Best Places to Stay in New York City

New York City – known to some as ‘the big apple’ and to others as ‘the city of dreams’ – is one of the most popular cities in the world to visit, bringing in well over 60 million tourists per year and counting. 

Despite its long-term popularity, New York tourism doesn’t seem to be slowing anytime soon and is still high on many people’s list of must-see places. There is something truly magical about this city that captivates people worldwide. 

If you are planning a holiday there soon, you will discover that there are endless attractions and restaurants that will keep you busy during your stay, but one aspect that might be difficult to navigate is choosing the best area to stay in. 

To make sure that your trip to New York is nothing less than perfect, here are our recommendations for some of the best places to stay in New York. 

Midtown

This central location is ideal for those looking to be in the middle of all the action. Found in the heart of Manhattan, it has quick access to some of the largest attractions in the city, including Times Square, Grand Central Station, Rockefeller Centre and a selection of Broadway shows.

If you are an early riser, be sure to pop down to Rockefeller Centre for a chance to see The Today Show being filmed live through the studio windows. The anchors and special guests may even come outside to say hello to the crowd! 

If Midtown sounds like your cup of tea, be sure to book your stay at the Baccarat Hotel. Here, guests can relish in the intricate architecture and design features while enjoying the indoor pool, fitness centre and on-site French restaurant. 

Lower East Side

Lower East Side is an electric neighbourhood full of upscale apartments, chic boutiques, and the odd grimy alleyway to add to its undeniable charm. Historically, it is one of the most interesting neighbourhoods in New York. Originally a Jewish neighbourhood, it is well known for being at the centre of radical politics throughout the 20th century, but now has been fully gentrified. 

If you fancy a scenic stroll, be sure to walk across the Williamsburg Bridge into Williamsburg – the chic hipster’s paradise with all the vegan, gluten-free cafes one could possibly desire. 

If this area sounds like your vibe, we recommend staying at PUBLIC, a new generation of hotels offering a myriad of unique adventures and experiences.

Upper East Side 

If you are looking for a quieter experience and to mingle with some of the cities modern elite, the upper east side is where you should be. Littered with high-end stores and gourmet restaurants, it has become one of the most sought-after places to live with the locals. Plus, you have easy access to central park and world-class museums to please even the finest cultural palet, including the MET Museum and the Museum of Natural History.

Under a time crunch to see it all? Be sure to rent a bike to ride through central park. It is a quick way to see all the splendour that the park offers, including the not-as-touristy north end.

The Hotel Plaza Athenee is the ideal place to stay in the Upper East Side. It’s perfectly placed and has recently completed a multimillion-dollar renovation of guest rooms and suites offering a contemporary European townhouse décor. Their signature cocktail, the “the Crystal Cosmopolitan” is also a delicious perk of the hotel.

Lower Manhattan – Tribeca & Two Bridges

Lower Manhattan is an iconic and historic district of New York and has many must-see places including Wall Street, the Charging Bull and the 9/11 memorial.

Here, you have easy access to the Brooklyn Bridge, the iconic and beautiful gem of lower Manhattan. Plus, if you decide to cross it, it will lead you to the highly underrated and charming neighbourhood of Dumbo. Here you will find arguably some of the best views of Lower Manhattan. 

If you want to see the Statue of Liberty but can’t bear to brave the crowds, be sure to catch the Staten Island ferry in Battery Park. It’s a free half-hour ride each way that offers more incredible views of lower Manhattan and of lady liberty herself. 

If you’re ready to book your stay in Lower Manhattan, we recommend staying at The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel. Originally built in 1881 as one of Manhattan’s first skyscrapers, you will find at the heart of this iconic building an extraordinary nine-story Victorian atrium and majestic pyramidal skylight. 

Need more inspiration?

These are not the only must see-areas in New York. Other areas to consider, whether to stay or to visit, are Upper West Side, Chelsea, Greenwich Village and the Flatiron District, which are all perfectly situated near irresistible shops, cafes and landmarks. 

If New York isn’t the last stop in your North American adventure, check out our collection of independent and luxury hotels throughout the United States.