InterContinental New York Barclay

In July 2016, InterContinental New York Barclay received a $180-million renovation, although most of its federalist-style design was preserved. Built by the Vanderbilt family’s New York Central Railroad company, the 90-year-old hotel served as the residence of Harold Stirling Vanderbilt early on. The iconic American railroad executive’s involvement attracted a long list of influential guests, including the past two Democratic presidents, Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, both of whom stayed here while visiting from the White House. Clinton made the hotel his headquarters while running for presidency in 1996. Obama (who worked out in the hotel’s gym and was friendly with guests) stayed in the Presidential Suite, which now features 3,600 square feet, a marble entrance, a private fitness room, a library, an office, and a baby grand piano. (intercontinentalnybarclay.com)