The Plaza

This guide to The Plaza in New York opens with the words 'I am Eloise. I am six' and traces them back to performer Kay Thompson, who lived at the hotel through the 1950s and 60s without paying rent. You'll hear how those rehearsal-hall words became the opening of one of America's best-loved children's books, and the story behind the portrait of Eloise that has hung in the lobby since, including a theft during a college dance. Look for it in the lobby on your way in.