Which iconic historic hotel is known for its luxurious Christmas celebrations and played a significant role in a 1992 popular Christmas movie? The Plaza Hotel (1907) New York, New York

The Plaza Hotel in New York City, an iconic symbol of luxury and elegance, has a rich history of celebrating Christmas dating to its 1907 opening. The hotel has become synonymous with the holiday season, attracting guests from around the world to experience its magical holiday atmosphere.

Designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh, the hotel quickly became a favorite among the well-to-do travelers. Designing the hotel in a style reminiscent of a French chateau, Hardenbergh used only the finest building materials, including brilliant oak paneling and rare marble from across the world. He even placed the single largest gold-encrusted china order in history with L. Straus & Sons, along with an order for 1,650 crystal chandeliers.

Christmas at The Plaza has always been a special affair, with the hotel going to great lengths to create a winter wonderland for its guests. The grand lobby, adorned with a towering Christmas tree, twinkling lights, and festive decorations, sets the stage for a season of celebration. One of the most notable aspects of Christmas at The Plaza is its ability to blend tradition with modernity.

Throughout its history, The Plaza has been a backdrop for many memorable Christmas moments. In the 1920s, the hotel was known for its lavish holiday parties, attended by New York's social elite. During the Great Depression, The Plaza continued to host festive events, providing a sense of joy during challenging times. The hotel's famous Oak Room and Palm Court have been the settings for countless holiday gatherings, each adding to the rich tapestry of The Plaza's Christmas legacy. In the 1950s and 1960s, The Plaza's Christmas celebrations became even more elaborate, with the introduction of themed decorations and special performances. The hotel's ballroom hosted grand holiday balls, featuring live music and dancing. These events were often covered by the media, further enhancing The Plaza's reputation as the place to be during the holiday season.

Over the years, The Plaza has been featured in various films and television shows, further cementing its status as a holiday icon. The hotel played a significant role in the beloved holiday movie Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992), in which the character Kevin McCallister enjoys a lavish, unsupervised stay during Christmas. The Plaza's role in the film has cemented its place in popular culture. The film's scenes at the hotel are iconic, and many visitors come specifically to see the locations featured in the movie. This connection to a beloved holiday classic has made The Plaza an integral part of many people's Christmas celebrations. The hotel has embraced the film by creating its own Kevin McCallister Package which includes:

• "Limousine ride around New York City (visit filming locations including the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, Central Park, Carnegie Hall, and Radio City Music Hall)
• *The limo ride is not a guided tour. **Limo color may vary.
• Large cheese pizza
• A decadent sundae (16 scoops of assorted ice cream, whipped cream, maraschino cherries, M&M’s, brownie bits, chocolate, caramel, and raspberry sauce)
• This offer is available year-round, subject to availability and restrictions apply. Rates vary depending on the room type.”

The Plaza's commitment to creating a magical Christmas experience is evident in every detail, from the meticulously decorated suites to the warm and welcoming atmosphere that pervades the hotel during the holiday season. The hotel offers a range of holiday-themed activities and events, including festive afternoon teas at the Palm Court, gingerbread house decorating workshops, and special holiday menus at its renowned restaurants.

Whether it is a family looking to create lasting memories or a couple seeking a romantic getaway, The Plaza Hotel offers something for everyone at Christmas.

This has been a Historic Hotels History Mystery.
For more fun facts, trivia, and historic highlights, check out our History Mystery pages for Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide.