Aspen Hospitality, a division of Aspen One, has launched Nell Hotels, a new luxury hotel brand “rooted in the spirit, legacy and enduring guest affinity” of The Little Nell hotel in Aspen, CO.
The first hotel for the brand will be The Nell New York, set to open in fall 2027 as the first and only hotel within Rockefeller Center and New York City’s only Relais & Chateaux property. The company also revealed the upcoming comprehensive renovation of The Little Nell in Aspen, which will temporarily close in April 2027, reopening in time for the 2027-2028 ski season.
Nell Hotels launches as a collection of three distinct types: The Little Nell, a ski-in/ski-out hotel and the brand’s founding property; the Residences at The Little Nell, private fully appointed residences; and The Nell New York.
“Nell Hotels builds on what The Little Nell has always been about—something personal, something you come back to that feels familiar every time,” said Jeff Toscano, CEO, Aspen Hospitality. “As we grow, that doesn’t change. Our intention is not to be everywhere but to be exactly where our guests are. This allows us to carry forward the same level of recognition and care that is inherent to The Little Nell, creating hotels that feel familiar from the very first stay and become part of our guests’ lives over time. This is not about scale for the sake of growth. It’s about bringing our approach to hospitality to destinations where it can truly resonate.”
Representing a more than $350-million investment, 134-room The Nell New York will be located at 10 Rockefeller Plaza, transforming former office space.
“We are honored to welcome The Nell New York to Rockefeller Center and to partner with a brand that shares our commitment to creating meaningful experiences through art, dining, culture and community,” said EB Kelly, head of Rockefeller Center and senior managing director, Tishman Speyer. “Built nearly a century ago as a city within a city, Rockefeller Center has long offered a singular destination experience. With the arrival of The Nell New York, that experience is now complete: guests can dine, shop, explore and stay, all within Rockefeller Center. Together with Nell Hotels, we are excited to build on this legacy and create inspiring new experiences for the next generation of guests.”
The hotel’s amenities will include an all-day dining venue; a lobby bar; a wine lounge and experience that brings The Little Nell’s wine program to New York; and a spa.
Additionally, a signature fine-dining restaurant will open on the 17th floor above the hotel, featuring views of Rockefeller Center and beyond.
Inspired by the Art Deco grandeur and the art and architectural ambition of Rockefeller Center itself, the hotel’s design will honor New York’s enduring belief in craftsmanship, beauty and cultural expression. Art will play a central role throughout the property. Continuing a long-standing tradition established at The Little Nell, The Nell New York will feature a significant art collection showcasing both emerging and internationally recognized artists from New York and around the world.
“Distinctive access will define the guest experience at The Nell New York,” said Toscano. “Just as The Little Nell is known for unparalleled access to Aspen and its mountains, The Nell New York will unlock access to the studios, galleries, private dining rooms, cultural institutions and in-the-know experiences that shape New York City. It’s inherently insider without requiring membership.”
The Little Nell
The Little Nell in Aspen will temporarily close in April 2027 to undergo a comprehensive renovation as it enters a new chapter with Nell Hotels. The property will reopen transformed for the 2027-2028 winter.
“The temporary closure reflects a commitment to preserving what makes The Little Nell exceptional, while ensuring it continues to evolve for the next generation of guests,” said Toscano. “Upon reopening, the property will remain the foundation of the brand, continuing to define the standards by which Nell Hotels will grow.”
