More photosHotel 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.
When Pod 39 opened in 2012, designer Vanessa Guilford created rooms inspired by compact forms of travel such as trains, ships, and airplanes. The result is a collection of small but highly efficient rooms with smart storage solutions, making the most of every square foot.
One of the hotel’s standout features is its rooftop lounge. Framed by dramatic brick arches from the original building, it offers memorable views of the Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. Downstairs, the lively Playroom lounge adds a social touch with communal seating, games, and a historic fireplace.
The hotel sits in Murray Hill, a neighborhood that feels calmer than Times Square while still being close to many famous attractions. Grand Central Terminal is only a short walk away, and guests can easily reach Bryant Park, the New York Public Library, and the Empire State Building on foot.
A fun fact: the building’s rooftop garden and striking arches were originally part of the early 20th-century design. More than a century later, they have become one of the hotel’s most photographed features, blending New York history with a modern, budget-friendly stay.
Expert reviews
“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.”
What guests liked
- Roofotp bar
- Friendly staff
- Excellent Wifi
- Great location
- Boutique style
Location
Recent guest reviews
Hotel facilities
Other New York hotels
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.
New York Times + 1 more“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.”
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.
CN Traveler“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.”
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.
Travel+Leisure + 1 more“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.”
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.
CN Traveler + 1 more“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.”