NYC’s Best Urban Haven? This Classic Upper East Side Chic Boutique Retreat

Uptown or downtown, there’s nothing better than the buzz of NYC—and no shortage of impressive hotels smack in the Big Apple action. But for the ultimate urban oasis, The Lowell—an Upper East Side classic just a stone’s throw from Fifth Avenue and Central Park—still stuns from spectacular cityscapes and neoclassical glamour to its covetable, residential vibe. Here, a few highlights why insiders keep flocking to this circa-1927 luxe landmark retreat.

Your own slice of Upper East Side paradise? Yes, please! Beyond its ultra-charming pink art deco facade, this 17-story beaut—with just 74 rooms—feels more posh New York townhome than hotel. From the marble-clad neoclassical foyer to oh-so-cozy nooks, intimate spaces wow (thanks to former White House decorator Michael S. Smith) with ornate architectural accents, museum-worthy art and sculptures, stunning floral displays and old-world flair.

Even the light-flooded guest rooms feel like homey private apartments—and are nothing short of modern luxury with super-plush furnishings, soft hues, hardwood floors, huge marble bathrooms and some even with wood-burning fireplaces. Snag a top-floor suite and you’ll be rewarded with a full gourmet kitchen, landscaped terrace and sweeping skyline vistas. No doubt, you’ll wish it was yours.

Romantic dinner, served. Let’s be honest, even before you’ve tasted Majorelle’s flavor-packed French-meets-Moroccan dishes (hello, faceplant-worthy couscous and tasty vegetables tagine!) the hotel’s restaurant will win your hungry heart with its gorgeous flower displays, vaulted ceilings, marble columns, and glass-covered garden. Plus, don’t miss the famed Pembroke Room with its magnificent art deco allure—it’s the city staple for modern afternoon tea and heavenly breakfasts where insanely scrumptious delights are devoured in the European-inspired salon.

Best New York City Base? It may be. Set on a serene tree-lined street on a picturesque Upper East Side block—surrounded by historic brownstones—you couldn’t nab a more chill, upscale, perfectly un-touristy base to explore. You can meander for miles around Central Park; ogle the The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s 5,000 years of jaw-dropping works; or hit up Fifth and Madison Avenue’s designer shops—all just a stroll away.

Travel Tip: From airport arrival to catching a Broadway or Lincoln Center show, hit up Lyft for the quickest, easiest way to savor the city—and whisk you straight back to the hotel (when you’ve reached your city hustle bustle limit). Even better, consider a scheduled ride so your travels are set in advance and stress free.