119 Years Later, The Plaza Remains Unmistakably New York

September 24, 2026

Some legacies are written in history books. Others are carried forward through the places, traditions, and enduring symbols that define a city.

As The Plaza approaches its 119th anniversary on October 1, we find ourselves reflecting on the remarkable role the hotel has played in New York’s story since opening its doors in 1907. For generations, The Plaza has served as both a witness to history and a destination where new traditions begin, welcoming world travelers, New Yorkers, and families celebrating life’s most memorable occasions.

Throughout nearly twelve decades of change, The Plaza has remained a defining presence at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South. While the city around it has continually evolved, The Plaza has maintained its distinctive place in the cultural fabric of New York, balancing timeless elegance with a spirit of reinvention that continues to attract each new generation.

The story of The Plaza is ultimately a story of people. The guests who have passed through its doors. The celebrations that have filled its ballrooms. The traditions that have been shared across generations. And the individuals whose vision helped shape New York in the early twentieth century, including Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt, whose name remains synonymous with an era defined by ambition, sophistication, and enduring influence.

As we prepare to celebrate 119 years of history, we are reminded that legacy is not something preserved behind glass. It is something that continues to evolve, carried forward by those who cherish it and create new memories of their own.

To commemorate this milestone anniversary, The Plaza Boutique is proud to introduce a limited-edition Market Bag featuring the signature of Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt. Created exclusively for this occasion, the collectible design honors a storied chapter of Plaza history while celebrating the timeless spirit that continues to define the hotel today.

From October 1 through October 8, guests shopping online will enjoy complimentary shipping on orders of $250 or more, a complimentary Plaza gift with qualifying purchase, and the opportunity to own this exclusive commemorative piece while supplies last.

Join us in celebrating 119 years of The Plaza and carry a piece of its history into the next chapter.

Shop the Petite Market Bag

Shop the Black Market Tote