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- WHERE TO STAY in New York City [December 2024!]
WHERE TO STAY in New York City [December 2024!]
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New York. The Big Apple. The city that never sleeps. New York City is one of the most popular cities in the world. And, for good reason. It’s home to Broadway, Times Squares and countless other vibrant and iconic landmarks and attractions.
But, it’s also one of the largest and most expensive cities in the world.
That’s why we wrote this insider guide for where to stay in New York City, so you know the best spots to stay in this mega-city.
Our goal is to help you plan an unforgettable holiday. With the help of this guide, not only will you be able to pick out the perfect neighbourhood in New York City for your stay, but you’ll hopefully save a little money in the process.
So let’s get to it. These are our top picks for where to stay in New York City in 2019.
PS Have you checked out our other awesome guides to American cities?
- New York (insider tips to the ultimate day trips, NYC’s best hotels and top things to do in the Big Apple),
- Seattle (hidden gems and insider tips on where to stay, best hotels and top things to do),
- Denver (insider neighborhood guide, the ultimate list of the best hotels and the top things to do)
- Miami (insider tips on where to stay, best hotels and top things to do)
Table of Contents
- Where to Stay in New York City
- New York City Neighborhood Guide
- New York City’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- Neighborhood #1 - Midtown
- (Where to stay in New York City for your first time)
- Things to See and Do in Midtown
- Where to Stay in Midtown
- Neighborhood #2 - Hell's Kitchen
- (Where to stay in New York City on a budget)
- Things to See and Do in Hell’s Kitchen
- Where to Stay in Hell’s Kitchen
- Neighborhood #3 - Lower East Side
- (Best area to stay in New York City for nightlife)
- Things to See and Do in Lower East Side
- Where to Stay in Lower East Side
- Neighborhood #4 - East Village
- (Coolest place to stay in New York City)
- Things to See and Do in East Village
- Where to Stay in East Village
- Neighborhood #5 - Upper West Side
- (Best neighbourhood in New York City for families)
- Things to See and Do in Upper West Side
- Where to Stay in Upper West Side
- Final thoughts on where to stay in New York City
Quick Tips – Where to Stay in New York City
At A Glance: Where To Stay In NEW YORK
Where to Stay in New York City
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in New York City.
| WHERE TO STAY IN NEW YORK CITY | |||
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BEST Air BnBBEST Air BnBJed’s BnB |
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Book on Air BnB → |
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BEST Budget HotelBEST Budget Hotel Travel Inn Hotel New York |
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Book on Booking.com → |
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BEST Mid-RangeBEST Mid-RangeOrchard Street Hotel |
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Book on Booking.com → |
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BEST Luxury HotelBEST Luxury HotelMADE Hotel |
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Book on Booking.com → |
Best Air BnB in New York City – Jed’s BnB
Jed’s BnB is the best Air BnB in New York City
Located right by Union Square and Gramercy Park, you will be staying right in the heart of New York City at this homey BnB! With its stunning views, this loft will give you a 5-star experience at the top of the city!
This apartment has bright and sunny rooms, modern art, and a cozy lounge, making it the perfect place to kick off your holiday in New York!
Best Budget Hotel in New York City – Travel Inn Hotel New York
Travel Inn Hotel New York is the best budget hotel in New York City
The Travel Inn Hotel New York is one of the best value accommodations – and one of our top picks for where to stay in New York City.
In the trendy Hell’s Kitchen neighbourhood, this hotel is a short walk to great restaurants and landmark attractions. It has a fitness centre, concierge service, and the rooms are outfitted with modern amenities.
Love to tan? Check out the 15 best beaches in New York!
Best Mid-Range Hotel in New York City – Orchard Street Hotel
Orchard Street Hotel is the best mid-range hotel in New York City
Bright, airy and ideally located, Orchard Street Hotel is our top pick for where to stay in New York City. Situated on the lively and vibrant Lower East Side, this hotel is a great base for exploring the city.
Enjoy world-class restaurants and popular bars just steps from the hotel’s front door.
Like good weather? These are the best times to visit New York!
Best Luxury Hotel in New York City – MADE Hotel
MADE Hotel is the best luxury hotel in New York City
This luxurious four-star hotel is located in the heart of Midtown. It’s close to the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden, and all of Manhattan’s top attractions.
It has elegant décor, large rooms, and a rustic rooftop terrace that boasts an amazing view of the city. MADE Hotel is one of our top choices for where to stay in New York City.
New York City Neighborhood Guide
New York City Neighborhood Guide
This is the definitive guide for where to stay in New York City
New York City is a massive city.
Its thriving theatre scene, grand architecture, vibrant Times Square, and exciting and innovative culinary scene, are just a handful of the things New York is famous for.
Home to more than 18 million people, it is the second largest city in North America and the largest in the USA.
There’s plenty to see and do here for intrepid and curious travelers, from exploring the expansive Central Park to shopping on Madison Avenue to enjoy the view from the Top of the Rock.
Hotel Jules Insider Tip
NYC is divided into five main boroughs, which are each home to a number of unique, fun and interesting neighbourhoods. Most tourists opt to stay in the most famous borough – Manhattan! This insider guide is only going to cover Manhattan neighbourhoods.
Midtown Manhattan is the heart of New York. A Quintessential New York neighbourhood, this is where you’ll find famous skyscrapers, modern architecture, landmark sights and vibrant nightlife.
North of Midtown, on either side of Central Park, are the luxurious, lush and residential neighbourhoods of the Upper East and West Sides.
Travel south and you’ll pass through the trendy neighbourhoods of Chelsea, the Flatiron District, West Village, Greenwich Village, and the lively East Village, where you’ll find the best nightlife in the city.
Continue heading south and you’ll make your way through the ultra-hip Lower East Side, Chinatown, and Tribeca, and the Financial District.
Still not sure where to stay in NYC? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t have much time? Take a look at these great hotel bars in New York City to save you doing all the searching yourself.
New York City’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Like most large cities, New York has a robust public transit network of buses and subways that runs throughout. So, no matter where you choose to stay you’ll be able to visit the different areas of the city with relative ease.
But, New York is best explored on foot. Make the most of your time in the city by staying in an area that best suits your interests.
Do you want to stay at the centre of the action? Maybe you want to be within walking distance of Central Park? Or, perhaps you want to have the best restaurants and most vibrant nightlife just a stone’s throw away. All of these things are possible if you stay in the right neighbourhood.
Here are the best neighbourhoods broken down by interest for your stay in New York City.
Neighborhood #1 - Midtown
Neighborhood #1 - Midtown
(Where to stay in New York City for your first time)
Midtown is our pick for where to stay in New York City for your first time
Midtown is an iconic New York City neighbourhood. It’s the New York City most depicted in movies and TV and is where iconic architecture and modern skyscrapers seamlessly coexist.
Broadway, Times Square, the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Centre are just a few of the reasons Midtown is our top recommendation for where to stay in New York City if you’re visiting for the first time. This centrally located neighbourhood is also where you’ll find a great variety of world-class cuisine, exciting events and unparalleled views.
Enjoy all the best of iconic New York City by making your base in Midtown.
Things to See and Do in Midtown
- See a moving musical on Broadway, the most famous theatre district in the world.
- Stand at the centre of Times Square, a vibrant and buzzing square that’s often called the crossroads of the world.
- Dine on delicious French fare at Le Bernardin.
- Stand in awe of the iconic art deco Chrysler Building.
- Enjoy panoramic views of New York City from the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building.
- Strut your stuff along Fifth Avenue.
- See incredible and inspiring works of art at MoMA, the Museum of Modern Art.
- Watch a performance or fashion show at Lincoln Centre.
- Savour superb food and a great atmosphere at Per Se restaurant.
- Browse the stalls at the Grand Central Market.
- Climb to the top of the rock at the Rockefeller Centre and enjoy stunning views of the city and beyond.
