Make sure to book a suite on the west side facing the park.
At one of Central Park's storied corners, the Mark has been holding court since its inception in 1927. Its bricks have stood strong through America's victories and defeats, unyielding to a city and country reinventing itself over and over again for more than 80 years. Recently, though, the hotel itself has benefited from a metamorphosis — at the hands of designer Jacques Grange.
A lilting French atmosphere now permeates the hotel's 100 rooms and 50 suites, not to mention the lobby, with its graphic checkerboard floor and stunning objets d'art.
None other than Jean Georges helms the kitchen here, serving diners at the obviously named The Mark Restaurant by Jean Georges. A substantial raw selection accents a sweeping menu featuring succulent treats ranging from pizzas and pastas, to Main lobster and caramelized beef tenderloin.
You'll likely need to work off a meal or two, and neighboring Central Park is the place to do it. Speak to the concierge to find the most scenic of routes.