W New York—Union Square Has Reopened With a New Look

Fresh off a $100 million, top-to-bottom renovation, W New York—Union Square is back. In 2001, the property debuted as an upscale, trendy hideaway, an early expansion for the up-and-coming W Hotels brand. Nearly 25 years later, New York City’s luxury hotel scene looks entirely different. Now, so does the W. The latest iteration of W New York—Union Square is ready to usher in a new era, still anchored in the vibrant energy and bold design that have always been a part of the brand’s DNA. 

“W New York—Union Square serves as the brand’s global flagship and a proof point of the brand’s evolved direction, demonstrating how we translate our signature ethos and cultural relevance across hotels worldwide,” Christina Poon, general manager of W New York–Union Square, told Travel + Leisure. “More than a transformation, this reimagining represents the next chapter for W Hotels—where design, luxury lifestyle hospitality, and local connection come together to create moments that feel energetic and iconic.” The property features 270 guest rooms and suites—including an expansive Penthouse Suite—plus a state-of-the-art gym and a wellness space that includes a Peloton studio.

The 1911 Beaux-Arts building retains its most charming original details, like its historic façade and grand marble arches outside the Living Room, while renovated spaces—designed by the Rockwell Group, the firm behind the original 2001 design—are modern with hyper-local touches. The refreshed property is a love letter to this buzzy part of Manhattan where downtown neighborhoods converge. ”Union Square has always been a cultural hub in downtown Manhattan, and W New York–Union Square sits right at the center. The hotel delivers a distinct New York experience, blending the city’s rich history with modern design and a lively atmosphere,” Poon said.

Light fixtures inspired by Manhattanhenge (the annual phenomenon when the sunset perfectly aligns with Manhattan’s east-to-west streets), bedside tables with black-and-gold design reflective of the Union Square Metronome, and checkerboard details inspired by Union Square Park’s chess players are just a few of the thoughtful touches you’ll find in the guest rooms.

And that celebration of New York City naturally extends to the hotel’s new food and beverage outlets. The hotel’s signature restaurant is Seahorse, from Mercer Street Hospitality and restaurateur John McDonald. Set to open on September 24, 2025, and led by chef John Villa, the restaurant will serve a seafood-focused menu with a raw bar. “Designed for visitors, locals, and loyalists, Seahorse brings a fresh, elevated dining experience while still feeling distinctly New York. The menu is anchored by pristine seafood, vibrant crudo, and seasonal ingredients sourced just steps away from the Union Square Greenmarket,” Villa shared. The space capitalizes on a vintage maritime vibe with lots of wood paneling and striped yacht-inspired floors, plus a whimsical, nautical mural at the center of the space. 

The grand Living Room is a show-stopping Beaux-Arts space; the ceiling is adorned with carved rosettes. With modern furnishings in gold and navy, the space showcases the hotel’s combination of historic charm and contemporary design. And just outside is the Living Room Cafe, serving coffee from Devoción during the day and cocktails at night. Finally, the hotel’s new rooftop bar (the only one in Union Square), designed by interiors firm AvroKO, offers unbeatable views of the Manhattan skyline.

“Our offerings are rooted in the energy of New York–bold, eclectic, and made to be shared. Each space brings something different to the table: elevated coastal dining at Seahorse; skyline views; a cultivated cocktail program at the soon-to-open Heroes rooftop; and a Living Room that transitions seamlessly from day to night,” George Fleck, senior vice president and global brand leader of W Hotels, told T+L.

Doubles start from $650/night, and you can book at w-hotels.com.