158 Best Hotels in New York City, New York

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There are more hotel rooms than ever in New York City, as exciting new properties continue to open their doors not only in Manhattan but in Brooklyn and the outer boroughs as well. But does that mean that New York is cheap? Well, we wouldn’t say cheap, but you can still find some deals, especially if you’re not set on a specific property or neighborhood, and if you don’t mind a few extra minutes of commuting time.

Hotels continue to slash rates based on market sensitivity—especially if you and all of those other Internet-savvy shoppers are willing to wait until the last minute. That said, if you want to stay in a specific place and the rate seems reasonable, book it—it's just as likely to go up, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall).

How to choose? The first thing to consider is location. Many New York City visitors insist on staying in the hectic Midtown area—and options are improving there—but other neighborhoods are often just as convenient. Less touristy areas, such as Gramercy, the Lower East Side, the Upper West Side—even Brooklyn—provide a more realistic sense of New York life, too.

Also consider timing: the least expensive months to book rooms in the city are January and February. If you're flexible on dates, ask the reservationist if there's a cheaper time to stay during your preferred traveling month—that way you can avoid peak dates, like Fashion Week and the New York City Marathon. Be sure to ask about possible weekend packages that could include a third night free. (The Financial District in particular can be a discount gold mine on weekends.)

Another source of bargains? Chain hotels. Many have moved into the city and charge reasonable room rates. In addition to favorites like the Sheraton, Hilton, and Hyatt brands, there are Best Westerns, Days Inns, and Comfort Inns. These rates aren't as low as you find outside Manhattan, but they're certainly getting closer.

THE BEST HOTEL IN NEW YORK CITY

Lotte New York Palace

4.5
Overall Editor Rating
$$$ | 455 Madison Ave., New York, NY, 10022, USA
Fodor's Choice
Lotte New York Palace

FODOR’S EXPERT REVIEW

This historic Midtown hotel unfolds across a 19th-century mansion (The Palace) and a soaring glass tower (The Towers). Between the extravagant lobby, ornate drinking and dining venues, postcard-worthy views of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and upmarket address on Madison Avenue, the hotel delivers old-school New York glamour with just enough contemporary edge. 

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Pros

  • Spacious rooms
  • Steeped in New York history
  • Opulent, art-laden interiors

Cons

  • Lines can get long at reception during peak times
  • Some rooms in The Palace could use an update
  • Separate elevators to access The Palace and The Towers can get confusing
455 Madison Ave., New York, NY, 10022, USA
212-888–7000
Hotel Details
909 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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THE BEST HOTEL IN NEW YORK CITY

The Greenwich Hotel

5
Overall Editor Rating
$$$$ | 377 Greenwich St., New York, NY, 10013, USA
Fodor's Choice
The Greenwich Hotel

FODOR’S EXPERT REVIEW

Surrounded by the trendy lofts and cobblestone streets of TriBeCa, this Robert De Niro-backed boutique hotel contains 86 rooms and suites – including two duplexes and a sprawling penthouse – each one with its own unique character and decor. An excellent Japan-inspired spa, serene underground pool, private dining areas for guests, faultless service, and delightful in-room amenities make The Greenwich Hotel one of NYC’s most quietly luxurious stays.

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Pros

  • Distinctive and unique decor in each room
  • One of the city’s best spas
  • Impeccable service and amenities

Cons

  • Some rooms are overlooked
  • Spa books up weeks in advance
  • Gym can get crowded at peak times
377 Greenwich St., New York, NY, 10013, USA
212-941–8900
Hotel Details
88 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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THE BEST HOTEL IN NEW YORK CITY

Mandarin Oriental, New York

5
Overall Editor Rating
$$$$ | 80 Columbus Circle, New York, NY, 10023, USA
Fodor's Choice
Mandarin Oriental

FODOR’S EXPERT REVIEW

Towering over busy Columbus Circus, the Mandarin Oriental brings Eastern-inspired elegance and tranquility to one of the city’s busiest crossroads. Sophisticated decor, unmatched hospitality, and a stand-out spa and swimming pool make this sanctuary in the sky a welcome respite after a busy day of exploring NYC.

