The Lowell

The Lowell is a small luxury hotel on East 63rd Street, a block from Central Park and steps from Madison Avenue's boutiques, in a building dating to the 1920s. It has long been known as a discreet, residential-style address, with suites rather than standard rooms, many featuring working fireplaces, kitchens, libraries and terraces. The scale is intimate, the service is personal and the atmosphere is closer to a private home than a hotel. It appeals to guests who value privacy, quiet and space, from couples and families on long stays to travelers visiting the Upper East Side's museums, galleries and shops. The hotel is a classic example of an old New York luxury address that has kept its character.

The suites are the main attraction. Each is individually decorated in a traditional style with antiques, rich fabrics and fine art, and many include a full kitchen, dining area and a living room, making them suitable for stays of several nights or more. Fireplaces are a signature feature in many suites, and some have private terraces overlooking the neighborhood.

Bathrooms are generous, often with marble and deep tubs. Check the suite type when booking because sizes and layouts vary. Because the hotel is small, advance reservations are important, particularly in spring and autumn when the neighborhood is busiest.

The public spaces include a dining room, a garden room for breakfast and afternoon tea and a lounge, with a fitness room for guests. Offerings may change from year to year, so check current details. The hotel's position on a quiet side street keeps street noise low, and its service, from concierge to housekeeping, is known for attention to detail. Pets have been welcome historically, but check the current policy before traveling. The atmosphere is quiet and refined, which suits travelers who prefer calm over nightlife.

The Upper East Side location is excellent for museum-goers. The Metropolitan Museum, the Frick Collection, the Guggenheim and the Neue Galerie are all within a short walk or bus ride along Fifth Avenue, and Central Park is a block west, with the zoo, the Reservoir and the Conservatory Garden within easy reach. Madison Avenue's shops and the area's restaurants provide plenty of options, and the 6 train at 68th Street and the Q at 72nd Street connect to the rest of the city.

Rates are at the high end and vary by season. For a quiet, elegant base with the comforts of a home, the Lowell is a distinctive choice.