The William Vale
Photograph: The William Vale
Photograph: The William Vale

The 17 coolest hotels in New York City for 2025

Our expertly-curated list of the coolest hotels on the block

Liv Kelly
Advertising

New York City is iconic (there’s no arguing with that) and while there’s an abundance of luxury spaces, stays with knockout views or spots with incredible pools which would really make your trip, you can’t beat finding a hotel which embodies everything that makes this city so effortlessly, timelessly cool. 

After all, a hotel might just be a place you’re planning to rest your weary, tired head after a long day of shopping, eating and sightseeing, but when you think about it, they’re basically your gateway into the city. From oh-so-authentic downtown spots to swish FiDi skyrises and boutique Brooklyn outposts, there’s plenty to choose from. New additions to Time Out’s list for 2025 include The William Vale, The Hoxton, Williamsburg, and The Standard, High Line, but scroll on for an expertly-curated list of the coolest hotels on the block when it comes to where to stay in NYC.

📍 Discover our ultimate guide to the best hotels in New York City

How we curate our hotel lists

Our team of writers and travel experts review hotels all over the worldnew openings, old classics and everything in betweento bring you fresh, honest recommendations, all year round. We have reviewed many of the hotels featured below, but we may not have stayed at every single one. Any we haven’t stayed in have been selected by experts based on their amenities, features, pricing and more. By the way, this article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

🛏 Check out the best Airbnbs in New York City

The coolest hotels in NYC

  • Hotels
  • Chain hotels
  • Meatpacking District
  • price 3 of 4
  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Sitting high above Manhattan’s Meatpacking District, this mass of concrete is a bold addition to the skyline. With 338 rooms perched over the High Line park, it’s a hotel that lives for the view—whether you’re soaking in a freestanding tub or watching golden-hour Manhattan through floor-to-ceiling windows. Even the smallest rooms ooze cool thanks to clever design and mood lighting.

The vibe here is indulgent in all the right ways. The Standard Grill does a strong line in oysters, steak and celeb-spotting, while Le Bain—the rooftop club with plunge pool and skyline views—keeps the party going until late. But if you’re after something more laid-back, head down to the Biergarten for bratwurst and a crispy German beer. 

Inside, the 24-hour gym has sweeping views of its own, and the hotel’s staff are known for being sharp, helpful and detail-focused (especially when it comes to food and dietary quirks). Step out and you’re seconds from Chelsea Market, Little Island and the Whitney. It’s got the kind of location that makes you feel like you’ve cracked the NYC code: in the middle of everything, with none of the stress.

Time Out tip: Step outside and you’re right on the High Line—walk north to Hudson Yards or south to Little Island and the Whitney.

Address: 848 Washington Street, New York, NY 10014
Price: Starting from approximately $400 per night
Closest transport: 14th Street – 8th Ave station (A/C/E/L trains) is a 6-minute walk

Rossilynne Skena Culgan
Rossilynne Skena Culgan
Things to Do Editor
  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Williamsburg
  • price 3 of 4
  • 4 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

This former water tower factory turned boutique hotel is the blueprint for Brooklyn cool: industrial bones, stylish interiors, and a lobby that doubles as a local hangout. The 175-room Hoxton nods to the neighbourhood’s creative past, with original brickwork, rotating art shows and K’Far—the buzzy bakery-café that dishes out bagels and pistachio sticky buns. 

Rooms are cleverly compact with floor-to-ceiling windows, brass fixtures and mini libraries curated by locals. Cosy rooms (spelled the British way, naturally) are ideal for short stays, but the Roomy upgrade is worth it for more space and, in some cases, those sought-after Manhattan views. Just know the bathrooms are small, and the showers could do with an update.

Laser Wolf, the rooftop ‘viewstaurant’, brings bold flavours and even bolder views—but book ahead or you’ll miss out. For a fallback, K’Far serves hearty Middle Eastern comfort food all day. The staff are friendly, full of local tips, and the location—right by Wythe Ave—is unbeatable for bar-hopping, boutique browsing, or gig-going. You’ll feel like a local as soon as you check in. 

Time Out tip: Don’t skip K’Far downstairs—the pistachio sticky buns are knockout. 

Address: 97 Wythe Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Price: Starting from approximately $350 per night
Closest transport: Bedford Ave station (L train) is a 10-minute walk

Patricia Kelly Yeo
Patricia Kelly Yeo
Food & Drink Editor, Time Out Los Angeles
Advertising
  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Williamsburg
  • price 4 of 4
  • 5 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

Set between Greenpoint and Williamsburg, this 23-floor standout feels more like a Tokyo skyscraper than your typical New York crash pad. Every room has a private balcony (a true NYC rarity), and the design—a blend of Seoul minimalism and Brooklyn edge—makes even the smallest spaces feel expansive. Expect thoughtful touches like Lavazza machines, Bluetooth speakers and smart layouts. If you’ve got the budget, book the Vale Garden Residence for a private hot tub and skyline views from your terrace.

The hotel doubles as an urban resort, with a rooftop pool, 24-hour gym and three dining spots that tempt you to stay in. Westlight, the 22nd-floor rooftop bar, is where you’ll find the city’s cool kids sipping cocktails over sunset views. Downstairs, LEUCA serves up top-tier Southern Italian fare—get the pasta. And for your pastry fix or a coffee stop, Little Fino’s the spot.

Location-wise, you’re winning. Step outside and you’re minutes from leafy parks, indie boutiques and some of the city's most exciting under-the-radar restaurants. Think spicy Khao Soi at AM-THAI or elevated Chinese plates at MEILI. Feeling extra? Book a tasting menu at Michelin-starred Restaurant Yuu. Complimentary bikes and proximity to the L and G trains make getting around a breeze—even if you’re just headed poolside for the Midtown views and reserved saunas.

Time Out tip: Rent a bike from the hotel and ride to McCarren Park or along the waterfront – the views are stunning.

Address: 111 North 12th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Price: Starting from approximately $450 per night 
Closest transport: Bedford Ave station (L train) is 7-minute walk

Brian Cicioni
Brian Cicioni
Contributing writer
  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Midtown West
  • price 3 of 4
  • Recommended

Tucked inside a former hat factory near Bryant Park, the Refinery Hotel channels glitz with a cool, downtown attitude. Inside it feels like a stylish vintage lounge has joined forces with a a old-style New York loft—high ceilings, industrial accents and vintage detailing are present throughout. Rooms are unusually spacious for Midtown, with subtle nods to the city’s past: tiled bathrooms, minibars stocked with Upstate whiskey, and Empire State Building wallpaper that sort of works. It’s ideal for business travelers or adult groups looking for somewhere calm and considered, just one block from the mayhem of Times Square. The only trade-off? Natural light is limited—no surprise in this tightly packed neighborhood.

Upstairs, Refinery Rooftop is the hotel’s crowning jewel. With an unbeatable sightline straight onto the top of the Empire State Building, it’s one of the city’s most photogenic rooftop bars. The drinks list features crowd-pleasers— spritzes and Old Fashioneds—while the food menu leans into elevated diner vibes. Think: lip-smacking burgers and sliders. The rooftop is worth a visit, even if you’re not a guest at the hotel.Elsewhere, there’s a small gym though it’s strictly the essentials: a few machines, some free weights, and just enough space to get moving.

As for the location, you’re a short stroll from Bryant Park (don’t miss the Winter Village if you’re here during the festive season), and within easy reach of some top-tier NYC staples. Art lovers can explore rare works by Michelangelo and Rembrandt at the nearby Morgan Library, or head to Macy’s and get tapping. 

Time Out tip: When you’ve had your fill of culture and crowds? Grab a perfect New York slice at Joe’s Pizza Broadway and head back to your quiet, high-ceilinged retreat.

Address: 63 West 38th Street, New York, NY 10018
Price: Starting from approximately $360 per night
Closest transport: Bryant Park–42nd Street station (B/D/F/M trains) is around a 5-minute walk away

Ian Kumamoto
Ian Kumamoto
Former Culture Editor
Advertising
  • Hotels
  • Chain hotels
  • Hell's Kitchen
  • price 4 of 4
  • Recommended

The Mandarin Oriental, New York, rises high above the city from its 35th-floor perch at Columbus Circle, offering a polished five-star experience with panoramic views of Central Park and the Hudson River. The drama begins the moment you enter the lobby, where Dale Chihuly’s colourful glass art sets a bold tone against plush, elegant finishes. Many of the 244 rooms and suites offer sweeping skyline vistas—and yes, you’ll find binoculars in your room so you can soak it all in. Even standard rooms feel indulgent, with floor-to-ceiling windows, robotic toilets, plush Italian linens, and intuitive controls for lighting and temperature. It’s tech-forward but never cold, and that’s thanks to attentive details like the turndown service. 

Wellness is a core part of the hotel’s identity. Guests can unwind in the serene 14,500-square-foot spa, where massages, facials and holistic therapies are delivered in softly lit, soundproofed treatment rooms. If you’re after a more active reset, the sleek 75-foot lap pool is just the spot for an early morning swim—or a leisurely splash with the family. Come mealtime, head to MO Lounge, where the views are just as impressive as the menu. It’s a go-to for elegant breakfasts, business lunches or a relaxing afternoon tea featuring scones, finger sandwiches and delicate desserts, all with that jaw-dropping city backdrop.

Whether you’re in town for business or looking to indulge in a luxurious city break, the Mandarin Oriental offers an unmatched sense of calm above Midtown’s constant buzz. What sets the hotel apart is the seamless service—professional, gracious and practically invisible. In a city where chaos is a constant, this is one of the rare places that genuinely delivers on curating a peaceful stay. 

Time Out tip: Book afternoon tea at MO Lounge and watch the park from above with a scone in hand.

Address: 80 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10023
Price: Starting from approximately $995 per night
Closest transport: 59th Street–Columbus Circle station (A/B/C/D/1 trains) is just a 2-minute walk

Rossilynne Skena Culgan
Rossilynne Skena Culgan
Things to Do Editor
  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Lenox Hill
  • price 4 of 4
  • Recommended

The Pierre, a Taj Hotel, is a Manhattan icon that wears its history and elegance with quiet confidence. Opened in 1930 and perched on Fifth Avenue overlooking Central Park, the hotel combines old-world glamour with warm, attentive hospitality. The interiors are classic and grand—from the checkered marble floors to Edward Melcarth’s hand-painted murals in the Rotunda—while the service is famously personal. Bell staff who’ve been around for decades still ride the lift with you. Suites come with tufted headboards, plush seating areas and park-facing windows that frame one of the city’s most spectacular views. In-room treats range from Mariebelle chocolates to miniature edible Empire State Buildings.

The concierge team, led by the affable, industry-famous Maurice Dancer, preps a personalised itinerary of exhibitions and events, often tested out by staff first. Perrine, the hotel’s restaurant, balances French bistro fare with a revived Indian menu that nods to The Pierre’s 1950s heyday. Signature dishes like honey-lavender roasted chicken and Gosht Biryani are a reminder that this place knows how to surprise. And for something more relaxed, the Two E Bar & Lounge serves up live jazz Tuesday through Saturday alongside high tea and classic cocktails.

Centrally located on the southeast corner of Central Park, The Pierre is steps from The Plaza, Fifth Avenue’s shops, and the Upper East Side’s museum mile. You’re minutes from The Met, MoMA and Madison Avenue, but if you’re not in the mood to leave, you’ll still find art, music and history without ever stepping outside. A stay at The Pierre is less about being trendy and more about timelessness—and their treatment of hospitality as its own art is living proof. 

Time Out tip: Order the short rib ravioli at Perrine and stay for live jazz at Two E Lounge afterwards. 

Address: 2 East 61st Street, New York, NY 10065
Price: Starting from approximately $895 per night
Closest transport: 5th Ave–59th Street station (N/R/W trains) is a 3-minute walk

Shaye Weaver
Shaye Weaver
Contributor, Time Out New York
Advertising
  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Brooklyn Heights
  • price 3 of 4
  • 5 out of 5 stars
  • Recommended

The clue is in the name, but this hotel is very Brooklyn. Step into its light-filled, plant-draped lobby, and you’ll be greeted by staff in denim, surrounded by reclaimed wood, and even the room key is a nod to the hotel’s sustainable credentials. The rooms are serene and spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows, filtered water taps, and views that sweep over the Brooklyn Bridge or East River. Details like sand timers in the shower and engraved stones reminding you to donate old clothes offer a nudge toward mindful living. 

