"Start us off with an overview. Times Square hustles and bustles right outside the doors of this national historic landmark Beaux Arts building, but once you’re inside this sanctuary, you’d never know. First opened in 1906, “The Knick” is something of a hallowed ground for lovers of hotel history. It was the brainchild of millionaire John Jacob Astor IV, who also owned the Waldorf-Astoria (and later died aboard the Titanic). Said to be the birthplace of the martini, the hotel was a favorite of the city’s elite and celebrated until it closed in 1921 and was turned into offices. Following extensive renovations, it was re-opened as a hotel in 2015 under its original name, complete with doormen sporting knickerbockers and dotted with subtle retro flourishes. Who's staying here? A low-profile mix of travelers who value both the convenience of the Times Square location and a refined, Leading Hotels of the World experience. Tell us everything we need to know about the rooms. All rooms feel spacious and sleek, thanks to 12-foot ceilings, six-foot-high windows, custom lighting and furnishings, and gleaming wood finishes. Cushy Euro-top beds are made even more luxurious with SFERRA linens and Ploh feather pillows, while oversized bathrooms come with Diptyque amenities, Turkish cotton towels and robes, back-lit mirrors, and walk-in rain showers or, in some rooms, tubs. Food and drinks: What's on offer at this hotel? In the morning grab coffee, fresh baked goods, and light bites at the barrel-ceilinged, marble-lined Jake’s Coffee. Enjoy the rest of your meals at Charlie Palmer at The Knick. The hotel's restaurant features the noted chef/restauranteur's signatures like fried chicken and pan-seared scallops, as well as wine pairing tasting menus, pre-theater menus, and popular power lunches. If you're drinking (heck, even if you aren't) the St. Cloud rooftop bar has extensive indoor and outdoor seating—including “sky pods” that overlook Times Square (a prime ticket for New Year’s Eve) and more importantly, stellar views. Anything we missed? The pet-friendly hotel offers valet parking and special kids’ amenities, has a 24-hour fitness center, and treats guests to unique perks like priority reservations at the nearby Charlie Palmer Steak, and long-term wardrobe storage for repeat visitors. What's the bottom line? A serene spot to escape the Times Square fray, but still be in the heart of it all." - Sandra Ramani
