The Carlyle New York
An iconic Upper East Side hotel blending timeless elegance with legendary service and the whimsical charm of Bemelmans Bar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music & cozy atmosphere
The Carlyle New York
Best Time
Live music & cozy atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic Upper East Side hotel blending timeless elegance with legendary service and the whimsical charm of Bemelmans Bar.
"Nothing compares to the Carlyle's old school charm, even with newer hotels around. "
🎯 Book a Suite for Space
Standard rooms are small; opt for a suite for a more comfortable stay. :housewithgarden:
🎶 Catch Live Music
Check Bemelmans Bar schedule for live music, especially Tu-Sa evenings. :musical_note:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bemelmans Bar
Ground floor
Iconic bar with whimsical murals by Ludwig Bemelmans, featuring live music.
The Carlyle's Classic Elegance
Throughout the hotel
Experience old-school New York charm and sophisticated decor that transports you.
The Gallery
Lobby level
A refined spot for breakfast or afternoon tea, known for impeccable service.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Suites for Space
Experience Bemelmans Bar
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book a Suite for Space
Standard rooms are small; opt for a suite for a more comfortable stay. :housewithgarden:
🎶 Catch Live Music
Check Bemelmans Bar schedule for live music, especially Tu-Sa evenings. :musical_note:
☕ Enjoy Afternoon Tea
Experience the elegant afternoon tea service for a classic New York treat. :tea:
✨ Embrace the Charm
The hotel's historic ambiance is a major draw; soak it all in. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a Suite for Space
Standard rooms are small; opt for a suite for a more comfortable stay. :housewithgarden:
🎶 Catch Live Music
Check Bemelmans Bar schedule for live music, especially Tu-Sa evenings. :musical_note:
☕ Enjoy Afternoon Tea
Experience the elegant afternoon tea service for a classic New York treat. :tea:
✨ Embrace the Charm
The hotel's historic ambiance is a major draw; soak it all in. :sparkles:
📍 Prime UES Location
Perfectly situated for exploring Central Park and the Upper East Side. :park:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise The Carlyle for its timeless elegance, exceptional staff, and iconic Bemelmans Bar. While many adore the classic charm and attentive service, some find the standard rooms to be surprisingly small and bathrooms cramped for the price. Despite minor room size concerns, the overall experience is highly rated for its luxurious and historic ambiance.
"Beautiful, elegant rooms. Thoughtful staff. Great location next to the park. We enjoyed both our 1br suite (which was quite spacious) and the premium king room. Large hotels for NYC. Nice location for sightseeing in central park with a child. Only downside was the view from the 8th floor, it was underwhelming. I had thought our class of room would get us a higher floor but was mistaken. Next time we'll call to make the reservation and carefully check which floors are available for our room class."
Adriana Porter Felt
"Travel agent here. Wanted to share my pleasant experience with the staff and operations at this hotel. There were a handful of staff members that went out of their way and above and beyond to make the stay great for a client! Absolutely pleasant and professional and I apologize in advanced if I'm missing any names here! The staff is amazing and the hotel has an old school charm to it. The rooms are a little bit on the small side, but again, the hotel overall makes up for this. Loved interacting and coordinating with the following people who made the entire process as smooth as can be:
Brittany
Mimi
Amanda
Anna
Stephanie
I want to reiterate again though, the whole staff here are gems!"
Matt Jamele
"I have stayed in suites here in the past and had a fabulous experience. I stayed in a standard room this time and was disappointed. The room is so shockingly small, especially the bathroom, that it’s difficult to maneuver yourself even as one person. The bathroom is comparable to an airplane lavatory. Rooms this small should not be sold for $2k/night. If you stay here, don’t do any less than a suite."
Ollie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Carlyle Hotel is located at 35 East 76th Street, New York, NY 10021, on the Upper East Side. You can reach it via subway lines 4, 5, 6 to 77th Street or 68th Street-Hunter College, followed by a short walk. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
While not explicitly a car service hotel, The Carlyle is known for its attentive staff who can assist with arranging transportation. For parents who may not want to walk long distances, this is a key consideration.
From JFK Airport, you can take a taxi or ride-share service directly to The Carlyle, which is the most convenient option. Alternatively, you can take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and then the E subway line towards Manhattan, transferring to a downtown train to reach the Upper East Side.
Yes, The Carlyle is well-served by public transportation. The nearest subway stations are 77th Street and 68th Street-Hunter College on the Lexington Avenue Line (4, 5, 6 trains), making it easy to explore the city.
The Carlyle is ideally located for walking to many Upper East Side attractions, including Central Park, Museum Mile, and various boutiques and galleries.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need to book tickets for Bemelmans Bar, but it can get very busy. Arriving early, especially on nights with live music (Tu, We, Fr, Sa), is recommended to secure a seat.