Down in the Bamford Spa, steam rooms and softly lit treatment spaces create a retreat from city chaos, while the second floor is home to state-of-the-art fitness spaces, yoga sessions, and personal training (if you’re feeling ambitious). For slower-paced indulgence, start with brunch at The Osprey, a farm-to-table spot with knockout river views, then take the lift up to Harriet’s Rooftop for cocktails and poolside lounging with skyline backdrops. Just avoid weekend nights unless you’re ready for a crowd. 

The DUMBO neighborhood packs in more than just postcard views. Wander the cobblestone streets to indie bookstore PowerHouse Arena (which doubles as a bar and comedy venue), take a spin on Jane’s Carousel, or shop for vintage gems at the Brooklyn Flea under the Archway. Hungry? Grab fresh fare from DUMBO Market or hit the Time Out Market’s 21,000-square-foot space for everything from tacos to cocktails—just ask the front desk staff, who are full of solid local recommendations

Time Out tip: Float in the rooftop pool at Harriet’s for the ultimate skyline soak—weekday mornings are the sweet spot.

Address: 60 Furman Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Price: Starting from approximately $700 per night
Closest transport: High Street–Brooklyn Bridge station (A/C trains) is a 10-minute walk

Onik Hossain
Senior Designer
  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • East Village
  • price 3 of 4
  • Recommended

Inside The Bowery, you’ll find a lobby that spans four connected rooms, blending antique furniture, vintage rugs and an old-school bar into a moody, masculine hideaway. It’s an ideal spot to work, read, or sip something strong before heading out. Attached is Gemma, a classic Italian trattoria serving seasonal plates and wine in a rustic-chic space. If you’re here overnight, don’t skip the retro touch of filling out your breakfast room service card—come morning, you’ll get fresh food and a newspaper delivered to your door.

Upstairs, the rooms are everything you want from a downtown stay: comfortable, generous in size, and full of charm. The Bowery King rooms in particular come with multiple seating areas, a large desk, a sofa and coffee table, and bathrooms with walk-in rainfall showers. Lucky enough to land a high floor? Your views will stretch across Manhattan and over the East River to Brooklyn—including sights like the Domino Sugar Factory. It’s the kind of room that encourages slow mornings and city watching, with enough detail to make it feel personal.

Outside, you’re perfectly placed to explore lower Manhattan. Within 10 minutes on foot you’ve got a lineup of New York institutions: Katz’s Deli, Russ & Daughters, McSorley’s, Prince Street Pizza and the Museum of Ice Cream. You’re also near Tompkins Square Park and the Bleeker Street subway, making it easy to get around. 

Time Out tip: For a perfect slow morning, order breakfast the night before and enjoy it with a newspaper in bed.

Address: 335 Bowery, New York, NY 10003
Price: Starting from approximately $495 per night
Closest transport: Bleecker Street station (6 train) is a 4-minute walk away

Sarah Iandoli
Social Media Editor
Advertising
  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Soho
  • price 3 of 4

Tucked away on a cobbled street in the heart of SoHo, the Crosby Street Hotel blends vibrant design, art-world flair and an eco-conscious ethos. With interiors curated by Kit Kemp, each room bursts with colour and character—think bold textiles, high ceilings, oversized headboards and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. It’s the kind of hotel where you’ll want to hang out in your room just as much as explore the city. The leafy courtyard and rooftop garden (complete with chickens!) add a rare hit of serenity in one of Manhattan’s noisiest neighborhoods.

Mornings at the Crosby Bar & Terrace start with sun-drenched breakfasts, while afternoons are made for tea and people-watching beneath striking artwork and plush décor. At night, locals and guests mingle over cocktails, often before catching a film in the hotel’s 99-seat cinema—a serious plus if you’re a cinephile. Sustainability is no afterthought here: the hotel proudly holds LEED Gold certification, proving that luxury and environmental awareness can happily co-exist. Make sure you duck into the sculpture garden, lounge in the terrace restaurant, or catch a screening during your stay. 

Of course, the real appeal is what lies outside. Crosby Street puts you just steps from Spring Street Station, with galleries, boutiques, and some of NYC’s best Italian restaurants spilling out across SoHo and nearby Nolita. Take a stroll down Mulberry Street for vintage finds, art books, and excellent espresso—then retreat to your suite and sink into silence above it all. 

Time Out tip: Check the concierge calendar—Crosby’s private cinema regularly hosts guest screenings and events, and you don’t need to be a film buff to enjoy the plush, velvet-seated escape.

Address: 79 Crosby Street, New York, NY 10012
Price: Starting from approximately $825 per night
Closest transport: Spring Street Station (6 train) is around a 2-minute walk

  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Midtown West
  • price 3 of 4
  • Recommended

Set inside the iconic American Radiator Building—a black-and-gold Art Deco gem dating back to 1924—the Bryant Park Hotel has long been a favorite of the fashion and film worlds. The interiors channel that same energy, from the sleek, marble-clad lobby to the moody, design-rich guest rooms decked out in plush textiles, dark wood, and dramatic lighting. Rooms are spacious by NYC standards and offer perks like Malin + Goetz products, Frette linens, and, of course, views overlooking Bryant Park. The hotel also gets high marks for its attentive service, with a discreet, well-connected concierge team.

Downstairs, the Célon Bar & Lounge brings the drama, with its Moroccan-inspired decor, velvet sofas, and signature cocktails served to a crowd that leans polished and playful. It’s a popular spot for DJ sets on the weekend and makes for a great post-dinner stop. Hungry beforehand? Koi, the on-site Japanese restaurant, is beloved for its creative sushi rolls, artful plating, and consistently lively scene. If you’re lucky, you might spot a celeb or two tucked into a corner booth. And if you’re looking to unwind, the hotel also features a 24-hour fitness room and a private screening room for guests.

Still, the biggest draw might be what’s right outside. The Bryant Park Hotel sits directly across from the park itself—perfect for a coffee on a sunny morning or a breezy post-dinner stroll. You’re steps from the New York Public Library, Grand Central, and Times Square, but blissfully removed from the tourist chaos. For travelers who want to dip into the buzz and then retreat somewhere stylish and serene, this Midtown hotel’s vibe is surprisingly downtown. 

Time Out tip: Skip the Fifth Avenue foot traffic and walk straight into Bryant Park for morning coffee on a shaded bench—the perfect local start before diving into the Midtown scene.

Address: 40 West 40th Street, New York, NY 10018
Price: Starting from approximately $380 per night
Closest transport: 42nd Street–Bryant Park station (B/D/F/M trains) is just a 2-minute walk away

Advertising
  • Hotels
  • Spa hotels
  • Midtown West
  • price 4 of 4
  • Recommended

The Plaza isn’t just a hotel—it’s a New York landmark. Perched where Fifth Avenue meets Central Park South, this French Renaissance château has been serving gold-plated glamour since way back in 1907. Step into the marble lobby and you’re walking in the footsteps of everyone from Eloise to The Beatles. But despite its old-world grandeur, The Plaza is surprisingly current—rooms come with in-room iPads, luxe bathrooms, and more tufted upholstery than a Wes Anderson set.

If you’re going to do The Plaza, make sure you do it properly: book afternoon tea under the stained-glass dome of The Palm Court and lean into the decadence. There’s also a Champagne Bar for pre-theatre bubbles, a Guerlain Spa, and a collection of luxury boutiques tucked discreetly inside the hotel. The rooms themselves are pure old-school fantasy— it’s crystal chandeliers, polished brass fittings and plush bedding galore. And if you’re splashing out on one of the suites? Expect walk-in closets and views of Central Park which are unmatched compared to any other spot in the city.

Then there’s the location—The Plaza is so central that it’s practically its own compass point, and you’re steps from the southeast corner of Central Park, across from Bergdorf Goodman, and a quick stroll to MoMA, The Met, or just about anywhere you want to be. It’s no wonder the fashion and film industries keep coming back here. Whether you’re sipping tea, taking selfies in the lobby, or pretending you’re Kevin McCallister in Home Alone 2, The Plaza continues to live up to its legendary status. 

Time Out tip: Book afternoon tea at The Palm Court for maximum people-watching—and don’t skip the Champagne upgrade. You’re at The Plaza, after all, so live a little.

