitors enjoy easy access to New York's cultural heartbeat. The hotel features modern rooms and suites, a seasonal rooftop pool with stunning skyline views, and a seafood restaurant that delights food lovers.

What truly sets The Empire Hotel apart, however, is the welcoming and attentive service that guests consistently praise, creating a comfortable and memorable stay amid the city's vibrant energy.

The Empire Hotel is an upscale hotel located in Manhattan, New York, featuring modern rooms and suites, a seafood restaurant, and a seasonal rooftop pool. It offers a blend of contemporary design and classic charm, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture of New York City.

The Empire Hotel

Rooftop Pool

Seafood Restaurant

The Empire Hotel is an upscale hotel located in Manhattan, New York, featuring modern rooms and suites, a seafood restaurant, and a seasonal rooftop pool. It offers a blend of contemporary design and classic charm, making it an ideal spot for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture of New York City.

Experience the Gossip Girl-inspired offerings at Empire Rooftop, featuring signature cocktails and delectable desserts.

Gossip Girl Cocktail

Blair's Favorite Macarons

Empire Rooftop Menu

Located in the heart of Manhattan on West 63rd Street, The Empire Hotel offers a thoughtfully curated menu that caters to guests seeking a refined yet approachable dining experience. Whether you're starting your day or craving a sweet indulgence, the dining options here focus on quality and simplicity, making it perfect for travelers and locals alike.

Kick off your morning with the iconic Continental Breakfast, a classic favorite that includes an assortment of flaky pastries, fresh seasonal fruit, creamy yogurt, and a selection of juices. To complement your meal, enjoy freshly brewed coffee or a soothing cup of tea, providing the perfect balance to start your day right in New York City.

For a sweet treat, the Empire Hotel features Amorino Gelato, offering a variety of rich and creamy flavors crafted to delight your palate. This dessert is an ideal choice to savor after a day exploring the city, providing a refreshing and indulgent finish.

Experience luxury at The Empire Hotel in Manhattan! Enjoy stunning views, upscale amenities, and vibrant nightlife just steps from Central Park. Book now!

Luxury Stays at The Empire Hotel, NYC near Central Park

New York County

An exclusive experience featuring a Gossip Girl cocktail, tea sandwiches, Blair's favorite macarons, and a photo opportunity in front of the iconic Hotel Empire sign. Available on select Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm.

Gossip Girl Experience

The empire hotel new york overview and amenities overview.

Nestled on West 63rd Street in vibrant Manhattan, The Empire Hotel offers travelers an iconic New York experience combining classic urban charm with modern touches. This upscale hotel is perfectly positioned near cultural landmarks like Lincoln Center and The Met, making it an ideal choice for visitors craving both convenience and style in the heart of the city.

Guests of The Empire Hotel enjoy a blend of convenience and style, with friendly, attentive staff who help create a welcoming atmosphere. While rooms lean toward the compact side, they are designed for comfort and functionality. Visitors have praised the helpfulness of the team — from doormen and valet attendants to front desk personnel — and the smooth check-in and check-out experience.

Note that the rooms can feel a bit dated and vary in condition, so guests seeking modern luxury might find some aspects less polished. However, the hotel’s character and prime location more than makeup for this, especially for travelers prioritizing access to New York’s arts and cultural hubs.

amenities and offerings for modern travelers

The Empire Hotel caters to guests’ lifestyle needs with several appealing amenities that create a convenient and enjoyable stay:

 – A seasonal outdoor pool with panoramic city views, perfect for unwinding while soaking in the New York skyline.

 – Located in the basement, this gym features cardio machines and free weights to keep your workout routine on track.

 – On-site valet service is available for a fee, making arrival and departure hassle-free.

 – The hotel warmly welcomes pets, ensuring your furry friends can join the Manhattan adventure.

ideal location for culture lovers and explorers

Staying at The Empire Hotel places you within easy walking distance of Lincoln Center, Central Park, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This proximity allows guests to effortlessly immerse themselves in New York’s rich arts scene, vibrant dining options, and iconic attractions without the stress of long commutes.

Whether you're a foodie, a digital nomad seeking inspiration, or a trend-conscious traveler eager to explore Manhattan's Upper West Side, The Empire Hotel offers a base that blends accessibility with authentic New York character.

key considerations for prospective guests

While many guests appreciate the personable staff and unbeatable location, it’s worth noting that some rooms may feel dated and smaller than typical luxury accommodations. Some visitors have reported challenges with climate control and noise, so those expecting high-end modern finishes might want to consider this before booking.

Despite these concerns, The Empire Hotel remains a recommended stay for travelers seeking a classic New York vibe, excellent cultural access, and vibrant rooftop views.

Experience iconic NYC luxury at The Empire Hotel, with rooftop bar, spacious suites, and prime location near Lincoln Center and Central Park.

Empire Hotel NYC: Luxury Stay Near Lincoln Center & Central Park

Discover The Empire Hotel, a historic NYC landmark with modern amenities, rooftop views, pet-friendly policies, and close proximity to cultural hotspots.

Empire Hotel NYC: Historic Landmark with Modern Comforts

Check the latest opening hours for The Empire Hotel, NYC. Find details on travel, amenities, and how to plan your visit to this iconic hotel.

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