A legendary hotel that’s hosted the likes of Babe Ruth, Madonna and David Bowie, this long-neglected hostelry was reborn in 2006 under the direction of famed hotelier Ian Schraeger and the design of artist Julian Schnabel. With the hefty price tag of a room comes access to keys to the adjacent, very exclusive and very private Gramercy Park. Rooms can be petite, but details like iPod players, plush beds and plasma tvs make up for any shortcomings. The Rose Bar, with its Andy Warhol and Damien Hirst paintings, fireplaces and cozy chairs is a prime spot for a cocktail, though the newly opened private roof club and garden is the toughest velvet rope to cross in town.

Gramercy Park Hotel Amenities:

• 183 rooms. Pets accepted, with restrictions. Check-in 3pm, check-out Noon. High-speed Internet access, wireless Internet access. Restaurant, 2 bars. Fitness room, spa. Airport transportation available. Business center. Credit cards accepted.