Address: 768 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10019
Price: Starting from approximately $780 per night (with suites ranging above $1,800)
Closest transport: Fifth Avenue–59th Street Station (N/R/W) is a 2-minute walk; Columbus Circle–59th Street Station (A/B/C/D/1) is a 5-minute walk

  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Chelsea
  • price 3 of 4
  • Recommended

Tucked between the Meatpacking District and Chelsea, the Dream Downtown hits all the right beats, from bold interiors to a vibe that leans more underground club than buttoned-up boutique. Housed in a striking former maritime union building with a futuristic porthole-covered façade, this hotel immediately exudes something a little different. Step inside and you’re met with sleek, modern design that’s as edgy and artistic as the neighborhood itself. Rooms feel luxurious and surprisingly spacious by Manhattan standards, with Egyptian cotton bedding, oversized circular windows, rainfall showers and ambient lighting for winding down in style.

The Beach, Dream’s rooftop pool, is a sunny urban oasis with imported sand, glass-bottom sections, cabanas, and daybeds. Hotel guests and day-pass holders can soak up the rooftop energy with a cocktail in hand, and whether you’re here day or night, it’s a sight to behold. Downstairs, the vibe stays buzzy with an expansive lobby and a modern gym setup, and the hotel also hosts regular events and pop-ups in its public spaces, adding a layer of culture and nightlife energy that keeps the experience feeling fresh.

As for location? You’re in one of the best. The High Line is just a block away, Chelsea Market is practically next door, and the Hudson River Greenway, Whitney Museum and West Village are all within walking distance. Of course, the party vibes can carry (so light sleepers might want earplugs) but staff here balance it with warm, efficient service and thoughtful touches. The Dream isn’t about spa robes and whispered hallways. Instead, it’s about jumping headfirst into NYC’s most dynamic corner. Whether you’re here for a weekend out or just want to be in the thick of it, Dream Downtown is a solid option which doesn’t feel like it tries too hard. 

Time Out tip: Turn ‘Dream Beach’ into your afternoon ritual. Day‑pass or cabana, it’s rooftop lounging worth showing up for.

Address: 355 West 16th Street (corner of Ninth Avenue), New York, NY 10011
Price: Rooms typically range from $300–$450/night, rising to $500+ during peak summer months
Closest transport: 14th Street–Eighth Avenue Station (A/C/E/L trains) is less than 5-minute walk; 23rd Street Station (F/M) is a 7-minute walk

Advertising
  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Lower East Side
  • price 3 of 4
  • Recommended

From the minute you enter The Ludlow, the lobby, which is wrapped in rich woods, exposed brick, and eclectic art, exudes cool. Rooms continue the vibe with plush velvet armchairs, deep four-poster beds, marble-clad bathrooms, rainfall showers, and brass accents that feel both indulgent and surprisingly inviting.

Dining here isn’t just about food: it’s a statement. Dirty French serves up oily tuna tartare, indulgent steak, and cocktails with a serious edge, all in a buzzing atmosphere that feels authentically NYC downtown. But when the last drops of wine are poured and the last pastry enjoyed, make your way upstairs to the rooftop terrace. It’s a stunning sunset hangout with sweeping Manhattan views, and just the right amount of buzz (without feeling chaotic). 

What truly sets Ludlow apart, though, is its neighborhood. Venture out and immerse yourself in the historic vibrancy of the LES: wander past the Bowery, pop into street‑art‑lined laneways, or catch a set at legendary venues like Pianos or Arlene’s Grocery. You’re just blocks from the Tenement Museum, delving into NYC’s immigrant roots, or classic noshing spots like Katz’s Deli and Russ & Daughters. Galleries, vintage shops, dive bars, and food markets line streets like Orchard and Ludlow, making every stroll a discovery.

Getting around is easy: Bowery and Delancey/Essex Street subway stations stop within a few minutes’ walk, hooking you up to SoHo, the East Village, and beyond. Add attentive, friendly service, pet‑friendly rooms, and thoughtful surprises (like artisanal minibars or vinyl record players in the penthouse), and the Ludlow cements its worthy status as one of the city’s coolest hotels. 

