Where to stay in NYC depends a lot on who you are and what kind of adventure you’re after. Whether you’re here for the iconic landmarks, the underground art, the endless food, or simply to soak up that buzzing city energy, New York has a place for you. And that place says something about your vibe. This city is a patchwork of neighborhoods, each with its own heartbeat. From gritty charm to luxury polish, there’s a perfect bed for every type of traveler.
This guide breaks down some of the best places to stay in New York based on your travel style. Whether you’re a wide-eyed first-timer, a seasoned explorer, a luxe lover, or someone squeezing the most out of every dollar, we’ve rounded up smart, well-located stays that match your budget and personality. You’ll also find handy transit tips, local haunts nearby, and honest insights about what each spot offers, beyond just a good night’s sleep.
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1. First-Time Visitors
The Pearl Hotel
Just steps from Times Square, The Pearl is a quiet gem in the middle of the Midtown madness. Rooms are sleek, modern, and surprisingly spacious by Manhattan standards. With complimentary breakfast and a wine hour in the evening, it’s an oasis for travelers dipping their toes into NYC for the first time.
- Location: 233 W 49th St, Midtown Manhattan
- Budget: $$$
- Nearest Subway: 49th Street (N, R, W)
- Insider Tip: Ask for a high-floor room to avoid street noise—and take advantage of their concierge for show tickets.
Arlo Midtown
Arlo offers a modern, Instagrammable base with cozy rooms, rooftop views, and loads of natural light. It’s ideal for those who want to be close to Penn Station, Bryant Park, and the Hudson Yards area without paying through the nose. Bonus points for the lobby café and on-site co-working nooks.
- Location: 351 W 38th St, Midtown West
- Budget: $$
- Nearest Subway: 34th St–Penn Station (A, C, E)
- Insider Tip: Their rooftop bar is a low-key evening spot with killer skyline views.
Moxy NYC East Village
Designed with a funky, youthful vibe, Moxy East Village nails location and style. You’re within walking distance of Union Square, SoHo, and the Lower East Side, all while enjoying playful interiors and thoughtful service. Great for those who want city buzz, not tourist traps.
- Location: 112 E 11th St, East Village
- Budget: $$
- Nearest Subway: 14th St–Union Square (L, N, Q, R, W, 4, 5, 6)
- Insider Tip: Their on-site bar, Cathédrale, is a local hot spot—book ahead for dinner.
Hotel Beacon
If you prefer a quieter, more residential NYC intro, Hotel Beacon on the Upper West Side offers large rooms with kitchenettes and friendly service. It feels like a city apartment with hotel perks. Central Park, museums, and the Lincoln Center are all a short walk away.
- Location: 2130 Broadway, Upper West Side
- Budget: $$$
- Nearest Subway: 72nd St (1, 2, 3)
- Insider Tip: There’s a Fairway grocery store across the street—great for DIY breakfasts.
2. Budget Travelers & Backpackers
HI New York City Hostel
A classic backpacker’s favorite, HI NYC is in a historic building with a leafy courtyard and a huge common kitchen. Dorms are clean, events are frequent, and the vibe is social without being wild. A perfect base for solo travelers and students.
- Location: 891 Amsterdam Ave, Upper West Side
- Budget: $
- Nearest Subway: 103rd St (1)
- Insider Tip: Free walking tours and pub crawls are a great way to meet other travelers.
Pod 51 Hotel
Don’t let the small room size scare you—Pod 51 makes clever use of space and offers sleek design and solid amenities for a low cost. It’s central, secure, and even has a rooftop garden for decompressing after a day in the city.
- Location: 230 E 51st St, Midtown East
- Budget: $$
- Nearest Subway: 51st St (6)
- Insider Tip: Grab breakfast at the onsite café, or head two blocks over to Ess-a-Bagel for the best lox and cream cheese in town.
The Jane Hotel
A West Village throwback with serious charm, The Jane offers vintage-style rooms that feel like cabins on an old ship—tiny, yes, but full of character. It’s affordable and set in one of NYC’s most desirable neighborhoods.
- Location: 113 Jane St, West Village
- Budget: $
- Nearest Subway: 14th St / 8th Ave (A, C, E, L)
- Insider Tip: The lobby bar is a local favorite for quirky cocktails and moody lighting.