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Pros

  • Stunning views from all rooms
  • Thoughtful service
  • Heated pool open year-round

Cons

  • Steam room only available with spa booking
  • Limited dining and drinking options
80 Columbus Circle, New York, NY, 10023, USA
212-805–8800
Hotel Details
198 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Recommended Fodor's Video

THE BEST HOTEL IN NEW YORK CITY

The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel

5
Overall Editor Rating
$$$$ | 20 E 76th St, New York, NY, 10021, USA
Fodor's Choice
The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel

FODOR’S EXPERT REVIEW

This Upper East Side hideaway is in the thick of Manhattan’s high-culture enclave, one block from Central Park and Museum Mile (home to the Guggenheim, the Met, and the Frick Collection, to name a few), and a 15-minute taxi ride to the theater district. Inside, The Surrey feels like a peaceful retreat, with a chic lounge and buzzy restaurant, elegant and spacious suites, and a restorative spa, all complemented by attentive service that makes guests feel at home.

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Pros

  • Ultra-quiet bedrooms
  • Spacious suites set up for hosting
  • Buzzy restaurants and lounge

Cons

  • Restaurant is busy at dinner time, so reservations are essential
  • No fitness classes currently
20 E 76th St, New York, NY, 10021, USA

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THE BEST HOTEL IN NEW YORK CITY

Waldorf-Astoria

5
Overall Editor Rating
$$ | 301 Park Ave., New York, NY, 10022, USA
Fodor's Choice
Waldorf Astoria New York

FODOR’S EXPERT REVIEW

Following a mammoth $2 billion restoration project, the beloved Waldorf Astoria is reemerging as one of the city’s most glitzy locations. Commanding an entire Midtown block between Park and Lexington Avenues, the hotel contains 375 brand new guest rooms and suites, a glamorous bar, two destination restaurants, a 20,000 sq. ft. Wellness Center and spa, and even a grand ballroom that’s hosted everyone from U.S. presidents to European royalty.

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Pros

  • Restoration is beautiful from top to bottom
  • Buzzy, elegant drinking and dining
  • Phenomenal service

Cons

  • Some bathrooms have a wetroom with no separate shower
  • Certain rooms are on the smaller side
301 Park Ave., New York, NY, 10022, USA
212-355–3000
Hotel Details
1,027 rooms, 208 suites
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Ace Hotel New York

$ | 20 W. 29th St., New York, NY, 10001, USA Fodor's Choice
The Ace Hotel, Flatiron District
DOUGLAS LYLE THOMPSON/The Ace Hotel

The Ace is not your ordinary boutique hotel; the lively lobby melds the look of an Ivy League library with the concept of a curiosity cabinet—eclectic artwork, mosaic tile floors, wooden bookcases, antique sofas, a photo booth—and the vibe is laid-back, making it a popular hangout for freelancers and creatives. The rooms run from "Small," "Large," "Medium Queen," "Medium King," and "Bunk" (traditional bunk bed, sleeps 2) to "Loft Suite," indicative of the hotel's inclusive high/low ethos. No two rooms are alike, with original artwork and curated furnishings like turntables, Gibson guitars, and exclusive Pendleton wool blankets. The Lobby Bar has good food and quality drinks though there are plenty of great restaurants and bars in the neighborhood. A Stumptown coffee bar on-site will keep you caffeinated.

Pros

  • Fun, unique decor
  • Supercool but friendly vibe
  • Lobby bar scene

Cons

  • Small rooms
  • Caters to a young crowd
  • May be too much of a scene for some
20 W. 29th St., New York, NY, 10001, USA
212-679–2222
Hotel Details
285 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

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The Bowery Hotel

$$$ | 335 Bowery, New York, NY, 10003, USA Fodor's Choice
The Bowery Hotel, East Village
Gregory Goode

Warmed by rich tapestries and fireplaces, the Bowery Hotel is like an English hunting lodge in Manhattan, and the red-coated doormen, clubby bar, and trendy address makes this a hot property. Upstairs, the rooms lack the richness of the lobby but make the most of the space with unfussy furnishings and floor-to-ceiling industrial-style "factory windows" offering a variety of Manhattan views. Downstairs, Italian-accented Gemma restaurant, which fronts the hotel, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and has pleasant tables outside on the sidewalk when the weather's nice.

