The Algonquin Hotel

A Times Square classic, The Algonquin Hotel opened in 1902, and quickly became part of the literary landscape. Today, it still cultivates an arty, club-like ambience, especially in the justly celebrated bars and public areas. The hotel's designation as one of New York's literary landmarks stems from the Algonquin Round Table lunches that started in 1919 when writers Dorothy Parker, Robert Benchley, George S. Kaufman, and others gathered daily to dine, play cards and converse. The hotel recently underwent a $4 million renovation and many of the spots where legends dined and slept are now spruced up, including the 174 rooms, the wood-panelled lobby and very popular Blue Bar with its own separate entrance and where one of the cocktails is named after Matilda, the hotel's cat. There's also a famous cabaret in the historic Oak Room, which has a full schedule of performances and a successful Sunday brunch.

The Algonquin Hotel's rooms feature plush surroundings, contemporary colours and rich fabrics, following a recent transformation. They all contain complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions and luxurious amenities. When it comes to dining you can enjoy dinner and a show (cabaret and jazz) in the Oak Room, with its legendary dark panelled walls, white tablecloths and piano. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the Round Table Room, which serves retro dishes from the hotel's culinary archives. The popular Blue Bar is decorated with the artwork of longtime Algonquin regular, Al Hirschfeld. The pieces, donated by The Margo Feiden Galleries, feature Broadway shows including Rent, The Sound of Music, and Chicago. The menu offers pub fare and a fine selection of wine, cocktails and domestic and imported beer. Finally, the civil lobby, with its restored writing desks and antique furniture in deep jewel tones is also perfect for a cocktail, or just reading or writing.

The Algonquin Hotel is located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues along "Club Row" in the heart of New York City, a short walk from Times Square. JFK International Airport (JFK) is 27 kilometres away.