The Local NYC
Across the East River in Long Island City, this hostel offers dorms and private rooms with rooftop views of Manhattan. It’s clean, artsy, and comes with laundry facilities, a bar, and even a performance space. A great deal just one subway stop from Midtown.
- Location: 13-02 44th Ave, Long Island City
- Budget: $
- Nearest Subway: Court Sq (E, M, G, 7)
- Insider Tip: The beer on tap at their in-house bar is surprisingly good and locally brewed.
3. Luxury & Business Travelers
The Peninsula New York
With rooftop views, marble bathrooms, and world-class service, The Peninsula is a Fifth Avenue institution. It offers a blend of historic elegance and modern convenience—think Rolls-Royce house car, rooftop spa, and a quiet indoor pool.
- Location: 700 5th Ave, Midtown
- Budget: $$$$
- Nearest Subway: 5th Ave–53rd St (E, M)
- Insider Tip: The rooftop bar, Salon de Ning, is open to non-guests and offers glam skyline views.
The Conrad Downtown
Tucked downtown by the Hudson River, this all-suite hotel offers space, sleek design, and proximity to Wall Street, One World Trade, and Battery Park. It’s quiet, refined, and ideal for business travelers who prefer low-key luxury.
- Location: 102 North End Ave, Battery Park City
- Budget: $$$$
- Nearest Subway: World Trade Center (E)
- Insider Tip: Request a river-view room and watch the Staten Island Ferries drift by.
The Chatwal
A timeless blend of 1930s Deco glam and modern comforts, The Chatwal is perfect for guests wanting to be close to Broadway without sacrificing peace and privacy. The butler service, fine linens, and on-site Lambs Club restaurant raise the bar.
- Location: 130 W 44th St, Midtown
- Budget: $$$$
- Nearest Subway: Times Sq–42nd St (1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W, S, 7)
- Insider Tip: The Concierge can arrange VIP Broadway seating if you book in advance.
1 Hotel Central Park
Eco-luxury meets Manhattan elegance in this greenery-filled, sustainable oasis. Rooms feature reclaimed wood, filtered water taps, and floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s luxurious without being flashy, just a block from Central Park.
- Location: 1414 Avenue of the Americas
- Budget: $$$
- Nearest Subway: 57th St (F)
- Insider Tip: Head to Jams, the ground-floor restaurant, for an underrated NYC brunch.
4. Families with Kids
Residence Inn by Marriott Central Park
Spacious suites with kitchens make this a favourite among families. You’ll be close to Times Square, Central Park, and kid-friendly attractions like the Natural History Museum. Complimentary breakfast sweetens the deal.
- Location: 1717 Broadway, Midtown West
- Budget: $$$
- Nearest Subway: 59th St–Columbus Circle (A, B, C, D, 1)
- Insider Tip: The higher the floor, the better the city views—don’t miss sunrise!
Loews Regency New York
The Loews chain is known for catering to families, and this location on the Upper East Side is especially handy for museums and park strolls. They offer babysitting, family packages, and adjoining rooms.
- Location: 540 Park Ave
- Budget: $$$$
- Nearest Subway: 59th St (4, 5, 6, N, R, W)
- Insider Tip: Ask about the “Loews Loves Families” perks—like games and welcome gifts for kids.
Hotel Giraffe by Library Hotel Collection
Chic, quiet, and family-friendly, this hotel offers large rooms and afternoon snacks (cookies, fruit, wine) in a stylish setting. It’s not “kiddy” but warmly welcomes kids and makes parents feel relaxed, too.
- Location: 365 Park Ave S
- Budget: $$$
- Nearest Subway: 28th St (6)
- Insider Tip: Weekends are quieter—great time to score a free room upgrade.
The Wallace Hotel
An upscale but affordable boutique hotel with large family rooms and a residential vibe. It’s close to Central Park, the Natural History Museum, and relaxed restaurants. Perfect for multigenerational trips.
- Location: 242 W 76th St, Upper West Side
- Budget: $$$
- Nearest Subway: 72nd St (1, 2, 3)
- Insider Tip: Check their special deals for longer stays—often available in shoulder season.