If you have previously read my blog, you know I LOVE traveling to New York City. I have a whole ‘mini-series’ of blogs including;
Bad and Boozy; NYC Bars and Nightlife
Manhattan Munchines- Food Ideas from Sun Up to Sun Down
NYC By Day! My Top 5 Afternoon Activities
Eating Like a Mobster in NYC, the OG Dining Guide
My Favorite NYC Museums, Ranked
Where to Snag an Insta-Worthy Pic in NYC
But, I haven’t shared with you where to stay when visiting the city! There are so many hotel options that it can be overwhelming. Booking online can be deceiving, and it's hard to know what you're going to get. That is why I wanted to share with you a list of hotels that I can share from my personal experience after lodging. The list is organized into different categories depending on the nature of your visit. From a romantic getaway, to a work trip, I have a recommendation for you.
PARTY WEEKEND
Nomo Soho
This is the perfect hotel for a girls trip to the city. The quarters are tight, but the hotel is chic and has an instagrammable entrance and restaurant. Most importantly, the rooms were clean, the service was great, and the location was perfect for shopping around town. Reservations range from $150-$235 per night. [Reserve here]
Hotel on Rivington
If you are visiting friends on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, I highly suggest staying at Hotel on Rivington. The rooms are spacious, and they have the best spa bathrooms, with full size tubs and a steam-room shower. Attached to the Hotel is Café Medi, one of my favorite places to grab dinner with a large group of friends. The only negative thing to say about the hotel is that the hallways were a little dirty, but nothing to write home about. Reservations begin at $158 per night. [Reserve here]
ART AND CULTURE
Waldorf Astoria
This is the perfect luxe, Upper East Side experience you crave from watching too many seasons of Gossip Girl. If you are visiting NYC to walk around Central Park, spend the afternoon at the MET, and wrapping the evening with a Broadway show, this is the perfect place for you. You will be transported back in time upon entering this iconic hotel lobby. Rates not listed. [Reserve here]
The Roosevelt
This hotel is another NYC classic, dating back to the roaring 20’s. The rooms are slightly dated, but the restaurant, stunning lobby, and rooftop bar make up for it! Located in Midtown, The Roosevelt is blocks away from my favorite spots-- St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Rockefeller Center, and the Empire State building. Reservations begin at $143 per night. [Reserve here]
ROMANTIC GETAWAY
The Roger Hotel
For those of you who crave a homey feel, this boutique hotel is perfect for you. I can guarantee your experience at the Rodger will be intimate. Something about the tiny lobby bar, personable staff, and delicious breakfast spread reminds me of a bed and breakfast. The rooms aren’t huge, but it is a good place to cozy up on a romantic weekend getaway. Reservations begin at $169 per night. [Reserve here]
The Plaza Hotel
I originally planned to recommend Hotel Chandler, but now it is now a homeless shelter. Instead, I recommend staying at the Plaza Hotel, which is quite an upgrade with room rates begging around $530 per night. If you’re willing to splurge, then it is worth it! Another historical landmark in NYC, the hotel in known for its timeless elegance, sophisticated décor, and luxurious accommodations. [Reserve here]
WORK TRIP
InterContinental New York Barclay
The Barclay location is centrally located, with clean and comfortable rooms, and plenty of restaurant space to work or meet with clients. Rooms start around $184 per night, but if the budget allows, I recommend staying here! The majority of visitors are traveling on business, so the hotel has a professional atmosphere and a concierge service to assist with any last-minute requests. [Reserve here]
Hilton Garden Inn Chelsea
Located right across from Penn Station, this hotel has been a go-to for me when traveling for work. The rooms start at $104 per night and the hotel is always a reliable option. After a long day of work, head to the rooftop bar to catch some amazing views of the city. Reservations begin at $120 per night. [Reserve here]
FAMILY TRIP
New York Marriott Marquis
It has been a while since my Sweet 16th birthday, but this is where my parents took me to celebrate. It was the perfect place for a family vacation. We had large connecting rooms with a spectacular view of Times Square. When I say ‘large,’ I don’t mean NYC large, I mean large by any city’s standards. You can’t escape the magic and energy of the city if you stay in the heart of it all. It is a memorable place to stay for everyone. Reservations begin at $332 per night. [Reserve here]
DON’T BOOK
Hotel Pennsylvania
I stayed here one time, and one time only, on a trip with my best friend, Trey. We met each other in NYC for the weekend to visit friends and decided to share a room to split the cost. Our rate at the time was around $150 a night, and it should have been $50. The room was damp, the shower didn’t work, and there was a single lamp to light the room with no natural light from the window. If you need a cheap place to stay in the city, don’t book in advance and opt for scoring a last minute deal on HotelTonight. [website]
Hilton New York Fashion District
I booked this hotel when visiting the city during Christmas time with my brother Sam. I love doing all of the quintessential holiday activities, but hotel rates during the holidays are twice the price! The online photos were completely deceiving. There are better options to select in this price range. Rates begin at $160 per night during the holiday season. [website]