Ultimate Guide to New York City Accommodations: Best Neighborhoods to Stay

New York City (NYC), one of the most significant cities globally, is the most densely populated city in the United States of America. Renowned worldwide as “The Big Apple” and referred to as “The City” by locals, New York is situated at the mouth of the Hudson River and serves as a major global hub for commerce, entertainment, fashion, art, media, and culture.

As the fourth largest metropolitan area, New York City boasts countless world-famous landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park. It is one of only two cities globally acknowledged as “World Cities” and is also regarded as one of the safest cities in America.

Identifying suitable accommodation in this vast city can be a challenging endeavor. In this article, we will examine some of the most sought-after neighborhoods to assist you in determining the best location for your stay in New York City during your upcoming visit.

Chelsea

Once a prominent industrial district, Chelsea has undergone tremendous transformation in recent years and is now characterized by its rich art galleries, diverse dining options, and lively nightlife. The southern end features the renowned Meatpacking District, named after its historical meatpacking industry. Presently, this area is among the trendiest in NYC, with an abundance of nightclubs, upscale boutiques, and entertainment venues. High Line Park, a repurposed railway station converted into an inviting park, is a popular attraction within the neighborhood. For those who enjoy shopping, visiting the Buffalo Exchange and Chelsea Market is essential.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Rubin Museum of Art, Chelsea Art Tower, Visio Dell’Arte, Whitney Museum of American Art, and Chelsea Piers.

Hotel Recommendations:

• The Maritime Hotel – Situated across from Chelsea Market, the Maritime Hotel features nautical-themed guestrooms equipped with flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, iPod Dock, and private bathrooms with free toiletries. The hotel also offers a charming Italian restaurant, fitness center, bicycle rental services, and concierge assistance. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Ideal for solo travelers and couples.
• Cambria Hotel & Suites New York – Chelsea – Located 500 meters from many renowned landmarks, including the Empire State Building and Madison Square Garden, this luxurious hotel features elegantly adorned guestrooms with large double beds, coffee machines, safety deposit boxes, flat-screen TVs with cable, and en-suite bathrooms. Amenities include an on-site fitness center and restaurant. Great for all types of travelers.
• Four Points by Sheraton Manhattan Chelsea – This splendid hotel is just a few hundred meters from Madison Square, offering well-equipped guestrooms featuring modern amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, wake-up service, coffee machines, safety deposit boxes, and en-suite bathrooms. Additional features include a 24-hour fitness center, a seasonal outdoor patio, and on-site dining options. Suitable for all types of travelers.

Lower Manhattan (Financial District)

Situated within the boundaries of the Financial District (or FiDi), Wall Street is a defining feature that contributes to New York City’s standing as one of the preeminent financial markets in the world. Home to two of the largest stock exchanges globally, NASDAQ and the New York Stock Exchange, Wall Street exhibits architecture that dates back to the Gilded Age, with occasional Art Deco influences. This district is also home to a number of notable tourist attractions, including the National Museum of the American Indian, Brooklyn Bridge, and the 9/11 Tribute Museum.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Charging Bull, Trinity Church, One World Trade Center, The Woolworth Building, Trump Building, Battery Park, and St. Paul’s Chapel.

Hotel Recommendations:

• The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel – Located 500 meters from the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, this luxurious hotel offers guests comfortable rooms, top-notch amenities, exquisite artworks, a variety of fine dining options, a fully-equipped fitness center, and optional breakfast. All rooms feature high ceilings, custom beds, vintage furnishings, and oak wood floors. Ideal for all types of luxury travelers.
• Club Quarters Hotel World Trade Center – Just steps away from the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, this property provides luxurious accommodations with exceptional city views, a Keurig brewing system, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. Guests have access to an on-site restaurant, fitness center, lounge, and bar. Great for all types of travelers.
• Aloft Manhattan Downtown – Financial District – Nestled in the heart of the Financial District, Aloft Manhattan Downtown is an elegant hotel that offers its guests well-appointed rooms with flat-screen TVs, satellite channels, tea/coffee makers, safety deposit boxes, tumble dryers, wardrobes, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. The property features a fitness center, 24-hour snack counter, bar, and terrace lounge. Suitable for all types of travelers.

