The story
The Plaza Hotel on Fifth Avenue commands a prime Central Park location, and this holiday season its festive decorations are earning praise. But creator Walk With Me Tim reports a rocky start: his initial room was “dirty and old,” and the hot water wasn’t working—a shock for a five-star stay. After complaining, he was moved to a much better suite, turning the experience around.
The location remains the hotel’s strongest draw, alongside that old-school elegance and tourist-friendly charm. While Tim’s visit highlights inconsistent housekeeping and maintenance, the staff’s willingness to resolve the issue suggests the service can meet guest expectations—eventually. For travelers who prioritize place over polish, the Plaza still delivers on location and atmosphere once the initial kinks are ironed out.
Synthesised by AI from every creator’s review. First reviewed 2023.
What creators say about the stay
Rooms
- My room felt really old and dirty. The chairs had stains, the carpet wasn't as nice as the hall, and the bed had sand and congealed yellow sand in it. The mattress was old and retro. But the chandelier was pretty special and I loved the circular bed design. After complaining, I was moved to a suite which was much better.
Facilities
- There's no pool like in Home Alone 2, the food court is closed, and I couldn't get a coffee until the restaurant opened at 6:30. The gym looked good but the spa wasn't open when I went.
Location
- The location is perfect, right next to Central Park. It's in a great spot in New York.
Service
- The service was mixed. They moved me to a suite after I complained about the bed, but when I reported the hot water issue, no one came to fix it. I had to go to Starbucks for coffee in the morning.
Breakfast
- Breakfast was included with a $60 credit. I had two sunny-side eggs, bacon, hash browns, and coffee. It was good, but I wish I could have gotten coffee earlier in the morning.
Value for money
- The room cost $1,418 for the tower room, which is a lot. Given the issues, I don't think it was worth that price. The suite they moved me to would have been over $2,000.
What creators say
1 creator has covered The Plaza Hotel. Most active: Walk With Me Tim
I had a disappointing stay at The Plaza Hotel; the room was dirty and old, and the hot water didn't work, but the location by Central Park and the festive decorations were nice. After complaining, I got moved to a much better suite.
