Excelsior Hotel

The elegant Excelsior almost gives the Lucerne a run for its money. The chic location is across from the Museum of Natural History and steps from Central Park. However, the staff doesn't quite live up to the Lucerne's example. Freshly done in an attractive traditional style, the guest rooms boast high-quality furnishings, commodious closets, two-line phones, thick terry bathrobes, a work desk, and free bottled water. The two-bedded rooms are large enough to accommodate budget-minded families (a few even have two queens), and suites feature pullout sofas and trouser presses. The museum-facing rooms are only worth the extra dough if a park view is important to you, as all rooms are relatively bright and quiet. On the second floor is a library-style lounge with working fireplace, books, games, leather seating, writing desks, and a large flatscreen TV. Chef Ed Brown's acclaimed restaurant, Eighty One, opened in the hotel in 2008.

Facilities:
Restaurant; breakfast room w/2 open-air decks and daily breakfast buffet; concierge; exercise room

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.