Editorial take
Who should book The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park?
If this is your first New York trip, shortlist The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park for a practical reason: Space, Central Park views, classic luxury, special occasions. The name, star rating and lobby photos matter, but the real test is whether the location helps your days feel easier.
It is less compelling if you want value, modern minimalism or downtown character. Before booking from the UK, compare the final price after taxes and property fees, check the exact room setup and make sure your airport arrival route is not needlessly awkward.
Location and map
Where is The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park?
50 Central Park South faces the park directly, a short walk from both Fifth Avenue and Columbus Circle, on one of the calmest central addresses in Manhattan.
Nearby
Central Park, Fifth Avenue shopping, Columbus Circle, Carnegie Hall and MoMA.
Closest subway
57 St-Seventh Av and Fifth Av-59 St
Hotel facts
What to know before booking.
First-timer context
Why The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park might feel special.
What it is known for
- The building opened in 1930 as the Hotel St. Moritz, designed by Emery Roth, with around 700 rooms.
- Millennium Partners bought it in 1999 and rebuilt it between 1999 and 2002, cutting the room count to 277 at reopening so that each room could be far larger.
- The top twelve floors were converted into eleven very large private condominiums.
New York moments
- Emery Roth also designed the building that is now The Benjamin, and many of the apartment towers along Central Park West.
- The St. Moritz was a Central Park South fixture for seven decades before the conversion.
On screen
- The St. Moritz name appears in a great deal of twentieth-century New York writing about the park's southern edge.
Review questions
What travellers keep asking.
Is this the old St. Moritz?
Yes. The 1930 St. Moritz building was rebuilt between 1999 and 2002 and reopened as the Ritz-Carlton in May 2002, with far fewer and much larger rooms.
How does it compare with Essex House?
Both face Central Park from the south side. Essex House is larger and more Art Deco in character; the Ritz-Carlton has fewer, bigger rooms and a quieter feel.
Booking checklist
Check these before you reserve.
Total price
Look beyond the nightly rate. Check taxes, destination fees, breakfast and cancellation.
Room layout
For New York, room size, bathroom privacy, bed type and storage can matter more than star rating.
Arrival route
Match the hotel to your airport, luggage and arrival time, especially after an overnight UK flight.
Sources and update notes
Last updated: 17 August 2026. Hotel rates, fees, rules and transport details can change.