For heart-stopping views, nothing beats the
Mandarin Oriental, in the posh Time Warner Center above Columbus Circle. The lobby level starts 35 stories up in the sky, and the Central Park views are unreal. All 248 sleek, Asian-inspired rooms (which run from floors 38 to 54!) have a sexy red, black, and cream color palette, and the staff can't do enough for you. Toast your first night with "Bella Pescas" (champagne, elderflower liquor, lychee juice, and a splash of Chambord) at scene-y
Mobar, just off the lobby.
Rooms from $695.