The Carlyle Hotel operates 24/7 as a hotel. Specific amenities like Bemelmans Bar and The Gallery have their own operating hours, which are best checked directly with the hotel or their website.
There is no entrance fee to enter The Carlyle Hotel. Guests can explore the public areas like the lobby and Bemelmans Bar. Overnight stays require booking a room.
Yes, you can visit public areas like Bemelmans Bar for a drink or The Gallery for a meal without being a registered guest.
The Carlyle is known for its live music at Bemelmans Bar, typically featuring performances on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.
🎫 🛏️ Rooms & Amenities
Yes, some guests find the standard rooms at The Carlyle to be quite small, particularly the bathrooms, which have been compared to airplane lavatories. For more space, booking a suite is highly recommended.
The Carlyle offers elegant rooms and suites, upscale dining, a storied cafe (The Gallery), a hotel bar (Bemelmans Bar), and a spa.
Views can vary significantly by room and floor. Some guests have reported underwhelming views from lower floors, while others have enjoyed pleasant city or park vistas. It's advisable to inquire about specific floor and view options when booking.
Yes, The Carlyle offers a spa, providing guests with a luxurious retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.
While the hotel boasts classic elegance, some bathrooms in standard rooms are noted as being small and potentially dated. Suites may offer more updated and spacious bathroom facilities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Carlyle features upscale dining, a storied cafe called The Gallery, and the iconic Bemelmans Bar. Breakfast is available and praised for its fresh orange juice.
Absolutely! Bemelmans Bar is a legendary spot known for its unique atmosphere, whimsical murals, and expertly crafted cocktails. It's a must-visit for a classic New York experience.
The Gallery is a refined space within The Carlyle, perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. It's lauded for its impeccable service and simple yet perfect food.
Yes, breakfast is available at The Carlyle, and guests have praised its quality, particularly the freshly squeezed orange juice.
While not strictly enforced for all areas, The Carlyle maintains an elegant atmosphere. Smart casual attire is generally recommended for dining at The Gallery and Bemelmans Bar, especially in the evenings.
📸 📸 Photography
The whimsical murals in Bemelmans Bar are a prime photo opportunity. The hotel's elegant lobby and classic decor also offer many picturesque moments.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Bemelmans Bar, but it's always respectful to be mindful of other patrons and avoid intrusive flash photography, especially during performances.
The Carlyle's Upper East Side location provides excellent photo opportunities, especially with Central Park just a short walk away, offering beautiful natural scenery.
The Carlyle lends itself well to classic, elegant, and lifestyle photography. Think sophisticated portraits, interior shots highlighting the decor, and candid moments capturing the hotel's ambiance.
It's best to avoid taking unsolicited photos of staff members. If you wish to capture a photo that includes staff, it's polite to ask for their permission first.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the hotel itself is elegant, the classic charm and the whimsical murals at Bemelmans Bar can also captivate younger imaginations, though it's more of an adult-oriented venue. The attentive staff are generally accommodating to families, and the hotel's prime Upper East Side location makes it easy to access family-friendly attractions and dining options nearby. Consider planning activities that balance the hotel's sophisticated atmosphere with the needs and interests of your children.
🥂 Couples Seeking Romance
Consider booking a room with a Central Park view for an added touch of romance. The hotel's prime Upper East Side location also allows for leisurely strolls through charming streets and easy access to fine dining establishments in the vicinity. The attentive and discreet service ensures a seamless and memorable romantic getaway.
💼 Business Travelers
While standard rooms can be compact, suites offer more space for working and unwinding. The hotel's amenities, including dining options and the bar, provide excellent venues for informal business meetings or client entertainment. The overall sense of luxury and discretion makes The Carlyle a sophisticated choice for discerning business professionals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Bemelmans Bar
Travelers often highlight the bar's old-school charm and the magical quality of the artwork. It's a popular spot for both hotel guests and locals seeking a sophisticated evening out. The bar also features live piano music on select nights, adding to its allure.
Insider Tip: Check the schedule for live music performances, typically Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, to enhance your visit.
A Legacy of Luxury and Service
Many guests and travel agents rave about the exceptional staff who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. From the front desk to the concierges, the team is consistently praised for being pleasant, professional, and attentive.
While the hotel exudes old-world charm, it also offers modern comforts. The rooms, though sometimes noted as being on the smaller side in standard categories, are well-appointed. For those seeking more space, suites are highly recommended.
The Upper East Side Experience
Museum Mile, home to institutions like The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim Museum, is also within easy reach. This makes The Carlyle an ideal base for art and culture enthusiasts. The surrounding streets are lined with designer boutiques, charming cafes, and elegant brownstones, providing a quintessential New York City experience.
For guests who may have mobility concerns, the hotel's location is a significant advantage. While the hotel itself offers attentive service, being in a walkable neighborhood with easy access to transportation means less reliance on extensive travel for sightseeing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit