Identifying a hotel that encapsulates the very spirit of New York City often proves elusive for visitors. Manhattan is an ever-vibrant hub, teeming with new culinary destinations, ongoing live performances, art exhibitions, and clandestine speakeasies. For those visiting for just a brief period, pinpointing the true essence of the Big Apple—where genuine New Yorkers congregate (and it’s not Times Square)—can be bewildering.
A well-situated hotel does more than offer you a central location; it can serve as your gateway to the metropolis’ most coveted hidden gems. Take the Soho Grand Hotel, for instance, where the city’s trendiest gathering could be happening right in the hotel’s atrium. Whether you see yourself as a creative spirit longing for the bohemian vibes of the East Village or as someone eager to relive the allure of the Upper East Side immortalized in “Gossip Girl,” there’s a historic or contemporary accommodation just for you. If your interests lie in being close to iconic landmarks such as Central Park, Fifth Avenue, Greenwich Village, or the Empire State Building, Midtown has you covered. For those seeking opulence but with a view from across the East River, Brooklyn offers luxury options as well.
Whatever your preferences, New York City boasts an array of hotels meticulously designed to fulfill your specific requirements. Here are my rigorously evaluated top picks.
Four Seasons Downtown
In the pulsating heart of New York City, few amenities are as sought-after as a strategically positioned swimming pool. This is particularly true during the sweltering summer months, when the city is enveloped in the distinct aroma of overheated refuse. Gaining access to a revitalizing indoor or outdoor pool during this season is akin to possessing the elusive golden ticket from Willy Wonka’s lore. Step into the Four Seasons Downtown, an opulent sanctuary nestled in the Tribeca neighborhood of Manhattan.
Located at a convenient walking distance from the Brooklyn Bridge, the historic Seaport District, and proximate to Battery Park in the Financial District, the Four Seasons Downtown offers more than just a premier swimming facility. For the ultimate self-indulgence, consider reserving the Gotham Suite, which boasts a terrace that provides a panoramic view of the city’s towering skyscrapers. This is an idyllic setting for savoring a glass of fine wine following a delectable meal at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Cut by Wolfgang Puck.
The Mark
Often typified by its portrayal in shows like “Gossip Girl” and the high-end boutiques gracing Fifth Avenue, Manhattan’s Upper East Side is actually a nexus of cultural richness, housing the Metropolitan Museum of Art and an array of exceptional hotels. Among these is The Mark, a five-star sanctuary situated at the intersection of Madison Avenue and 77th Street. What distinguishes The Mark is its meticulous attention to the finer details: from the black and white-striped hot dog cart, whimsically christened the “Haute Dog Cart,” to the sumptuous macarons from nearby Ladurée that greet guests bedside upon their arrival.
Yet, among the multitude of reasons to sojourn in this luxury haven—recognized as one of the globe’s most splendid accommodations—is its signature in-house dining experience. Aptly named “The Mark by Jean-Georges,” the restaurant is a gastronomic jewel. Focused on utilizing market-fresh produce, it specializes in uncomplicated yet sophisticated French cuisine, offering an array of elevated comfort food that is available from morning to the wee hours of the night.
The Greenwich
At its core, the primary objective of any hotel is to furnish its guests with a restful night’s slumber. The Greenwich, a boutique establishment, transcends this basic mandate by making extraordinary efforts to ensure unparalleled repose for its guests. Each of its 88 accommodations is equipped with a custom-made Savoir bed, each meticulously handcrafted to deliver supreme comfort. Such is the esteem of Savoir mattresses that they have been the sleep surface of choice for luminaries and statesmen for generations, including the likes of Winston Churchill and Marilyn Monroe. Coupled with the hotel’s on-site Shibui spa, a stay at The Greenwich Hotel assures you will achieve peak relaxation and optimal restfulness.
The William Vale
Gone are the days when travelers to New York City would limit their accommodation search exclusively to Manhattan, neglecting the richness of the city’s other four boroughs. Nowadays, savvy visitors are exploring beyond the East River, opting for sojourns in dynamic neighborhoods in Brooklyn and Queens. Among the crème de la crème of Brooklyn’s lodging options is The William Vale, a five-star haven located in Williamsburg—a neighborhood that has practically become synonymous with the word “hipster.”
Billing itself as the sole luxury establishment in Williamsburg, The William Vale offers not just a prime location but also breathtaking vistas of the Manhattan skyline. Further amplifying its allure is a 60-foot swimming pool situated on its fourth-floor terrace, which is adorned with plush poolside cabanas and daybeds. Even if you don’t intend to secure a room at this upscale venue, consider paying a visit to its rooftop bar, Westlight. Offering 360-degree panoramic views of both the city and Manhattan’s towering skyscrapers, Westlight is a destination in its own right.
The Beekman
Situated in a building that dates back to the 19th century, The Beekman is a remarkable hotel located in downtown Manhattan. It sets itself apart with its custom, antiquated interior and details reminiscent of the dawn of the 20th century. Conveniently positioned near the central 4, 5, and 6 subway lines and in close proximity to New York’s City Hall, the hotel offers easy access to iconic landmarks like Times Square and the Empire State Building.
