Hotels We Love: The Westin – New York City

Westin and wellness are synonymous: from their renowned Heavenly Bed that almost guarantees deep sleep; to state of the art fitness centers that would rival Equinox, fitted out with innovative recovery enhancing tech.. Staying here isn’t just a place to sleep, it’s a place of rejuvenation and restoration. Even in the middle of Times Square, New York, with all of the hustle and bustle buzzing outside, this sentiment remains. Perfect for families, couples, solos, business and leisure travellers alike; The Westin New York isn’t just a hotel – it’s a haven. Grateful to have stayed as a guest of The Westin – here’s what I loved the most.

The lounge
From the moment you walk in, Westin inspires relaxation – the open plan lounge is spacious, roomy and expansive; which, in New York, is a breath of fresh air. The neutral palette and warming tones through the lounge, uber comfortable couches, a faux fireplace… lingering here just feels right.

The bed
Westin’s signature Heavenly Bed is something else – and that’s coming from me, a sleep expert, who has a pretty high standard. From the plush mattress top to the velvety bedding, through to firm and soft pillows, it’s deluxe. It’s the kind of bed that cushions you from head to toe, and carries you to the land of your dreams. 10/10.

The gym
Hotel gyms are usually not something I rave about, but when it comes to Westin, this is actually a standout feature. Genuinely one of the best fitness centres I’ve seen in a hotel yet, there’s a plethora of options to suit everyone – from a stack of machine weights to an extensive array of cardio facilities, including peloton bikes – Westin has set the standard for what you wish every hotel has.

Recovery tech
Deserving it’s own callout, Westin also offers latest recovery tech from Hyperice – think massage guns, compression therapy and more, able to be used in the comfort of your room after a long day of shopping, sightseeing and restaurant hopping. Again, 10/10.

Strava backed running routes
Now, I’m no Cathy Freeman; but I do enjoy a slow jog, especially when in a new city.. But, one thing that always gets me is… where to go? And yes, I know you can simply just go outside, but in New York, especially densely populated Manhattan, this could easily go pear shaped. You too? Never fear, Westin is here – they have recommended running routes on Strava, seeing you get your runners high, without the work of figuring it out yourself.

The Restaurant
You know when a dish is so good, you rave to your friends about it, and go back every day of your trip? This is exactly what happened to me at Foundry Bar, the sleek, stylish, buzzing bar / restaurant at Westin. The meal? Seared long island scallops, with parsnip puree, ratatouille and champagne vinaigrette. Still dreaming about it. The venue overall is tres cool, the perfect spot to start – or finish – your night on the town.

Staff
A hotel can only be as good as it’s team… and the Westin has this covered, all over. The team is friendly, warm, hospitable. Nothing is too much trouble. Help with your bags? Sure. Late check out? We can make that happen. Help me take photos for social media? All good. I felt super welcome, appreciated, valued. No doubt you will too.

Final thoughts
If you’re into wellness like me, you’ll love Westin Times Square.

Written by Olivia Arezzolo. Olivia Arezzolo is a leading sleep expert, speaker and author in 10 countries; partnering with luxury hotels across the globe such as The Westin and Marriott Bonvoy to deliver sleep retreats and masterclasses. In addition, she is our talented travel / wellness journalist and editor, always seeking her next destination. Want Olivia to feature you in her next story? Email olivia@thesleepretreat.com.au, or connect on instagram – @oliviaarezzolo – she’d love to hear from you.

For the full article grab the December/January 2025 issue of Women’s Fitness Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.