- Explore the hip and trendy Meatpacking District.
Not yet booked? Take a look at our favorite hotel restaurants in New York City!
Where to Stay in Midtown
Best Air BnB in Midtown – Hillary’s BnB
Hillary’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Midtown
With a one of a kind terrace looking over Midtown, you can’t help but fall in love with this unique BnB! Putting you right by several subway lines, you will have the whole city waiting outside your door!
What will really make you want to book into this stay is the homey vibes and thoughtful touches that will make you never want to check out!
Editor’s Tip: Beat the crowds by booking a hotel near Times Square and getting out for a morning tour!
Best Budget Hotel in Midtown – Carlton Arms Hotel
Carlton Arms Hotel is the best budget hotel in Midtown
The Carlton Arms Hotel is centrally located in Midtown Manhattan. Close to shops, restaurants, bars and clubs, NYC’s top hotspots are just a short walk away.
It has charming décor, comfortable rooms and a variety of essential amenities. Their multilingual staff is incredibly knowledgeable and can help you plan an awesome stay.
P.S. – These are the 25 INCREDIBLE tours in New York City!
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Midtown – Seton Hotel
Seton Hotel is the best mid-range hotel in Midtown
Charming décor, spacious rooms, and an unbeatable location are just a few of the reasons this is our favourite place to stay in Midtown.
This three-star hotel is close to Midtown’s most famous landmarks and is near public transit, making it a great base for exploring the city.
Best Luxury Hotel in Midtown – MADE Hotel
MADE Hotel is the best luxury hotel in Midtown
This luxurious four-star hotel is located in the heart of Midtown. It’s close to the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden, and all of Manhattan’s top attractions.
It has elegant décor, large rooms, and a rustic rooftop terrace that boasts an amazing view of the city. MADE Hotel is one of our top choices for where to stay in New York City.
Neighborhood #2 - Hell's Kitchen
Neighborhood #2 - Hell's Kitchen
(Where to stay in New York City on a budget)
Hell’s Kitchen is our pick for where to stay in New York City on a budget
Hell’s Kitchen is a lively and energetic neighbourhood located in Midtown Manhattan. Just steps from Time Square and the heart of the city, this great little borough has all the convenience of the city centre without the throngs of people.
Boasting more of an authentic local vibe, Hell’s Kitchen is where you can enjoy a slice of real New York life.
Hell’s Kitchen is also where budget travellers will find a good variety of value accommodations. With everything from boutique to luxury hotels, this area of the city has something for travellers of all ages, styles, tastes and budgets.
Things to See and Do in Hell’s Kitchen
- Tour submarines, space shuttles, ships and more at the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum.
- Grab a pint at Valhalla, a charming beer hall with lots of choices on tap.
- Tease your taste buds at Gotham West Market, where you’ll find a great variety of international and local cuisines at affordable prices.
- Hunt for treasures and unique finds at the Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market.
- Kickstart your day with a great breakfast at Westway Diner.
- Catch an up-and-coming show by taking in an off-Broadway performance.
- Sample great cold beers at Rudy’s Bar & Grill, a fun and funky little dive bar.
- Dine on amazing and affordable dishes at Fluffy’s Café & Pizzeria.
- Enjoy a hearty bowl of soup that eats like a meal at Totto Ramen.
- Grab a slice of sizzling New York-style pizza at 2 Bros Pizza.
- Sip cocktails on one of the best rooftop bars in the city at The Press Lounge.
Where to Stay in Hell’s Kitchen
Best Air BnB in Hell’s Kitchen – Lica’s BnB
Lica’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Hell’s Kitchen
Not much can top staying in a boutique-style BnB within walking distance of New York’s iconic Times Square! This spacious apartment in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen does that and more!
The exposed brick, trendy decor, open spaces and premium location of this stay makes it the ideal place to base yourself out of when exploring New York!
