Waldorf Astoria New York Reopening

I have been waiting 7 long years to share this news with all of you. It has been so long that I wasn't sure if I had missed it already. That would be the news of the Waldorf Astoria New York reopening! Hilton's crown jewel of the Manhattan skyline has finally wrapped up its long, and extensive, restoration project. There is no doubt that the property had been in desperate need of repairs and upgrades before it closed. What was once a property people aspired to stay in had become – for the lack of a better phrase – a complete dump.

I am happy to say that the images of the refurbished property look amazing. It looks like the elegance you expect from the Waldorf Astoria name has returned to Hilton's flagship property in the big apple. The best news is that it will be open for award bookings in just a few days!

Update 12/11/24: It appears Hilton IT has struck again! They didn't get the site fully up and running on the 10th for bookings like they said and they still don't have the calendar open for Spring bookings. Right now you can book a lot of September and then October and November. I guess Spring is Fall in New York?! Also the points price is high, at 150,000 points a night. This is a free night cert hotel if I have ever seen one! Cash prices are in the $1600+ range a night.

Details On The Newly Remodeled Waldorf Astoria NYC

Here are some notable takeaways from the Hilton press release:

 Waldorf Astoria New York announced today that it will start accepting reservations beginning Tuesday, Dec. 10 for stays in 2025. The legendary property is expected to open its doors in spring 2025.

Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, Waldorf Astoria New York will feature reimagined guest rooms and suites offering an unparalleled luxury accommodation experience.  Beyond their generous size, with the majority exceeding 570 square feet, these spaces will seamlessly blend modern comforts with subtle Art Deco accents, a nod to the hotel's iconic heritage. Designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon, each room will provide a sanctuary of refined elegance and provide a haven of tranquility amidst the vibrant energy of Manhattan. Waldorf Astoria New York will also boast a 30,000 square foot spa, state-of-the-art fitness center and outdoor terrace serving as an oasis within the bustling city.

Acclaimed Chef Michael Anthony will serve as the mastermind behind the standout signature restaurant, Lex Yard, a two-story American Brasserie that will charm the neighborhood while delivering a world-class dining experience. Peacock Alley, the iconic lounge and bar synonymous with the Waldorf Astoria brand, has also been reimagined and will return to the heart of the hotel.

Waldorf Astoria New York Photos & Videos

I'll share some media photos with you provided by Waldorf Astoria New York for their upcoming reopening:

Lobby Area

The bar area reminds me of the lobby bar at the Crockfords (another Hilton property) in Las Vegas.

The Bedroom

If this is a standard room that would be pretty impressive. I imagine this has to be a step up from the standard room though.

General Areas & Restaurant

The restaurant looks nice, but maybe not the warmest feeling place. That is my takeaway from the photos at least. That banquet room is pure insanity and the hallway screams old world luxury.

Waldorf Astoria New York Reopening: ToP Thoughts

I was just joking with my wife that after our last trip to New York I was good for a while. We had been there a lot over the last decade, and NYC wasn't giving me the same warm and fuzzies the way it always had before the pandemic. The Waldorf Astoria New York reopening is something that could change my timeline there though. It looks like an amazing property that has been restored to the level it should have always stayed at. We will have to see what the soft product is like and if the finishes etc. live up to the photos once you can touch things in person.

I would have to imagine this will be a 110,000 Hilton points a night property, which will make it a great option for a Hilton free night certificate redemption. I'll update this with the actual costs once bookings go live next week.

Let me know if you are excited about the Waldorf Astoria New York reopening after so long over in the ToP Facebook Group.