Aman New York: Stay in a historical landmark
Location, location, location! The Aman in New York City is perfectly placed in the historic Crown Building on the corner of 57th Street and Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. This stunning building was developed by, philanthropist August Heckscher, who initially called it The Tower of Trade. Charles A. Wetmore was the architect who partnered with Heckscher on the project and designed the 416-foot-high crown displayed on the roof.
This was also the Museum of Modern Art’s first home in 1929. I love a place with rich history and wonderful beauty to top it off! With Aman’s design touch you would never guess this building is over 100 years old.
You are able to come through the doors into a sanctuary that only Aman can bring to a city like New York. The sleek minimalist design allows you to clear your mind of the busy streets and enjoy a tranquil retreat.
Leave better than when you arrived
Usually, I start with the accommodations, but the Wellness spas are front of mind at this location. There are over 25,000 square feet, the 9th, 10th and 11th floors are just dedicated to wellness. What a gem in this city. This isn’t your typical massage center this is run by state-of-the-art physicians from Harvard. They are trained in various functional medical techniques. Come for relaxation and leave with your life changed.
The private spa houses allow you to enjoy year-round outdoor hot baths or cold-plunge pools. Not to mention the 65ft heated indoor swimming pool. Release your stress in a beautiful marble steam room and then make your way to a lovely view as you sit by the fireplace. Speaking of stress they also provide wellness immersion programs that tackle mindfulness & stress management, weight management & detoxification and sports performance enhancements, you’re not going to get that at your local spa.
Workout with a view! The fitness center overlooks 56th street. They have plenty of equipment in their 3,000-square-foot facility. They also offer just about any type of training or treatment you can think of such as Cryotherapy, Cellgym, Yoga, Pilates studio and private sessions with their in-house personal trainers for whatever fitness you are looking for.
Enjoy the suite life
Once you’re fully relaxed you can head to your suite, where you can still indulge in your spa-like bathroom with large soaking tubs and walk-in rain showers with double vanities. The rooms have a Japanese design element with simple lines and elegant artwork.
The views from your window can be admired from a nice cushioned nook. You also have an eat in table and working desk to attend to any of your needs while on your trip.
The Deets on the eats
If you’re not thinking about eating in, there are plenty of options for you to choose from. Arva is sustainably sourced Italian cuisine, Nama keeps the Japanese cultural experience going with their traditional dishes and The Lounge Bar serves unique cocktails and other drinks with their upscale light shareable eats.
There are two standouts for Aman’s NYC dining options The Garden Terrace and The Jazz Club. A terrace in the middle of the city all year round, how you ask…a retractable glass roof. You can stay warm with their sleek firepits and rest easy with the calming water features in the background. Sit and take it in as you nibble on a bite and sip your beverage.
Shhhh…Secret speakeasy
The Jazz Club brings the speakeasy back to Midtown Manhattan. You will need reservations as they are keeping the speakeasy vibe alive. You won’t have a secret password, but you will take a separate elevator to access this hidden gem, where you are discouraged from taking any photos. If you’re an Aman junkie you will take delight in the perfectly named cocktails giving nods to the Aman properties around the world.
The entertainment is on point with Brian Newman, Lady Gaga’s trumpet player and 6-time Grammy Nominee as creative director and regular headliner. After 10 or 11pm til late (again keeping it vague) you can listen to the DJ on deck for the night as they fill the club with their sets.
Conclusion
The Aman New York is a hidden gem in the city that is not so hidden from the outside with its ornate crown lighting up the night skyline. Once you walk in you are transported to an oasis among the chaotic hustle and bustle of one of the busiest cities in the world. If you want a getaway within a getaway check out the Aman New York.