Pros

  • Fun downtown location
  • Happening bar and lobby-lounge area
  • International crowd

Cons

  • Service can be inconsistent
  • Rooms lack luxe touches some might expect
  • Lobby can get too sceney for some
335 Bowery, New York, NY, 10003, USA
212-505–9100
Hotel Details
135 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Hyatt Union Square New York

$$$ | 134 4th Ave., New York, NY, 10003, USA Fodor's Choice
Hyatt Union Square New York, Union Square
Courtesy of Hyatt Union Square

You'd be hard-pressed to find a more conveniently located hotel than this hip Hyatt a block south of Union Square, near New York University and at the hub of major subway lines. All rooms are pet-friendly and have signature Hyatt Grand beds, flat-screen TVs that link to an online concierge, work desks, and the required tech amenities; higher categories enjoy upgraded views and separate living areas. The muted design includes wide-plank oak floors, wood-and-stone baths, and an open bathroom with double-wide shower. Best of all, the windows actually open. There's a 24-hour fitness room, too, for those who need to get their exercise in.

Pros

  • Convenient and vibrant location
  • Solid lobby dining and drinking options
  • Welcoming staff

Cons

  • Busy neighborhood means some street noise
  • Room decor a bit bland
  • High-traffic area
134 4th Ave., New York, NY, 10003, USA
212-253–1234
Hotel Details
178 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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The NoMad Hotel

$$$ | 1170 Broadway, New York, NY, 10001, USA Fodor's Choice
The NoMad Hotel, Midtown East
Courtesy of NoMad

Named for the small, charming "North of Madison" (as in, Madison Square Park) neighborhood in which it's located, this upscale-bohemian property features a gorgeous design by Jacques Garcia, a restaurant by award-winning chef Daniel Humm of Eleven Madison Park fame, and a destination cocktail bar. The Beaux Arts–style hotel has lovely guest rooms and suites furnished with a selection of quirky original artwork (pieces are unique to each room), damask-printed velvet partitions, claw-foot tubs, reclaimed maple hardwood floors, leather headboards, and vintage area rugs. Guests can gather in the clubby atrium restaurant, or linger with a good read and creative cocktails in the wood-paneled library, surrounded by book-lined shelves and a spiral staircase from France.

Pros

  • Solicitous service
  • Premier on-site dining and drinking
  • Central location

Cons

  • Some rooms have exposed bathtubs that lack privacy
  • Luxury experiences at luxury prices
  • The bar gets crowded
1170 Broadway, New York, NY, 10001, USA
212-796–1500
Hotel Details
Credit cards accepted
168 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Refinery Hotel

$$ | 63 W. 38th St., New York, NY, 10018, USA Fodor's Choice
Refinery Hotel, Midtown West
Courtesy of Refinery Hotel

Set in a former hat factory, this hotel has a gorgeous year-round rooftop with skyline views, impressively spacious rooms, and several buzzing bars and restaurants. Rooms have oak floors, 12-foot loft-style ceilings, and custom writing desks inspired by early-1900s sewing machines. Winnie's, the lobby bar, is named after a New York figure who ran a bustling "tea" salon during Prohibition—expect live jazz and piano performances here on weeknights. The Refinery Rooftop has three fun, distinct spaces open regardless of the weather: a terrace, a patio with a retractable glass roof, and an indoor lounge with fireplace—all under the shadow of the Empire State Building. Parker & Quinn, on the ground floor, is a retro-inspired restaurant with Prohibition-era cocktails and hearty meals.

Pros

  • Lots of character and lovely, detailed design
  • Rooftop lounge with great views
  • Excellent bars and restaurant

Cons

  • Limited dining and nightlife options nearby
  • The lobby gets crowded with people heading to the rooftop
  • Service can be a bit inconsistent
63 W. 38th St., New York, NY, 10018, USA
646-664–0310
Hotel Details
197 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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The St. Regis New York

$$$$ | 2 E. 55th St., New York, NY, 10022, USA Fodor's Choice
The St. Regis, Midtown East
Courtesy of The St. Regis Hotel

World-class from head to toe, this 5th Avenue Beaux-Arts landmark comes as close to flawless as any hotel in New York, with tech-savvy rooms, historic touches, and the iconic King Cole Bar. Butlers have been catering to the whims of each and every guest since the St. Regis first opened its doors in 1904, a touch no other New York hotel can match. Rooms have high ceilings, crystal chandeliers, vivid fabrics, and crown moldings—along with easy-to-use bedside consoles for controlling lighting, audio, climate, and huge flat-screen TVs that rise from the foot of your bed. Even at these prices, though, you're not guaranteed a stellar view or a separate tub in the more basic rooms. Still, if you require the best, the St. Regis delivers. The "designer suites" are outfitted in one-of-a-kind style by Dior and Bentley and have fabulous views. Dine in the legendary King Cole Bar, a dimly lit institution with the famously playful Maxfield Parrish mural, and keep your eye out for historic touches throughout the property, like an original mail chute in the lobby.

