From its inception, the Waldorf Astoria was a true palace in the city. Cultural figures, political leaders, musicians, and royalty gathered in its grand spaces and entertained in its opulent suites. The Waldorf Astoria’s legendary service set the standard for American hospitality.

The original Waldorf Hotel was built at 33rd Street and Fifth Avenue in 1893 by William Waldorf Astor. Four years later, John Jacob Astor IV, William’s cousin and familial rival, built an even taller hotel next door in an act of one-upmanship. The cousins finally agreed to a truce and the two buildings were connected through a 300 foot marble corridor known as Peacock Alley. The Waldorf-Astoria was born.