Travel, United States

Where to Stay in New York City – Best Neighborhood Hotels

I made the mistake of staying in Times Square just once. It was overly crowded with tourists pushing back and forth, annoying “comedians” trying to sell tickets to shows, and an obnoxious sense of chaos. And no, I don’t want to buy your knock-off purses or sunglasses! Plus, there’s hardly any good food with the likes of Applebee’s, Olive Garden, and other chain restaurants occupying the brightly lit storefronts. Times Square is definitely not where to stay in New York City.

This isn’t a knock on New York City. I happen to love New York City, just not Times Square.  Which is why when I head to the city, I prefer to book hotels in one of the many quaint or colorful neighborhoods to experience the real New York City. Here are six of the best places to stay in New York City sorted by neighborhood.

 

Looking for ideas on where to stay in New York City that aren't Time Square? Here's a list of the best hotels sorted by neighborhood.

 

Chelsea

New York City’s premier art scene has moved to the city’s far west side, Chelsea. Beyond exploring the galleries, visitors staying in Chelsea can also spend an afternoon at the eateries and food forward shops of Chelsea Market or the High Line, one of the city’s hippest green spaces. Hotel Americano, alongside the High Line, is a great jumping-off point for the neighborhood in walking distances to Chelsea’s best attractions.

 

Upper East Side

Bentley Hotel is where to stay in New York City the tony Upper East Side. The hotel is located in the midst of one of New York City’s most upscale residential neighborhoods. Guests of the Bentley enjoy views of the East River, especially from the penthouse restaurant. From the hotel, you can quickly access neighborhood amenities like Central Park, Fifth Avenue retailers, and Museum Mile. It’s one of my top recommendations on where to stay in New York City with family.

 

Looking for ideas on where to stay in New York City that aren't Time Square? Here's a list of the best hotels sorted by neighborhood.

Photo by Raya Polyak via Trover.com

 

NoMad

Up until 2009, North of Madison Square Park wasn’t even a neighborhood. Ace Hotel changed the landscape from dingy shops selling counterfeit perfume to some of the hippest bars and best eats in town. It’s now considered by many to be the best area to stay in New York City. It’s where downtowners go to eat and drink at landmarks such as the original Shake Shack, Eleven Madison Park (arguably one of the best restaurants in NYC), and Eataly.

 

Meatpacking District

Perhaps you’re headed to NYC for the uber-chic lifestyle. Then look no further than the Meatpacking District with some of the city’s hottest clubs, trendiest restaurants, and ultra-expensive boutiques. It’s where models and hipsters go to hang out. Gansevoort Meatpacking will put you in the middle of the neighborhood so you won’t have too far to stumble home after a night of partying.

 

Looking for ideas on where to stay in New York City that aren't Time Square? Here's a list of the best hotels sorted by neighborhood.

Photo by Annie Wu via Trover.com

 

SoHo

While SoHo (South of Houston Street) was once the mecca of NYC’s art scene, it now houses some of the most upscale restaurants, hotels, and retailers. Why not stay among the élite at the exclusive Crosby Street Hotel? Once you’re tired of exploring the cobblestone streets, check out nearby attractions in Little Italy and Chinatown.

 

Brooklyn

Brooklyn isn’t just a place to stay for budget accommodations. There’s also a ton to do here, too, from exploring some of NYC’s most interesting eateries to catching some amazing views of the Manhattan skyline to exploring America’s first suburb, studded with some of the city’s oldest houses and churches. NU Hotel Brooklyn provides budget lodging in a loft-like setting. You’ll be just steps from artist warehouses, music emporiums, and the shops of DUMBO. Plus, Brooklyn is only a short subway ride into Manhattan.

 

How do you answer the question of where to stay in New York City?