The crown jewel of The Beekman is undoubtedly its magnificent main atrium. Spanning 10 stories and adorned with Victorian railings and Art Deco nuances, the atrium culminates in a glass pyramid ceiling. This architectural marvel bathes the Bar Room below in a soft, ethereal light. When it comes to dining, the hotel doesn’t disappoint either. Temple Court, the hotel’s signature restaurant, is orchestrated by Tom Colicchio, renowned judge of Top Chef. Additionally, Le Gratin is helmed by the celebrated Chef Daniel Boulud, offering a menu steeped in the Lyonnaise culinary traditions of his native city.
The Soho Grand
In stark contrast to The Beekman’s nostalgic nod to Victorian times, The Soho Grand embodies the contemporary, dynamic spirit of today. This fashionable hotel captures the quintessential essence of Soho and lower Manhattan, offering a bespoke atmosphere enriched with high-end design elements and rooftop lounges. Upon check-in, guests are treated to sweeping vistas of the city, a selection of gourmet minibar treats, premium C.O. Bigelow toiletries, and a lounge that seamlessly transforms into a lively nocturnal gathering spot.
The Soho Grand is unmistakably a place where you can both observe and participate in the local scene. This is most evident in its Club Room, a vibrant venue that frequently features live music and attracts a diverse crowd comprising both locals and visitors alike. For those looking to fully immerse themselves in their New York City dreams, the Loft South Penthouse is the ultimate choice. This luxurious space boasts a sprawling 1,200-square-foot terrace offering panoramic views that stretch from the Financial District to the Hudson River.
The Lowell
Certain hotels, such as the Carlyle and Plaza Hotel, epitomize the quintessential New York City experience; The Lowell effortlessly falls into this distinguished category. Strategically situated near Central Park, The Lowell initially welcomed guests in 1927, nestling itself amid a cluster of Manhattan’s most sought-after townhouses and elite Fifth Avenue boutiques. Over the years, this storied luxury establishment has accommodated an illustrious roster of guests, from silver screen legends to global dignitaries and cultural icons. As the hotel proudly claims, its storied walls have been the birthplace of some of America’s most cherished literature and unforgettable cinematic narratives.
In essence, The Lowell is not just an iconic hotel but also a significant chapter in American cultural history, inspiring both New Yorkers and visitors from afar. Should you spend an afternoon channeling your inner writer, make sure to indulge in culinary excellence at the hotel’s renowned Majorelle. Often hailed as one of New York’s premier French eateries, Chef Jean Christophe Guiony orchestrates a menu featuring dishes that pay homage to French culinary traditions while incorporating seasonal flavors. Cap off your evening by sinking into the plush blue velvet seating of Jacques Bar, where you can savor an impeccably crafted martini, expertly mixed by the hotel’s skilled bartenders.
Casa Cipriani
Not to be mistaken for Cipriani Downtown, the opulent Italian eatery situated on West Broadway in Soho, Casa Cipriani is its equally luxurious hotel counterpart boasting magnificent views of the Brooklyn Bridge. The hotel finds its home in the historic Battery Maritime Building, constructed in 1906 and representing one of the final remnants of Beaux-Arts ferry terminal architecture. This venerable structure has been masterfully repurposed into a boutique hotel featuring 47 meticulously designed rooms and suites, each with its own private balcony and breathtaking vistas of both the Statue of Liberty and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.
For an elevated experience, consider reserving the Premiere River View Suite. This spacious one-bedroom haven comes complete with an outdoor terrace that offers sweeping views over Brooklyn, the East River, and even the passing Staten Island ferry.
Pendry Manhattan West
The neighborhoods of Hudson Yards and Midtown West in Manhattan are fast gaining cachet, likely familiar to many through iconic landmarks like the honeycomb-esque Vessel or the sky-high, glass-floored platform known as The Edge. Embodying this newfound allure, the Pendry Manhattan West has strategically positioned itself as the epitome of West Side chic. This boutique establishment lures guests with elegantly designed accommodations, premium amenities, state-of-the-art fitness centers, and all-day dining options. To top it off, the hotel’s rooftop spaces offer panoramic vistas of the Hudson River, reinforcing its status as a must-visit locale in an increasingly trendy part of town.
The Standard East Village
Situated near Cooper Square in the vibrant East Village of Manhattan, The Standard serves as a tranquil haven amid the perpetual buzz of a dynamic community. The East Village is a melting pot of artists, students, musicians, and comedians, all congregating at eclectic ramen spots, chic cocktail lounges, or effortlessly hip dive bars. The neighborhood practically pulsates with the quintessential New York City vibe, teeming with life and activity at every turn—if you know where to find it.
Amidst this lively backdrop, The Standard offers a welcome sanctuary. Set in a repurposed tenement building, the hotel features a hidden garden at street level, breathtaking Manhattan vistas, and a dining experience enhanced by curated natural wine selections. Additionally, its prime location offers easy access to other equally compelling neighborhoods, including Greenwich Village, the Bowery, and the Lower East Side. Choosing to stay at The Standard not only immerses you in the heart of the city’s hustle and bustle but also provides a serene escape from the relentless energy of the city that never sleeps.