Exterior of the Roosevelt Hotel
The Roosevelt Hotel invites guests to step back in time to the grandeur of Old New York while simultaneously enjoying the modern conveniences, comforts and hustle and bustle that New York City is known for today.
Known as the Grand Dame of Madison Avenue, The Roosevelt Hotel opened its gilded doors in 1924, built at the height of New York City's Golden Era by renowned architects George B. Post & Sons. Its place in New York City history is undeniable. For a glimpse into the past, here is just a sampling of The Roosevelt Hotel's historic events and character.
The Hotel namesake, President Theodore Roosevelt, inspired the creation of one of the most beloved toys in the world, the Teddy Bear, after he refused to shoot a helpless cub during a highly publicized hunting trip.
Historically linked with Grand Central Station, white gloved porters from The Roosevelt originally whisked pampered guests through a private underground passageway to the hotel.
Governor Thomas Dewey erroneously announced from his election night headquarters at The Roosevelt that he defeated Harry S. Truman during the dubious 1948 presidential campaign.
Big Band great Guy Lombardo began his cherished New Year's Eve tradition of broadcasting "Auld Lang Syne" over American radio airwaves from the famous Roosevelt Grill. Guy Lombardo's summer stand-in, then unknown Lawrence Welk, orchestrated his bubbling sucess at the hotel long before his career hit a national high note.
The Roosevelt became the first metropolitan hotel in the Golden Era to boast a wellness health center, hospital complete with an operating room, children's program and even a kennel for beloved pets.
Exterior of the Roosevelt Hotel circa 1924
The midtown masterpiece was the first New York City hotel to employ a "setback" style of architecture, designed by renowned architects George B. Post & Sons. Guests in the 1920's were furnished with an unheard of lyrical luxury - a radio in all 1,000 rooms.
The Roosevelt Hotel has been the backdrop for many movies, including "Wall Street", "Quiz Show", "Presumed Innocent", "Malcolm X", "Maid in Manhattan", and "Boiler Room". The hit ABC series "The Bachelor", starring Charlie O'Connell, filmed the first episode of the seventh season at The Roosevelt Hotel, utilizing the Grand Ballroom as the site of the first rose ceremony of the season. "The Bachelor" hopefuls retired to the comfort of Roosevelt guestrooms during the process.
For more information:
The Roosevelt Hotel,
45 East 45th Street,
New York, NY 10017
(888)TEDDY-NY or (212)661-9600
