Review / The Peninsula New York brings Christmas to glittering life on Fifth Avenue

Dec 4 , 2025

The lobby of the Peninsula New York during the holidays. Photo: Handout

With luxe rooms, great dining and a 2024 refurbishment, the grande dame on Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan is always a great stay – but it’s even better during the holidays

Few cities do Christmas like New York. If you’re a fan of the holiday season, you’d be hard pressed to find a better place to soak up the seasonal cheer than Midtown Manhattan and its main thoroughfare, Fifth Avenue. Come Thanksgiving weekend, the boulevard becomes Christmas Central. With the holiday windows of luxury department stores like Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and ice rink, and not to mention the Radio City Christmas Spectacular and shows like The Nutcracker – you could spend a whole week immersing yourself in all things Christmas.

Located on the corner of Fifth Avenue and 55th Street, a short walk from Rockefeller Center, Central Park and the Museum of Modern Art, The Peninsula New York makes for a wonderful base during the holidays - or any time you visit New York, for that matter.

The Peninsula New York is located just off Fifth Avenue. Photo: Handout

In 1988, the Hong Kong-based hotel chain took over a landmark Beaux-Arts structure that was first built in 1905 and originally operated as the Gotham Hotel. Since then, The Peninsula New York has set the bar as one of the city’s top luxury properties, bringing Asian hospitality to one of the world’s most dynamic destinations.

A beautifully appointed junior suite at The Peninsula New York. Photo: Handout

In September 2024, the hotel emerged from an extensive renovation led by New York City-based Bill Rooney Studio. The unveiling revealed accommodations and public areas that were refreshed and modernised with contemporary furniture and hi-tech amenities while still maintaining design touches harking back to the building’s art deco heritage.

Pen Top bar is a great spot for a sunset drink. Photo: Handout

From the imposing staircase that greets guests upon arrival to the incredible views of the city’s skyline from Pen Top, its rooftop bar, the hotel is always buzzing with stylish locals and in-the-know travellers. But it also provides plenty of room for relaxation and quiet.

Its stunning pool area, with its soaring skylight ceiling, is a haven of calm while the 35,000 sq ft Peninsula Spa is one of New York’s top destinations for wellness and beauty. You can indulge in facials by cult skincare label Biologique Recherche or soothing body massages with oils from aromatherapy brand Subtle Energies.

The pool is a haven of calm soaring above New York’s Midtown district. Photo: Handout

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