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Regularly lauded by glossy travel magazines, the Hotel Plaza Athenee is much like its sister hotel in Paris—opulent, glistening and located on a prime strip of real estate. While the Parisian version has the Champs-Elysées, the Manhattan hotel sits on a quiet, tree-lined Upper East Side street just blocks from Central Park. Past the red awnings, perfectly sculpted topiary and spiffy doormen sits a sparkling marble-and-crystal lobby outfitted with pristine Louis XVI furniture. Some of the 149 rooms and 35 suites feature dining rooms, indoor atriums or outdoor balconies boasting stunning views of Fifth Ave.; all include nice touches like writing desks, high-speed Internet access, CD players and Belgian linens. In addition to a fully equipped business center and 24-hour concierge, the hotel offers numerous complimentary extras, including Internet in the lobby and bar, morning coffee and tea, and shoe shines. To top it all off, the Plaza Athenee is known for its down-to-earth clientele, so all this chic isn’t the least bit stuffy. — Nick Divito

Friendly concierge and staff are happy to serve guests of all stripes. Children's goody bags and discount packages can be arranged in advance.

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