Pros

  • Superb in-house dining
  • Rooms combine true luxury with helpful technology
  • Easy-access butler service

Cons

  • High price doesn't guarantee a great view
  • Too serious for families seeking fun
  • Standard rooms don't have soaking tubs
2 E. 55th St., New York, NY, 10022, USA
212-753–4500
Hotel Details
238 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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The Standard, High Line

$$ | 848 Washington St., New York, NY, 10014, USA Fodor's Choice
The Standard, Meatpacking District
Courtesy The Standard

This modern architectural statement is perpetually one of New York's hottest hotels, with the High Line running underneath it, a lobby full of glamorous types, an authentic beer garden (open year-round; dig the table tennis), and an 18th-floor nightclub that is one of the toughest doors in town. Rooms, with low platform beds, are on the small side (even by New York standards) but floor-to-ceiling windows add a sense of space. Some rooms have showers separated from the bedroom by little more than a glass partition. As you'd expect in a space (and neighborhood) that's so sceney, it can get loud at night. The Standard Grill restaurant, which is almost always packed, handles room service.

Pros

  • Nice building with sweeping views
  • Beautiful people
  • Impressive restaurant space

Cons

  • Noisy at night
  • Tight rooms
  • Can be too trendy
848 Washington St., New York, NY, 10014, USA
212-645–4646
Hotel Details
338 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Wythe Hotel

$$ | 80 Wythe Ave., Brooklyn, NY, 11249, USA Fodor's Choice
Wythe Hotel, New York City
Courtesy of Wythe Hotel

A former cooperage on the Brooklyn waterfront has found new life as the Wythe Hotel, a stunner for its Manhattan-skyline views, locally sourced design touches and amenities. The factory building near the Brooklyn Brewery, built in 1901, utilized reclaimed pine from the original building to create rustic ceilings. Rooms have a Brooklyn sensibility, with polished concrete floors (plus underfloor heating), local custom-patterned wallpaper, and surround sound controlled by your iPhone. The best rooms face Manhattan's skyline, but you can also take in the views from the sixth-floor terrace, where Bar Blondeau serves inventive cocktails and light fare. The menu of the cozy ground-floor restaurant, Le Crocodile, is undeniably French-inspired. Bunk bed rooms are a good value.

Pros

  • Brooklyn-based design and environmentally friendly products
  • Fabulous views from rooms or terrace bar
  • Destination-worthy restaurant

Cons

  • Somewhat removed from the subway
  • Not all rooms have a skyline view
  • The rooftop bar gets crowded
80 Wythe Ave., Brooklyn, NY, 11249, USA
718-460–8000
Hotel Details
72 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

$$$$ | 60 Furman St., NY, 11201, USA Fodor's Choice

A sustainable ethos drives this hip, beautifully designed outpost of the 1 Hotels brand, as evidenced by a 20-foot plant wall punctuating the Brooklyn-inspired lobby, and filtered water bottle-filling stations in many guest rooms. The Neighbors café serves up breakfast and light fare until 5 pm, while upscale restaurant The Osprey serves finer fare, including oysters, pastas, and braised lamb. Cocktails with a view of the Manhattan skyline are mixed at rooftop Harriet's, which occasionally hosts live jazz or pool parties.

