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New York is the city that never sleeps—but if you’re visiting, you’ll still need a bed (and preferably one that doesn’t cost the same as a Broadway orchestra seat). Luckily, we’ve just named the Radio Hotel in Washington Heights the best budget stay in NYC, and trust us, this colorful newcomer is worth the MetroCard swipe uptown.
If you’ve spotted a stack of giant Lego blocks perched along the Cross Bronx Expressway, you’ve already seen it. The Radio Hotel’s bright patchwork exterior isn’t shy—it’s a landmark in its own right and the vibe inside is just as bold. The 221 rooms are modern and generously sized by Manhattan standards, with industrial-style ceilings and thoughtful touches like retro radio-shaped Bluetooth speakers. Yes, you might hear a bit of street noise, but that’s part of the city symphony and the tradeoff is a big bathroom and a room where you can actually stretch without elbowing the wall.
The hotel doubles as a gateway to a different New York than the one most tourists see. Set in the heart of Washington Heights, it’s surrounded by Dominican bakeries, leafy parks and the kind of local flavor you won’t find in Midtown’s chain hotels. And speaking of flavor, you don’t even need to leave the building for a feast: the hotel’s restaurant, Jalao NYC, serves Dominican classics alongside brunch-friendly plates in a dining room splashed with murals. Out back, El Patio’s courtyard cocktails—think ceviche with cilantro and pomegranate or a creamy morir soñando—make it a local hotspot.
For travelers, the location strikes a sweet balance: You’re far from the tourist crush, but the 181st Street subway puts Times Square about 20 minutes away. Planning to rent a car? Parking here is less hair-raising (and wallet-draining) than downtown, with garages that won’t make you consider a second mortgage.
At around $175 a night, the Radio Hotel proves you don’t need to settle for drab décor or leaky showers just to save cash in New York. Instead, you get comfort, character and a true neighborhood experience, all without torching your budget. In a city where even a bagel can feel like a luxury item these days, that’s no small victory.