Best hotels in New York City

Crosby Street Hotel, New York

Nestled on a quiet, cobblestone street in SoHo, the Crosby Street Hotel opened in 2009 as the first U.S. property from the London-based Firmdale Hotels. Built from the ground up on a former parking lot, the eleven-story building was designed with sustainability in mind, famously becoming the first hotel in New York State to achieve LEED Gold certification.

“Each of the rooms is individually designed, with fun patterns and colors, big warehouse style windows, and a cozy, residential feel. The location is smack in the heart of the action in SoHo.”

Featured as Fodor’s Choice in New York.

The Ned NoMad Hotel, New York

The Ned NoMad is a stylish boutique hotel located in the historic 1903 Johnston Building in Manhattan. Originally built as a store and office space, the property underwent a stunning transformation by the Soho House Design team, who preserved its impressive Beaux-Arts architecture while infusing it with old-world Manhattan glamour.

“Conceived by Andrew Zobler, developer of the nearby Ace Hotel, the NoMad is the Ace for grown-ups. The hotel stands out for its bohemian glamour, from the laser-sharp but friendly service to the opulent yet intimate interiors.”

The Bowery Hotel, New York

The Bowery Hotel, which opened in 2007 at the intersection of Bowery and 3rd Street, serves as a stylish anchor for Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Co-founded by nightlife impresarios Sean MacPherson and Eric Goode, the hotel was designed to blend seamlessly into the neighborhood's industrial roots while offering a high-end, cinematic retreat. Its red-brick facade and factory-style windows pay homage to the area’s gritty history, even as the interior provides a polished, "old world" escape.

“Lying right at the intersection of hip and elegant, The Bowery Hotel is appointed with luxurious old world refinements and décor while retaining a vibe that’s lively and modern. Factory windows offer 360-degrees of the city.”

Mandarin Oriental, New York

The Mandarin Oriental, New York, is a high-rise sanctuary perched atop the Deutsche Bank Center at Columbus Circle. Opening in 2003, it occupies floors 35 through 54, offering guests a unique "sky lobby" experience that provides panoramic, elevated views of Central Park and the Hudson River.

“Located atop one of the twin sentries comprising the Time Warner Center, the five-star Mandarin Oriental enjoys unobstructed views through its floor-to-ceiling windows of the Hudson River, Central Park and Brooklyn.”

Warren Street Hotel, New York

The Warren Street Hotel is a striking new addition to the Tribeca neighborhood, opened in 2024 as the third New York property from Firmdale Hotels. Unlike the historic brick warehouses that define much of the area, this ground-up construction features a bold, glass-fronted cerulean blue exterior with a bright yellow rooftop, designed by Stonehill Taylor to stand out while paying homage to 19th-century industrial architecture.

“Kit Kemp loyalists and design obsessives will have already bookmarked this hotel for its eclectic interiors and extensive art collection, but anyone who wants to find a quiet moment amid the mayhem of Manhattan—without losing any of its color—will find their needs met here.”

The Lowell Hotel, New York

The Lowell Hotel, located on Manhattan's East 63rd Street, is a legendary Upper East Side sanctuary. Originally built in 1927 by architect Henry S. Churchill, the seventeen-story building was designed as an apartment hotel, a heritage that still informs its intimate, residential atmosphere today. It remains one of the city's few family-owned properties, known for its discreet service and timeless charm.

“The Lowell, on the Upper East Side, reopened in 2017 after a three-year renovation. Its 74 rooms got a refresh, but the important touches stayed the same: wood-burning fireplaces, grisaille wallpaper in the lobby, tasseled key fobs.”

CitizenM Times Square, New York

CitizenM New York Times Square, which opened in 2014, is a tech-forward hotel designed by the Dutch firm Concrete. Catering to the "mobile citizen of the world," the property prioritizes efficiency with one-minute self-service check-ins and sleek, uniform rooms. Its lobby feels less like a traditional hotel and more like an art gallery, featuring vibrant contemporary pieces, including a specially commissioned Julian Opie installation titled "Walking in Times Square."

“The trendy but affordable, limited-service hotel offers self-check-in at welcome kiosks in the art-filled double-height lobby staffed by friendly hosts. Fresh, funky and affordable, citizenM is a modern haven in touristy Times Square. Its D.I.Y. ethos, like picking your room art, offers efficiency with flair.”

Refinery Hotel Manhattan, New York

The Refinery Hotel in Manhattan is a stylish homage to its past as the 1912 Colony Arcade Building, a former hub for milliners and furriers in the Garment District. Designed by the architecture firm Stonehill Taylor, the hotel beautifully preserves this history, blending neo-Gothic exterior details with industrial-chic interiors that reflect its hat-factory roots.

