The Iconic Plaza Hotel: Ownership and Its Star Turn in "Home Alone 2"
Many of us remember the magical holiday season, the mischievous Kevin McCallister, and the unforgettable sights and sounds of New York City in the classic film, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. A central location in Kevin's solo adventure is the opulent and world-renowned Plaza Hotel. But who actually owned this legendary New York landmark during the time the movie was filmed and when it appeared on screen?
The answer, and the ownership history of The Plaza, is a bit more complex than a simple name. When Home Alone 2: Lost in New York was released in 1992, The Plaza Hotel was owned by a very prominent and, at the time, controversial figure: Donald J. Trump.
Donald Trump's Ownership of The Plaza
Donald Trump acquired The Plaza Hotel in 1988. He purchased it from a Japanese company, the Kohachiro-Hyatt Corporation, for a reported $407.5 million. Trump, known for his real estate ventures and flashy lifestyle, saw The Plaza as a crown jewel in his portfolio. He invested heavily in its renovation, aiming to restore it to its former grandeur and even enhance its luxurious reputation.
During Trump's ownership, The Plaza underwent significant changes. He famously replaced the hotel's original, slightly more traditional decor with a more opulent, gilded style, which aligned with his personal aesthetic. This period of ownership cemented The Plaza's image as a symbol of ultimate luxury and wealth, which is precisely why it was such a perfect fit for the backdrop of Kevin's escapades in "Home Alone 2." The film showcased the hotel's grandeur and its ability to host extravagant events, mirroring the image Trump cultivated for the property.
The Plaza Hotel's Role in "Home Alone 2"
In the film, Kevin, mistakenly finding himself with the wrong family's credit card, checks into The Plaza and experiences the life of luxury. We see him:
- Arriving in a limousine.
- Being greeted by a doorman.
- Checking into a lavish suite.
- Ordering an extravagant room service meal.
- Enjoying the hotel's amenities, including a limousine ride with the hotel staff.
The hotel's iconic facade and opulent interiors were prominently featured, making it an integral part of the movie's visual appeal and Kevin's fantastical New York experience. The scenes at The Plaza were a testament to its status as a premier destination, a status that Trump actively promoted during his ownership.
"The Plaza Hotel was such an iconic part of the movie, and it really looked the part of ultimate luxury. It's no wonder they chose it for Kevin's solo adventure."
Subsequent Ownership of The Plaza
While Donald Trump owned The Plaza during the filming of "Home Alone 2," his ownership of the hotel did not last indefinitely. Due to financial difficulties in the early 1990s, Trump lost control of The Plaza.
Here's a brief timeline of its ownership after Trump:
- 1995: The Plaza was sold to Kingdom Hotels & Casinos, a company owned by Saudi Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal.
- 2004: Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, in partnership with Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, acquired a majority stake in The Plaza.
- 2010: Sahara India Pariwar purchased The Plaza Hotel from a joint venture between Fairmont and Kingdom Hotels.
- 2014: Katara Hospitality, a Qatari state-owned company, acquired The Plaza.
Today, The Plaza Hotel is still a magnificent landmark, continuing its legacy as a symbol of New York City's enduring charm and elegance, even though its ownership has changed hands several times since Kevin McCallister navigated its luxurious halls.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Plaza in "Home Alone 2"
How did Kevin McCallister afford to stay at The Plaza?
In the movie, Kevin famously uses a stolen credit card belonging to his father. This allows him to indulge in the luxury of The Plaza, including a lavish suite and extravagant room service, without any real financial limitations.
Was the filming at The Plaza actually done on location?
Yes, a significant portion of the filming for the scenes set in The Plaza Hotel was done on location at the actual hotel in New York City. This allowed the filmmakers to capture the authentic grandeur and atmosphere of this iconic establishment.
Why was The Plaza Hotel chosen as a filming location?
The Plaza Hotel was chosen for its iconic status, its association with luxury and opulence, and its recognizable presence in New York City. Its grandeur perfectly matched the narrative of Kevin experiencing an extravagant solo vacation, making it an ideal setting for his adventures.
Did Donald Trump appear in the scenes filmed at The Plaza in "Home Alone 2"?
Yes, Donald Trump made a cameo appearance in "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York." He can be seen in a brief scene at The Plaza Hotel, directing Kevin McCallister on how to get to the lobby. This was a reflection of his ownership of the hotel at the time.