Pros

  • Fine dining at on-site restaurant, The Osprey
  • Stellar views of the Brooklyn Bridge
  • Rooftop pool and bar

Cons

  • East-facing rooms overlook busy thoroughfare
  • Pool closed in winter
  • Uneven service
60 Furman St., NY, 11201, USA
347-696–2500
Hotel Details
195 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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The Algonquin Hotel Times Square, Autograph Collection

$$ | 59 W. 44th St., New York, NY, 10036, USA Fodor's Choice

One of Manhattan's most historic properties, the Algonquin is a landmark of literary history made famous by the luminaries of the famed Round Table (now the hotel restaurant's moniker). Although vintage vibes pervade all corners of this Midtown legend—think oak details and carved pillars in the lobby—today's hotel offers modernized rooms and contemporary comforts, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and comfy in-room accommodations. Make time for dinner or drinks in the famed literary lobby, where you might spot the hotel's famous Hamlet the cat roaming about. Channel the brilliance of Dorothy Parker, whose inimitable quotes are displayed throughout the property. The Round Table restaurant serves three meals daily, with plenty of space for animated conversation, while the Blue Bar has a chic atmosphere perfect for a date over martinis.

Pros

  • Historic character but modernized rooms
  • Good rates for the central location
  • Hotel cat keeps guests company

Cons

  • Some small rooms
  • Busy street traffic
  • No in-room minibar
59 W. 44th St., New York, NY, 10036, USA
212-840–6800
Hotel Details
181 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Andaz 5th Avenue

$$$ | 485 5th Ave., New York, NY, 10017, USA Fodor's Choice

The name of this Hyatt brand means "personal style" in Hindi, and the serene and spacious modern rooms evoke that coveted New York loft feel, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking 5th Avenue and the New York Public Library. Elevator bays on each floor feature artwork from local high school students, while the robust artists-in-residence program showcases works by emerging local artists. The minimalist, contemporary guest rooms come with king beds, marble bathrooms with porcelain foot baths and walk-in rain showers, closets made of glass to display shopping purchases, and notable freebies—Wi-Fi, snacks, and nonalcoholic drinks. A significant portion of the rooms are suites, which offer guests upgrades that include private balconies or landscaped terraces. Wellness Suites have freestanding bathtubs, weights, yoga mats, the Mirror virtual fitness service, and healthier snacks. The Bar Downstairs and Kitchen is a candlelit, wood-filled space ideal for a classic cocktail and farm-to-table dishes. 

Pros

  • Proximity to Bryant Park, Grand Central and Midtown attractions
  • High ceilings, tall windows, and suites have outdoor space
  • Complimentary wine hour and morning coffee and tea

Cons

  • Check-in at 4 pm (an hour later than most NYC hotels)
  • Not all rooms have notable views
  • Rooms could do with more storage space
485 5th Ave., New York, NY, 10017, USA
212-601–1234
Hotel Details
184 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Arthouse Hotel New York City

$$ | 2178 Broadway, New York, NY, 10024, USA Fodor's Choice

A charming but modern boutique hotel for visitors looking to experience living on the Upper West Side, this century-old building welcomes you home with a lobby bar that transitions from a lively café during the day to a lively speakeasy-style bar by night. It has a comfortable living room feel with contemporary artwork and an original antique fireplace, a vintage 1920s French elevator, and a bakery and tempting restaurants that are popular with locals. Compact but bright rooms have wood floors, exposed brick, and tall windows with views of Manhattan's iconic water towers are streamlined and cozy. Some rooms have have Juliet balconies or huge furnished terraces. There's live music six days a week in the lobby, and the seasonal rooftop on the 16th floor features a variety of pop-ups throughout the year.

Pros

  • Short walk from Central Park
  • Excellent dining and drinking options nearby
  • Some rooms with terraces and dynamite views

Cons

  • Ice machine only on 12th floor
  • Daily "urban fee" includes charge for Wi-Fi
  • $100 fee for pet stays
2178 Broadway, New York, NY, 10024, USA
212-362–1100
Hotel Details
291 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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The Beekman

$$$ | 123 Nassau St., New York, NY, 10038, USA Fodor's Choice

After sitting abandoned for many years, a historic, late-19th-century office building was transformed into a chic hotel that channels old New York, home to the gorgeous lobby's Bar Room and atmospheric Temple Court restaurant, by award-winning chef Tom Colicchio; and Le Gratin, helmed by chef Daniel Boulud. The original nine-story atrium with ornate balustrades soars above the lobby, providing a dramatic photo op for guests. Operated as a Thompson Hotel (part of Hyatt), rooms and suites feature beds with leather headboards, oak floors, and whimsical touches like beaded lamps. This place draws a sophisticated downtown crowd and is especially popular with magazine editors who work nearby.