“With its hat factory history, good location, upscale finish and an eager-to-please staff, the Refinery is a definite draw and is an ideal place for travelers who are looking to be near the city’s major tourist attractions. It lacked the polish of other well-established luxury properties in town, but that may improve over time, and its charm more than makes up for it.”

The High Line Hotel, New York

The High Line Hotel, located in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, is a peaceful red-brick Collegiate Gothic jewel built in 1895. Originally serving as student housing for the General Theological Seminary, the site is steeped in history; folklore even suggests that Clement Clarke Moore composed the famous poem "’Twas the Night Before Christmas" while on the property.

“Very few NYC hotels deserve the high price tag they wear. This one just may. Its interior is as grand, though delightfully quirky, with rooms that look like they could have been inhabited by a Gatsby type in the 1920s.”

Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in New York.

The Manner, New York

The Manner is a sophisticated boutique hotel on a quiet, tree-lined street in the heart of SoHo. Conceived by Amar Lalvani and designed in collaboration with Milanese architect Hannes Peer, the hotel aims to offer the intimacy of a private home rather than a traditional hotel. Its aesthetic is a bold, artistic blend of 1970s Milanese glamour and classic New York edge, featuring saturated colors, reflective surfaces, and bespoke sculptures.

“The Manner, a new hospitality experience by Standard International in the heart of SoHo, combines the best elements of a hotel, private residence, and members’ club.”

The Surrey, New York

The Surrey, located at 20 East 76th Street, is a storied New York City landmark that first opened its doors in 1926. Originally built as a residential hotel, it served as a discreet sanctuary for legendary figures like John F. Kennedy and Bette Davis. After a comprehensive transformation, it reopened in 2024 as the first U.S. property for Corinthia Hotels, masterfully blending its rich, historic character with modern luxury.

“Having an outpost of Casa Tua, the swank restaurant and members’ club with locations in Miami and Aspen, has certainly drawn the in-crowd, who are lining up for the phenomenal hand-cut pappardelle. It also helps that the property feels like an extension of the neighborhood’s stately townhouses. Stepping into the lobby, there’s a purely New York feeling: chic, in-the-know, and quietly powerful.”

Pendry Manhattan West, New York

Pendry Manhattan West is a striking, 21-story luxury hotel that serves as a sleek sanctuary amidst the city's hustle. Opened as the brand's first New York outpost, the building was designed by the acclaimed firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. Its most distinctive feature is its "rippled-wave" glass façade, a modern engineering marvel that earned a 2023 Vitruvian Award for its unique, energy-efficient curved structure.

“For a Manhattan escape with pin-drop-quiet rooms and great views of the city, but also a welcoming, lived-in feel despite being part of a larger development, this is the place you want. A luxe yet lived-in feeling steps from Hudson Yards and Penn Station.”

Baccarat Hotel, New York

The Baccarat Hotel in Midtown Manhattan is a glittering testament to the 250-year-old French crystal brand that shares its name. Opened in 2015, the 50-story tower was designed by the firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill with interiors by Gilles & Boissier, creating a space that feels like a modern, crystal-infused palace.

“Unabashed opulence is what you get as soon as you step into the lobby, there are about 15,000 pieces of the brand’s crystal throughout, including glassware and chandeliers. Arrangements of fresh red roses everywhere add a touch of color.”

The Whitby Hotel, New York

The Whitby Hotel is a vibrant Midtown Manhattan gem that feels like a playful, high-fashion escape from the city’s bustle. Opened in 2017, this Firmdale property was designed by the acclaimed Kit Kemp, who infused the 18-story building with her signature British flair. Expect bold patterns, vivid colors, and a treasure trove of original art that makes every room feel like a personal sanctuary.

“It’s like an English summer garden come to life in hotel form. A welcome addition to staid Midtown, it’s that rare find that is both family-friendly and sophisticated. A gorgeous hotel two blocks from Central Park.”

The Greenwich Hotel, New York

The Greenwich Hotel, spearheaded by Robert De Niro, is a masterclass in artisanal design located in the heart of Tribeca. Opened in 2008, the property feels less like a hotel and more like a private, curated residence. The interiors are a testament to global craftsmanship, featuring everything from reclaimed Civil War-era wood beams to terracotta floors inspired by 14th-century Italian palazzos.

“In an era of the ever-more-exclusive members’ club luring the black-card-carrying wolf pack, Robert De Niro’s hotel makes privacy feel refreshingly effortless. It creates the sensation of stepping into the actor’s own salon.”

The Ludlow Hotel, New York

The Ludlow Hotel in Manhattan's Lower East Side opened in 2014, quickly becoming a go-to spot for creatives and travelers alike. Developed by famous hotelier Sean MacPherson, the property was designed to capture the gritty, bohemian spirit of New York in the 1980s. With its industrial exterior and carefully curated interiors, it feels like a sophisticated, lived-in extension of the city’s rich cultural history.

