Macarthur Chambers Hotel

This elegant apartment hotel occupies the building that played a pivotal role in World War II, as the chief headquarters of US General Douglas MacArthur. Every day crowds gathered out front to watch as his car arrived from Lennons hotel and the Commander-in-Chief of the Allied forces disappeared inside to his office, which is preserved as part of Macarthur Museum today on the 8th floor.

Before being taken over by the US Army the building was built in 1931 for the AMP friendly society and so hotel rooms have been made from converted offices, no two being alike, with some featuring quirky angular sitting rooms and kitchens.

The spacious suites have a brownstone NY apartment feel to them, some with polished floors, crisp white walls, art works and heavy sash windows. Despite the past era ambience, furnishings are up-to-the-minute with suede couches, stainless steel kitchens and marble bathroom finishes.

On the ninth floor above the museum is a recreation deck with a little pool, spa, sauna and barbecue area and undercover parking is available for an extra charge per day.

Perhaps the best thing about MacArthur Chambers is its unbeatable central city location, on top of the upscale boutiques of Edward St, a short stroll to the cluster of the CBD’s top restaurants - The Euro and Moda towards the City Botanic Cardens and casual bar eatery Mr Edwards Alehouse down by the Gardens and the Riverside complex of bars and eateries including Aria and Customs House.

Cool bars nearby include the New York jazz style Doo Bop-Jazz Bar and Silver Fox Wine Bar, whilst Metro Arts has excellent fringe performances and exhibitions as well as a funky basement restaurant and cider bar - Verve.

Historical points of interest nearby include St Stephen’s and Anzac Square.