You know that feeling when you walk into The Plaza Hotel in December and everything smells like expensive pine and $20 hot chocolates? That’s basically the natural habitat of a certain six-year-old with a "rawther" large personality.
Eloise at the Plaza Christmas isn't just a movie or a book. It’s a whole mood that takes over Central Park South every single year. Honestly, if you grew up watching the 2003 Disney version with Sofia Vassilieva, you probably think the hotel is just one big playground where you can slide down banisters and matchmake room service waiters.
But there’s actually a lot of confusion about what’s real, what’s movie magic, and how you can actually live like Eloise without getting kicked out by a real-life Mr. Salomone.
The 2003 Movie vs. The 1958 Book
People get these two mixed up constantly.
The book, Eloise at Christmastime, was written by Kay Thompson and illustrated by Hilary Knight back in 1958. It’s mostly about Eloise being a chaotic neutral force of nature—wrapping things in tinsel, bothering the staff, and "skibbling" through the halls. There isn't a huge plot. She’s just being Eloise.
The movie? That’s a different beast.
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When Disney made Eloise at Christmastime in 2003, they had to invent a whole storyline to fill the 89-minute runtime. This is where we get the plot about Rachel Peabody, the owner’s daughter, and the "spy" Eloise thinks is lurking in the lobby.
What you probably didn't know about the film:
- It was shot back-to-back with the first Eloise at the Plaza movie.
- Most of it wasn't even filmed in New York. They built massive sets in Toronto.
- Julie Andrews (Nanny) actually did her own singing and dancing, including that chaotic eggnog scene.
The chemistry between Andrews and Vassilieva is why the movie still hits. It’s got that cozy, slightly grainy early-2000s TV quality that feels like a warm blanket.
Can You Actually Stay in the Eloise Suite?
Yes. But it’ll cost you more than a few "charge it please" signatures.
The Plaza actually has a permanent Eloise Suite on the 18th floor. It’s not just a room with a poster on the wall; it was designed by Betsey Johnson. Think pink striped wallpaper, a neon "Eloise" sign over the bed, and a zebra-print rug.
During Christmas, they go even harder. There’s usually a pink Christmas tree in the room.
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Wait, what about the "Nanny Suite"? The hotel actually lets you book an adjoining Edwardian Suite (the Nanny Suite) because, let’s be real, no adult wants to sleep in a room that looks like a Pepto-Bismol bottle exploded in it.
The Real-Life Plaza Traditions
If you’re visiting for the Eloise at the Plaza Christmas experience, you have to hit the Palm Court. That’s where the "Eloise Tea" happens.
They serve "cold cold pink lemonade" and tea sandwiches that are actually kid-friendly. No weird cucumber-watercress-crustless nonsense for the six-year-olds. It’s one of the few places in New York where being a bit loud and precocious is actually encouraged, mostly because everyone else there is doing the exact same thing for the 'gram.
Traditions that aren't in the books:
- The Tree: The lobby tree is usually 7-8 feet of pure class, but in the past, Betsey Johnson has designed custom "Eloise" trees with paper dolls and pink feathers.
- The Boutique: Downstairs in the basement (the "Plaza Food Hall" area), there’s a whole Eloise shop. It’s dangerous for your wallet.
- The Rawther Fancy Package: The hotel usually runs a holiday special called "The Suitest Season" which includes a decorated tree in your room and a gift bag.
Why We’re Still Obsessed in 2026
It’s about the fantasy.
New York at Christmas is usually crowded, slushy, and incredibly stressful. But Eloise represents the version we all wanted: no parents (they're always in Paris), infinite room service, and a pug named Weenie.
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Kay Thompson, the author, was actually a vocal coach at MGM. She used to do the "Eloise voice" to entertain her friends. She was a bit of a diva herself, which explains why Eloise is so demanding but somehow charming.
Actionable Tips for Your Own Eloise Christmas:
- Book the Tea Early: If you want Afternoon Tea at the Palm Court in December, you need to book it in October. No joke.
- The "Secret" Photo Op: There is a portrait of Eloise hanging near the Palm Court. It’s the "official" one by Hilary Knight. It actually went missing once (stolen!) but was recovered and returned.
- Don't Forget the Turtle: If you’re a purist, look for a turtle in the shop. Skipperdee is just as important as Weenie the pug.
- Check the TV: Most rooms at the Plaza have the Eloise movies on a loop during the holidays. It’s the law.
If you’re planning to visit, just remember that the real Plaza isn't quite as chaotic as the movie makes it out to be. You can't actually run through the kitchens, and you definitely shouldn't try to stop a wedding in the Grand Ballroom.
But you can absolutely order a giant bowl of ice cream at 11 PM and pretend you're the most important resident on the "tippy-top floor."
To make the most of the season:
- Visit the Fifth Avenue windows first, then walk into the Plaza to escape the cold.
- Check the Plaza Boutique for the Michael Storrings ornaments; they usually have a specific Eloise-themed one that sells out fast.
- If the Eloise Suite is too pricey (and it usually is), just go for the "Eloise Tea" and visit the portrait for free.