What the Roosevelt Hotel is and where to find it

The Roosevelt Hotel is a historic hotel in New York City located at 45 East 45th Street in Midtown Manhattan, between Park and Lexington Avenues. It opened in 1924 and was named after President Theodore Roosevelt. The building itself is a 19-story structure in the Beaux-Arts style, and it remains one of the older continuously operating hotels in the city.

The hotel sits in one of Manhattan's busiest neighborhoods, within walking distance of Grand Central Terminal, the New York Public Library, and major office buildings. This location has made it a destination for business travelers and tourists for nearly a century. The hotel is currently operated by Marriott International under its Marriott Hotels brand.

The Roosevelt is not a luxury five-star property — it is a mid-range hotel that appeals to travelers looking for a central location and reliable service at moderate prices. It has roughly 375 rooms across its 19 floors, making it a medium-sized property by Manhattan standards.

Key Takeaways

  • The Roosevelt Hotel opened in 1924 and is located at 45 East 45th Street in Midtown Manhattan, near Grand Central Terminal and major transit hubs.
  • The hotel is operated by Marriott International and classified as a Marriott Hotels property, not a luxury brand.
  • Room rates vary by season and day of the week, with prices typically higher during weekdays and peak tourist seasons.
  • The hotel offers standard amenities including a restaurant, fitness center, and business services, but does not include high-end spa or resort facilities.
  • Booking directly through Marriott's website or calling the hotel's front desk may offer different rates and loyalty program benefits than third-party booking sites.

The building's history and architectural significance

The Roosevelt Hotel was built during the 1920s, a period of rapid hotel construction in Manhattan. The building's Beaux-Arts design reflects the architectural style popular among luxury hotels of that era, with classical proportions and ornamental details. The exterior features limestone and granite, and the interior retains many original design elements including the lobby, which has been restored over the years.

The hotel has hosted notable guests throughout its history, including politicians, celebrities, and business leaders. It was a gathering place during major events in New York City's history, though it has never been as famous as some of its contemporaries like the Plaza Hotel or the Waldorf Astoria.

The building underwent significant renovations in the 1990s and 2000s to update guest rooms and public spaces while preserving its historic character. These renovations brought the hotel's infrastructure and amenities in line with modern standards while maintaining its mid-century aesthetic.

Room types and what to expect

The Roosevelt offers standard hotel rooms in several categories. The most basic option is a standard room, which typically includes a bed or beds, a private bathroom, a desk, and a television. Rooms are generally compact by modern standards, reflecting the building's 1924 construction and the constraints of Manhattan real estate.

The hotel also offers suites and upgraded rooms with additional space and amenities. These may include separate living areas, upgraded bedding, or views of the surrounding cityscape. However, the Roosevelt does not position itself as a luxury property, so even upgraded rooms are modest compared to five-star hotels.

All rooms include basic amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a work desk. The hotel does not charge resort fees, which is common at many Manhattan hotels. Guests should expect a straightforward hotel experience focused on clean, functional accommodations rather than luxury touches.

Dining and on-site services

The Roosevelt has an on-site restaurant and bar located in the lobby area. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is open to both hotel guests and walk-in customers. The menu typically features American cuisine with some international options, and pricing is consistent with Midtown Manhattan restaurant costs.

The hotel offers standard business services including a business center with computers and printing facilities, meeting rooms for small events, and concierge services. A fitness center is available to guests, though it is smaller than the gyms found in larger or newer hotels. There is no pool, spa, or other resort-style amenities.

The hotel does not offer room service in the traditional sense, but guests can order from the restaurant and have food delivered to their rooms during restaurant hours. Laundry and dry cleaning services are available, typically with a 24-hour turnaround.

Location advantages and nearby attractions

The Roosevelt's location on East 45th Street puts guests within a few blocks of Grand Central Terminal, one of New York City's major transportation hubs. This makes the hotel convenient for travelers arriving by train or connecting to regional rail service. The subway stations at Grand Central and nearby locations provide access to most of Manhattan's neighborhoods.

The hotel is also near the New York Public Library's main branch (the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building), which is a major tourist attraction. Bryant Park, a small public park with restaurants and events, is one block away. The area is filled with office buildings, restaurants, and shops, making it a practical base for business travelers.

Times Square is about a 10-minute walk away, and the Museum of Modern Art is roughly a 15-minute walk. Central Park is about a 20-minute walk north. The location is central enough that most major Manhattan attractions are reachable by a short walk or a quick subway ride.

Pricing and how to book

Room rates at the Roosevelt vary significantly based on the day of the week, season, and how far in advance you book. Weekday rates are typically higher than weekend rates because the hotel caters to business travelers. Rates also increase during peak tourist seasons (summer and around holidays) and decrease during slower periods (January through March, excluding holiday weeks).

You can book the Roosevelt through several channels: the Marriott website, the hotel's direct phone line, third-party booking sites like Expedia or Booking.com, or through a travel agent. Booking directly through Marriott's website or by phone may offer better rates if you are a Marriott Rewards member, as you can earn points toward future stays. Third-party sites sometimes show lower rates, but you should compare the total cost including any fees they add.

The hotel's front desk phone number is available through a web search, and staff can answer questions about specific dates and room types. Many travelers find that calling directly allows them to ask about any current promotions or to request specific room locations (such as a higher floor or a room away from the elevator).

What guests should know before booking

The Roosevelt is a solid mid-range choice for travelers who prioritize location over luxury. If you are visiting New York for business or want to be near Grand Central and Midtown attractions, the hotel's central location is a major advantage. However, if you are looking for high-end amenities, spacious rooms, or resort-style services, you should consider other properties.

The hotel's age means that some guests notice noise from the street or from neighboring rooms more than they would in a newer, better-insulated building. Rooms are smaller than modern hotel standards, so travelers with large luggage or those planning to spend significant time in their rooms should be aware of this limitation.

Parking in the area is expensive and limited. If you are arriving by car, expect to pay $40 to $60 per day for parking at a nearby garage. The hotel does not have its own parking lot. Public transportation is the most practical way to get around Manhattan from this location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Roosevelt Hotel a luxury hotel?

No. The Roosevelt is a mid-range hotel operated by Marriott Hotels, not a luxury brand like the Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis. It offers clean, functional rooms and a convenient location, but not high-end amenities or services. It is a good choice for business travelers and budget-conscious tourists, not for those seeking luxury accommodations.

Does the Roosevelt have a pool or gym?

The hotel has a small fitness center available to guests. It does not have a swimming pool. The fitness center is basic and typical of mid-range Manhattan hotels, with standard cardio and weight equipment.

What is the closest subway station?

Grand Central Terminal, which serves the Metro-North Railroad and the subway, is about two blocks away. Multiple subway lines run through Grand Central, including the 4, 5, 6, 7, and S trains. This makes the Roosevelt very convenient for subway travel throughout Manhattan.

Can I get a room with a view of Central Park?

The Roosevelt is located about 20 blocks south of Central Park, so rooms do not have views of the park itself. Some higher-floor rooms may have views of the surrounding Manhattan skyline, but you should ask the hotel directly about this when booking or checking in.

Is breakfast included with my room?

Breakfast is not included with standard room rates at the Roosevelt. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast, but you will pay separately for it. Some special promotions or packages may include breakfast, so it is worth asking when you book.