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The 4 Best New York City Hotels For Couples

Whether you're a city couple looking for a change of pace or are coming to the Big Apple for a romantic weekend getaway, we've got you covered. By Jennifer Friedel. 

The Chatwal

The Chatwal
(credit: The Chatwal Hotel/Facebook)

130 West 44th Street, New York, NY
212-764-6200 or 1-888-5-chatwal
thechatwalny.com

New on the scene, the Chatwal hotel, located a stone's throw from the captivating lights of the Time's Square Theatre District, is an unexpected escape from the city rush. Guests are swept back in time with the deep red and chocolate décor, oak paneling accented by art deco lighted columns, and a 30's-era New York street scene mural seen from the lobby and balcony bar. The Empire State Building hanging bar lights recall the days of yesteryear when this iconic Standford-White designed building was the go-to spot for American theater icons and crooners such as Charlie Chaplin and Fred Astaire. Another throwback to the rich theater period is the legendary Lambs Club, headed by Chef Geoffrey Zakarian, who has worked his magic at other notable eateries, including Le Cirque, the 21 Club and The Water Club at the Borgata. Couples can cozy up in the red leather banquettes, and share some of the chef's updated American bar and grill fare while reminiscing and swapping stories like the stars of years ago.

Today, after a complete renovation, couples can slip up to the modern guestrooms draped in fine suede with soft leather wrapped full closets, desk and night stands. The plush carpet leads the way to the private bar, perfect for mixing cocktails while playing with the complimentary Chatwal cards or backgammon set, or just summon your 24-hour butler for late in-room dining or a bucket of bubbly. Be sure to get a room with a heated, fully furnished private outdoor terrace to take in views of the quiet street. But, don't overlook the bathroom, which is appointed with an in-mirror 19-inch television and luxurious oversized robes. After your tranquil rain shower, mist yourself with "The Chatwal No. 44," created by French perfumer, Krigler, a favorite of Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn and F. Scott Fitzgerald.

The hotel's Spa by Kashwere is another modern nod, with its indoor lap pool and two plunge pools, offset by private dressing areas complete with heated towels, over-sized bathrobes and steam showers. The intricately designed treatments appeal to the five senses for an all-encompassing experience, from the color & light therapy, to signature Chypre scented amenities, customized aperitifs in the lounge area and your choice of music playlist. Customized couples massages can also be held in the privacy of your guestroom for an intimate indulgence.

The Greenwich Hotel

The Greenwich Hotel
(credit: The Greenwich Hotel/Facebook)

377 Greenwich Street
212-941-8900
thegreenwichhotel.com

The Greenwich Hotel, located in one of New York's most desirable neighborhoods, blends the luxury of Manhattan style with exotic Moroccan and Tibetan touches for an unforgettable romantic escape. The Drawing Room, with 12-foot ceilings, bookshelves stocked with the greats, and a wood-burning fireplace is the perfect setting for an intimate lunch. Just off the Drawing Room, beyond the French doors and walls lined with antique mirrored glass, lies a small courtyard tucked away beneath latticed vines, ideal for an after-dinner drink or to catch up after a day exploring the city. The luxury boutique hotel's 88 guestrooms are a respite in themselves, with extra deep soaking tubs, plush sofas and DUX King-sized beds, perfect for curling up with a good book from the room's private library. Draped in Tibetan silk rugs, offset with Moroccan tiles and handmade terracotta floors, the reclaimed wood furnishings create a comfortable, home-like setting.

The Shibui spa taps into the ancient traditions of Japanese massage providing a sanctuary of relaxation. From the romantic lantern-lit swimming pool and traditional bathing room to the serene lounge – the roof of which is made of from a 250-year old wood and bamboo reconstructed farmhouse, couples can tap into their sensuality and drift away. For those hoping to reconnect with one another, in-room massages are on offer, as well as private yoga sessions in the pool lounge or in your suite.

Bowery Hotel

Bowery Hotel
(Photo: The Bowery Hotel)

335 Bowery, New York, NY
212-505-9100
theboweryhotel.com

Though the décor and atmosphere may beckon the nineteenth century, this downtown hotel is a scene for the younger – or the young at heart. With its hand-picked furniture, dark wood and antique rugs, the hotel has an old school charm with all the modern appointments you could need (including free WiFi – though hopefully you won't have time to use it!). A tranquil escape from the hustle of New York, guests can enjoy a comfortable night in, chatting in the well-adorned lobby with locals or other young travelers. Don't miss the amazing cocktails at the bar, which is also perfect for some great people – and celebrity - watching. After exploring East Village haunts, warm up at Gemma, the hotel's delicious Italian restaurant, serving up tummy-filling treats such as a hearty bowl of papardelle with oxtail ragu. Finish the night off sharing warm bites of the restaurant's chocolate cake.

For those looking for some alone time, head up to the guest rooms and indulge in a long, relaxing Bigelow bubble bath in the soaking tub. The hotel's friendly staff has thought of everything to ensure a pleasurable escape, including moist chocolate chip cookies on your 400 thread count sheets left at turndown. There's also a complimentary film library if you want to spend a night-in, watching the classics while sipping some champagne.

The Standard

The Standard
(credit: The Standard Hotel/Facebook)

848 Washington Street, New York, NY
212-645-4646 or 877-550-4646
standardhotels.com/new-york-city/

See Also: NYC's 5 Best Beer Gardens

Couples looking to shake things up a bit should check out this newcomer to the Meatpacking District. Literally straddling the High Line park, this mod-esque hotel with sister locations in Hollywood, LA and Miami caused a stir when it first opened last year. With floor-to-ceiling windows on every wall (they even open!), the guestrooms are an unbelievable spot to see the views, or to be seen, for those so inclined. If you're just testing the voyeuristic waters, the in-room "peek-a-boo" shower or over-sized bathtub is a good way to test it out in private. The Liberty Suite lends itself to a weekend of seclusion with a extra-large 7 ft. round platform bed and a "tea-cup" bathtub for two and a separate shower for two (see a theme here?). There's also a fully-stocked wet bar, 42" plasma TV, Geneva sound system with iPod deck and an adjoining entertaining room with floor-to-ceiling paneling, plush carpeted platform seating and a six-person dining table should you want some company.

More On New York City Hotels & Hospitality From CBSNewYork:

NYC's Notorious Hotels

Bed & Breakfast Inns Outside Of NYC

Best New York City Hotels For Families

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