Midtown Manhattan

Midtown Manhattan, the foremost retail and commercial district in NYC, is home to the city’s most iconic structure, the Empire State Building. This lively neighborhood offers a plethora of activities and attractions, making it an essential destination for any visitor. Recognized as the largest central business district globally, Midtown is also regarded as a crucial media and entertainment hub of NYC. Notable landmarks include the UN headquarters, the Chrysler Building, and Times Square.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Rockefeller Center, 42^nd Street, Bryant Park, Grand Central Terminal, Top of the Rock Observation Deck, and the Morgan Library.

Hotel Recommendations:

• MADE Hotel – This 4-star hotel offers well-appointed guestrooms featuring the latest amenities, including Revo SuperConnect® multi-format radio, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, safety deposit boxes, interconnecting rooms, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. Additional offerings at the hotel include a 24-hour front desk, restaurant, coffee shop, and a shared lounge with stunning city views. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• citizenM New York Times Square – Just a brief walk from Times Square, this luxurious hotel features fully-furnished guestrooms with expansive double beds, soundproofing, complimentary Wi-Fi, iPads, flat-screen TVs, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. The hotel also offers a 24-hour food and beverage service, outdoor terraces, a fitness center with yoga facilities, and a rooftop bar. Ideal for solo travelers and couples.
• Hotel Boutique at Grand Central – Located just steps from Grand Central, this hotel offers beautifully decorated guestrooms featuring air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, coffee machines, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. Additional services include a bar, shared lounge, 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Suitable for all types of travelers.

Upper East Side

As an upscale neighborhood in Manhattan, the Upper East Side predominantly consists of residential spaces alongside numerous fine-dining establishments, classic brownstones, and designer boutiques. Positioned near many NYC landmarks, the neighborhood is vibrant while maintaining a tranquil aura characterized by its historic architecture and landscaped flower beds. The most iconic attraction here is Central Park, a frequently filmed location worldwide. The Upper East Side is also known for Museum Mile, an impressive stretch of museums and art institutions located along 5^th Avenue.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Roosevelt Island Tramway, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum, 92nd St Y, and Madison Avenue.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Loews Regency New York Hotel – The elegantly appointed rooms at the hotel feature air conditioning, luxury linens, soundproofing, minibars, Smart TVs, seating areas, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. The property offers 24-hour concierge services, on-site dining, and an excellent fitness center. Ideal for all types of travelers, including larger groups of up to 5 members.
• Hotel Wales – Located in the Carnegie Hill area, this charming boutique hotel provides well-decorated guestrooms featuring comfortable double beds, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, DVD players, safety deposit boxes, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. Amenities include a 24-hour fitness center and an on-site restaurant, making it suitable for all types of travelers, including larger groups of up to 6 members.
• Hôtel Plaza Athénée – Situated a short distance from Central Park Zoo, Hôtel Plaza Athénée features delightful guestrooms equipped with extra-large double beds, minibars, iHome clock-radios, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, wake-up services, and en-suite bathrooms. Amenities at the property include an on-site bar and restaurant, fitness center, and spa facilities, catering to a variety of travelers.

TriBeCa (Triangle Below Canal Street)

The TriBeCa neighborhood is characterized by a blend of office buildings, residential properties, art galleries, shopping avenues, and upscale dining options. Hosting the renowned TriBeCa Film Festival, this locale is unique in maintaining a communal atmosphere. A distinguishing feature of the area is its charming appearance, highlighted by cobblestone streets and loft apartment buildings. If visiting during Halloween, families can enjoy a festive experience, as residents and businesses alike enthusiastically participate in the celebration.

Good for: All types of travelers, particularly families with children.
Other Highlights: Rockefeller Park, Irish Hunger Memorial, City Hall Park, St. Paul’s Chapel of Trinity Church Wall Street, Hudson River Park, and Washington Market Park.

Hotel Recommendations:

• The Roxy Hotel Tribeca – This classic hotel provides well-appointed guestrooms with spacious double beds, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, ironing facilities, telephones, laptop safes, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. Additional amenities include a bar and lounge, live entertainment, a 100-seat private screening room, free iPad and iPod rentals, a 24-hour fitness center, and complimentary seasonal bicycle rentals. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• The Smyth – Experience celebrity-like luxury with world-class amenities and services at The Smyth, including fully-furnished guestrooms equipped with modern facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant, flat-screen TVs with Chromecast, a well-equipped fitness center, optional breakfast, and provisions for pets. Ideal for all types of travelers.
• The Frederick Hotel – Located 500 meters from New York City Hall, the Frederick Hotel features well-designed guestrooms featuring cozy beds, air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, safety deposit boxes, and en-suite bathrooms. Guests can take advantage of room service, an on-site fitness center, valet parking, and laundry services (at an additional cost). Ideal for all types of travelers.