Pros

  • Gorgeous design with notable atrium and lots of character
  • Romantic, refined restaurant
  • Fantastic concierge team

Cons

  • Service can be inconsistent
  • Buzzy lobby bar can be overcrowded
  • Pricey for the location
123 Nassau St., New York, NY, 10038, USA
212-233–2300
Hotel Details
287 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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The Chatwal, New York

$$$$ | 130 W. 44th St., New York, NY, 10036, USA Fodor's Choice

A lavishly refurbished reincarnation of a classic Manhattan theater club, the Chatwal delivers a stylish, luxury experience with a matching price tag. The lobby, saturated in red leather and marble, with gilded touches, plays on the property's art deco legacy. Its ground-floor restaurant, the Lambs Club, extends the grand atmosphere and serves fine American cuisine. Guest rooms and suites—some with terraces—are opulent yet understated, with faux-leather cabinets designed to resemble classic luggage; Shifman mattresses and Frette linens; and interactive bedside consoles that control lighting, television, and curtains.

Pros

  • Sophisticated furnishings
  • State-of-the-art room controls and amenities
  • Excellent service

Cons

  • Pricey even for Times Square
  • Small pool
  • In-room lighting controls are confusing
130 W. 44th St., New York, NY, 10036, USA
212-764–6200
Hotel Details
76 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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citizenM New York Bowery Hotel

$$ | 189 Bowery, New York, NY, 10002, USA Fodor's Choice
Rising 21 floors into the sky, the citizenM makes an outsized statement that starts at ground level, with the fabulous lobby “living room,” and reaches all the way to its rooftop bar and terrace. The living room has desk space for working, counter and bar space for dining, and couch space for lounging. Upstairs, the chicly minimal guest rooms are all identical: small but with XL king-size beds and huge windows—in fact, they were all prefabricated in Poland and shipped to the US by boat to keep construction prices down.

Pros

  • Affordable stylish spot
  • Especially appealing for solo travelers
  • Enthusiastic service

Cons

  • Quite small rooms
  • No upgrades, all rooms are the same
  • IPad-controlled room features can be frustrating
189 Bowery, New York, NY, 10002, USA
212-372–7274
Hotel Details
300 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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citizenM New York Times Square Hotel

$$ | 218 W. 50th St., New York, NY, 10019, USA Fodor's Choice

Part of a modern European chain, citizenM prizes a more eclectic, youthful style that puts technology and art at the forefront. Expect self-serve check-in, cashless dining and snackbar, free Wi-Fi, and an in-room iPad to control everything from lights and blinds, to climate and TV channels (with mixed results). Rooms are tight and have one king bed only, but the prime location just north of Times Square may be worth it, especially for solo travelers or shorter stays. The lobby is designed like a living room with comfy seating, which extends to the hotel highlight: the 22nd-floor cloudM rooftop bar, featuring a wraparound open-air terrace. Bonus: the 21st-floor gym also has awesome skyline views.

Pros

  • Cool indoor-outdoor rooftop bar
  • Rooms are surprisingly quiet for Midtown
  • 21st-floor gym has great views

Cons

  • All rooms are for two people max only
  • High-traffic area
  • IPad room controls can be hard to navigate
218 W. 50th St., New York, NY, 10019, USA
212-461–3638
Hotel Details
230 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Crosby Street Hotel

$$$$ | 79 Crosby St., New York, NY, 10012, USA Fodor's Choice

This whimsically designed boutique hotel has an eclectic aesthetic, with colorful furnishings and large, sun-filled rooms that have floor-to-ceiling windows. The Crosby Bar, with oak floors and a long pewter bar, has a lovely garden and superb cocktails. On the other side of the lobby are comfortable guest-only drawing rooms; there's also a sculpture garden reserved for guests. The hotel is LEED Gold–certified and even raises chickens alongside its rooftop garden.

