An iconic destination at 6 Times Square at the corner of 42nd Street and Broadway, is the Beaux Arts-designed Knickerbocker Hotel built in 1906 by visionary real estate mogul John Jacob Astor IV. Among the first buildings to occupy Times Square (formerly Longacre Square), Astor had reportedly discovered in 1901 that the original Knickerbocker Hotel location—the St. Cloud Hotel—would align with New York City’s then-planned subway system, allowing access to the new railroad from the hotel basement. In fact, the original entrance to The Knickerbocker subway entrance can still be found tucked away on the end of the platform of Track 1 on the Shuttle (S) between Grand Central and Times Square.
Within months of its opening in 1906, Times Square had become the center of life in New York City and remains home to the world-famous New Year’s Eve Times Square Ball Drop. The namesake of the Knickerbocker dates back even further, as a surname shared by some Dutch-descended New Yorkers. Ultimately, the name “Knickerbocker” evolved to become the nickname for all New Yorkers, beyond serving as a moniker for a literary magazine, a beer brand, a bridge, an early baseball team, and an NBA mainstay (the New York Knicks) alike.
Originally an artist-friendly establishment, F. Scott Fitzgerald is said to have written Mr. Icky in his Knickerbocker room. And if rumors serve correctly, The Knickerbocker Hotel was the site of the invention of the dry martini. Today, the hotel exudes an elegant, historic charm that captivates guests from entering its doors. The opulent lobby, adorned with marble floors and soaring ceilings, sets the tone for an unforgettable stay. Luxurious guest rooms blend modern comforts with vintage-inspired decor, offering a serene respite from the bustling city outside.
I enjoyed speaking with Samuel Barragan, The Knickerbocker’s St. Cloud Rooftop Bar general manager. How would he describe St. Cloud to a first-time visitor? “It’s fun, it’s sophisticated, like a Zen Garden. You have a completely different vibe when you get here—and feel how calm it is.”
The Knickerbocker is also home to Jake’s Café and Charlie Palmer Steak IV. This acclaimed restaurant showcases Chef Palmer’s innovative American cuisine, pairing seasonal ingredients with creative flavor profiles. The sleek, modern atmosphere complements the inventive menu, creating an unforgettable gastronomic journey for discerning palates.
For more information on The Knickerbocker Hotel, visit knickerbocker.com