Best Budget Hotel in Hell’s Kitchen – Travel Inn Hotel New York
Travel Inn Hotel New York is the best budget hotel in Hell’s Kitchen
The Travel Inn Hotel New York is one of the best value accommodations – and one of our top picks for where to stay in New York City.
In the trendy Hell’s Kitchen neighbourhood, this hotel is a short walk to great restaurants, and landmark attractions. It has a fitness centre, concierge service, and rooms are outfitted with modern amenities.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Hell’s Kitchen – 36 Hudson Hotel
36 Hudson Hotel is the best mid-range hotel in Hell’s Kitchen
Located at the heart of Hell’s Kitchen, this hotel is a great base for foodies looking to explore New York City. It’s close to world-class restaurants, lively bars, and popular nightclubs.
Modern and charming, this hotel has comfortable beds, spacious rooms, and great in-room amenities.
Recommended Reading – These are the 31 COOLEST historical facts about New York!
Best Luxury Hotel in Hell’s Kitchen – 414 Hotel
414 Hotel is the best luxury hotel in Hell’s Kitchen
Centrally located and fantastically chic, 414 Hotel is one of our top recommendations for where to stay in Hell’s Kitchen.
This luxurious three-star hotel is close to the city’s top landmarks and is surrounded by renowned restaurants. It has free wifi, laundry services, and guests will love unwinding in the relaxing hotel gardens.
Neighborhood #3 - Lower East Side
Neighborhood #3 - Lower East Side
(Best area to stay in New York City for nightlife)
Lower East Side is our pick for best area to stay in New York City for nightlife
Tucked away south of Midtown is one of the hippest neighbourhoods in the city. Once famous for it’s thriving immigrant history, the Lower East Side is today one of the most vibrant areas of New York City and is a global hub for artists, creatives and culture vultures.
The Lower East Side is our top pick for where to stay in New York City if you’re looking to enjoy fun and excitement after the sun goes down. Its where you’ll find trendy clubs and fashionable restaurants. The Lower East Side is where the young, fabulous and hip come to play.
Things to See and Do in Lower East Side
- Sip, snack and sample your way around the historic Essex Street Market.
- Enjoy great live music and urbane cocktails at The Back Room.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Russ & Daughters Café.
- Listen to live music any night of the week at Rockwood Music Hall.
- Spend a fun night drinking, dancing and laughing at 169 Bar.
- Sample sophisticated cocktails at Nitecap.
- Dance the night away to indie and punk tunes at Mercury Lounge.
- Enjoy cheap drinks and a great atmosphere at Hair of the Dog.
- Shop the Hester Street Fair for vintage finds and hipster snacks.
- Combine your love for sweets and drinks at Cake Shop.
- Sip smoky whiskies at the wild west themed Whiskey Ward.
- Experience a gipsy punk dance party at Mehanata Bulgarian Bar, a funky dive bar that regularly hosts Gogol Bordello on stage.
- Rock out at No Fun.
Where to Stay in Lower East Side
Best Air BnB in Lower East Side – Samira’s BnB
Samira’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Lower East Side
These bright and homey rooms are filled with light during the day, making it one of the best stays in New York to simply kick back and enjoy the atmosphere! With its artsy decor and cozy bed, you will feel right at home!
What really makes this BnB stand apart from the rest is its location near one of the most lively art districts in all of New York City!
Best Budget Hotel in Lower East Side – Blue Moon Boutique Hotel
Blue Moon Boutique Hotel is the best budget hotel in Lower East Side
Blue Moon Boutique Hotel is a charming and affordable four-star hotel in the heart of the Lower East Side.
A great base for exploring the city, it’s close to Canal Street, the Pyramid Club and the city’s top tourist attractions. It has quaint rooms, vintage décor, and a delightful on-site café.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Lower East Side – Orchard Street Hotel
Orchard Street Hotel is the best mid-range hotel in Lower East Side
Bright, airy and ideally located, Orchard Street Hotel is our top pick for where to stay in New York City. Situated on the lively and vibrant Lower East Side, this hotel is a great base for exploring the city.
