Description: I've stayed at the Helmsley Park Lane hotel on Central Park south a number of times on business. It's not the hotel I would choose, but the conference I attend annually is based there.
The Park Lane is an old hotel, and it shows its age. Unlike the Essex House (just up the street), the Park Lane is not remodeled every few years. In fact, from my observation, it hasn't been redone in over 20 years.
The Helmsley folks will refer to the Park Lane as a grand luxury hotel, and that might be an apt description if you compare it to a hotel in Kansas. But by Manhattan standards, it's mediocre.
The rooms are small and dingy. The carpets are stained, and the linens are worn. The only thing that suggests luxury is the location.
The Helmsley folks are aware of their hotel's shortcomings, however. A single room can be as low as $250—moderate by Manhattan standards.
The location can't be beat. Right across Central Park South from Central Park, in the lower southeast corner.
The Room with a View Restaurant is large and attractive, with a decent menu (but nothing to write home about), and a GREAT view of Central Park. Harry's Bar is a dark and closed affair, good for a shot and a bowl of nuts, but not much more.
My recommendation is that the Helmsley Park Lane is an acceptable place to hang your hat for a night, but not much more.
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