The Waldorf Astoria Returns: A Grand Reopening For A New Era
Source: The Waldorf Astoria
The Reopening
In 1893, William Waldorf Astor built the original Waldorf Hotel at the corner of Fifth Avenue and 33rd Street. Just four years later, in 1897, John Jacob Astor IV constructed the larger, taller Astoria Hotel next door. That same year, the two hotels were connected by the famed Peacock Alley, and the Waldorf Astoria New York was born.
In 1931, the hotel added its iconic towers, becoming the largest and tallest hotel in the world. That same year, the Waldorf Astoria was forced to relocate when its original Fifth Avenue location was razed to make way for the Empire State Building. The hotel remained open until 2017 when it closed again for major renovations.
New York's iconic Waldorf Astoria is now back, fully restored and ready to reclaim its place atop Manhattan's luxury hotel hierarchy. After eight years and a staggering $2 billion makeover, the landmark at 301 Park Avenue officially reopened its doors in mid-July, months ahead of its originally projected September relaunch.
The original 1,400 rooms have been converted into 375 ultra-spacious guestrooms and suites on the lower 18 floors. Above them sit 372 private residences, marking a new hybrid model of luxury hospitality and high-end living. The redesign, led by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, masterfully balances historic Art Deco opulence with contemporary sophistication. Restored mosaics, murals, and the legendary Peacock Alley lounge now coexist with smart lighting, automated window treatments, and sleek modern furnishings.
Source: The Waldorf Astoria
Dining & Amenities
Dining at the new Waldorf is as ambitious as the architecture. The standout is Lex Yard, a 220-seat brasserie spread across two levels, helmed by acclaimed Chef Michael Anthony. The restaurant reinvents American classics—including a refined take on the Waldorf salad—in a space that nods to mid-century glamour while feeling thoroughly modern. Japanese concept Yoshoku also makes its debut, and the beloved Peacock Alley returns with its iconic 1893 lobby clock and Cole Porter’s restored piano as centerpieces.
This summer’s reopening marks only the first phase. On September 1, the Waldorf will unveil its full slate of amenities, including 43,000 square feet of event space featuring the famed Grand Ballroom and several restored salons. A 30,000-square-foot Guerlain spa will also open, offering saunas, steam rooms, a fitness center, and an outdoor terrace—promising a full luxury experience that goes beyond even the hotel's historic offerings.
This isn’t just a renovation—it’s a resurrection. Architectural preservationists have praised the restoration for its attention to detail and scale, calling it a new benchmark in hotel design. Hilton CEO Chris Nassetta referred to the Waldorf as “the most important hotel in the world,” now poised to redefine global luxury hospitality for a new generation. He joined the company in 2007.
Source: The Waldorf Astoria
What’s Next?
For New Yorkers and visitors alike, the Waldorf Astoria’s return is a symbolic and tangible triumph—of history preserved, elegance reborn, and Manhattan’s reputation as a capital of timeless luxury reaffirmed.
After an almost decade-long hiatus, the Waldorf Astoria is finally returning to New York City’s lineup of iconic hotels and hotel restaurants. It will once again serve as a premier destination for New Yorkers to network, brush shoulders, and build their empires.
NYC’s socialites are sure to embrace the return of the Waldorf Astoria with open arms. With its storied history, opulent design, and renewed sense of grandeur, the hotel offers the perfect backdrop for high-society gatherings, power lunches, and elegant evenings out.
The Waldorf’s revival marks not just the return of a landmark, but the reawakening of a beloved social hub where the city’s elite can once again see and be seen. Whether you're checking in for a weekend, hosting a gala, or simply enjoying a drink beneath the shimmering lobby chandeliers, the Waldorf once again offers an experience like no other.
