Updated October 2026: A year-long refurbishment led by New York’s Bill Rooney Studio was completed in September 2024, renewing all rooms and suites, the lobby and public areas, and reviving the rooftop bar under its original name, The Pen Top. The hotel received one Michelin Key in the 2025 Michelin Key selection.
The Peninsula New York at a glance
Location: Fifth Avenue at 55th Street, Midtown Manhattan | Price: $$$ | Best for: Fifth Avenue shopping, couples and polished service
Rooms: 219 rooms, including 55 suites | Best time to go: Spring and autumn for New York’s most comfortable weather
Why we love it: A 1905 Beaux-Arts landmark on Fifth Avenue, refreshed with contemporary rooms and known for polished service. It holds one Michelin Key and makes an ideal first base in Manhattan.
Good to know: A refurbishment of all rooms, suites and public spaces was completed in September 2024. The spa occupies the top floors and includes an indoor rooftop pool.
Insider detail: Arrive at The Pen Top rooftop bar before sunset to secure an outdoor terrace table before the crowds.
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My stay at The Peninsula New York
Checking In to The Peninsula Hotel New York
Located amidst the hustle and bustle of Midtown, The Peninsula Hotel is one New York’s most iconic hotels. It is classic in a timeless sense, with a strong 1920’s flair. But that hasn’t stopped the hotel from adding a pop of contemporary art to the foyer. There really is something on every turn, so be sure to explore! I was visiting New York City with my mum who had never visited the city before, so I put my trust in The Peninsula to give her the best introduction to the city. We were welcomed with early check-in and chocolates – quite a nice touch! And by the end of our stay, my mum was completely besotted with my favourite city.
The Peninsula Hotel location
The hotel is ideally located in the heart of midtown, just a short walk to the likes of Central Park, Times Square, Bryant Park, the Empire State Building and more. It is also located right on Fifth Avenue, so you can walk out of the hotel and be in the hustle and bustle. If this is your first time in New York City, there is no better location. From here you are a short walk to all of the cities’ major attractions.
Salon De Ning: The Peninsula’s Rooftop Bar
Whether you’re staying at the hotel or passing by and want to check it out, the Salon De Ning rooftop bar is a must-visit. This rooftop bar is in fact one of the most popular bars in the city, so it is often busy. If you are staying at the hotel be sure to use that as leverage to snag a table! I would also recommend arriving early before sunset. That way you can guarantee yourself an outdoor table before the crowds arrive.
A very warm thank you to The Peninsula New York for welcoming me to experience the hotel with my mum on this visit to New York City! All photos and opinions are my own.
The Peninsula New York: frequently asked questions
Has The Peninsula New York been renovated?
Yes. All rooms, suites and public spaces were refurbished in a project completed in September 2024.
Does The Peninsula New York have a pool?
Yes. The spa occupies the top floors and includes an indoor rooftop pool.
What is the rooftop bar at The Peninsula New York?
The Pen Top, the hotel’s redesigned rooftop lounge, has terrace views over Fifth Avenue.
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Brooke is a Tasmanian-born writer and professional baker who started World of Wanderlust in 2013 and has since travelled to 86 countries. These days her guides focus on what she knows best: the bakeries, hotels and places worth crossing the world for.