Enjoy world-class restaurants and popular bars just steps from the hotel’s front door.
Best Luxury Hotel in Lower East Side – The Ludlow New York City
The Ludlow New York City is the best luxury hotel in Lower East Side
Enjoy amazing city views and comfortable beds at this four-star Hell’s Kitchen hotel. Ideally located for exploring the city, the Ludlow New York City is close to a variety of restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs.
It has a lush garden, laundry services, and a cosy lounge, perfect for grabbing a drink before a night on the town.
Neighborhood #4 - East Village
Neighborhood #4 - East Village
(Coolest place to stay in New York City)
East Village is our pick for coolest place to stay in New York City
Combining old-time charm and a youthful spirit, the East Village is by far one of the coolest neighbourhoods in New York City. Boasting a very unique and independent vibe, the East Village is home to a wide variety of stylish shops, cosy cafes, local boutiques and hip restaurants.
A wonderful place to wander day or night, the East Village is where to stay in New York City if you want to see and be seen and enjoy life at the centre of the action.
Things to See and Do in East Village
- Rest and relax in Tompkins Square Park.
- Start your weekend off right with a delectable brunch at Mogador Café.
- Dance the night away at The Pyramid Club.
- Dine on delicious Greek food at Pylos.
- Eat innovative Asian fusion at Momofuku Ko.
- Explore MoRUS, the Museum of Reclaimed Urban Spaces.
- Sink your teeth into a delicious burger at Black Iron Burger.
- Pay homage to a punk god at Joey Ramone Place.
- Enjoy quality dishes at the cute and quaint Tree Bistro.
- See exquisite works of art at the City Lore Gallery.
- Wander through First Park.
- Grab a pint (or two or three) at McSorley’s Old Ale House, where the stories are just as good as the beer selection.
- Enjoy great cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere at Proletariat.
- Make your way to Mace for innovative and inventive cocktails.
Not what you’re looking for? Read about other great hotels near Central Park!
Where to Stay in East Village
Best Air BnB in East Village – Joseph’s BnB
Joseph’s BnB is the best Air BnB in East Village
Just because you are staying in a cheap BnB doesn’t mean you can not also enjoy a taste of luxury! This boutique apartment with its exposed brick and sunny rooms is sure to blow you away!
Complete with a lounge area and even a kitchen, this studio apartment has everything you need to make New York feel just like your home!
Best Budget Hotel in East Village – Canal Loft Hotel
Canal Loft Hotel is the best budget hotel in East Village
The Canal Loft Hotel is one of the best value hotels in the East Village. Located near Chinatown, this hotel is close to great restaurants, stylish shopping, and top tourist attractions.
It has comfortable and spacious rooms, a shared lounge, and a friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in East Village – St Marks Hotel New York City
St Marks Hotel New York City is the best mid-range hotel in East Village
Conveniently located in the East Village, this three-star hotel is a great base for exploring New York City. It’s close to vibrant nightlife, famous theatres and a good variety of delicious restaurants.
The rooms feature minimalistic décor, comfortable beds and all the essential amenities you’ll need for a wonderful stay.
Best Luxury Hotel in East Village – East Village Hotel
East Village Hotel is the best luxury hotel in East Village
Modern, colourful and impossibly cool, this hotel is our top recommendation for where to stay in the East Village.
Close to popular bars and notable attractions, this three-star hotel is ideally located for exploring New York City. Each room features modern décor, a kitchenette, and guest will love relaxing after a long day in the stylish lounge bar or restaurant.
Neighborhood #5 - Upper West Side
Neighborhood #5 - Upper West Side
(Best neighbourhood in New York City for families)
Upper West Side is our pick for best neighbourhood in New York City for families
Nestled between Central Park and the Hudson River, the Upper West Side is a luxurious New York neighbourhood. One of the most relaxing neighbourhoods in the city, the Upper West Side is where travellers can find residential respite not far from the vibrant and buzzing centre of the city.