Time Out tip: Hit the rooftop terrace after dinner for skyline cocktails—city drift is served with a side of skyline glow.

Address: 180 Ludlow Street, New York, NY 10002
Price: Rooms generally range from about $319 per night (excluding taxes/fees), though rates fluctuate seasonally.
Closest transport: Bowery (F train) or Delancey/Essex (F/J) stations—both within a 2–3 minute walk

  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Flatiron
  • price 2 of 4

The Evelyn’s vibe is unique. Art Nouveau detailings and jazz-age decor meet polished, contemporary touches, and the building’s facade (a bold, blood-red canvas) hints at a stylish interior inside. Vintage‑inspired flourishes like gramophone motifs, brass detailing, and plush seating evoke the hotel’s artistic heritage, while modern features like heated bathroom floors, sound‑proofed windows, and lush Frette linens ensure you stay impeccably comfortable. Every detail, from smart TVs to eco‑friendly bath amenities, is designed to maximise comfort. 

When it comes to dining, The Evelyn hits all the right spots. Ninepin Café, nestled in the lobby, serves up freshly brewed coffee, toasts, light bites, and daily grab‑and‑go breakfast offerings. Down the hall, The Tusk Bar spoils guests with oysters, creative cocktails, and sharp raw‑bar plates in a glamorous, Parisian‑inspired setting (oh, and it was even named one of the best bars in America). For full‑service dining, Brass delivers French‑American fare with jazz‑lounge flair (you’ll find moules‑frites, prawn tartare, and wagyu steak on the menu) and a stacked wine list, making it a standout brasserie in NoMad. Add to that daily wine hours and Saturday walking tours, and the hotel’s amenities feel properly indulgent.

Location-wise, The Evelyn is on the doorstep of Madison Square Park, the Flatiron, and Fifth Avenue, and Penn Station, Grand Central, and subway lines (28th Street station) are an easy walk. If you’re looking for charm, convenience, and value, this could be your spot. 

Time Out tip: Grab a cocktail at Tusk Bar early evening, then take a twilight stroll through nearby Madison Square Park—the Flatiron building lit up at dusk is as New York as it gets.

Address: 7 East 27th Street, New York, NY 10016
Price: Rooms typically range from $221–$489 per night, depending on room type and season.
Closest Transport: 28th Street Station (N/R/W trains) is around a 4-minute walk

Advertising
  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels
  • Flatiron
  • price 3 of 4
  • Recommended

Tucked between the Empire State and Flatiron Buildings, in the creative bustle of NoMad, the MADE Hotel is a Scandi-chic alternative to the super-cool downtown vibe. Beyond its grey concrete façade, the lobby draws you in with sunlit wooden walls, lush indoor plants, and a blend of vintage furniture and contemporary design. Sure, it’s hip, but it doesn’t feel forced. The welcome is relaxed and personal, and the mood makes it easy to slow down after an expectedly rushed day. 

Rooms are compact but beautifully thought through. Leesa hybrid mattresses are dressed in Frette linens, floor-to-ceiling windows frame urban views, and elegant wooden sinks are paired with MALIN+GOETZ bath products. The minibars are stocked with indie snacks and local drinks, while the Bluetooth speakers and soft lighting make it comfy. You could spend your evening upstairs at Good Behavior, the 18th-floor rooftop bar with tiki cocktails, craft beers and leafy surrounds, or stay in and enjoy room service breakfast while the city wakes up around you.

Step outside and Madison Square Park is a few minutes’ walk away, as are dozens of cool restaurants and art galleries. The hotel also runs regular events—DJ sets, tarot readings, and wine tastings—and the second-floor patio is perfect for a quiet coffee or a catch-up with friends. MADE’s team is genuinely friendly and switched-on, valet parking runs smoothly, and complimentary bikes are available if you want to ride the city like a local. This isn’t just a bed for the night: it’s a place to crash if you fancy a more community-driven atmosphere, all with serious design credentials. 

Time Out tip: Save a sunset slot for Good Behavior—you might even catch a surprising pop-up (DJ night, portrait class or tarot reading) against the glowing skyline.