“The Ludlow is in the heart of the Lower East Side, one of the city’s most desirable areas for the hip and youthful set. The hotel wins high marks for its neighborhood feel and is a smart choice for travelers looking for an authentic sense of place away from the crowds.”

The Marlton Hotel, New York

The Marlton Hotel is a historic gem tucked away in the heart of Greenwich Village. Built in 1900, the building has served as a legendary sanctuary for the city's bohemian elite. It was once a long-term home for iconic literary figures like Jack Kerouac, who wrote The Subterraneans while lodging there, and it even hosted actress Lillian Gish in her early career.

“During its bohemian heyday, scores of artists and writers stayed at the Marlton House, built in 1900 and beloved for its prime Greenwich Village location and cheap rates. The Marlton is a snug and affordable alternative to larger hotels, and it’s a must for anyone seeking to replicate downtown living.”

The Standard High Line, New York

The Standard, High Line is an architectural standout in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District. Designed by Ennead Architects and completed in 2009, the 18-story structure is famously elevated 57 feet above the ground on massive concrete piers. This daring design allows the public High Line park to pass directly beneath the hotel, creating a seamless connection between the building and the city's historic elevated rail infrastructure.

“If aesthetics are a requisite, The Standard, High Line — situated directly above a stretch of old elevated railway now known as High Line Park — is a best of New York City landmark in Manhattan’s most model-intensive neighborhood.”

Made Hotel, New York

MADE Hotel is a standout boutique property located in the heart of the NoMad neighborhood. Designed by Studio MAI, the hotel aims to offer a "humble" and authentic perspective on New York City, steering away from the typical glitzy hotel aesthetic in favor of something that feels more like a creative, lived-in loft.

“This hotel is totally worth the money and is a great deal for a Manhattan hotel. The rooms are high-end in all the right ways (great amenities, quality, linens, and covetable bathroom fixtures) but not at all over-the-top.”

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, New York

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is a stunning example of eco-conscious luxury, perfectly situated at Pier 1 in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Opened in 2017, the hotel was designed by Marvel Architects and Inc. Architecture & Design with a deep commitment to sustainability.

“Few things are as ‘New York’ as the 1 Hotel’s location at the base of the Brooklyn Bridge. Aside from that, it’s a thoughtfully designed, supremely attractive place to call home for as long you’re a guest here. Plus, it has one of the prettiest farm-to-table restaurants in all of Brooklyn: the Osprey.”

Freehand Hotel, New York

Freehand New York is a standout in the Flatiron District, housed in a historic 1928 building that formerly served as the George Washington Hotel. In its heyday, the property was a storied haunt for famous creative minds like poets W.H. Auden and Christopher Isherwood. Today, the hotel honors this artistic past by collaborating with Bard College to feature commissioned murals in every guest room.

“Better to book something that’s at least clean, comfortable, and strategically located, and spend the extra cash on that restaurant everyone has been posting about. Freehand takes this compromise and somehow manages to make it feel sexy and stylish. Rooms are basic but brightened up with artworks that sometimes snake across the walls and ceilings.”

Hotel Pod 39, New York

Hotel Pod 39 is a clever reinvention of a historic Manhattan building. The hotel occupies the former Allerton House, a landmark structure built between 1916 and 1918 as a residential hotel for young men. Its distinctive red-brick façade, terra-cotta details, and rooftop arches still give the building plenty of old New York character.

“Rooms at the Murray Hill location all feature private bathrooms, along with free Wi-Fi and an emphasis on communal space typified by the Pod 39’s rooftop lounge. The hotel’s perks are few but if you want hip and affordable, you won’t likely do better.”

The Edge Hotel, New York

The Edge Hotel, located in Manhattan’s historic Washington Heights neighborhood, is a modern boutique stay that offers a quiet, elevated escape from the city's frantic pace. Positioned right on 168th Street, the hotel is just steps away from the Columbia University Irving Medical Center and a short walk from the subway, making it an incredibly convenient base for visitors.

“The Edge Hotel, on a leafy block of Washington Heights at 514 West 168 Street, is just steps away from the subway. A rare boutique hotel in the neighborhood, the modern 54-room property offers complimentary continental breakfast.”

Shortlisted in New York Times’ 36 Hours in New York City.

The William Hotel Midtown, New York

The William Hotel is a unique boutique gem tucked away in a historic Beaux-Arts brownstone in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Originally serving as the home of the exclusive Williams Club—a social hub for alumni of Williams College—the property has been beautifully reimagined to blend its century-old architectural character with a bold, modern aesthetic.

“Though each suite has all the amenities that you’d find at home — kitchens, living spaces, work areas, and in some cases, private terraces — their shockingly bright color palette, quirky mid-century furniture and bold abstract art make it a stay you won’t soon forget.”