An ideal neighbourhood for families, the Upper West Side is packed with child-friendly restaurants and activities. From exploring expansive Central Park to wandering through the Museum of Natural History, there’s plenty for families to see, do and enjoy on the Upper West Side.
Things to See and Do in Upper West Side
- Explore the interactive and exciting American Museum of Natural History.
- Take a stroll through lush and striking Riverside Park.
- Catch an exquisite performance at the New York City Ballet.
- Enjoy an iconic New York-style bagel at Broadway Bagel.
- Try pancakes, pizza and everything in between at the Manhattan Diner.
- Take a virtual tour of the stars, space and planets at the Hayden Planetarium.
- Explore the expansive Central Park, the green heart of New York City.
- See you favourite exotic animals, reptiles and birds at the Central Park Zoo.
- Visit the interactive and family-friendly Children’s Museum of Manhattan.
- Dig into a plate of delicious Italian food at Carmine’s Italian Restaurant.
- Satisfy your appetites with sumptuous burgers at Shake Shack.
- Browse the stalls of everything from spices and sweets to clothes and handicrafts at the Greenflea Flea Market.
Where to Stay in Upper West Side
Best Air BnB in Upper West Side – Matthew’s BnB
Matthew’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Upper West Side
At this homey BnB, you will not only get a central location near Central Park, but you will also be staying in one of the most luxurious apartments on the Upper West Side! With a fireplace, stunning views, and a cozy lounge, there is no better place to relax at the end of a long day.
Best Budget Hotel in Upper West Side – Morningside Inn
Morningside Inn is the best budget hotel in Upper West Side
This quaint and charming hotel is just a short walk from Central Park. It’s surrounded by a variety of restaurants and bars and is well connected via public transit throughout the city.
It has 72 air-conditioned rooms each outfitted with modern amenities and comfortable beds. Enjoy delicious dishes and refreshing cocktails at the in-house restaurant.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Upper West Side – Riverside Tower
Riverside Tower is the best mid-range hotel in Upper West Side
Riverside Tower is a cosy two-star hotel located on the Upper West Side. It’s close to restaurants, cafes, Central Park and a wide variety of great New York attractions.
It has an on-site café, a delicious breakfast, and each room comes with its own refrigerator and microwave.
Best Luxury Hotel in Upper West Side – Hotel Belleclaire
Hotel Belleclaire is the best luxury hotel in Upper West Side
This elegant three-star hotel is our top choice for where to stay on the Upper West Side.
Hotel Belleclaire is close to the American Museum of Natural History, legendary Broadway, and is a short walk from Central Park. It has elegant décor, great on-site amenities, and fully equipped guest rooms.
Final thoughts on where to stay in New York City
There’s no doubt about it, New York City is one of the most exciting cities in the world. From Times Square to Central Park, it’s a city that exudes life, art, culture, energy and fun around every turn.
To quickly recap this guide, our top choice for where to stay in New York City is the Orchard Street Hotel. Located on the ultra-hip and trendy Lower East Side, this hotel is close to great restaurants, top-notch attractions, and the hottest nightlife in the city. The rooms are bright and airy, and you’ll be able to enjoy amazing views of the New York skyline from the comfort of your own bed.
Make sure to check out our 17 best hotels in New York, Ultimate Day Trips from New York City and 15 coolest things to do in New York City.
One of the largest cities in the world, planning a trip to New York can be overwhelming. With the help of this guide, you’ll not only find the best neighbourhood for you, but you’ll no doubt have an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime vacation.
*** Some of the links on Hotel Jules are affiliate links, which means if you do make a purchase, we may make a small commission (at no extra cost to you.) Thank you for using our links! Your support keeps the site going***
About the Author Nicola Smart
Gin lover. Coffee addict. Nicola has traveled the world for 7 years and is a staff writer for Hotel Jules. Born in London, Nicola first got the taste of travel studying abroad in Barcelona. Since then she's been hooked - traveling the world non-stop. Passionate about green travel and vegan lifestyle, Nicola spends more of her free time staring at maps wondering where she will head to next!