In a city filled with historic gems, the W New York on Lexington Ave. still manages to stand out, thanks in no small measure to outstanding service and the fabulous Renaissance-inspired architecture by Emery Roth. Occupying the space that once housed the Montclair Hotel, the hotel façade features embellishments that include elephants above the entrance with their trunks wound around the marquee supports, and figures above the second floor windows portrayed as carrying the weight of the building on their backs.

Inside, signature pillow-topped feather beds and Bliss bath products create an urban haven. Sophisticated décor extends throughout guest rooms, the lobby-level Living Room lounge, and meeting and event spaces. The onsite, 22,000-square foot full-service Bliss 49 Spa offers the perfect wrap-up to a day of exploring the city.

While you’re in town, check out one of most beautiful and lesser-visited green spots New York has to offer — the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park on Roosevelt Island, located at the island’s southern tip. Get there via the sky tram that operates from a station at 59th Street and 2nd Ave. Weather permitting, complimentary guided tours are available on weekends at 1 p.m., and private tours can be arranged through the park’s website. Designed by architect Louis I. Kahn, the park covers four acres and features 120 little-leaf linden trees planted in serene avenues that lead to the granite monument and bronze bust of President Roosevelt, heralded by five copper beech trees at the entrance.