Are you ever star-struck by a celebrity guest?
I am in awe of songwriters – Steve Miller, Barry Mann and Cynthia Weill.  But, I do remember being a bit scared once. Anthony Hopkins, of Silence of the Lambs, and I were in the elevator. Just the two of us. I thought: if he makes that hissing sound, I will jump out of my skin.

What is your favorite day-off thing to do?
I do odd things like take the Staten Island Ferry, just  me and 3,000 other people.  I do lots of field research going to restaurants and I just like exploring New York city’s nooks and crannies!

If guests have only one day in New York, what would you tell them they absolutely shouldn’t miss?
I think a must is the High Line, an old train trestle that is now a walking trail. My wife and I like to just meander through neighborhoods, up on third story level. Of course, they should hit two traditional landmarks: the Statue of Liberty, then the Empire State Building. For dinner, head to the Lower East Side for Daniel Boulud’s DBGB, which is not expensive, but very good.

Any favorite tours in New York?
My wife gives historical tours of the Waldorf Astoria! She points out the rooms where Wally Simpson and the Duke stayed, where  Cole Porter stayed, etc. A little-known secret is the New York Historical Society Museum gives great walking tours. Radio City Music Hall and the NBC Studio tours are also fun.

What’s the secret to getting last-minute tickets to a Broadway hit, or a table at a great restaurant?
Get to know people who run these restaurants, stay in touch…it’s all about relationships.

What’s your favorite room or view in the Michelangelo?
I love the country French rooms, with the sleigh beds. The best views? For the Macy’s Parade, get a room facing 51st street…you can’t beat the view!

If you weren’t a concierge at the  Michelangelo, what would you be doing?
I’d go back to Paris and wander the streets.

Did James spotlight your favorite New York spots? How has a concierge changed your travel experience? Share your stories in the comments.

For more New York travel, check out:

• For a full run-down of New York travel, Manhattan Vacations: Complete New York City Guide 
• Get up close with the, Ask the Local Travel Guide to Midtown Manhattan, New York
• Get more great ideas with our Off the Brochure Travel Guide to New York City.
• For culinary adventures, don’t miss Three Days, Nine Meals: New York City.

By Jamie Stringfellow for Peter Greenberg.com. Jamie Stringfellow writes from Hermosa Beach, California, and Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. She is the co-founder and editor of WeekendWalk.com.

Feature Image Credit: BigStock