Checking In: The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad

There are few things more exhausting than New York Fashion Week. For five days, the city becomes a carefully choreographed game of cross-town sprints, back-to-back shows, and the eternal question of whether you can make it from downtown to uptown in time without arriving looking like you’ve just run a marathon. This season, I decided to make the hotel part of the experience—and checked into The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad.

Set in the heart of Manhattan, the LA in me was pinching myself. The hotel is the kind of place that makes you want to cancel your plans and simply explore the property, which, during fashion week, is saying something. With unobstructed views of Downtown Manhattan, the city unfolds through floor-to-ceiling windows, unbelievable dining and drink options, and the sweetest staff—dare I say—in all of NYC?

And while most fashion week hotel stays involve a standard room and a suitcase that barely closes, I was staying in one of the hotel’s 14 coveted penthouses. So, naturally, I have a lot to say.

Location: NoMad, Manhattan, New York City

Vibe: Manhattan glamour with a modern, residential feel

Best For: Fashion week regulars, design lovers, business travelers, and anyone who wants to be in the middle of the action without sacrificing a little downtime

Rooms: 219 guestrooms, 31 suites, and my personal favorite, 14 penthouse residences. Expect floor-to-ceiling windows, sweeping Manhattan views, and interiors that feel polished without being overly traditional. 

Photo spot: Your penthouse at golden hour. The rooftop is another obvious contender.

What to pack: Your best NYFW looks, comfortable shoes for the inevitable cross-town trek, a great coat, sunglasses, and enough skincare to recover from five consecutive nights out. No need to pack a robe, theirs are obviously more comfortable. 

If there’s one thing I learned about visiting New York, it’s that having space is a luxury. Not just a big bed and a nice bathroom, but actual room to unpack your suitcase, spread out your clothes, recover from the night before, and—most importantly—close the door on Manhattan for a minute.

When I stepped foot in the penthouse, my jaw genuinely hit the floor. It feels more like a very chic Manhattan apartment than a hotel room. There are two bathrooms, a full-blown dining area, a separate kitchen, and closet space galore. This hotel is the definition of NYC luxury.

The real showstopper is the view. At almost 500 feet in the air, from the windows, you can take in One World Trade, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty—all at once. To be honest, the automatic window blinds were a nice touch, too. There’s something deeply satisfying about waking up, and letting the entire Manhattan skyline slowly reveal itself.

The morning before my flight, I indulged and treated myself to a massage. The treatment started with my therapist having me smell a selection of oils and choose the one I wanted, so needless to say, we were off to a good start. I’ll admit, I’m picky when it comes to massages, but this was one of those rare times I didn’t have to ask for the pressure to be adjusted even once.

I couldn’t think of a better way to decompress before heading back to the airport—and the fact that I only had to take an elevator downstairs to get there made it that much sweeter.

Another honorary mention goes to the club lounge experience, which, quite frankly, may have ruined every other hotel for me. Included with a stay in the penthouse, the lounge is an experience in itself. The second you step inside, you’re greeted by the Ritz-Carlton x Merit collection, complete with little samples to try. Naturally, I had to take home the cutest pouch filled with all my new goodies.

But the real main event? The food. Throughout the day, beautifully presented spreads appeared courtesy of Chef Andrés’ culinary mastery. From the thoughtful presentation to the constant rotation of offerings, the lounge made it almost too easy to stay awhile.

I kept hearing about how incredible the rooftop bar is, but I didn’t have time to sit down and get a drink there. Reluctantly, I made my way up to the rooftop on the last morning of my stay. My one regret? Not going sooner. Nubeluz is described as a “lightbox in the sky,” which couldn’t be more accurate. With 270-degree views of the New York City skyline, you would definitely make it a double.

There are some hotels that are simply a place to stay, and then there are hotels that make you want to linger a little longer, order one more drink, and start wondering when you can come back. This was the latter. Between the views, the energy, and all those little moments that make you feel like you’re being spoiled with the most special stay, it’s easy to see why The Ritz-Carlton is known for being top tier.

If you find yourself in NYC, step one: check into this hotel. Step two: don’t make the same mistake I did. Go upstairs, order a drink, and give yourself a little time to take it all in.