Hilton HHonors - Differences Between Waldorf Towers and St. Regis Hotels In New York City

I am planning a Friday-Sunday stay in New York city, and am considering staying at either the Waldorf Towers, St. Regis Club at Essex House, or the main St. Regis Hotel.

The only one of these I have experience with is the St. Regis Club at the Essex House, where as an SPG Platinum, I was given an upgrade to one of the best suites I have ever had anywhere. My friends and I in fact still speak of that suite, from a stay last August.

Can anyone compare the room ameneties, services, features, atmospheer, etc. between the St. Regis hotels in New York and the Waldorf Towers? Are they a similar kind of hotel, or a different feel, etdc?

Also how about rates? So far I am getting rates of $369-$450. Is it possible to get lower rates? Thank you for any information.

Also fyi HH Diamond member.

I have stayed in one of the larger suites at the Waldorf Towers and a Grand Deluxe room at the St. Regis (although I have seen the St. Regis suites). In terms of decor and service, the St. Regis wins hands down. The rooms are newer and more plush at the St. Regis, while the rooms at the Towers are a bit shabby around the edges. The St. Regis is more of a totally luxurious experience, while Waldorf Towers rooms are more analagous to an old-money family residence that has fallen a bit in disrepair. To top it off, service in the Waldorf Towers is not that much better than that in the main hotel.

As for elite benefits, I'm not sure if either is better. A recent thread in the Starwood forum discusses basic non-recognition of elite benefits at the St. Regis. I believe that this extends only to suite upgrades. I have never been denied an upgrade to the next category of standard room at the St. Regis.

I highly recommend the St. Regis. There is no other hotel like it in NYC.

I have stayed in all three of the hotels you mentioned; however, not the St. Regis level of the Essex. I was in the main building at the Essex, but received an upgrade.

Although it is simply a matter of personal preference, my pick is the St. Regis. It is a spectacular hotel and I like the location. The Waldorf is not convenient for me. The Waldorf Towers are nice, but there's something about the St. Regis that is quite special.

As far as rates are conccerned, you might be able to find a better bargain at the Essex or Waldorf Towers since they frequently run specials. They are a little stingier at the St. Regis when it comes to specials.