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Once upon a time, the ornate, limestone Hotel Commodore rose up next to Grand Central Terminal. Today, that building is draped in a blue glass curtain and is known as the Grand Hyatt. With 1,311 rooms, this is one of New York's biggest hotels, and it certainly feels imposing. The vast, echoing lobby is filled with the gentle white noise of a granite waterfall and features brass columns and black marble floor—all of which combine to suggest a luxury mall. Thanks to a $65 million renovation, the rooms are sleek and contemporary, though the hotel's position between skyscrapers doesn't offer much in the way of views or natural lighting. Still, the Midtown location is unbeatable—assuming that staying smack-dab in the middle of tourist and commuter madness is enjoyable. — Lisa Selin Davis

Location, location, location.

Cons
Its massive size can make it feel a bit impersonal.