Pros

  • Fabulous, fun design
  • Solicitous service
  • Great bar

Cons

  • Small gym
  • Comes at a very high price
  • No pool or spa
79 Crosby St., New York, NY, 10012, USA
212-226–6400
Hotel Details
86 rooms
No Meals

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High Line Hotel

$$ | 180 10th Ave., New York, NY, 10011, USA Fodor's Choice

A late-19th-century, redbrick, Gothic-style building on the landscaped grounds of a seminary was transformed into this lovely hotel that's full of original architectural details like stained-glass windows and pine floors. This retreat, with views of the High Line, has rooms filled with natural light, vintage-inspired furniture, and pretty rugs over hardwood floors. Intimate and inviting, this is one New York hotel where you will want to spend some time. The private garden is an ideal spot to relax with a pour-over coffee (from Intelligentsia) or a glass of wine. The little details make this property special, from the free Wi-Fi and flower arrangements to the decorative fireplaces in some of the rooms.

Pros

  • Historic property with garden and lots of character
  • Quality coffee bar in the lobby
  • Close to the High Line

Cons

  • Doesn't have the best subway access
  • Outdoor restaurant only open May–October
  • No gym on-site
180 10th Ave., New York, NY, 10011, USA
212-929–3888
Hotel Details
60 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Hotel Beacon

$$ | 2130 Broadway, New York, NY, 10023, USA Fodor's Choice

It's all about location at this Upper West Side hotel, situated three blocks from Central Park, 10 blocks from Lincoln Center, next door to the Beacon Theatre, and steps from both the American Museum of Natural History and Zabar's, the iconic gourmet grocery store. All of the generously sized rooms and suites (which have a sofa bed in the living room) have full kitchenettes (stocked with coffeemakers, pots and pans, and toasters) and marble bathrooms. Closets are huge, and high floors have views of Central Park, the Hudson River, or the Midtown skyline. A small fitness center has modern equipment, though you might prefer to go jogging in the nearby park. The lobby and the Beacon Bar, a contemporary and dimly lit watering hole with small plates and classic cocktails, bring a modern polish to this Beaux-Arts destination, which has been welcoming guests since 1908. The staff here are especially friendly and helpful.

Pros

  • Kitchenettes in all rooms and onsite laundry
  • Great for long-term stays
  • Convenient location

Cons

  • Though comfortable and spacious, rooms won't win design awards
  • No pets
  • No room service
2130 Broadway, New York, NY, 10023, USA
212-787–1100
Hotel Details
278 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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Hotel Giraffe by Library Hotel Collection

$$$ | 365 Park Ave. S, New York, NY, 10016, USA Fodor's Choice

Friendly service, large rooms, a convenient but peaceful location, and nice extras, such as a complimentary Continental breakfast until 10 am, draws lots of repeat customers (particularly business travelers) to the Hotel Giraffe. The style is art deco, right down to the balcony rooms' red-velvet armchairs and French doors, which open onto private Juliet balconies from which you can survey Park Avenue. Be sure to take time to relax at the open-air Rooftop Garden bar, which offers drinks in the warmer months. The civilized service here includes all-day coffee, other refreshments, and snacks.

Pros

  • Comfortable and friendly lobby to relax in
  • Free coffee and healthy snacks in the lobby
  • Many rooms have (small) balconies

Cons

  • Street noise near lower levels
  • Location a bit off the beaten path
  • No gym on-site
365 Park Ave. S, New York, NY, 10016, USA
212-685–7700
Hotel Details
72 rooms
Free Breakfast

Quick Facts

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The James New York – SoHo

$$ | 27 Grand St., New York, NY, 10013, USA Fodor's Choice

This hotel on the edge of SoHo never sacrifices comfort for style, so it's no wonder there's a high percentage of return customers—creative types, businesspeople, fashionistas, and anyone else with deep pockets. The lobby has fabulous double-height windows from which to appreciate unobstructed views—plus fresh-baked cookies, coffee, wine, and fresh fruit. Guest rooms are swanky and simple, with dark-wood floors, floor-to-ceiling murals, and more huge windows facing south and west. A plant in every room (ostensibly a carbon-offsetting touch) and triple-house-filtered bottled water all contribute to an environmentally friendly ethos. Jimmy, the rooftop bar next to the outdoor pool, is always a winner. Bring your fashion A-game: the James attracts a well-dressed crowd.

