Stylishly dolled-up as the recognisable abode of New York’s highest-society (just ask the Gossip Girl fans), ritzy-glitzy urbanites need look no further when it comes to a sojourn with a story. This Madison Avenue landmark is a hotspot for movie moments and filled to the brim with secret histories, even those who prefer to stay in the real world are sure to fall in love with its fantasy. Away from the iconic backdrops though, rooms are spacious in the original Palace with plenty of interconnecting options, ideal for tucking in the whole brood by bedtime; while the Towers bring the exclusive offering of hands-on butler service and fit-for-a-princess views of the St. Patrick's Cathedral. A general air of grandeur felt across everything they do, from lounging in the exclusive former members-only Rarities salon to The Gold Room in the Villard Mansion, there’s even a mind-blowing magic show thrown into the mix with never before seen tricks and tales. 

Imaginations quickly ignited, this 18^th-century glory inspires wayfinders to get to know the former mansion and its surroundings on a deeper level. Starting with the weekly history tour on its very doorstep, behind-the-scenes anecdotes of its Gilded Era roots and countless clapperboard moments are revealed first. Before both big and little feet step out and see their coveted routes around the city for themselves, from the irresistible vantage point at the Top of the Rock (arguably better than that of the Empire State Building) to Fifth Avenue and Central Park’s ability to please all.