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The name says it all. Built in 1882 as a high-end apartment complex, the palatial New York Palace was re-imagined as a hotel in the '70s and now exudes a sense of sumptuous royalty only found in a handful of Manhattan hotels. The 892 guest rooms and suites—some as large as 5,000 square feet—feature fully stocked, large marble bathrooms, work areas with full-sized desks, and plush, overstuffed beds. All rooms are equipped with high-speed Internet access, three phone lines and an in-room safe. Guests can also enjoy online concierge service, or take advantage of the on-site spa and fitness center. Of special note is the hotel's bridal following: With in-house wedding planners and caterers, a Grand Courtyard and a free bridal suite for the newly betrothed, the New York Palace is known for hosting grand-scale, elegant unions. And although guests don't have to be royalty to get hitched here, having a king's bankroll wouldn't hurt. — E. J. Samson

Even the hotel's Web site is a cut above the rest: Contact the Palace's Online Concierge and get a head start on planning a trip.

Cons
Beware the Manhattan snobbery often spotted in the hotel's bars and lounges.