SoHo

Short for “South of Houston,” SoHo is a shopper’s paradise that was once a bohemian enclave for emerging artists. Today, the neighborhood is filled with some of the priciest boutique shops in New York City. Despite being bustling with shoppers from around the globe, its narrow, cobblestone streets retain a sense of historical charm. High-end art galleries, fashionable stores, upscale dining choices, and vibrant nightlife make it one of the city’s most frequented locations. Notable landmarks in this area include the New York City Fire Museum, The Drawing Center, and Broadway Street.

Good for: All types of travelers, particularly shopping enthusiasts.
Other Highlights: New Museum, Children’s Museum of Fine Arts, St Patrick’s Old Cathedral, and New York Public Library.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Arlo SoHo – Located in the heart of NYC’s shopping district, Arlo SoHo offers well-appointed guestrooms that include comfortable double beds, flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, laptop safes, wake-up services, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. The hotel features on-site public parking, an upscale restaurant, a fully stocked bar, and a 24-hour market. Ideal for solo travelers and couples.
• Hotel Hugo – A blend of art and industrial decor, Hotel Hugo offers cozy accommodations featuring spacious double beds, flat-screen TVs with pay-per-view channels, soundproofing, complimentary Wi-Fi, safety deposit boxes, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. Further amenities include a 24-hour front desk, rooftop bar, and café. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Soho Grand Hotel – Situated in the upscale shopping district of NYC, Soho Grand Hotel provides luxurious accommodations in cozy guestrooms equipped with advanced amenities, an outdoor restaurant, a bar and lounge, a fully-equipped fitness center, and a 24-hour concierge desk. Ideal for solo travelers and couples.

Brooklyn

One of the five boroughs of New York City, Brooklyn embodies a character akin to a city in itself. Famous for its East River waterfront, which offers a stunning view of Manhattan’s skyline, the borough is home to the prestigious Brooklyn Academy of Music. Williamsburg, one of Brooklyn’s neighborhoods, is celebrated for its hipster culture and flourishing art scene, featuring trendy cafes, vintage clothing stores, and other popular hangouts. Brighton Beach hosts a significant Russian population, while Dumbo has transitioned from an industrial zone to an upscale neighborhood for affluent professionals.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Grand Army Plaza, The Coney Island Cyclone, Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and Coney Island.

Hotel Recommendations:

• EVEN Hotel Brooklyn – Designed with fitness and wellness in mind, each room at EVEN Hotel Brooklyn includes air conditioning, private bathrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, laptop safes, refrigerators, ironing facilities, yoga props, fitness equipment, and tea/coffee makers. Additionally, the hotel features a state-of-the-art fitness center, an on-site restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, and an optional healthy breakfast. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Aloft Brooklyn – Just minutes away from the nearest subway station, Aloft Brooklyn offers innovative guestrooms equipped with spacious double beds, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, refrigerators, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. Guests also enjoy free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour snack shop, meeting rooms, a bar, and a restaurant. Ideal for all types of travelers.
• The Tillary Hotel Brooklyn – Featuring an indoor beer garden, a fitness center, a full-service spa, private parking, and room service, The Tillary Hotel Brooklyn offers well-equipped guestrooms with modern amenities such as extra-large double beds, soundproofing, air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. Perfect for all types of travelers.

Upper West Side

As one of the greenest areas in Manhattan, the Upper West Side exudes an atmosphere of relaxation and leisurely strolls. Situated between Central Park and Riverside Park, this neighborhood is particularly appealing to families due to its safe surroundings. Furthermore, the area features many casual bars along Amsterdam Avenue and the excitement of Broadway’s commercial sector. Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, the most prominent attraction in the neighborhood, opened to the public in 1962 and has hosted notable events such as the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Opera, and the New York City Ballet.

