I've stayed at many hotels in New York...so let's first answer your question:

If I had a choice between the two, hands down I would pick the W=A, The Plaza isn't what it used to be and the only thing good about The Plaza is the lobby, and that's it. You would be very disappointed in the room and the service. Ever since it was taken over by the Fairmont people they let it go.

At least with the W=A (where sometimes you can find $199 rooms, which is cheap compared to other chains) you at staying at a Hilton property.

However, there are so many incredible properties in New York and it all depends on what you want to spend and where you want to be around. In Times Square, you have the Westin Times Square and the W Hotel.

In the same area of The Plaza, there's the incredible Four Seasons (and the Peninsula...but it's sort of stuffy).

Behind the W=A there's the W New York -

There's A LOT to chose from! But trust me when I tell you to stay away from The Plaza.

Happy Travels -

UG