Waldorf Astoria x Velocity Black

For eight years, one of the world’s most iconic hotels has been closed to guests. Eggs Benedict and red velvet cake were invented here. It was the first hotel to allow women to check in without men. And it once had its own rail platform, with private freight elevator, so Presidents and rail barons could transition straight from their cars into their suites. Since its first opening in 1893, The Waldorf Astoria’s influence has been felt not just in New York City, but in how we eat, play and do business around the world. Now, its two-billion-dollar renovation—the most expensive in hotel history—catapults it glisteningly into a new era. With one of the very few valet parking entrances in Manhattan, seasonally curated staff uniforms, and floors meticulously restored down to the last shimmering mosaic tile, its dazzlingly detailed comeback is perhaps most headline-making of the year, even in this ferociously starry city. We were given this chance to experience the Waldorf Astoria’s new incarnation as part of our Velocity Black Stays programme, which allows our members special access, VIP perks and more.