When preparing for a trip to New York and searching for hotels, at first, a $300 per night rate seems expensive.

However, as you scroll up a bit, you start seeing rates of $500, $800, and suddenly a $1,500 option appears.

You can't help but think, "Wait, it's just for sleeping?" Yet, there are legendary hotels in New York that are so in demand that they sell out.

A prime example is The Plaza, located right in front of Central Park. It opened in 1907 and is a symbol of New York.

It occupies a fantastic location where Fifth Avenue meets Central Park South. This is the very hotel where young Kevin checked in alone in the movie Home Alone 2.

The Plaza is more than just a hotel; it's a place to experience how wealthy New Yorkers lived in the past. Room rates vary significantly depending on the date and type of room, but even standard rooms start at around $1,000 per night and can go much higher during peak seasons. If you opt for a nice suite,

you can easily spend thousands of dollars. With New York hotel taxes and various fees added, you need to be prepared when checking out.

If staying overnight feels too burdensome, you can experience afternoon tea at The Plaza's Palm Court.

Even non-hotel guests can enjoy a taste of the old New York high society atmosphere, making it popular among tourists.

And when discussing the history of New York hotels, it would be remiss not to mention the Waldorf Astoria New York.

Opened in 1931 on Park Avenue, it is a symbol of Art Deco. It has hosted presidents, royalty, diplomats, and Hollywood stars, and after a major renovation, it reopened in 2025.

So, if you were to write something like "currently under redevelopment with a completion date," that would now be incorrect information. It is back in business. The number of rooms has significantly decreased compared to the past, and the rooms have been expanded to return as a completely luxurious hotel.

The Peninsula New York on Fifth Avenue is also impressive. According to the promotions listed on their official site for 2026, room rates start at $895 per night, with Deluxe King rooms starting at $945. Superior Suites begin at $1,795, and Deluxe Suites start at a staggering $4,445. Of course, prices vary depending on the date.

At this point, you might think, "Oh, a thousand dollars is the limit," but that's far from the truth.

The St. Regis New York is also a cornerstone of New York's luxury hotels.

Founded in 1904 by John Jacob Astor IV, it is perfect for those who appreciate the traditional wealthy New York atmosphere.

The St. Regis Butler Service is particularly famous, and the Bloody Mary served at King Cole Bar is known as a symbol of the hotel.

And there's also the Four Seasons Hotel New York on 57th Street.

After being closed for a while, it reopened in 2024.

With its proximity to Central Park and Fifth Avenue, the rooms are spacious and luxurious, making it a favorite among wealthy businesspeople and international elites.

Officially, room rates vary by date, and currently, they offer a 15% discount on standard room rates for reservations made 21 days in advance.

When considering these hotels, it's hard to understand the pricing if you only think about the bed. Whether you pay $1,000 or $300, sleeping is the same.

Instead, people buy the experience. Rooms with views of Central Park, a lobby over 100 years old, butler service, afternoon tea, cocktails at famous bars, and the memory of saying, "I stayed at The Plaza in New York" are what you're paying for.

So, for Koreans living in New York, there's really no need to spend $1,000 a night. Just enjoying afternoon tea for an anniversary or having a drink at the hotel bar when guests come is plenty of fun.

Just be sure to check the menu prices before entering. At New York's top luxury hotels, you might get a shock when you see the bill after being swept up in the atmosphere.