Fresh off a $100 million, top-to-bottom renovation, W New York—Union Square is back. The property was first opened in 2001 as a trendy, upscale hideaway. It was the first expansion of the new W Hotels brand. The luxury hotel scene in New York City has changed dramatically over the past 25 years. The W, the latest iteration. W New York—Union Square The brand is now ready to usher a new era. Its vibrant energy and bold designs have always been part of its DNA.
Michael Kleinberg/W New York – Union Square
“W New York—Union Square serves as the brand’s global flagship and a proof point of the brand’s evolved direction, demonstrating how we translate our signature ethos and cultural relevance across hotels worldwide,” Christina Poon, general manager of W New York–Union Square, told Travel + Leisure. “More than a transformation, this reimagining represents the next chapter for W Hotels—where design, luxury lifestyle hospitality, and local connection come together to create moments that feel energetic and iconic.” The property features 270 guest rooms and suites—including an expansive Penthouse Suite—plus a state-of-the-art gym and a wellness space that includes a Peloton studio.
Michael Kleinberg/W New York – Union Square
The 1911 Beaux-Arts building retains its most charming original details, like its historic façade and grand marble arches outside the Living Room, while renovated spaces—designed by the Rockwell Group, the firm behind the original 2001 design—are modern with hyper-local touches. This renovated property is a love-letter to the buzzy area of Manhattan where downtown neighborhood converge. “Union Square was always a vibrant area of Manhattan. cultural hub in downtown Manhattan, and W New York–Union Square sits right at the center. Poon stated that the hotel provides a New York experience unique to New York, blending rich history and modern design with a lively environment.
Michael Kleinberg/W New York – Union Square
In the guestrooms, you will find thoughtful details such as bedside tables that reflect the Union Square Metronome in black-and gold and checkerboard designs inspired by Union Square Park’s chess-playing chess-players.
Michael Kleinberg/W New York – Union Square
Celebrate the birthday of New York City Naturally, this extends to all of the new food and drink outlets at the hotel. Seahorse is the hotel’s signature dining establishment, and it comes from Mercer Street Hospitality. It was founded by restaurateur John McDonald. Under the direction of chef John Villa and set to open September 24, 2025. Seahorse offers an elevated, fresh dining experience that is still distinctly New York. Villa said that the menu focuses on fresh seafood, crudo and seasonal ingredients, all sourced from Union Square Greenmarket. The interior is a nautical-themed space with wood paneling, striped floors and a whimsical mural.
Michael Kleinberg/W New York – Union Square
The Living Room, a stunning Beaux-Arts-style space, is adorned by carved rosettes on the ceiling. The space is decorated in modern furniture of gold and navy. It combines the historic charm with contemporary design. And just outside is the Living Room Cafe, serving coffee from Devoción during the day and cocktails at night. The rooftop bar of the hotel (the only in Union Square) is designed by AvroKO and offers a spectacular view of Manhattan.
Michael Kleinberg/W New York – Union Square
“Our offerings are rooted in the energy of New York–bold, eclectic, and made to be shared. Each space has its own uniqueness: elevated coastal cuisine at Seahorse, skyline views at Heroes Rooftop, a cocktail program that will soon be available, and the Living Room, which seamlessly transforms from daytime to nighttime.
Book Doubles Starting at $650/night. w-hotels.com.
