Hottest Hotel Openings Of 2022: Hard Rock Hotel New York

There’s a hot new property that’s ready to rock New York City’s hotel scene—quite literally.

The Hard Rock Hotel New York, which debuted on April 25th, is poised to turn up the volume city-wide from its prime perch on West 48^th Street. Formerly known as Music Row for the recording studios and music stores that once lined it—long ago frequented by the likes of Jimi Hendrix and Ringo Starr—the stretch is now home to the 446-room hotel, located just steps away from Radio City Music Hall and Rockefeller Center.

“Hard Rock has had a presence for decades in New York City, but this location will deliver an entirely new experience from the brand that’s been synonymous with music and entertainment for over 50 years,” said Jim Allen, Chairman of Hard Rock International, in a press release.

True to form, musical touches inform the hotel’s design—spearheaded by Jeffrey Beers International—throughout, with decorative vignettes and sculptural homages to music juxtaposed with materials include rich dark woods, lush leather and velvet fabrics, and striking marbles. A vivid color palette featuring the property’s signature blue, warm golds and brass, and pops of silver rounds out the edgy aesthetic. Signature Hard Rock memorabilia, including Joey Ramone’s classic leather motorcycle jacket and silver patent-leather boots worn by Lady Gaga, is artfully showcased throughout—part of Hard Rock’s 86,000-piece treasure trove, the world’s largest private collection of its kind.

Designed with striking blue tones and gold accents inspired by dusk in the city—when night falls and the marquee lights shine—rooms feature iconic imagery of notable artists as well as Kimono robes, Lavazza coffee machines, and high speed Wi-Fi. Especially music-minded guests can also enjoy Crosley turntables and Fender guitars in-room upon request. The two-story Rock Star Suite, a glass-enclosed penthouse with expansive city views, presides over the property from the 36th floor, complete with original contemporary artwork, bespoke music memorabilia, and one of the city’s largest terraces at 1,600 square feet—perfect for a late-night, after-show soirée.

Speaking of, the hotel offers live music across all public spaces, as well as multiple entertainment venues prime for concerts, interviews, and more. An integrated Audacy Live state-of-the-art performance studio and entertainment hub will feature a series of recording sessions and intimate performances from A-list artists on an ongoing basis. Meanwhile, the Venue on Music Row, the hotel’s subterranean, must-visit entertainment space, is set to play host to a slew of world-class performances, as well as fashion shows, gala dinners, and other ultra-glam events.

Even rock stars have to eat—and the hotel makes noshing easy for guests and visitors alike with an array of inspired culinary concepts. At the low-lit, Mozambique-wood-paneled NYY Steak—a partnership with the New York Yankees—premium bone-in ribeyes and kobe NY strips are served on fine China inscribed with the iconic franchise insignia. The all-day Sessions Restaurant & Bar dishes up breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a light-filled atrium brimming with art and more music memorabilia. When it’s time for a tipple, craft cocktails and panoramic views take center stage at RT60, the hotel’s show-stopping rooftop bar and lounge on the 34th floor, where revelers can sway to the DJ’s beats on two north- and south-facing terraces.

Rates start at $475. For more information or to book, visit the hotel website.