The Plaza Hotel, one of the most luxurious hotels in Midtown Manhattan, announced on Oct. 14 that it will temporarily close its doors in January 2027 for a minimum of four years as the building undergoes restoration work on its facade.
Located on Fifth Avenue and Central Park South, the Plaza first opened its doors in 1907; since then, the hotel has become part of New York City’s cultural history, appearing in films such as “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” and “The Great Gatsby.”
A recent Department of Buildings inspection deemed the building’s facade unsafe, citing the 119-year-old landmark’s natural material deterioration and aging stonework.
According to hotel management, the restoration project needs extensive planning and coordination due to the building’s historic significance and preservation requirements.
However, the project’s cost and scope of work have not been publicly disclosed.
“Understanding the unique place in New York City’s architectural heritage and cultural history it holds, The Plaza Hotel is advancing plans for repair and restoration works to its landmark-protected façade,” the statement said.
“The undertaking reflects the complexity of maintaining a property of such architectural and historical significance, with careful consideration given to preservation requirements and the building’s long-term care, as well as the safety of our guests, employees, and the wider community,” the hotel management continued.
The closure will affect more than just hotel guests; the Plaza’s Palm Court restaurant and event spaces are also expected to close alongside the hotel.
The announcement has particularly affected couples who booked weddings at the Plaza, leaving many no choice but to scramble for alternate venues.
Christine Carney, who planned to have her 200-guest wedding at the hotel on May 1, 2027, told the New York Post that she learned about the closure through a friend’s text rather than directly from hotel management.
“We haven’t yet had anyone from the Plaza reach out to tell us what next steps are and what happens with our money,” Carney said. “I’m definitely frustrated and disappointed that this happened, and I’m anxious to figure out what the next steps will be.”
The shutdown will also affect the hotel’s employees. According to NBC New York, nearly 400 people work at the Plaza.
Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal said he is “concerned about the workers who will get health care and benefits but likely to be without wages for the entire duration.”
Meanwhile, residents of the building’s 181 condominium units will not be forced out, but instead will temporarily lose access to all hotel amenities and services while the construction takes place.
The upcoming restoration is not the first time the Plaza closed its doors for major renovations; the hotel previously closed its doors in 2005 for a $450 million renovation, later reopening in 2008.
The Plaza’s anticipated closure demonstrates another significant effort to preserve the hotel and its 119-year-long legacy.
If construction on the historic hotel proceeds as planned, the Plaza Hotel could reopen its doors as soon as 2031, although the exact reopening date has not been confirmed publicly.
Until then, the temporary closure will leave many awaiting answers as one of the most recognizable hotels in NYC prepares for its restoration.
