Top-notch views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, New York Harbor and the downtown skyline make the Ritz's quieter downtown, waterfront location on the southwestern tip of Manhattan a great excuse to avoid the chaotic Midtown hotel scene. Harborside rooms are equipped with telescopes, and all the rooms have the typically plush Ritz-style amenities. Bulgari toiletries are in the marble bathrooms, and featherbeds come with 400-thread-count Frette linens, feather duvets and goose-down pillows. If that's not enough to lull you to sleep, a deep-tissue or hot-stone massage at the Prada Beauty Spa should do the trick. Don't skip drinks at the rooftop Rise bar. You'll pay a pretty price for the stunning views that come with your cocktails, but it's worth every penny.

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Battery Park Amenities:

• 298 rooms. Wireless Internet access. Restaurant, bar. Fitness center. Spa. Business center. Pets accepted.