Address: 44 West 29th Street, New York, NY 10001
Price: Rooms typically start from around $235 per night, and there’s a $30 nightly curation fee on top (which includes perks like filter coffee, evening wine hour, Wi‑Fi, and bike rentals).
Closest transport: 28th Street Station (Broadway, N/R/W trains) is a 2-minute walk and 28th Street Station (7th Avenue lines) is a 5-minute walk

16. Moxy NYC Downtown

Slip into the fast lane of downtown nightlife at Moxy NYC Downtown, an energic, retro-meets-sleek hotel. Tucked between Tribeca, FiDi and Chinatown, this design-forward hotel is nothing like your standard corporate stay. Its beating heart is Recreation, a 5,000-square-foot space that’s part lounge, part café, and part late-night game room. During the day, it’s a relaxed spot for coffee, laptop sessions or casual catch-ups. But after dark? The games switch on, the music kicks up, and DJs take over, creating a downtown social scene that’s hard to leave.

The rooms lean into the Moxy formula: compact but cleverly designed. Each one comes with automated lighting and climate control, 50-inch Smart TVs, and plush bathrobes. The layout prioritises smart functionality: think under-bed storage, folding furniture and sleek bathrooms. They’re cozy rather than expansive, but when you’ve spent the night playing vintage arcade games and shooting hoops on the hotel’s quirky indoor half-court, it’s all the space you need. Plus, the views from higher floors offer a peek at the Brooklyn Bridge or the Manhattan skyline.

What sets Moxy Downtown apart is its sociable spirit. Check-in happens at the bar, not a front desk, and the staff strike that rare balance between laidback and on-it. Whether you’re in town for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, this hotel is a fun but conventionally-located place to stay. Landmarks like the Oculus, One World Trade Center and the South Street Seaport are just minutes away. The vibe is laid-back, but it doesn’t take itself too seriously. 

Time Out tip: Don’t just stay, play. Head to Recreation any afternoon for arcade nostalgia, a killer espresso, or a literal pre-game before heading into downtown for drinks. 

Address: 26 Ann Street, New York, NY 10038
Price: Rates typically run from $150, though prices rise in summer or for city-view rooms.
Closest transport: Fulton Street Station (A/C/J/Z/2/3) is just a 2‑minute walk

Advertising

17. Cloud One New York Downtown

Tucked into the Financial District, The Cloud One New York–Downtown strikes a rare balance between sleek city hotel and cozy, leafy charm. A boutique property from the German-based Cloud One group, the hotel brings an eco-conscious design ethos to Lower Manhattan, where natural materials are used throughout, but the overall vibe is modern minimalism. The lobby welcomes you with warm wood tones, soft lighting, and oversized greenery and creates an oasis-like feel that’s refreshing in the city’s most swanky neighborhood.

The rooms are smartly designed and uncluttered, featuring king-sized beds, large windows with views of the Hudson River or the 9/11 Memorial, and thoughtful details like in-room tea and coffee stations, blackout curtains, and sustainable bath products. You won’t find a gym or spa here, but you will find an emphasis on atmosphere and wellbeing. It’s peaceful and quiet, even with such a central location, and the beds get high marks for comfort.

The real standout, though, is breakfast. Served in the hotel’s laid-back deli-style lounge, it features locally sourced organic ingredients, European-style pastries, granola, bagels, and yes, a peanut butter machine. The Cloud One bar continues the relaxed ambience into the evening, with biodynamic wines, craft beers, and small plates served in a calm, stylish setting. Still hungry? Check out the nearby Cloud One Deli (just around the corner), which serves up excellent light bites like shakshuka, smoothies, and sandwiches—perfect for fuelling your city days.

Just steps from Wall Street, the 9/11 Memorial, Battery Park, and the Oculus, this hotel is an ideal base for exploring downtown. Rector Street station (1 train) is a two-minute walk, and the location also offers easy ferry access to Brooklyn and Staten Island. 

Time Out tip: Do your morning right—grab breakfast downstairs, then pop into the 9/11 Memorial before the crowds swirl in. Quiet, thoughtful NYC at its best.

Address: 133 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10006
Price: Standard rooms typically start around $163–$235 per night, depending on room type and season
Closest transport: Rector Street Station (1 train) is roughly a 2-minute walk

Recommended
    You may also like
    You may also like
    Advertising