The Waldorf Astoria New York closed temporarily in 2017 in preparation for an extensive renovation and many people, like myself, came to get one last look at this storied New York City hotel.

Perhaps it was to have a cocktail within its famous Peacock Alley or order a Waldorf salad or marvel at its lobby piano that once belonged to resident Cole Porter.

Established during the Gilded Age, this iconic property has witnessed historic events, social changes, and star-studded galas. It introduced room service, in-room telephones, and brought electricity to every floor.

It was a place to stay and be seen, with an A-list of world dignitaries and celebrities that included Queen Elizabeth II, Grace Kelly, Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Dalai Lama.

( See 100 years of New York City—through th

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