Guests savor Gilded Age elegance at NYC's historic Fifth Avenue Hotel

A Journey Through Time at The Fifth Avenue Hotel

Stepping into The Fifth Avenue Hotel in Manhattan feels like being transported back to the Gilded Age, a time of opulence and extravagance that has recently captured the imagination of many. This historic hotel, housed within a 19th-century NoMad mansion, offers a unique experience that mirrors the lavish lifestyles depicted in the popular HBO Max series The Gilded Age. Created by Julian Fellowes, the same mastermind behind Downton Abbey, this period drama has reignited interest in the lives of America’s wealthiest families from the 1880s, including the Astors, Roosevelts, Vanderbilts, Carnegies, and Rockefellers.

The show follows Marian Brook, a young woman from Pennsylvania who moves to New York to live with her wealthy aunts. Viewers are not only drawn in by the characters but also by the extravagant settings that reflect the era's elite lifestyle. While many of the grand mansions from that time have long been replaced by modern retail stores, some still stand as a testament to the past. The Fifth Avenue Hotel is one such place, offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in the Gilded Age experience.

Opulence Meets Modern Comfort

The Fifth Avenue Hotel is a blend of historical charm and modern luxury. From the elegant yet cozy lobby to the eclectic décor in the pink hallways, every detail exudes a sense of grandeur. The property, which is part of The Leading Hotels of the World, is known for its unique and distinct travel experiences. Guests can enjoy personalized service, including a dedicated butler who assists with everything from pressing clothes to arranging a personal photographer.

The suites are designed to impress, featuring colorful chandeliers, well-stocked mini-bars, and housekeeping services twice daily. The concierge team offers exclusive access to some of the city’s most sought-after restaurants, akin to having a private opera box. Each room is adorned with unique touches, such as bone-inlaid tables and tiger-striped rugs, crafted by renowned designer Martin Brudnizki. His work pays homage to both the past and present, creating spaces that are bold and colorful in a city known for its compact hotel rooms.

A Culinary Experience Worth Savoring

Dining at The Fifth Avenue Hotel is an experience in itself. The hotel’s restaurant, Café Carmellini, features a majestic setting with live trees, stunning chandeliers, Art Deco mirrors, and blue velvet seating. Diners can imagine the space as a ballroom where guests once danced and gossiped. The restaurant, helmed by chef Andrew Carmellini, also operates several other popular spots in the city, including Locanda Verde and Lafayette.

For those looking for a more intimate setting, The Portrait Bar has gained popularity on TikTok as a go-to date night destination. The bar is filled with photos, paintings, and drawings, creating a romantic atmosphere. The cocktails are described with humor and wit, making for a memorable evening.

A Historic Landmark Reimagined

The original five-story limestone and brick building was commissioned by socialite Charlotte Goodridge in 1856. It was later redesigned as a bank in 1907 by the esteemed architecture firm McKim, Mead & White, known for their work on the Brooklyn Museum and the original Penn Station. The firm played a significant role in shaping the Gilded Age aesthetic in America.

In the 1970s, the building was purchased by Alex Ohebshalom, who focused on restoring the landmark to its former glory. The hotel officially opened in 2023, offering a glimpse into the past while providing modern comforts. Its prime location at the intersection of 28th Street and Fifth Avenue makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions such as Madison Square Park, the Empire State Building, and The Morgan Library & Museum.

The Morgan Library & Museum, originally the personal library of financier Pierpont Morgan, houses rare manuscripts and serves as a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The hotel’s Gilded Age ambiance has even attracted members of the Gilded Age cast, who recently posed for a New York Times photoshoot in its lavish rooms, which start at $895 per night.

For those seeking a taste of old-world elegance, The Fifth Avenue Hotel offers an unforgettable escape into the past, blending history with luxury in a way that would surely make Mrs. Astor proud.