Good for: All types of travelers, specifically families.
Other Highlights: Central Park Zoo, The Empire Hotel Rooftop, New-York Historical Society, West 79th Street Boat Basin, and American Museum of Natural History.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Hotel Beacon – Positioned on the Upper West Side, Hotel Beacon offers luxurious guestrooms and suites equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, telephones, kitchenettes, iPod docks, laptop safes, refrigerators, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. On-site amenities include a shared lobby, business center, fitness center, and dining options. Great for all types of travelers, including larger groups of up to 6 members.
• Hotel Lucerne – Just a few hundred meters from the Museum of Natural History, the Hotel Lucerne features fully-furnished guestrooms equipped with air conditioning, work desks, tea/coffee makers, en-suite bathrooms with luxury toiletries, and flat-screen TVs with cable channels and video games. The property includes access to an on-site spa, French restaurant, and childcare facilities, catering to a diverse range of travelers.
• NYLO New York City – Highlighting a 1920’s elevator system, custom art pieces, a 24-hour fitness center, various dining options, and a charming original fireplace, NYLO New York City features opulent accommodations with comfortable double beds, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, safety deposit boxes, telephones, iPod docks, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. Ideal for all types of travelers.

Greenwich Village

Often referred to as “The Village,” this NYC neighborhood was the epicenter of the 1960s counterculture movement, characterized by tree-lined streets, popular bars and cafés, classic brownstones, jazz clubs, and off-Broadway theatres. An LGBT-friendly area, The Village is home to the prestigious New York University and the beloved Washington Square Park, frequently considered the heart of the community. This bohemian neighborhood is also recognized for its artist population and some of the finest comedy clubs nationwide.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Grove Court, Westbeth Gallery, Greenwich Village Literary Pub Crawl, Whitney Museum of American Art, and Hudson River Park Trust.

Hotel Recommendations:

• The Marlton Hotel – Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village, the Marlton Hotel occupies a beautifully restored historic building less than 200 meters from Washington Square Park. Rooms feature cozy double beds, air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, safety deposit boxes, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries.
• Walker Hotel Greenwich Village – Just a short walk from Washington Square Park and New York University, Walker Hotel Greenwich Village offers well-appointed rooms featuring telephones, wardrobes, minibars, wake-up services, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, and en-suite bathrooms with free toiletries. An on-site bar and lounge and a restaurant are available for guests as well. Ideal for solo travelers and couples.
• Gansevoort Meatpacking – Located a short walk from the Whitney Museum of American Art, Gansevoort Meatpacking offers exquisite guestrooms furnished with cutting-edge amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, business center, full-service spa, yoga center, fitness center, a well-equipped restaurant, and an on-site bar and lounge. Suitable for all types of travelers.

Lower East Side

Famed for its Jewish heritage and eclectic character, the Lower East Side is a prominent bargain-hunting destination in NYC, where avid shoppers can pursue attractive deals. However, the emergence of trendy boutiques and upscale fashion outlets challenges the area’s traditional market vibe. The neighborhood embodies a multicultural essence with French cafés, Spanish bodegas, and exclusive nightclubs. The Lower East Side Tenement Museum stands as a key attraction in the region.

Good for: All types of travelers, particularly the younger crowd.
Other Highlights: Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy, Museum at Eldridge Street Synagogue, New Museum, The Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, and Williamsburg Bridge.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Hotel Indigo Lower East Side – Just a few hundred meters from Little Italy, Hotel Indigo Lower East Side presents well-appointed rooms equipped with comfortable double beds, air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, laptop safes, ironing facilities, tumble dryers, minibars, and ensuite bathrooms with free toiletries. Additional features include a 24-hour front desk, an on-site restaurant, and an outdoor heated pool. Suitable for all types of travelers.
• Orchard Street Hotel – Boasting a rooftop lounge with breathtaking views of New York City, Orchard Street Hotel provides fully-furnished rooms featuring modern amenities, such as alarm clock radios, MP3 lines, wall-mounted HD TVs, iPod docks, flat-screen TVs, and en-suite bathrooms. Additional services include daily housekeeping, a 24-hour front desk, and a round-the-clock business center. Ideal for solo travelers and couples.
• The Ridge Hotel – Located just a short stroll from the nearest subway station, The Ridge Hotel features luxurious rooms with up-to-date amenities, including extra-large double beds, free Wi-Fi, iPod docks, custom furnishings, flat-screen TVs, and en-suite bathrooms with marble/European-tiled baths. The rooftop bar and restaurant offer stunning views of the NYC skyline, including the Empire State Building.