The Plaza is a landmark hotel at Fifth Avenue and Central Park South in New York City. Opened in 1907, it is known for its grand interiors, luxury rooms and appearances in films including Home Alone 2. You can visit for afternoon tea in the Palm Court, where a stained-glass dome rises above palms and trellis details, or stop for coffee or a drink at the hotel. The Eloise-themed tea and children’s menu make it a memorable choice for families, though meals and stays come at a luxury price.
A hotel on Central Park South
The Plaza stands at 768 Fifth Avenue, where the avenue meets Central Park South. It opened in 1907 in a Beaux-Arts building and has become one of New York’s best-known hotels. Its location puts Central Park across the street and the shops of Fifth Avenue close by.
The hotel has appeared in films including Home Alone 2, Sleepless in Seattle and Bride Wars. Its connection to Eloise, the fictional child created by Kay Thompson in a 1955 book, is another part of its public identity. A portrait of Eloise hangs opposite the Palm Court, and the hotel sells books, clothing and other themed keepsakes.
Tea beneath the Palm Court dome
The Palm Court is the hotel’s main draw for many visitors who are not staying overnight. Its high ceiling and stained-glass dome sit above tall palms, trellis details and marble columns. The room’s greenery and ornate finishes give afternoon tea a formal setting.
Tea menus include finger sandwiches and other savoury bites, freshly baked scones with cream and preserves, and pastries. The Eloise Tea is designed for children and includes its own themed tableware and menu. Children are welcome, but the experience is an elaborate one, so check the current menu and prices before making a reservation.
Tea is also a chance to accommodate a dietary requirement: the chef has spoken with a guest about food allergies and prepared an alternative. If you need a particular adjustment, raise it with the restaurant when arranging your visit rather than assuming every item can be changed.
Stays and Eloise-themed details
The Plaza’s accommodation ranges from guest rooms to suites, including options with separate living areas and multiple bedrooms. The hotel also has a specially themed Eloise room, decorated in pink with character-inspired details. Families can ask about children’s amenities, which include children’s dining options and babysitting services.
Rooms are one reason to choose the hotel for a stay, but they come at a luxury price. Room amenities can differ, so confirm the details that matter to you before booking. The hotel’s position is especially useful if your plans include Central Park and Fifth Avenue shopping.
Coffee, cocktails and the hotel interior
You do not need to book a room to see parts of The Plaza or to stop for coffee. The hotel also has a bar with a polished but comfortable setting and cocktails. Prices are high, so it suits a special stop more than a budget drink.
A visit can be as focused as tea or a drink, or you can take time to look at the hotel’s public spaces and shops. The Palm Court is the clearest reason to plan a meal here; the rest of the experience is the setting and the chance to see a working landmark hotel from the inside.
Häufige Fragen
Where is The Plaza in New York City?
It is at 768 Fifth Avenue, at Central Park South, across from Central Park.
Can you visit The Plaza without staying overnight?
You can visit for afternoon tea, coffee or a drink. The hotel also has shops.
How long does afternoon tea at The Plaza take?
Allow about two hours for afternoon tea in the Palm Court.
Does The Plaza have an Eloise-themed experience for children?
Yes. The hotel has Eloise Tea for children and a specially themed room. A children’s menu is also available.