Pros

  • Stellar service
  • Superb views from tall windows
  • Cool SoHo location

Cons

  • Rooftop bar is expensive
  • Bathrooms offer little privacy
  • Noise from the bar can be bothersome
27 Grand St., New York, NY, 10013, USA
212-465–2000
Hotel Details
114 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection

$$ | 299 Madison Ave., New York, NY, 10017, USA Fodor's Choice

Bookishly handsome, this stately landmark brownstone is inspired by the nearby New York Public Library, using books as a theme. Each of its 10 guest floors is dedicated to one of the 10 categories of the Dewey Decimal System and is stocked with art and books relevant to subtopics such as philosophy, astronomy, or biography. The staff is hospitable, and the whole property is old-leather-armchair comfortable, whether you're unwinding in front of the library fireplace or relaxing in the roof garden or the second floor reading room. Madison & Vine, a bistro and wine bar, is the hotel's restaurant. 

Pros

  • Fun rooftop bar and terrace
  • Book-filled rooms
  • Right near Grand Central and New York Public Library

Cons

  • No gym but offers passes to partnering one
  • Rooms are small
  • No rooms with two double beds
299 Madison Ave., New York, NY, 10017, USA
212-983–4500
Hotel Details
60 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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The Lowell Hotel

$$$$ | 28 E. 63rd St., New York, NY, 10065, USA Fodor's Choice

Steps from Madison Avenue shopping and the Museum Mile, and a block from Central Park, this old-money refuge on a leafy residential block started as upscale apartment hotel in the 1920s and still delivers genteel sophistication and pampering service in an unbeatable location. The lobby is small, but spacious guest rooms have all the civilized comforts of home including stocked bookshelves and luxe bathrooms. Thirty-three of the suites—all decorated in different themes—have working wood-burning fireplaces, and 13 have private terraces. In-room iMac desktop computers are available in certain room types or MacBooks as an alternative (on request) and the New York Times and other major newspapers delivered to the room are nice touches. The elegant Pembroke Room is a guest-only breakfast and weekend brunch area, and the Club Room lounge is for guests, too. Other appealing on-site facilities are Majorelle, a well-regarded French-Mediterranean restaurant; and Jacques, a cocktail bar with a limited bar menu. The restaurant and bar are open to the public as well as to guests.

Pros

  • Some rooms have wood-burning fireplaces and terraces
  • Old-world service with a personal touch
  • Proximity to Madison Avenue boutiques

Cons

  • Many rooms with minimal or no Central Park views
  • Small but adequate fitness center
  • No spa (services can be arranged in your room)
28 E. 63rd St., New York, NY, 10065, USA
212-838–1400
Hotel Details
74 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

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The Ludlow Hotel

$$ | 180 Ludlow St., New York, NY, 10002, USA Fodor's Choice

Embodying the effortlessly cool attitude of the surrounding neighborhood, this stylish hotel pleases guests with everything from the cozy first-floor lounge with a limestone fireplace to the romantic trellis-covered garden out back. People stay here for the scene and the solicitous service—the popular in-house restaurant, Dirty French, draws locals as well as visitors, as much for the food as for the people-watching and signature cocktails. The terrace rooms are worth a splurge for a bit of private outdoor space and sweeping views.

Pros

  • Hot restaurant and bar scene
  • Some rooms have terraces and great views
  • Great location for hip restaurants and shopping

Cons

  • Lounge and courtyard can get crowded
  • Standard rooms are on the small side
  • Might be too sceney for some
180 Ludlow St., New York, NY, 10002, USA
212-432–1818
Hotel Details
175 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $$

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The Modernist Hotel

$ | 38--30 28th St., Queens, NY, 11101, USA Fodor's Choice

Sun-streaked, spacious rooms define this new art-centric boutique hotel in the formerly industrial enclave of Long Island City known as Dutch Kills. The queen deluxe rooms are larger than most NYC studios, and come outfitted with stylish, modernist-inspired furnishings, a kitchenette, and a Juliet balcony. Half the rooms have outdoor spaces and since it’s family-built, owned, and designed, there’s an intimate warmth to the intentionally curated rooms. There’s also a small on-site fitness center, work space, and an art gallery furnished with plush sculptural chairs on the ground floor, which doubles as an event space and features the work of local artists.

Pros

  • Spacious, airy rooms with high ceilings
  • Art-centric
  • Family-owned and -designed

Cons

  • Only 16 rooms
  • No restaurant
  • Small reception area
38--30 28th St., Queens, NY, 11101, USA
718-683–9200
Hotel Details
16 rooms
No Meals

Quick Facts

  • $

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